Build Timeline

Overview

The construction of Vans RV14 G-STRV is now complete. Work started in October 2017 and finished in July 2022, when the maiden flight took place.

Although finished, there were several things to tweak as the engine and airframe bedded down during the initial flying, and as experience has been gained whilst operating the aeroplane.

Just over 4000 hrs of work over 4 years and 9 months produced G-STRV.

Relative Build Times Timeline Graphic

Important Notes about Build Times

Many things will affect how long it takes to build a Vans RV14, such as:

G-STRV was a “Slow build kit”, in other words all parts needed to be prepared and constructed.
A “Quick Build” kit would save considerable time, since the forward fuselage, wings, ailerons and flaps are all supplied ready built.
All parts in G-STRV have been primed, with anti-corrosion jointing compound applied to all overlapping surfaces.
Changes from the original kit all take extra time. G-STRV has the the following changes/additions:

Beringer 6.00×6″ wheels, brakes and parking brake.
Sky Design wheel spats.
A JDAir canopy latch.
Extra external lighting … AeroLED VX’s on the wingtips, AeroLED Anti-Col.
Classic Aero interior.
Vetterman “Trombone” exhaust.
Vertical Power VPX Pro and PPS electrical system.
EarthX ETX900 battery.
IFR Instrument Panel.

All electrical/avionic wiring was completed by myself, which involved lots of research and planning! Many builders opt to purchase a completed panel with avionics ready wired, again saving lots of time.
And most importantly, the builder’s experience, ability and attitude. This was the first metal work I have been involved with, and everything was completed slowly and carefully … especially at the beginning until experience was gained.

So do not think because we have logged over 4000 hours building G-STRV that it will take you the same.

Lots of people have built their aeroplane in a lot less time!

Relative Build Times

Probably the most useful information on this page is depicted in the pie chart below, which illustrates the relative build times of the various sections.