Comparative Analysis: Choosing The Kit Aircraft That's Right for You

Worksheet 1: Flying

Here we'll first look at the flying performance and capabilities of the aircraft. In evaluating the flying aspects, rate each aircraft according to how well it meets your requirements: For example, a high performance aerobatic design may have outstanding performance and handling characteristics, but it may not be suitable for a relatively low-time weekend pilot or may not have the stability suitable for cross-country flying.

If you have not flown the aircraft, it's first highly recommended that you fly a kit before deciding to build one. For the purposes of this worksheet, assume you're familiar with the flight characteristics of each aircraft (or if you really don't know the answer, read press reviews, talk to other owners, or contact the kit manufacturer or designer for the information).

Click here for instructions and example.

Kit Aircraft Comparative Analysis
Worksheet 1: Flying		 Kit A: Kit B:
Weight FLYING Rating Score Rating Score
Cruise / Top Speed
Is it fast enough?		 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Slow Flight / Stall Speed
Not too hot?		 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Rate of Climb 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Handling Characteristics 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Controls: Responsiveness & Feel 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Visibility 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Cabin Size and Comfort 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Baggage Space 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Useful Load 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Short Field Performance 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Suitable for Grass Field Operation 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Suitable for your flying skills? 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Range / Endurance 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Cross-Wind Capability 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Ground Handling Characteristics 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Other 3
2
1 		3
2
1
Worksheet 1: Flying
TOTAL SCORE		 TOTAL
KIT A:		 TOTAL
KIT B:

Now that we've evaluated and compared the flying aspects, let's move on to Worksheet 2: The Aircraft Design

CHOOSING YOUR KIT HOME Worksheet 2
DESIGN		 Worksheet 3
COMPANY		 Worksheet 4
THE KIT		 Worksheet 5
COSTS
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