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I feel very foolish to assume I could build an Airplane in Canada without previous completed paperwork.
I guess everybody else knew so there was no mention this. So hear I am with a Zenith STOL750 kit and wondering what are the required steps, from the governments pint of view, to build this plane. I live remote North of Prince George, BC. Your advise is greatly appreciated! Thanks and have a save 2026. Klaus Gebert.
Tags:
Hi Klaus,
You will need to send a letter informing them that you are building an aircraft, then you will need to have the airframe inspected before you rivet the final skins on (the inspector must be able to see the internal structure of the wings, etc.), then you will need a final inspection before your first flight. You might need to trailer the parts to the lower mainland to get inspected, or pay for an inspector to travel to you - I'm not sure where the nearest MD-RA is, currently.
This website will help you through the process: https://www.md-ra.com/en/
Also, here's the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association Guide-to-Amateur-Builts.pdf
Cheers,
Matt (Smithers, BC)
Hi Claus,
To follow up on Matt’s post:
MDRA website provides most of information you will need. You predominantly deal with MDRA, and you need to register your build with them (there is a fee). The people you work with in the field are builders and my experience has been great. You should be able to get away with two inspections, a pre-closure, all airframe components have to be open at least so that all work on the interior can be seen, Check with your inspector to determine how far you can go, they can be quite flexible. Final inspection has to be done at the airfield you will fly from. Airplane has to be complete and ready to fly, you cannot disassemble and move to another airfield. Both inspections have a fee and expenses. For me, in the lower mainland, the expenses only entailed paying inspector’s mileage. For PG it will likely entail inspector flying there, I believe they will try to minimize your costs wherever possible.
You apply to Transport Canada for a mark (call sign), there is a list of available marks on their website, don’t apply too early or you will have to renew it.
Some quirks:
If you are using a Rotax you may be able to get away without carb heat with some help
You may not initially need an ELT or Transponder.
Modifications are ok, you are essentially the designer/manufacturer, provided they appear well thought out and generally meet acceptable standards.
If you have any questions your assigned inspector will be very helpful.
Perry
North Vancouver, BC
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