Vision Aircraft

The Vision is a 2 seat, all composite aircraft built from proven construction manuals designed for first time builders. Two models are available - The sportier SP model and the extended wing EX version which is more suitable for high altitude flying, heavier loads, and lower experience pilots. Both versions are supplied with the plans. Construct entirely from the manuals using raw materials or from pre-formed parts which greatly reduce build time.

The affordable Vision homebuilt aircraft is THE only ALL composite, plans built, 2 seat sport aircraft that uses a conventional - non canard - platform.

Experimental aircraft don't have to be tiny! The Vision is a full-size aircraft and can easily be built to handle even the largest pilots. Most of the current Visions are being built with 44" to 46" wide cockpits. Even pilots as tall as 6'5" can be accommodated.

Cost - The Vision is affordable but is not the cheapest plane around. There are less expensive ways to build an airplane however the Vision plans will allow you to complete an aircraft that is not susceptible to corrosion or dry rot. With fiberglass and readily available epoxies the entire airframe can be built be for less than $10,000. With a mid-time Lycoming 0-235/320 and VFR panel you could be in the air for under $30,000. This is for a new aircraft built the way you want it.

The benefit of plans built aircraft and especially the Vision is that the materials can be purchased over time and according to your budget and speed of completion.

Vision built as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) ?

As with any plans built aircraft a lot can be done in terms of modifications. When the Vision was designed in 1994 there was no thought of LSA. However, since each builder is the manufacturer of their own aircraft they also determine and set the gross weight. Setting the gross weight within LSA limits is simple enough as the Vision is well under any structural or performance concerns for an EX version. In order to fit the stall requirement with flaps up a full time leading edge slot would need to be installed; this is a simple matter once you understand just how easy it is to work with and modify composite structures.

In the interest of having the most useful load it is critical that the empty weight is a low as possible since the gross weight can not be higher than 1320 lbs. The use of the carbon pre-built spar and Fold-a-Plane panels provided by Pro-Composites will greatly reduce the weight of the Vision - beyond what can be obtained through building according to the plans. Also important is using a light powerplant such as the 120 hp Jabiru. Using these recommended changes a Vision should be in the 700's empty weight. Keeping the top speed down is simply a prop choice so the whole equation of meeting LSA requirement is no major undertaking.

Support

A host of builder support is available through an active email list-server moderated by the Vision designer. On-site assistance and workshops are also available.

Pro-Composite provides Fast Build Fold-a-Plane kits for the Vision. See the Vision Parts Catalog for available parts.