About Us

 Our Email address is: (see bottom of page)
This is Richard, who is an Emergency Physician. He holds a private pilot certificate with single and multi-engine land and single and multi-engine IFR ratings. He has about 1000 hours, most of it complex, about 250 hours IFR, and 100 hours multi-engine in a Cessna 421, and about 35 hours helicopter time in a Robinson R-22.
This is Philip, who has a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology (and was therefore qualified to decide that we weren't completely crazy), and an Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems.  He is still in school, majoring in business management.  He also has background in industrial processes, and has done most of the fiberglass work.  Philip is not a pilot yet, but plans to get his rating about the time we finish the Velocity.

Neither of us has ever built an airplane before.  Richard has some hobby background in electronics and computers, but nothing professional.  The Velocity project has been a huge learning experience for both of us.  We have gained many new skills and a great deal of confidence, thanks to the excellent support and instruction from the Velocity personnel at the Service Center..

Here are some questions that we are frequently asked:

  1. Why did you choose a Velocity for your project?  We like the looks, and the large interior space.  We think airplanes should be comfortable and pretty, and the Velocity is both.  We like the way the doors open all the way down so you don't have to crawl up on the wing to get in  The performance is right up there with other large, normally aspirated airplanes, making the Velocity a serious cross-country machine.  Lastly, the company has a good reputation with builders, and we liked the people I met there.
  2. Can I do this?  Yes, if you have average mechanical ability and have the time, patience and dedication to the task.  Don't look at the estimated hours and say, "If I work 14 hours a day for X days I will be finished."  We said that.  Everyone says that.  You won't do that.  Don't kid yourself.  Instead, stick to it and enjoy the process.  Consistency is what gets it done.
  3. Is it cheaper than buying an airplane?  Well, yes and no.  It is probably a little cheaper than buying a new airplane of similar performance.  It is not cheaper than buying a late model used airplane.  If all you want to do is fly, and you are not really interested in the building process, then buy a used airplane.  You will be flying a lot sooner.
  4. What are the major benefits of building an airplane yourself?  The learning experience is the major thing from our perspective.  Other things are being able to do it your way, getting more advanced technology (although this has changed somewhat with the certified designs from Cirrus and Lancair), and being able to work on it yourself and modify it if you wish.
  5. What are the disadvantages?  The two major disadvantages are having to wait until you finish it to fly it, and insurance hassles.
  6. Would you do it again?  Absolutely!  In fact, we are going to do it again.  Next project will probably be a  Rotorway Exec helicopter.
  7. How was your experience with Velocity?  Fantastic!  The company has been supportive beyond my wildest expectations.  They were there for us all the way!  We have never encountered nicer, more ethical people to do business with.  Five stars!
  8. What advice would you give to a prospective builder?  First, don't try to re-design the airplane.  Confine your modifications to optional and cosmetic items.  The factory has gone to great lengths to make this easier for you.  As soon as you attempt any kind of re-design, you undo that, and your project will take a lot longer.  Second, use the Service Center, at least for a month or two and preferably for the entire project.  Third, make sure your budget or financing will cover the entire project.  Remember the engine, propeller, panel, radios, paint and upholstery.  Don't get caught off guard and have to suspend your project because of unanticipated expenses.
Our Email address is:

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