I don't know how many Lancair builders and drivers would agree with this
comment but...
...Here goes.
The whole experimental amateur built segment of aviation was originally a
very tiny crack in the armor of the FAA. The founding fathers of EAA were
guys who drew up plans, glued and welded, found an engine and built small,
simple airplanes. These were the guys who read Popular Mechanics and build
Heathkit radios. They loved aviation and wanted to tinker in the world of
amateur airplane building. So, probably after some serious reservations,
the FAA opened up a small segment of aviation so people could "experiment" with
"homebuilt" aircraft. So the small, one seater, 40HP aircraft began to
appear. We all know the progression the industry has gone through.
So now the FAA's tiny crack in the armor has turned into a ever widening
hole.
The EAA is aware of the real possibility that we could screw this up for
ourselves. To quote the EAA:
For the past several years the Council has cautioned that any attempts to
circumvent or exceed the regulation’s limits (51% rule) could result in FAA
actions and undesirable consequences for all homebuilders.
I think the FAA has been generous to the amateur built segment
of the very highly regulated aircraft manufacturing industry. Do I
wish the FAA was even more generous? Sure! But I personally think we
should be thankful for the privileges we have in building our own amateur built
aircraft.
Mike Easley