Program Update:
The Two-Week-Wonder program described on this site was placed "on-hold" during the travel restrictions and local physical distancing requirements associated with the recent pandemic. When the sale of airframe kits dramatically increased in 22/23 (also due to the pandemic), all of our builder-assistant technicians transferred to parts-manufacturing and no new individual Two-Week-Wonder projects have been scheduled since. This message will be removed if/when the programs are offered again.
This website has not been taken down as it describes what can be done with a standard Zenith CH 750 airframe kit. Other "Build-Centers" may offer their own version of custom builder-assistance or of accelerated multi-week "wonders" inspired by the PlaneCrafters model. See here for one such Florida-based center.
DO NOT CONTACT PLANECRAFERS FOR BUILDER-ASSISTANCE AT THIS TIME. SEE HERE FOR A LIST OF ALTERNATIVES.
The Two-Week-Wonder program described on this site was placed "on-hold" during the travel restrictions and local physical distancing requirements associated with the recent pandemic. When the sale of airframe kits dramatically increased in 22/23 (also due to the pandemic), all of our builder-assistant technicians transferred to parts-manufacturing and no new individual Two-Week-Wonder projects have been scheduled since. This message will be removed if/when the programs are offered again.
This website has not been taken down as it describes what can be done with a standard Zenith CH 750 airframe kit. Other "Build-Centers" may offer their own version of custom builder-assistance or of accelerated multi-week "wonders" inspired by the PlaneCrafters model. See here for one such Florida-based center.
DO NOT CONTACT PLANECRAFERS FOR BUILDER-ASSISTANCE AT THIS TIME. SEE HERE FOR A LIST OF ALTERNATIVES.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q #1: What is the "Two Week Wonder" program about?
A #1: It is all about assisting you, the builder, with the assembly of your own two-seat Zenith kit aircraft in a two-week time frame. Our Specialists will make sure that you will succeed! Note: We also provide a similar program for Zenair's four-seat designs (CH 801-HD/SD; CH 640) but more time is necessary for these larger aircraft (call for details).
A #1: It is all about assisting you, the builder, with the assembly of your own two-seat Zenith kit aircraft in a two-week time frame. Our Specialists will make sure that you will succeed! Note: We also provide a similar program for Zenair's four-seat designs (CH 801-HD/SD; CH 640) but more time is necessary for these larger aircraft (call for details).
Q #2: Really? In just 2 weeks, I can build my own 2-place all metal aircraft. How is this possible?
A #2: When you arrive at the Plane-crafters shop, we will have an Advanced Quick Built 49% kit waiting for you to finish - with assistance from our staff. Our technicians will train you and assist you so that you will spend 100% of your time assembling the aircraft. We believe that the average builder typically spends up to 70% of his/her time looking over the drawings, manuals, finding the right tools, getting the right parts, etc. With the Two Week Wonder, you will be spending 100% of your time working on the aircraft because our great staff will make sure you only spend time assembling.
A #2: When you arrive at the Plane-crafters shop, we will have an Advanced Quick Built 49% kit waiting for you to finish - with assistance from our staff. Our technicians will train you and assist you so that you will spend 100% of your time assembling the aircraft. We believe that the average builder typically spends up to 70% of his/her time looking over the drawings, manuals, finding the right tools, getting the right parts, etc. With the Two Week Wonder, you will be spending 100% of your time working on the aircraft because our great staff will make sure you only spend time assembling.
Q #3: Are there other companies offering such programs?
A #3: Yes, the most popular is http://www.glasairaviation.com/twtt.html. Their program is also 2 weeks but the aircraft is a 4 place. So if they can do it, we really can, with our easy to assemble kit!
A #3: Yes, the most popular is http://www.glasairaviation.com/twtt.html. Their program is also 2 weeks but the aircraft is a 4 place. So if they can do it, we really can, with our easy to assemble kit!
Q #4: I live in the USA, so how do I get started?
A #4: Contact Michael Heintz (705-526-2871) who will assist you with the definition of your unique aircraft: Engine, instruments, options, etc. Based on your selections, you'll receive a customized quote (which you will be able to fine-tuned until the order is confirmed).
Another option is for you to build your aircraft in the USA
Wheels and Wings Builders Assist Division
115 SW Bonanza Glen
Lake City, FL 32025
Cannon Creek Airpark (15FL)
Ph. 386-690-4239
www.WheelsandWings.net
[email protected]
A #4: Contact Michael Heintz (705-526-2871) who will assist you with the definition of your unique aircraft: Engine, instruments, options, etc. Based on your selections, you'll receive a customized quote (which you will be able to fine-tuned until the order is confirmed).
Another option is for you to build your aircraft in the USA
Wheels and Wings Builders Assist Division
115 SW Bonanza Glen
Lake City, FL 32025
Cannon Creek Airpark (15FL)
Ph. 386-690-4239
www.WheelsandWings.net
[email protected]
Q #5: OK. So, after I am satisfied with my quote?
A #5: You then complete the assembly contract with Plane-Crafters for the Two Week Wonder program and send the deposit. Plane-Crafters will schedule your visit and will begin to prepare for your program: Get your Quick Built airframe, order the engine, the avionics, etc.
A #5: You then complete the assembly contract with Plane-Crafters for the Two Week Wonder program and send the deposit. Plane-Crafters will schedule your visit and will begin to prepare for your program: Get your Quick Built airframe, order the engine, the avionics, etc.
Q #6: Got it. So after I have paid the deposit, when do I come and finish my aircraft?
A #6: It will take a few weeks for Plane-Crafters to receive the kit from Zenith Aircraft, and a few more to assemble it to the quick built kit stage. So generally, once you have confirmed your order with your deposit, you can expect your "Two-Week-Wonder" program to start within 8-10 weeks. Scheduling of the programs, however, also depends on how many other builders like yourself are in line. So call us well in advance of your desired program dates to discuss the scheduling of your "Two-Week-Wonder"!
A #6: It will take a few weeks for Plane-Crafters to receive the kit from Zenith Aircraft, and a few more to assemble it to the quick built kit stage. So generally, once you have confirmed your order with your deposit, you can expect your "Two-Week-Wonder" program to start within 8-10 weeks. Scheduling of the programs, however, also depends on how many other builders like yourself are in line. So call us well in advance of your desired program dates to discuss the scheduling of your "Two-Week-Wonder"!
Q #7: So, the Zenith Aircraft kit is not 49% complete?
A #7: Correct. The FAA has evaluated the Zenith Aircraft kit and has concluded that it only represents 26.7% of the total aircraft.
You can see the FAA list online here: https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/gen_av/ultralights/amateur_built/kits/nket_list/media/STOL_CH750.pdf
So, Plane-Crafters takes the 26.7% kit to the 49% stage, to the level of our QBK. You will finish the remaining 51% at Plane-Crafters.
A #7: Correct. The FAA has evaluated the Zenith Aircraft kit and has concluded that it only represents 26.7% of the total aircraft.
You can see the FAA list online here: https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/gen_av/ultralights/amateur_built/kits/nket_list/media/STOL_CH750.pdf
So, Plane-Crafters takes the 26.7% kit to the 49% stage, to the level of our QBK. You will finish the remaining 51% at Plane-Crafters.
Q #8: Got it. So I finish the aircraft at Plane-Crafters' - Now what?
A #8: Yes, at the end of the two-week program, the aircraft will be ready for you to take home or to your local airport for final inspection by the FAA (DAR). Plane-Crafters is done with your project once the engine has been started, the avionics have been tested, and once you have completed the first detailed pre-flight inspection - and yes, you'll have a chance to taxi the aircraft before you leave us! You trailer the aircraft home or Plane-Crafters will arrange transportation. Once home, you will ideally have some space available at your local airport so that you can re-install the wings and tail sections - in preparation for your FAA representative and his final inspection of the project.
A #8: Yes, at the end of the two-week program, the aircraft will be ready for you to take home or to your local airport for final inspection by the FAA (DAR). Plane-Crafters is done with your project once the engine has been started, the avionics have been tested, and once you have completed the first detailed pre-flight inspection - and yes, you'll have a chance to taxi the aircraft before you leave us! You trailer the aircraft home or Plane-Crafters will arrange transportation. Once home, you will ideally have some space available at your local airport so that you can re-install the wings and tail sections - in preparation for your FAA representative and his final inspection of the project.
Filling the gas tanks for the first time. Getting ready for engine run-up and taxi.
Q #9: What about USA customers when crossing the border or when shipping?
A #9: Plane-Crafters will take care of that with its broker. There are no duties on Civil Aircraft goods crossing between Canada and the USA.
A #9: Plane-Crafters will take care of that with its broker. There are no duties on Civil Aircraft goods crossing between Canada and the USA.
Q #10: What about the FAA, what do they need for the Certificate of Airworthiness?
A #10: Important question. There are some good web sites that explain the process in detail. Here is just one:
http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1075&context=aerosp
A #10: Important question. There are some good web sites that explain the process in detail. Here is just one:
http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1075&context=aerosp
Q #11: Can Plane-Crafters help with with the FAA forms?
A #11: For sure. It's often confusing for first timers, so we can give you samples to follow. Note that Plane-Crafters will also help you with the builder log that you will need to show your FAA representative, demonstrating that you in fact did assemble the aircraft.
A #11: For sure. It's often confusing for first timers, so we can give you samples to follow. Note that Plane-Crafters will also help you with the builder log that you will need to show your FAA representative, demonstrating that you in fact did assemble the aircraft.
Q #12: I noticed that you are asking the same price ($109,900.00 USD) for the Experimental Light Sport CH750 Cruzer, STOL CH750 or Zenith 650.
Whats up with that, since the standard kits are not all priced the same?
A #12: Yes, the "Two-Week-Wonder" program is the same price for all three models. The Cruzer kit from Zenith Aircraft is the most advanced and therefore the fastest for Plane-Crafters to assemble to the quick built stage. The STOL is not far behind with the 650 taking the longest. Since the 650 takes the longest to assemble but the airframe kit is less expensive, the total cost come to the same as for the Cruzer. All three designs are very similar in design, use the same types of materials, same firewall forward, avionics, etc. Chris Heintz, designer of these aircraft did an excellent job designing these as similar two-seat sport-planes..
Whats up with that, since the standard kits are not all priced the same?
A #12: Yes, the "Two-Week-Wonder" program is the same price for all three models. The Cruzer kit from Zenith Aircraft is the most advanced and therefore the fastest for Plane-Crafters to assemble to the quick built stage. The STOL is not far behind with the 650 taking the longest. Since the 650 takes the longest to assemble but the airframe kit is less expensive, the total cost come to the same as for the Cruzer. All three designs are very similar in design, use the same types of materials, same firewall forward, avionics, etc. Chris Heintz, designer of these aircraft did an excellent job designing these as similar two-seat sport-planes..
Q #13: What "Skills" do I need to successfully complete a "Two-Week-Wonder"?
A #13: Basic technical skills are an asset (know your common tools and how to use them), but more important will be your attitude. Be ready to work, ready to listen, to follow instruction and to see results! For the program to be successful, we count on you being motivated and involved. A lot of preparation goes into the project even before the program begins (selecting engine, instruments, options, etc.), so also make sure to specify your choices in time for us to order and prepare everything.
A #13: Basic technical skills are an asset (know your common tools and how to use them), but more important will be your attitude. Be ready to work, ready to listen, to follow instruction and to see results! For the program to be successful, we count on you being motivated and involved. A lot of preparation goes into the project even before the program begins (selecting engine, instruments, options, etc.), so also make sure to specify your choices in time for us to order and prepare everything.
Q #14: Will it really only take Two Weeks to complete my aircraft?
A #14: Yes, the standard program takes two week, and you will be able to taxi your aircraft by the end of the program! During those two weeks, we expect you to be present every day, and to actively participate in the assembly process, as instructed. If two weeks sounds too intense for you, we can customize and extend the program another week or two (call us to discuss your needs or concerns). As you might expect, preparations for the program begin many weeks in advance (see above), and you'll still need a bit of time after the program to transport, finish, register and insure the completed aircraft. After that, you're looking at years of flying fun and adventures!
A #14: Yes, the standard program takes two week, and you will be able to taxi your aircraft by the end of the program! During those two weeks, we expect you to be present every day, and to actively participate in the assembly process, as instructed. If two weeks sounds too intense for you, we can customize and extend the program another week or two (call us to discuss your needs or concerns). As you might expect, preparations for the program begin many weeks in advance (see above), and you'll still need a bit of time after the program to transport, finish, register and insure the completed aircraft. After that, you're looking at years of flying fun and adventures!
Q #19: Where can I stay in the area?
A: #19: There are many local motels and hotels. Local Motorhome "camping" is also available.
A: #19: There are many local motels and hotels. Local Motorhome "camping" is also available.
Q #20: This all sounds really amazing - I believe I can do this! I have picked my aircraft model and have selected my options, what do I do next?
A #20: Call Michael Heintz (705-526-2871) or send him an e-mail; He will send you a quote and call you to discuss scheduling possibilities!
Send your e-mail to [email protected]
A #20: Call Michael Heintz (705-526-2871) or send him an e-mail; He will send you a quote and call you to discuss scheduling possibilities!
Send your e-mail to [email protected]
Completed two week aircraft. Being shipped to customer in California, USA
For Canadians:
Regulations regarding experimental/homebuilt kit aircraft are very similar between the US and Canada (although Canada requires an additional inspection during the assembly process). Canadians, on the other hand, have an advanced ultralight category (not available in the USA) in which all three "Two-Week-Wonder" models can be registered. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities... See below for more details on these points, and more...
Regulations regarding experimental/homebuilt kit aircraft are very similar between the US and Canada (although Canada requires an additional inspection during the assembly process). Canadians, on the other hand, have an advanced ultralight category (not available in the USA) in which all three "Two-Week-Wonder" models can be registered. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities... See below for more details on these points, and more...
Q #1: Registering my aircraft in Canada?
A #1: Canadians have two options for registering their Two-Week-Wonder aircraft: Experimental/Homebuilt or Advanced Ultralight (AULA). There are pros and cons to both aircraft categories, so make sure you understand these before you make your choice. For additional information, you can contact the RAA and/or UPAC, or Transport Canada.
A #1: Canadians have two options for registering their Two-Week-Wonder aircraft: Experimental/Homebuilt or Advanced Ultralight (AULA). There are pros and cons to both aircraft categories, so make sure you understand these before you make your choice. For additional information, you can contact the RAA and/or UPAC, or Transport Canada.
Q #2: Can you outline the main differences (between E-AB and AULA) and how they affect the Two-Week-Wonder program?
A #2: There are many differences between the two categories. Here are a couple of helpful charts concerning Canadian AIRCRAFT and PILOT categories, provided by UPAC. With regards to the Two-Week-Wonder, here are the salient points:
A #2: There are many differences between the two categories. Here are a couple of helpful charts concerning Canadian AIRCRAFT and PILOT categories, provided by UPAC. With regards to the Two-Week-Wonder, here are the salient points:
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A) Experimental/Homebuilt: The biggest issue with the Experimental/Homebuilt category is that the fuselage, wings and tail sections must all be inspected by an MD-RA inspector before they are fully closed-off during the assembly process (this is called the "pre-closing" inspection). For more details on this, see HERE. This pre-closing inspection, required mid-way through a typical "Two-Week-Wonder" program, means there could be delays of several weeks while we wait for an inspector to complete the inspection... Once this hurdle is past, the rest of the process is very similar to the one described above, for the USA: You will take your aircraft home where it will be re-assembled and finished, and where it will undergo its final inspection by your local MD-RA. To avoid these inspections, you can - in Canada - register the aircraft as an Advanced Ultralight...
To operate an Experimental/Homebuilt aircraft in Canada, you will need a standard PPL or Recreational Pilot license. Full details here. B) Advanced Ultralight (AULA): Besides the absence of MD-RA inspections prior to registration, there are two additional advantages to registering your aircraft as an AULA: You will be able to fly it with an Ultralight Pilot License, and you will be able to use the aircraft as a trainer (in a flying school)... Disadvantages include: Limited Gross Weight of 1,232 lbs (therefore lowered useful load) and no other engine choice than the Rotax 912 series... For more details on the advantages and restrictions applicable to AULA, see HERE. The most hassle-free solution to building your aircraft through the Two-Week-Wonder program is therefore to register the finished aircraft as an AULA. Only do this, however, if you are happy with the rights and privileges as they apply to AULA pilots. |
Good to know: Under Canadian law (CARS Subsection 507.03 (b) and Section 549.01), the builder/owner of a kit aircraft may"contract for professional assistance in the construction or assembly of parts of his/her aircraft provided the work is subject to the builder's overall control". This relatively new and uniquely Canadian regulation pre-empts earlier legislation requiring kit builders to complete 51% of their aircraft themselves (still a requirement for U.S. builders - see FAA). Amateur Builders in Canada may therefore contract professional assistance up to 100% provided they control the overall build of their "E-AB" aircraft.
Exception: The "51% rule never applied to Canadian ultralights. AULA can therefore be purchased and/or sold "ready-to-fly" - with the understanding that only a qualified person may carry out maintenance & repairs (see the regs)...
Exception: The "51% rule never applied to Canadian ultralights. AULA can therefore be purchased and/or sold "ready-to-fly" - with the understanding that only a qualified person may carry out maintenance & repairs (see the regs)...
Q #4: So based on the above, can I build a Canadian Homebuilt in 2 weeks at Plane-Crafters?
A #4: Yes, but only if/when we can coordinate the pre-closing inspection during your 2 weeks stay with us. Ideally, you will finish the wings and tail sections during your first week here so that they can be inspected by an MD-RA during a pre-scheduled inspection. We will of course help coordinate this with our local MD-RA inspector. The final inspection will need to be done at your place, with your own local inspector.
A #4: Yes, but only if/when we can coordinate the pre-closing inspection during your 2 weeks stay with us. Ideally, you will finish the wings and tail sections during your first week here so that they can be inspected by an MD-RA during a pre-scheduled inspection. We will of course help coordinate this with our local MD-RA inspector. The final inspection will need to be done at your place, with your own local inspector.
Other General info:
Q : Who are Zenair Ltd., Zenith Aircraft Co. and Plane-Crafters Inc?
A : Zenair Ltd is the original Chris Heintz company started in 1974. The Zenair facility is Transport Canada certified for the designing and manufacturing of the Type Certified CH2000 aircraft. Zenair has an engineering team, designs and manufactures aircraft kits, assemblies and components for designs such as the CH640, CH 650, CH 750, CH801 (2 & 4 place aircraft). Zenair also develops Firewall Forward Packages (FWF) for various engine choices for all CH designs, and also manufactures kits for six sizes of aluminum aircraft floats. Both Plane-Crafters and Zenair are located at the Huronia Airport in Midland ON Canada.
Zenith Aircraft Co is located in the USA and manufactures the airframe kits of the two-seat STOL, Cruzer and Zenith CH 650. Zenith Aircraft Co is independently owned and well known as one of the most successful kit aircraft manufacturers in the world. All three companies focus on Chris Heintz' (CH) aircraft designs.
Plane-Crafters Inc. is an independent organization whose mission it is to assist Zenith/Zenair aircraft kit builders with the assembly of their kits.
Q : Who are Zenair Ltd., Zenith Aircraft Co. and Plane-Crafters Inc?
A : Zenair Ltd is the original Chris Heintz company started in 1974. The Zenair facility is Transport Canada certified for the designing and manufacturing of the Type Certified CH2000 aircraft. Zenair has an engineering team, designs and manufactures aircraft kits, assemblies and components for designs such as the CH640, CH 650, CH 750, CH801 (2 & 4 place aircraft). Zenair also develops Firewall Forward Packages (FWF) for various engine choices for all CH designs, and also manufactures kits for six sizes of aluminum aircraft floats. Both Plane-Crafters and Zenair are located at the Huronia Airport in Midland ON Canada.
Zenith Aircraft Co is located in the USA and manufactures the airframe kits of the two-seat STOL, Cruzer and Zenith CH 650. Zenith Aircraft Co is independently owned and well known as one of the most successful kit aircraft manufacturers in the world. All three companies focus on Chris Heintz' (CH) aircraft designs.
Plane-Crafters Inc. is an independent organization whose mission it is to assist Zenith/Zenair aircraft kit builders with the assembly of their kits.
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We will make sure that you succeed!
The "One Week Wonder" (pictured above) was assembled in 7-days during the AirVenture (Oshkosh) Convention in 2014. This successful project is the inspiration for Plane-Crafter's new "Two-Week-Wonder" programs.
