Engine and systems installed, the Van’s RV-12 takes to the skies…and it’s time for a confession.

By Dave Martin

As I write this, the first of the Independence, Oregon, Van’s Aircraft RV-12s (mine) is flying its required test flights after an 18-month building process. Six of the 18 months were waiting for kit segments.

After one more test hop, N812DL moves out of its Phase I category. I will remove the 100 pounds of ballast from the right seat and replace it with the first passenger. My wife, Lois, who weighs slightly more than the sand, may volunteer to be the test passenger. Seven other RV-12s here are being built or are finished. One passed its airworthiness inspection a few days ago and should fly soon. As we went to press in early December, Van’s reports that a total of 14 RV-12s are flying. …

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