This webpage is dedicated to tracking my progress as I build my own aircraft. Sounds crazy, right? Most will think so I am sure. I am sure there are many who consider this hobby foolish, or downright insane. Before exploring the world of homebuilt aircraft, I might have tended to agree with them. I mean, there is no way an average person can put together an airplane in their garage. Afterall, airplanes are highly complex machines that take teams of engineers and special tools to build, correct? Well, thousands of people have disagreed with the previous statement and gone on to fly their own homebuilts. I am hoping to be one of them.
What is a Bearhawk anyway? The Bearhawk is a 4 place homebuilt aircraft with amazing performance and utility. Designed by Bob Barrows, it is available as either a kit from Avipro, or can be scratch built from plans. It has a useful load of 1100-1300lbs and can cruise around 140-150mph. 4 people, full fuel AND 100lbs of luggage! Try doing that in a standard production aircraft like a Cessna or Piper. Wont happen. Well, maybe it will, but you'd never get off the ground! Not only will the Bearhawk do it, but it will do it almost anywhere. It has the capability to operate out of very small airstrips. Its STOL (short takeoff/landing) capabilities enable the pilot to get into and out of very remote areas. Pack a sleeping bag, a tent, and head off to explore the country!!
Flattened out half the Nose Ribs. 1 or 2 are twisted a bit and that is hard to fix. Time: 1 Hour
Flanged the 23 right Nose Ribs tonight. Cracked two of the ribs on the smaller hole. ALWAYS debur prior to flanging!! Time: 2.5 Hours