Homebuilt airplanes are a popular and exciting way to own your own airplane. An interesting feature of the Federal Aviation laws allow anyone to build and fly their own aircraft. There are some simple rules: First, the builder must do most of the work in constructing the aircraft; second, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that the builder keep notes and photographs of the construction to prove it; third, the FAA will inspect the aircraft for safety before its first flight; fourth, the aircraft must be test flown at least 25 hours before flying too far from its home base and fifth, the aircraft pilot must be a licensed pilot.

Homebuilt airplanes are considered "experimental" and must carry warning signs visible to any occupant, advising that the aircraft is experimental and not factory-built. They are exempt from the stringent requirements for annual inspections, and can be inspected and repaired by the original builder, even if he/she is not a certified mechanic.

There are hundreds of different homebuilt designs available commercially, and everything from a simple set of plans to elaborate kits can be purchased. You can even design your own, if you have the necessary skill and courage! Homebuilt airplanes take time to build, at least several months and sometimes several years. Many builders enjoy the construction phase as much as the flying. There is a large national club, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) which has chapters in most major cities in the USA and abroad. Here you can meet other builders and get lots of free advice and building help from folks who love aviation and fixing up airplanes.