The MakerPlane Lets Amateur Aviators Build Their Own Aircraft
Michael Hines — August 23, 2012 — Autos
References: makerplane.org & dvice
The number of amateur aviators is set to soar once the MakerPlane project gets up and running. The MakerPlane is the latest endeavor from the folks over at Makerspace. The project's mission is to make it cheap and easy to build an airplane. The beauty of the MakerPlane is that almost all of its parts can be printed from a 3D printer. Being able to print airplane parts will still cost a pretty penny, but it'll be a heck of a lot cheaper than buying them individually.
The printed plane will be a single-engine sport aircraft that can seat two. This type of plane offers very little in the way of looks and thrills, but it only takes 20 hours of instruction and a few tests until you're licensed to fly alone. The folks behind the MakerPlane expect to having a working prototype up sometime in 2014.
The printed plane will be a single-engine sport aircraft that can seat two. This type of plane offers very little in the way of looks and thrills, but it only takes 20 hours of instruction and a few tests until you're licensed to fly alone. The folks behind the MakerPlane expect to having a working prototype up sometime in 2014.
Trend Themes
1. Amateur Aviators - Amateur aviators are embracing the opportunity to build their own aircraft.
2. 3D Printing in Aviation - The use of 3D printing in creating airplane parts is revolutionizing the aviation industry.
3. Affordable Flying - The MakerPlane project is making flying more accessible and affordable for aspiring pilots.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry can explore the potential of 3D printing to lower manufacturing costs and create customizable aircraft components.
2. Education - The education industry can develop specialized instruction programs for amateur aviators to obtain their licenses and safely build their own airplanes.
3. Recreation - The recreation industry can leverage the rise in amateur aviators to offer flying experiences, training, and support services.
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