Vernon Goff of Omaha (NE) became the first EAA member to receive special recognition for completing a homebuilt aircraft during aviation's centennial year, as he finished a GlaStar I that will make its first flight during 2003.

Mr. Goff (EAA #556507) received a certificate of accomplishment plus a limited-edition Centennial data plate for his aircraft, where he can list the make, model and serial number of the airplane as required under Experimental/Amateur-Built regulations.  He received his special airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on December 17, 2002 - the 99th anniversary of the Wright brothers' first flight.

The EAA notes that N44VG (serial number 5469) is powered by a 190-hp NSI Subaru engine with an NSI CAP 200 propeller. Vernon expects a cruise speed of 165 mph, climb rate of 1800 fpm, and fuel burn of 6.5 gallons per hour. It’s IFR equipped and includes a GPS, Strike Finder and Angle of Attack Indicator.

"We know that this centennial homebuilt will be the first of many that take to the sky during this special year in aviation," said EAA Executive Vice President Bob Warner. "By building and flying their airplanes, these EAA members help maintain the legacy of the Wright brothers, the first successful homebuilders."

To complete the IFR-equipped GlaStar project, Goff (pictured with his wife, Alice) utilized the advice and expertise of a volunteer EAA Technical Counselor and Flight Advisor from EAA Chapter 80 in Omaha.

Any EAA member who completes a homebuilt aircraft between Dec. 17, 2002 and Dec. 31, 2003, is eligible for the Centennial recognition.

FMI: www.eaa.org