KNOWLEDGE BASE
Many pilots and prospective airplane builders are unfamiliar with the construction methods of building metal airplanes. This is strange because most airplanes built in the last fifty years are made of riveted aluminum. While riveting may initially seem a mystery, it is straightforward.
Handling and doing quality work is not difficult. Some practice always helps, so a bundle of trimmings is included in the kit, along with enough extra rivets that the new builder can rivet away and convince him or herself that it isn’t all that hard. Remember, there are so many riveted aluminum airplanes because ordinary people can do an acceptable (or better) job.
While Aircraft Builder Assist Center stocks a few convenient tools for our customers (available through our web store), we are not tool sales specialists. We’ve included a list of recommended tools for constructing a Volato aircraft. For the Volato 400, please refer to the Volato plans Section for a complete tool list. We also suggest you speak with other builders and consult with some of the companies that specialize in experimental aircraft tools, including Cleaveland Aircraft Tools and Isham/Planetools in the United States — companies where you can speak with Volato builders that have unique, real-world experience building the same type of aircraft you’ll be working on. Some companies have put together packages of tools recommended specifically for Volato aircraft building. You should plan on spending $1500 or more for a complete set of tools.
