Another Option For Builders On A Budget

If you've ever thought of building your own airplane, you may be running out of reasons not to do it; that is, if Sonex Aircraft has anything to say about it.

The Oshkosh, WI-based manufacturer recently announced new sub-kits for its popular Sonex and Waiex airframes, giving potential builders the option of completing subassemblies as time and budgets allow, without the need for financing.

"Sonex has received requests for Sonex and Waiex Sub-Kit building options since we started offering a complete kit in 2001," said Sonex General Manager and CEO Jeremy Monnett. "Many customers expressed an interest in spreading their aircraft construction costs out over time, particularly as financing has become more challenging. These new Sub-Kits are designed to satisfy that demand by allowing customers to pay as they go. As Sonex has continued to expand, so has our ability to offer market-driven options like Sub-Kits."

While Sonex acknowledges sub-kits are a more expensive option for builders in the long run -- its complete airframe kit saves builders money when talking about incentives, and one-time shipping costs -- the company still thinks its sub-kits will prove to be very popular with cost-conscious builders. Of course, "scratch-build" options will remain available for builders who have much more time than money, or the desire to fabricate everything on the aircraft.

"These options continue to fuel the strong growth of the Sonex Aircraft family of products, which unquestionably offer the best performance per dollar in the recreational aircraft market today," Monnett said. "Sonex is pleased to see that, despite the challenging global economic landscape, potential aircraft builders are determined as-ever to pursue their dreams of flight."

FMI: www.sonexaircraft.com/kits/sub-kits.html