When I got interested in experimental aircraft, back in ’99 or so, I looked over all the models offered back then. My first love was the Cozy MKIV, a canard design with linage to the Rutan EZs. For many years I have been following the Vans RV models from the -9, the -10, and now the -12 & -14. When one really looks at the cost of a -9, a basic model with a mid time engine will run around 60+k (see here for Van’s RV cost estimator I’ve read its pretty accurate). With hobbies I am a pay-as-you-go type (no loans), so the RV would have to wait. (simple math: 60k, say 6 years = $833/month) Can it done cheaper? Sure, but right now I don’t have the time it would take to scrounge for sub kits and parts to save another 5-8k.
Along comes Dan, and when he started talking about building, a thought started that maybe we could build something right now!! Dan liked the Sonex so I gave it another look. Previously I hadn’t appreciated the performance of the little plane at both low and high speeds. The aerobatic capability opens a new slice of flying for me.
The Sonex fits a great niche for 650 lb empty 1100 gross with a large speed range.
So Dan & I are going to try to scratch build the plane. There are a lot of skills to learn, between the two of us we should be able to figure it out.
Now the Sonex, like every airplane, is a compromise. To get the performance with the lower horsepower the plane is light, 650 lb empty. So the original design tends to be a little minimalistic. For example the original design (which I’m guessing the performance numbers were derived from), has no lighting, no cabin heat, no oil filter, no transponder, simultaneous cable actuated drum brakes from a handle, no paint, and no priming. Now one can add each of these items but the weight will slowly creep up and the performance may suffer a little. Remember that John Monnet designed the Sonex for simple flying fun. People have flow them all over the country and to the Bahamas, so cross-country flying can be done. The cabin width is only 40″, which is cozy for two guys (I’ve heard you have to stagger your shoulders).
I have to say the front end of the thing is a little, shall we say, “different”. The Dustbuster type glare shield, sloping cowling, and little spinner are “unique”. I’ve heard the fuselage is shaped like a wing to gain some lift. After going to Oshkosh for years and pouring over airplane magazines I am used to a certain profile, however I must admit the more you look at it, the shape starts to grow on you.
Previously I whined about no factory demo rides, however Sonex had a factory transition training program. I think this was great, but unfortunately the instructor changed jobs and they no longer offer it. The Sonex community is great and very open to new builders. I have chatted with a local sonex pilot and hope to get a ride soon.
After all that please don’t get the wrong impression, I am grateful to the Monnets for designing and offering the Sonex to the public. I really like the Sonex and am very excited to be building. I can actually afford to build with Dan’s partnership. So, I am happy to be cutting metal (..drilling wrong holes and re-cutting metal…)
I’ve already planned out some cross-country trips on Skyvector!!
Cheers, Tim
Update: Some plans built VW airplanes that look intersting are the
Thatcher CX-4 & CX-5 (two seat tandem) Company Website, Builder News
Bruce King BK1
Sport Performance Aviation Panther (initial test flights, airplane designed by Sonex builder)