Russell Jackson

Sonex Builder

Russ received his Sonex plans, number 240, in early April 2000. All the sheet metal parts were fabricated by Russ.  He purchased all the welded parts from Sonex.  In  August 2003 he installed the wings, did a weight and balance, and called it complete.  Since hanger space did not become available until July 2004, the Sonex sat in his garage for those 11 months.  Russ moved the plane to Calhoun (KCZL) in July, did some minor tests, and got the airworthiness certificate on Friday the 13th of August 2004.  He was expecting to get a demonstration ride in another Sonex, for practice, before he flew the newly completed kit.  However, because of various factors, the demo ride did not work out.  On Saturday September 4th 2004, he made the first flight, ready or not.  Other than a brake problem, the Sonex has been great and Russ is having a wonderful time flying.  Russ states that the Sonex is very stable and responsive, cockpit view is great, and all performance stats are as advertised.
 

Russ just before moving the Sonex to Calhoun

Russ and Scott Barland Jr. (another Sonex builder) at Calhoun

A proud Russ, after the first flight.