We have a group of very talented members. They fly, instruct, and some have even built their own aircraft. Need a little inspiration or maybe even some ideas for your own build? Our members are happy to share. Ready to be impressed? Here are the stats:
68 - Built or restored airplanes by 42 chapter members
22 - Projects currently under construction, by 22 builders
Congratulations Warwins!
Congratulations to Builders-Barry & Valerie Wawrin! On June 10, 2025, N418BV, their Vans RV-6-14A received its Airworthiness Certificate.
Mike Guenthner, RV-8
I’m still chipping away at the fuel tanks—there’s no shortage of tasks to knock out before it’s time to break out the tank sealant and dive into that glorious mess. But progress is happening, one step at a time!
June turned out to be my best build month yet, with just over 40 hours logged—wish every month could be that productive! That extra momentum has brought me within about a week of final assembly on the left tank, with the right tank close behind. There’s still plenty of prep work ahead, but the long summer days and mostly comfortable temps have been a big boost. Apparently I'm now known as the crazy guy building an airplane in his garage according to a few random people who have stopped by to ask about the project in the past few weeks! For anyone who's tackled a set of Van’s fuel tanks before—I’m all ears. There’s a mountain of opinions out there about best practices, and I’d love to hear what worked for you.
Two Projects Completed!
May/June 2025
Three of our members, Fred Wellman and Josh and Matt Tomsheck, completed their projects in quick succession. Fred received the Air Worthiness Certificate for his Zenith 750 Cruzer in May, followed by the Tomsheck's receiving their certificate for their Just Highlander in June. Congratulations to all!
It’s Alive!
By Randy Brooks
After waiting for the perfect weather day and coordinating schedules of my ‘ground crew’ (Dave M and Paul L), it all came together on Sunday, 19 May. It was a perfectly clear, calm morning—just right for a first flight. The plane flew perfectly— all I could ask for. Straight, responsive and smooth.
I’m doing the Task Based EAA Flight Test Program for the Phase 1 testing. As of today, I’m finished with task card #8 (out of 18) and have about 9 hours flight time on the airplane. A huge shout-out to Dave Manning for his invaluable assistance and expertise during the build; Matt Tomsheck for his guidance and knowledge during the Airworthiness application process and the actual inspection; Gary Baker for the Tech Counselor visits; and to all the Chapter members who looked over the airplane during the build and prior to the first flight.
This has been a dream of mine since my Dad and I first bought plans for the EAA Biplane when I was in junior high school. We never built it, but it was always my goal to someday build my own airplane. The RANS certainly fits my definition of the perfect all-around airplane—I can’t wait to enjoy flying it now!
Click here for a history of past completed projects!
Zenith 750 Update:
By Bernie & Aaron May
We are currently working on the panel.
A New Bearhawk LSA!
By Jeremy Cowgar
Today we started our Bearhawk LSA build. We completed the two landing struts. Next up is mounting brakes on the landing gear legs. The current goal is to get the fuselage on it's gear.
Project Update: Skybolt
by Paul Hancheck
The Skybolt is progressing slowly. The seats have been welded in and tried out! I am soon to start on the landing gear.
Changing Projects!
By Brad Wurst
Selling the Preceptor Ultra Pup project (no longer fits mission) and recently purchased this Wittman Buttercup project.
Earl Luce & Brad Wurst with Wittman Buttercup project
A New Project- SubSonex JSX2!
Joe Stefanini is now working on a SubSonex JSX2! This is the single-seat jet that John Monnett at Sonex Aircraft designed in 2011. Joe is working on it in his hangar at Akron Fulton Airport.
And here are some of our member’s current aircraft building projects from the EAA Builders Log website.
