Flying an aircraft that the Chapter builds

[dwbbrown]

• Our chapter EAA1156 recently completed a Pietenpol, a project that took over 12 years. When we tried to obtain insurance for it we were told that Chapters were prohibited from flying an airplane within Chapter/Squadron structure. This is contained in the chapter renewal agreement. The airplane is now grounded until ownership can be changed. This seems to go counter to everything thing the EAA stands for.
  I know that legal liabilities are the driving issues here. I think a set of requirements,(insurance,rules) should be developed by EAA that allow chapters to own/fly aircraft. I would like to hear other thoughts about this. David

[Hangar10]

Nice to meet you Mr. Brown! <---The Great Waldo Pepper reference there.

I don't really have any answers or suggestions for you insurance problem, but do you have any photos or information on the Pietenpol? Just wondering which version you guys chose to build. I am currently building the long fuse, 3-piece wing, steel gear with Corvair power. I'd be interested in looking at anything you might want to share.

Thanks!

Mark

[Steve Buss]

Hi David,

Yes, under the current chapter structure, flying an airplane is not an approved chapter activity.

That said, there has been work started on exploring the possibility of creating flying clubs or parameters to allow a chapter to fly an airplane.

While the work is underway, it is not something that will be ready in the near future. We have a long way to go. The desire to fly an airplane under a chapter banner is something that we have heard from chapters through surveys and feedback at our Chapter Leaders Academy sessions.

Thanks,
Steve

Steve Buss
EAA Chapter Manager

[Anymouse]

David,

Is it possible to simply create a flying club, separate from the chapter itself, that all chapter members are automatically members of? It's a Tomato/Tomata thing, but it might get around the rules of current chapter structure while keeping the spirit of the chapter.

[flyingrcarlson]

Our chapter has been wanting to find a way around this as well.

[smutny]

This could be a great promoter for IAC chapters. The biggest hurdle for many pilots to start aerobatics is access to an airplane. Having to buy a $50,000+ Citabria or Decathlon just to see if you like it is a show stopper for many, many people. Chapter managed aircraft could be a solution.