Experimental / Homebuilt Aircraft
Experimental and homebuilt aircraft offer the ultimate in customization and cost savings. Built from kits or plans, these aircraft can match or exceed factory aircraft performance at a fraction of the purchase price.
13
Models
16,345
Active US Registrations
$10K
Avg Annual Cost (100 hrs)
$30K
Lowest Entry Price
CubCrafters Carbon Cub EX-3
CubCrafters NXCub
Glasair Sportsman 2+2
Lancair Evolution
Lancair IV-P
Van's Aircraft RV-10
Van's Aircraft RV-12
Van's Aircraft RV-12IS
Van's Aircraft RV-4
Van's Aircraft RV-6 / RV-6A
Van's Aircraft RV-7 / RV-14
Van's Aircraft RV-8 / RV-8A
Van's Aircraft RV-9 / RV-9A
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Experimental / Homebuilt Aircraft?
Ownership costs for experimental / homebuilt aircraft vary widely depending on the specific model, age, and how much you fly. The main cost categories are:
- Purchase price — the upfront cost to buy the aircraft
- Annual fixed costs — insurance, hangar, annual inspection, and registration
- Hourly variable costs — fuel and engine overhaul reserve per flight hour
Use our What Can I Afford? calculator to find experimental / homebuilt aircraft within your budget, or compare costs side-by-side with our comparison tool.
Popular Experimental / Homebuilt Aircraft
Well-known models include Van's RV series, Lancair, Glasair, Sonex, Zenith. Each model page includes a full cost breakdown, NTSB safety record, pre-buy checklist, and 5-year total cost of ownership projection.