Exciting Projects

Wow, I just realized that it has been a very long time since the last blog post update on anything hangar related, so without further ado, here is what I have been working on and am currently working on at the hangar.


Missions Beyond Zenith 801


This has been a really fun project to be involved with because it is soon to go across the border to Mexico and it is experimental. Before you start imagining test pilots in space suits climbing in to fly the plane let me clarify what experimental means. Being experimental allows the builder, in this case the missionary who will be flying the plane, to not only construct the plane but also work on it when he needs to.

Zenith 801 with wings on for fitting.

This is different than certified aircraft which require a person holding a maintenance certificate to do most of the work on them. Being experimental also allows the builder to make modifications to the plane as they see fit. There have been many improvements made to this plane with longevity, strength and ease of maintenance on the field in mind.

View of wing root fairing.

We have almost finished the major projects and as I write this, the only large piece left to paint is the fuselage. After that, the wings and tail components can go on for the final installation. Flight testing consists of the builder/pilot flying for 40 hours in the local area as well as a visit from the FAA to inspect the plane.

Behind the instrument panel.

I have had the opportunity to fly with Ethan, the missionary/builder/pilot, in order to get him comfortable flying again as he had to focus on building the plane for the past few years instead of flying. He is doing quite well and is a champ for getting up in the early morning hours to take advantage of the time before work. What an awesome reminder of God's creativity and omnipotence to see His creation from the clear, calm morning air.

Missionary Air Group Cessna 206

Engine removed.

The MAG 206 came to us recently from the pacific northwest in order to be modified for field service in Honduras. When it gets there, the plane they are currently using will come back to us for some heavy maintenance and then it will be returned to Guatemala for one of MMS' recent graduates to fly.

Out with the old.

So far, the job list on this project is remove old engine, install new engine mounts, install new engine, remove deice components off of wings, windshield, wing struts, vertical and horizontal stabilizers and all the components inside as well, install cargo pod, install heavy duty landing gear, install short takeoff and landing kit on wings, fix elevator trim tab, perform annual inspection, and be done by September 10th! It's good to have a deadline that is doable yet challenging because it mimics jobs on the field I will most likely see when we get done at MMS. So far we have already removed the old engine and are waiting on the engine mounts due to some cracks discovered in new parts of the kit. I finished the trim tab and we are in full swing on removing the deice system. 

Deice boots are coming off!

It is very exciting to get to work on planes that will soon be flying abroad in support of the missionaries and their work.

Ready for the new engine mounts.

Thanks so much for your interest and support, both prayer and financial, as we continue to work for God in this unique ministry. I look forward to sharing more news as these projects progress and eventually leave the nest for full time service.


In His love,
Ben