800 hours / 18 months

[av8rps]

I think the averages John just shared with us are quite realistic. But of course, not everyone works at the same rate. So as John said "Your mileage may vary"

And just like when you got your pilots license, if you stretch the time to get your license out over a few years vs a few months, you will have to relearn much of what you forgot between lessons. Building a plane is much the same in my opinion. The person that can apply a constant, dedicated work discipline will always build a kitplane faster than the person that wants the build to be an enjoyable activity that will be fit in between their other activities of life.

I personally like the second option, as if you can balance your build with things like your family obligations it will be a more enjoyable experience. But of course it will take longer. In the end however, I believe you will not only have a much better overall experience for all involved, but likely a nicer airplane. Spreading it out also helps ease the expense, which is also good for things like the family budget.

I think this is why you see most people take their time building their Kitfox. Of course, to onlookers that probably makes the whole process look more difficult and time consuming than it really is. But everyone involved is probably a bit happier in the end.

With all that said, I've seen people build a kitplane in two months. But they had no life and were exhausted by the time it was done. Unless you are truly a workaholic, I might question if that is even healthy? Before I would do that I'd just buy a flying airplane. But then you would lose that great sense of satisfaction that comes from building your very own flying machine. And that in my opinion is priceless...

[jeffbock]

Just to put in my two cents worth. Am retired, except for volunteering as an EMT, My hangar is a 5 minute walk from home, and most importantly I had sold my Lake Buccaneer and was without a flying machine. Logged my build pretty carefully, which was my first build, and included the quick build wings. Came in at 1600hours and first flight in 22months. I felt it was pretty good as had never done fabric, paint, or wiring a panel.
Oh yes...marriage still entact. Jeff, N. Idaho

[Wheels]

Jeff's plane is immaculate, and I am envious. I watched him build it and his numbers are dead on.
Decide what you want and how bad you want it. Then take the level of action required to satisfy that decision. It IS math, but keep the marriage intact