Which plane ??

After a great deal of web research, trade shows and generally making a pest of myself to others I decided to go the self build route. So next was the tough decision on what to build.

I looked at the Vans RV9A which I still like very much, all metal, probably the best aircraft for support from fellow users. The number of RV's out there and the number of companies that produce lots of different goodies for them including beautiful interiors and more extras than you can shake a stick at makes them very attractive!!

Vans RV9A

Eventually after a lot of talking to a lot of very helpful Van's owners especially Malcolm Lister in Colchester I decided against it, and one of my main reasons for doing so was running costs, 6.5 gallons per hour for the Lycoming compared to 4 gallons per hour for the Rotax engine, a third more expensive to run. And these planes are not light so their rate of climb and cruise is lower than the lightweight composites planes. Another major concern that I had was not dealing with a UK based firm.

Making the Choice

Next I turned my attention to the new composite aircraft that are available, the Europa, MCR01 Banbi and the Alpi Pioneer with their highly efficient Rotax 912 engines, 4 Gallons per hour fuel consumption and high cruise speeds and good rate of climb. The decision was tough as they are all excellent aircraft but I was very smitten by the Pioneer 300 with its sleek looks, retractable undercarriage and constant speed prop. So after many chats with other builders I contacted Pioneer Aviation in Abergavenny Wales who are the UK agents for Alpi.

I placed my order on the 9th. December 2005 with Pioneer Aviation.  My kit No. 174 is due to leave the factory in Italy on March 12th. 2006 so all I can do for now is wait and plan.

Making Friends already.

As part of my research I met Jim & Caroline from Ipswich, they live about an hours drive from me and so is not too far away. Jim has been really helpful in explaining the kit and how it all goes together and its in no small part because of him and another new friend Campbell Walters that I made my final decision. Jim & Caroline are well into the build of their kit and I have been helping Jim when I can, hopefully I will be able to help them finish their's before mine arrives. In this way I get some first hand experience and they get a hand from time to time. Campbell who I mentioned above has just about finished his kit and a beautiful job he has made of it see the next picture.