FAQs
VERY IMPORTANT FAQ! We recommend that people use the VP primary structure AS-IS, then do all modifying and customizing in the secondary structure. Without the required engineering background, one should not modify the primary structure which has been engineered, stressed, and now proven for over 40 years! (See VP-1 Plans, page 17)
Because the VP primary structure is so very simple to begin with, it has been a natural for people to build upon with their own ideas.
Heavy pilots present no structural problem provided they realize that the allowable maneuver load factor is reduced when gross weight increases. (see VP-1 Plans, page 22 & Pilot’s Handbook, page 2. We recommend that other questions related to structural modifications to accommodate overweight pilots should be researched through Volksplane forums, parts vendors, and other internet search.
It should require no more than 6 to 12 months time unless time has been taken off for other things. Costs have obviously gone up since the VP-1 was first marketed in 1968, when it could be built for $1000, including used engine. However, despite inflation along with salary increases over time, the VP is still the low cost way.
Detailed information of this kind is readily available in the Volksplane Plans and Pilot’s Handbook. As an aeronautical engineer the primary intent of the designer was to get a pilot into the air as easily, as economically, and as safely as possible. This is precisely what the VP does, and it does it remarkably well. The Volksplaner can fly to over 10,000 feet, cruise up to 94 mph, land at less than 50 mph, fly cross country legs of 200 miles, and operate from any reasonably flat field that is 1,000 to 1,500 feet long. And, he can do this with the assurance that he is surrounded by a rugged little airplane.
Aircraft Spruce is our primary parts supplier. Click HERE to connect directly to the Aircraft Spruce VP-1 Parts page.
In the U.S. all homebuilt aircraft are licensed by the FAA in the Experimental / Armature Built category. Please refer to the FAA website link on our Website.
Outside the U.S. check with your sport aircraft association. Most countries now have similar licensing arrangements for homebuilts. Most countries already have VPs licensed and flying.
The designer has 30 years design experience with Ryan Aircraft, Convair and General Dynamics, plus 25 years in Evans Aircraft. His associates hold aeronautical engineering degrees from NYU, MIT and the University of Minnesota. In addition, the designer’s primary test pilot had 12 years of U.S. navy flying experience both as a fighter pilot and instructor. (see VP-1 Plans, page 28 & Pilot’s Handbook, page V)
No. Despite its popularity we stopped marketing and responding to technical inquiries regarding the VP-2 years ago due to liability issues associated with 2-seat airplanes. If VP-2 plans or modifications of VP-2 plans currently exist on the Internet, it is without our permission and therefore without our approval.
Additional information on both the VP-1 and 2 can be found through the following Wikipedia links: Wikipedia page about the VP-1, Wikipedia page about the VP-2