Experimental Flying
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Welcome to Experimental Flying, the premier online hub for Experimental and Homebuilt Aircraft enthusiasts worldwide. Our platform is a treasure trove of information, expertly curated for builders, pilots, and passionate supporters of the homebuilt aircraft community. Whether you're looking to acquire detailed guides, discover essential resources, or connect with like-minded aviation enthusiasts, Experimental Flying is your go-to source. Explore our extensive library tailored to meet your specific needs and take your aircraft building and flying experience to new heights.
FAA Aviation Manuals
Download FAA Manuals: Essential Resources for Builders and Pilots
Access and download a wide range of FAA manuals, including the comprehensive set of five Aviation Maintenance Handbooks. These essential resources cover two manuals on the power plant, two on the airframe, and one general reference guide. Perfect for builders and pilots alike, these manuals are available for free viewing and download from the FAA. Enhance your knowledge and expertise with these definitive guides today!
The Mercury b ush plane project is for sale. $13,8 00
Lycoming O-320E2D with partial logs. $7,000
Search Suppliers
:Save Time and Focus on Building and Flying! Discover our extensive, curated list of suppliers covering all aspects of homebuilt aircraft. Designed to simplify your search process, this resource helps you spend less time scouring the internet and more time building and flying! While this list is continually growing, we are dedicated to adding new resources as they become available. Explore now and find the suppliers you need for your homebuilt aircraft project.
About Experimemtals
If you are new to the Experimental aircraft world click the link to learn a little bit about it.
Learn about some of the common materials used in aircraft construction.
Get Your Aircraft Registered and Airworthy: Download Essential FAA Forms
Easily find all the paperwork you need to register your aircraft and obtain an airworthiness certificate by clicking the button below. You'll be directed to the FAA website, where you can download all necessary forms. Additionally, you'll find Aircraft Bill of Sale forms for buying or selling a flying aircraft. Streamline your process and ensure compliance with the latest FAA requirements today!
Some Useful Flying Links
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Browse EXPERIMENTAL/HOMEBUILT AIRCRAFT by Tail Number
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- EXCALIBUR AIRCRAFT EXCALIBUR is Pre-Approved by the FAA as a 51% Kit
- CUSTOMERS AIRCRAFT
- CUSTOMERS VIDEO
Excalibur Experimental Two Seat Kit Built Aircraft
Excalibur Experimental Two Seat Kit Built Aircraft.
Excalibur Experimental Aircraft on Puddle Jumper Amphib Floats
Excalibur Amateur Built Aircraft Kit.
Excalibur Tandem Seating Experimental Aircraft Kit.
Excalibur Experimental Amateur built FAA Approved Kit.
Excalibur is an approved faa 51% experimental amateurbuilt aircraft kit.
The Excalibur is a tandem seating two place, high wing experimental amateurbuilt aircraft in a pusher configuration.
In the U.S.A. it is available in kit form, and is approved by the FAA as a 51% aircraft kit. In Canada the Excalibur is available as an Amateur-built Aircraft, a Basic Ultralight Aircraft and an Advanced Ultralight Aircraft.
In Europe it qualifies under the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale microlight rules.
Excalibur Aircraft - Low and Slow in Louisiana
Brad enjoys the beautiful countryside of La. flying low and slow and savoring every moment.
Excalibur Aircraft - Mark Killip
Mark Killip from Boca Raton Florida talks about his building experiences with his Excalibur Aircraft.
Excalibur Aircraft - Colonel Kerr U S Marines
Talks about the Excalibur Aircraft and Factory Support.
Excalibur Aircraft Glen in Georgia starts the tail kit
Glen gets the tail kit first, and learns how to install the nut plates on the first day. easy. Wings are next.
Excalibur Aircraft Dustin in Georgia
Dustin has his own runway and hangar in the backyard of his Georgia home.
Excalibur Aircraft Fun on the Farm
or Dave, this should be HD (i think) some good take off and landing shots
Excalibur Aircraft River hopping with floats
- Excalibur Specs
- Excalibur Features
- Excalibur Engines
- Excalibur Prices
- Excalibur Differences
- Excalibur Factory
- Excalibur Customers
Original Aviation Content
Events and shows.
Another exciting topic! If you like seeing the Behind the Scenes of Aviation events and competitions, this is the Channel for you! STOL competitions. Fly-in events. Builder events. Find all of that right here! Press that "CLICK to WATCH!" button below
Simple Flying
5 experimental us fighter jets that never made it to production.
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- XFV-12 aimed to combine F-4 speed and VTOL capabilities, envisioned for Sea Control Ship use
- Goblin XF-85 sought to protect B-36s but had hazardous tests, like earlier Navy's F9Cs from airships
- F-20 Tigershark, cheaper F-16 alternative, improved F-5E but canceled after low interest post completing 3 prototypes
The US Air Force and Navy have developed scores of experimental fighter jets that never went into production. Sometimes, the aircraft were just intended as a proof of concept . Other times, they lost to a competitor's design. Still, other times, requirements had changed by the time they were developed (as in the famous case of the North American XB-70 supersonic bomber ). Here are five US fighter jets that flew but never entered serial production.
1 YF-23 Black Widow II
Two yf-23 prototypes were built for the advanced tactical fighter program.
Number built: | 2 prototypes |
|---|---|
First flew: | 1990 |
Primary contractor: | Northrop |
The YF-23 Black Window was Northrop's answer to the US Air Force's requirement for an Advanced Tactical Fighter. However, the Lockheed YF-22 won the competition and went on to become the F-22 Raptor. The YF-23 was considered stealthier and faster than its YF-22 rival, but it was less agile.
Two YF-23 prototypes were built, and one is on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force . The Advanced Tactical Fighter was intended to replace the F-15 Eagle air superiority fighter. But as history would have it, the Cold War would end, and the F-22's high cost saw it canceled early after only 187 production models were built. This forced the Air Force to rely on the F-15 (with F-15EX Strike Eagle IIs in production today).
Why The YF-23 Black Widow Never Made It Into Service
The jet competed against what is now known as the F-22 Raptor
Two X-32s were built for the Joint Strike Fighter program
Number built: | 2 |
|---|---|
First flew: | 2000 |
Primary contractor: | Boeing |
The X-32 is remembered for its unconventional (if not ugly) looks and was the Boeing bid to build the Joint Strike Fighter. However, it lost to Lockheed Martin's X-35 demonstrator, which became the F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jet. According to the National Interest , " Boeing emphasized simplicity in its design, focusing on stealth and speed with a single-engine cycle and delta wing shape. However, the X-32's Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) system proved less efficient than Lockheed's lift-fan design. "
However, Lockheed's X-35 proved better in stealth and supersonic flight. Now, the F-35 Lightning II is the world's most common fighter jet and the only fifth-generation fighter in service in export markets. The failed X-32 is parked next to the YF-23 in the National Museum today.
Fully Restored Boeing X-32A Rolls Out Of The Hangar At The USAF National Museum
The fighter jet demonstrator has been given a new lease of life.
3 XF-85 Goblin
Two xf-85s were built as parasitic aircraft for the convair b-36.
Number built: | 2 |
|---|---|
First flew: | 1948 |
Primary Contractor: | McDonnell Aircraft |
The XF-85 Goblin was a bizarre parasitic aircraft built during WWII by McDonnell Aircraft. It was designed to be deployed from the bomb bay of the large Convair B-36. The Goblin was intended to protect B-36 bombers from hostile interceptor aircraft far beyond the range of conventional escort fighters. Once the enemy interceptors had disappeared, the Goblin could reattach to the B-36 and return to the bomb bay.
Tests for the Goblin began in 1948 on B-29s. While the idea worked, it was difficult and hazardous, with half of the Globins making emergency ground landings. Strangely enough, the XF-85 was not a novel concept. The US Navy once operated Curtiss F9C Sparrowhawk parasitic biplanes from its two Akron-class airships (meaning the Navy once had aircraft carrier airships).
When Aircraft Carriers Fly: What Were Akron Class Airships & Why Were They Important?
The USS Akron and Macon were two massive aircraft carrying airships built for the US Navy and helped define an era.
4 F-20 Tigershark
Three f-20s were built as a cheaper option to the f-16.
Number built: | 3 |
|---|---|
First flew: | 1982 |
Primary contractor: | Northrop |
The Northrop F-20 Tigershark was a light fighter intended to be a cheaper alternative to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. It was an evolution of the more successful earlier Northrop F-5E Tiger II and boasted greatly improved overall performance, a powerful radar, and a new engine. It was much faster than the F-5E and could carry most US-produced weapons.
However, the project was canceled after low interest and the completion of three prototypes (a fourth prototype was partially built). Another canceled F-16 competitor of the era was the Israeli IAI Lavi (which remains both a source of national pride and national sadness in Israel today).
Kfir & Nesher: What To Know Of The Israeli Copies Of The French Mirage
In the 1970s, after France imposed an arms embargo, the Israelis built two types of fighter jets based on the French Rafale V.
One XF-12 prototype was built to be a F-4-like carrier adaption
Number built: | 1 |
|---|---|
First flew: | 1978 |
Primary contractor: | Rockwell International |
The F-4 Phantom II was one of the most successful fighter jets of its era (and remains in service in two air forces worldwide today). The XFV-12 was an attempt by the Navy to combine the F-4's speed (over Mach 2) and ability to carry AIM-7 Sparrows with a VTOL capability.
The Navy hoped to operate the XFV-12 off a small aircraft carrier type being considered at the time called the Sea Control Ship (a sort of escort carrier to support convoys). Neither the ships nor the XFV-12 were ever built. While the XFV-12 appeared superior to the Hawker Siddeley Harrier on paper, it underperformed during trials.
Do Any Air Forces Still Use The Hawker Harrier Jet?
The versatile multi-role fighter aircraft is being phased out but will be around until 2030.
- Military Aviation
- North America
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EAA CareersCommunity outreach. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is a growing and diverse organization of members with a wide range of aviation interests and backgrounds. Founded in 1953 by a group of individuals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who were interested in building their own airplanes, EAA expanded its mission of growing participation in aviation to include antiques, classics, warbirds, aerobatic aircraft, ultralights, helicopters, and contemporary manufactured aircraft. Membership in EAA enables you to share the spirit of aviation with the most passionate community of recreational pilots, builders, and restorers. EAA is the only association that offers the fun and camaraderie of participating in the flying, building, and restoring of recreational aircraft with the most passionate community of aviation enthusiasts. Join EAA Now Renew EAA Membership Together we fly. Welcome home.  EAA members represent every aspect of aviation and often have multiple interests. We fly them. We fix them. We even build them.  EAA has grown from a handful of aviation enthusiasts to an international organization representing recreational aviation.  Join one of the most unique nonprofit organizations in the Midwest. EAA is a people-driven association that invests in its employees.  EAA strives to be a strong community partner by supporting charitable and cultural efforts within the greater Fox Valley area and other communities.  Get all the official news surrounding EAA and its programs. |
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AIRCRAFT. CHANNEL. EXPERIMENTAL . LIGHT SPORT . ULTRALIGHT AVIATION. FEATURING "WEEKLY" EPISODES OF AVIATION CONTENT INCLUDING FACTORY TOURS, HOW ITS MADE, BEHIND THE SCENES, BUILDER HOUSE CALLS AND AVIATION EVENTS.
We have 171 Experimental/Homebuilt Aircraft For Sale. Search our listings for used & new airplanes updated daily from 100's of private sellers & dealers. 1 - 24.
EAA Young Eagles. Since 1992, more than two million young people have discovered the world of flight through EAA's Young Eagles program. Read More. The Experimental Aircraft Association, EAA, based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, encourages and supports the flying, building and restoration of recreational aircraft.
Aircraft. Another exciting topic! Experimental Aircraft are by far the FASTEST growing segment in Aviation at this moment allowing for Builders to be more creative with what the can build in to their airframe. And new technologies and ideas are coming to reality quicker having more people "Experimenting." Press that "CLICK to WATCH!"
Browse through the various aircraft kits and airplane plans available for you to get started on building your own homebuilt aircraft. 🎆 🎇 🎆 We hope you had a blast and were amazed with tonight's night air show.
This channel is dedicated to exploring and showcasing the incredibly amazing hobby and passion of Experimental, Light-Sport and Ultralight Aircraft and more specifically Aircraft Building ...
The Experimental designation has been in existence for more than five decades. It defines aircraft that are used for non-commercial, recreational purposes such as education or personal use. Under FAA regulations, if an individual builds at least 51 percent of an aircraft, the aircraft is eligible to be registered in the amateur-built category.
Welcome to Experimental Flying, the premier online hub for Experimental and Homebuilt Aircraft enthusiasts worldwide. Our platform is a treasure trove of information, expertly curated for builders, pilots, and passionate supporters of the homebuilt aircraft community. Whether you're looking to acquire detailed guides, discover essential ...
Ultralight Aircraft is also one of the "Fastest" growing segments in Aviation as it is entry level and most affordable for NEW Aircraft. We will be adding more episodes on this topic shortly both from Manufacturers and Builders. Press that "CLICK to WATCH!" button below. Click to Watch! Experimental Aircraft Channel Newsletter. Thanks for ...
The EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) estimates that more than 33,000 amateur-built and homebuilt aircraft are licensed. Local EAA chapter groups allow aviation enthusiasts to share their interest with others, while also learning about aircraft building and restoration and participating in fly-ins.
Browse Aircraft.com's catalog of EXPERIMENTAL/HOMEBUILT AIRCRAFT. Find tail numbers, view photos, and get detailed individual aircraft information.
EXCALIBUR is an Approved FAA 51% experimental amateurbuilt aircraft kit! The Excalibur is a tandem seating two place, high wing experimental amateurbuilt aircraft in a pusher configuration. In the U.S.A. it is available in kit form, and is approved by the FAA as a 51% aircraft kit. In Canada the Excalibur is available as an Amateur-built ...
EAA - The Spirit of Aviation, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. 356,082 likes · 18,825 talking about this · 74,436 were here. The Experimental Aircraft Association, host of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Come see us July...
Find the best new and used aircraft for sale such as business jets, helicopters, Experimental, Warbirds and more. ... Built In Homebuilt/Experimental Category, Currently 35 hours TT OAF and I0360 200 hp.Lycoming • Contact David Kubassek, Owner - located Bright, ...
Experimental Aircraft Channel. 16,721 likes · 129 talking about this. YouTube Channel - Featuring KIT BUILDERS and Manufacturers!
Events and Shows. Events and. Shows. Another exciting topic! If you like seeing the Behind the Scenes of Aviation events and competitions, this is the Channel for you! STOL competitions. Fly-in events. Builder events. Find all of that right here!
A group for experimental aircraft designers, builders and flyers - we are the first and the largest group on the topic on Facebook. As an international group, we document, celebrate and highlight...
Caproni-Campini N.1/CC.2 experimental motorjet and second jet aircraft to fly. Ambrosini Sagittario 1953 - Swept wing research aircraft. Bossi-Bonomi Pedaliante 1936 - Human-powered aircraft. Caproni Campini N.1 1940 - Jet engine research. Jona J-6 - Tilting wing stabilisation system.
The US Air Force and Navy have developed scores of experimental fighter jets that never went into production. Sometimes, the aircraft were just intended as a proof of concept.Other times, they lost to a competitor's design. Still, other times, requirements had changed by the time they were developed (as in the famous case of the North American XB-70 supersonic bomber).
The EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) estimates that more than 33,000 amateur-built and homebuilt aircraft are licensed. Local EAA chapter groups allow aviation enthusiasts to share their interest with others, while also learning about aircraft building and restoration and participating in fly-ins.
Experimental amateur-built aircraft Experimental amateur-built aircraft that meet the definition of an LSA may be flown by sport pilots. The aircraft is certificated as experimental amateur-built and must be operated in accordance with the operating limitations issued to the aircraft at the time it receives its airworthiness certification.
Find the best new and used aircraft for sale such as business jets, helicopters, Experimental, Warbirds and more. ... 1996 TITAN II • $16,300 • FOR SALE BY OWNERS • 1996 Titan Tornado II light sport experimental aircraft. 65 Herth engine with 167 hours TT on airframe and engine. Flys great!
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is a growing and diverse organization of members with a wide range of aviation interests and backgrounds. Founded in 1953 by a group of individuals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who were interested in building their own airplanes, EAA expanded its mission of growing participation in aviation to include ...
Horizon Aircraft (Nasdaq: HOVR) is an advanced aerospace engineering company that is developing one of the world's first hybrid eVTOL that is to be able to fly most of its mission exactly like a ...