The Sonex aircraft is a modern two-place homebuilt aerobatic aircraft designed for the experimental light-sport category of aircraft. In making my decision about which aircraft to build I narrowed my search to three basic but very important factors for a day VFR aircraft.
My first requirement is a very strong, rugged and safe airplane. The Sonex is areobatic and rated at +6 -3G. Build this plane to plans and you can forget about structural failures.
My second requirement was the cost. Sonex aircraft are very affordable airplanes, even with the Optional Pre-assembled Main Wing Spars and the Machined Angle Component Kit. I have selected the Aero Vee engine which is less than half the cost of a Jabiru 3300 or a Rotax 912 and it will burn about 4 GPH. And with the AeroCarb there is no float bowl and no need for Carb Heat. Did I mention that the AeroVee engine is a Kit and will also have to be built. In the end I should have no more than $32K including a nice panel. For that price I can pay as I build and not need an aircraft loan. I could also save by not purchasing in flight damage insurance and buy only comprehensive, liability, ground handling and hanger storage insurance.
Third was simplicity of design which includes ease of building, factory support and builder forums. I have no experience building an airplane metal or fabric, and I'll need plenty of support to complete any airplane. After attending the Sonex workshop and talking with Sonex employees and several Sonex builders I have confidence in the factory support. In addition there are several Sonex Yahoo groups and internet forums that are very active with many posting every day.
As I mentioned earlier, the Sonex also offers an optional Machined Angle components kit and prebuilt wing spars which will save a significant number of building hours. My goal to build the Sonex in approximately 1200 hours but probably over a perion of 7-8 years. I will still spend winters in Texas or Arizona and most of the summer at Jellystone.
