What's the easiest and most inexpensive sport airplane to build? One of the best contenders is the Affordaplane: a sophisticated, yet ultra-simple airplane that can be built as an ultralight or sport aircraft. The Affordaplane was introduced in 2000 as a back-to-basics, all aluminum, true three axis airplane that anyone could build, especially those on a tight budget.
The design goals for this unique airplane were nostalgic looks (having incorporated the best elements of classic taildraggers such as the Cubs and Champs), ease of assembly, and performance that rivals more expensive ultralights.
Safety was also paramount, and resulted in an airframe that surrounds the pilot through 360 degrees. A sixteen year perfect safety record backs up the claim that this is one safe, tough bird.
The A-Plane's fuselage structure is based on immensely strong two-inch square aluminum tubes, similar to many gyroplanes. The wings are made of aluminum tubes, and are fabric covered.
At 5' high, the A-Plane is 17'3" long with a 27.5' wing span. Weight is a legal 254 pounds if built as an ultralight, with a gross weight of 540 pounds. Many people also build it as a Light Sport Aircraft. This airplane can easily accommodate 6' plus pilots that weigh up to 230 pounds.
Controls are standard three-axis stick and rudder with full span ailerons. The flight envelope was designed to be ultralight legal in accordance with FAR Part 103. Cruise is between 60 and 65 mph. Stalls come in at a gentle 27 mph or lower minimum. Climb rates average 1000 feet per minute.
Builders praise the flying characteristics of their A-Planes. "Hands off and in perfect trim" are what they usually report. The A-Plane is very stable and able to punch through turbulence easily. The rugged landing gear allows the aircraft to fly in and out of just about any field condition.
Engines recommended in the plans are in the 40 to 45 hp range. Rotax, Hirth, and other motors such as the Kawasaki 440 are also a good choice.
The aircraft always draws a large crowd whenever it is shown at airshows. Perhaps the best part of all is the lifetime bonds of friendship you share between those who build and fly this unique aircraft!
The Affordaplane is built from construction plans, and all the airplanes you see on this site all came from our plans. They have just been updated (Dec 2016) and are completely revised and new. 279 information filled pages covering every aspect of aircraft construction.
The construction plans that launched hundreds of Affordaplanes have just been completely updated and revised. These plans are the culmination of 16 years of experience building and flying these special airplanes, getting feedback from our customers and making these plans the best we possibly can.
The Affordaplane Plans package now contains a whopping 279 pages, covering every aspect of the Affordaplane aircraft.
The Construction Manual is 55 pages of detailed photos and step by step instructions. The manual also includes an article on aircraft hardware, how-to information like how to cut metal, how to cover and paint your aircraft, weight and balance procedures, and much more.
The blueprints are 65 pages of easy to read, clutter free drawings. Every single fitting is drawn full size with dimensions given. The airfoil is also drawn full size with ordinates. A complete materials list is included.
As an added bonus over a hundred photos sent in from customers showing their own Affordaplanes during construction, along with photos of flying A-Planes are included with the new plans.
You also get builder support from the designer of the Affordaplane. If you have a question the designer will answer you back via email.
Your Affordaplane plans are sent in digital PDF format, and you can view and print them on your home printer. Our customers love the savings and convenience of our digital Plans, and we think you will too. This is the complete Affordaplane Plans Package.
