Chapter 110

NEWSLETTER

When Tom Hubbuch asked me to write an article for the newsletter, I planned to write on the development and preparation of the initial Flight Test Plan for my Titan Tornado, which is currently about a year and a half into construction. Since I had been gathering information and had, in fact, documented some procedures, I could expand on the logic I used, all the reference materials available, and of course, the First Flight Advisor program that EAA offers. However, certain recent events have given me reason to pause, look back on my project, and realize just how fortunate I am to even be at the point of actually contemplating a Flight Test Plan. It has brought into clear focus, the undeniable fact, that for me, THE most important element of building an airplane (or undertaking any other major/critical task for that matter) is the support of family and friends. And, it is a huge, extra, added bonus if some of these friends just happen to be an EAA chapter member. I have found that there is no greater reservoir of knowledge and willingness to help, than found right here in Chapter 110.

Up to this point, my only experience had been repairing a damaged wood and fabric ultralight (Fisher Koala). This was my first kit plane, and like an innocent little lamb, I actually believed what the brochure said. To paraphrase, "With merely a hammer, screwdriver, and drill you can build this beauty in 300 hours - 150 hours if you have half a brain." Shoot, I figured I qualified for the 150 hour option! You can imagine my mortification when I found out these people sometimes exaggerated just a little bit. Not only did they "exaggerate" the hours required, it quickly became apparent that I would need a few more tools than a hammer, screwdriver, and drill, and, frankly, a few more skills than I possessed.

In the first few hours of construction, I have to admit, I found myself overcome with self doubt - surely I had made a horrible, costly mistake. I will tell you unequivocally, that, one of, if not THE major factor in me getting past this, was the words of encouragement and support I received from friends and fellow Chapter 110 members - "veterans" who knew EXACTLY what I was going through. They had, "been there - done that."

As I have progressed through the various stages of construction, I have encountered more than a few problems/tasks that I needed help to complete. The "help" came in many forms. Sometimes it involved a simple phone call where I received clarification, confirmation, or even a completely new, and better, approach to the issue at hand. Other times, when my two hands were simply not enough, a friendly hand or two came to the rescue. And, on a few occasions, I was faced with a job that I could not do - I just did not have the equipment or the skills needed to get the job done. But, fortunately for me, I belong to an organization of people that possesses a broad and very knowledgeable skill level. But, even more important in my mind, they have a genuine concern and willingness to help.

I am deeply appreciative of all the help and offers of help that I have received. I have offered money to some, because in many instances, they have surely saved me money - NO ONE would accept it! I considered publicly acknowledging these members in this article, but I am afraid it may embarrass them - the last thing I would do. They do not seek recognition or reward. I have come to the conclusion that, as crazy as it may sound in today's world, they just enjoy helping others.

I, respectfully, offer a suggestion to those of you with current projects or those of you contemplating starting a project. At the next club meeting take a look around the room. It is full of talented craftsmen, with a wide range of knowledge and skills in the art of building an airplane. Even more important, if you have a question or a problem or just need a helping hand, talk to them - the odds are pretty dog gone good that they will be more than happy to help you.

Last Updated June 10, 2003

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