Home-built plane hobby triples in popularity despite higher accident risk
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Home-built "amateur" planes have tripled in popularity since the 1980s to over 33,000 registered with the FAA. Over 100,000 people are interested in the hobby.
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To build one, you need no formal credentials - just sign-off from the FAA after they inspect it. A pilot's license is only needed if the plane is heavy enough.
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They can be built from scratch, pre-packaged kits, or bought used. Costs range from under $10,000 for simpler builds to $100,000+ for complex planes.
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Accident rates are higher than commercial planes but "homebuilts" are still considered safe. Most accidents happen early on and are often mechanical failures rather than pilot error.
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Experts say with proper precautions, inspection, and piloting skills, home-built planes can be as reliable and fun to fly as factory models, with more customization.