Kean Aviation Services, LLC

12/09/2025

Newly painted, complete Sonex! Always hangared! Contact for more details. Cheaper than building new Sonex from scratch!

12/09/2025

Newly painted complete Sonex! Always hangared. Contact for more details. Cheaper than building new Sonex from scratch!

12/08/2025

✈️ It's that time of year again! Join other homebuilt aircraft enthusiasts for the 6th Annual EAA Homebuilders Week online from January 26-30, 2026! Enjoy free webinars with top experts from the homebuilt aircraft community. Celebrate the legacy of EAA founder Paul Poberezny while expanding your skills and connecting with fellow builders. Don't miss out!

11/11/2025

Is Homebuilding Really More Expensive Today? 🤔

Good read from the editors in a recent Kitplanes Magazine. Some highlights:

✈️Many enthusiasts lament that homebuilding aircraft was cheaper in the "good old days." Remember when you could build a plane for under $10,000 in the 1970s? But let's break it down:

Inflation: That $8,000 homebuilt from 1975 is equivalent to about $48,640 today!

Modern Kits: A standard RV-14 kit at around $62,000 is only 27% more than its inflation-adjusted counterpart from the 70s.

Better Value: Today's kits offer advanced technology, better design, and more components than ever before.

Training Advantages: With modern experimental aircraft, pilots can learn in their own planes, eliminating rental costs and improving skills.

Homebuilding today may actually be more affordable than you think! 🛠️✨

11/07/2025

✈️ Thinking About Restoring an Aircraft? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Restoring or rebuilding an airplane can be a rewarding project—but it’s no small task. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned aviator, selecting the right aircraft is everything.

🔧 Key Considerations Before You Begin:

✅ Choose a project that fits your skills, time, finances, and lifestyle.
✅ Don’t let “New Project Fever” cloud your judgment—be realistic about what’s involved.
✅ Restoration can be done in phases, but always keep an eye on engine health and airframe condition.

🛩️ What to Watch For:

Engine overhauls are costly—but not always necessary.
Rag-and-tube vs. aluminum: both have pros and cons depending on your expertise.
Postwar models often have better parts availability.

🛠️ Expert Tip:

All major work needs A&P sign-off, and qualified mechanics are getting harder to find—especially in cities. Make sure you have the space, tools, and support to bring your project to life.

📋 Before You Buy:

Always invest in a pre-buy inspection to avoid hidden headaches.

If you’re thinking about starting a restoration or looking for the perfect aircraft to bring back to life—we can help.📲 Message us today to explore current project aircraft on the market.

10/29/2025

🚀 Introducing the Sonex Highwing: Where Practical Utility Meets Builder Flexibility! 🚀

The Sonex Highwing is quickly becoming a favorite among experimental aviation enthusiasts, combining advanced utility with aerobatic handling and customizable options for builders. Since its first flight on June 30 and a successful showcase at AirVenture 2025, the Sonex team has focused on integrating pilot feedback and refining details for eager builders.

Key features include:

- Modular Assembly & Pricing: Choose between a Complete Airframe Kit for $39,000 or a Quick Build Kit for $55,000. Sub-kits are available for targeted purchases, allowing for flexibility based on budget and time.
- Powerplant Compatibility: Designed for both STOL efficiency and spirited flying, the Highwing supports a robust 130-HP engine and offers tri-gear and taildragger configurations.
- Community Support: Builders benefit from ongoing technical updates and access to a vibrant online community, including forums and builder groups.

Sonex President Mark Schaible emphasizes that the Highwing is designed for speed and aerobatics, with a focus on real-world needs based on builder feedback. As deliveries ramp up and support offerings expand, the Highwing is transforming expectations for utility kit aircraft.

For pilots seeking adventure and value-driven utility, the Sonex Highwing is leading the way in modern homebuilt aviation!

10/09/2025

Thinking about buying an RV-10? 🛩️ This KITPLANES article, “Ten for Ten: A Decade With an RV-10”, is a must-read.

✅ Nearly 1,000 flight hours in 10 years shows it’s a true cross-country machine
✅ Reliable airframe and systems with only normal wear items replaced
✅ Smart upgrade choices (engine, prop, avionics, even AC) that paid off
✅ Market value today is about double the original investment

It’s a great snapshot of what long-term RV-10 ownership really looks like—performance, costs, and value. If you’re considering an RV-10, we can help you find the perfect one, evaluate its history, and make sure you get a fair deal. Let’s talk about your next airplane!

Out of the blue.

09/30/2025

🔌 Innovative Wiring Planner for Kit Aircraft Builders!

🛩️Exciting news for kit aircraft enthusiasts! A new tool called "Wiring Planner" is revolutionizing the way we create electrical schematics for our planes. This user-friendly software simplifies the wiring process, allowing builders to visualize and customize their aircraft's electrical systems with ease. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to efficiency! This concept not only saves time but also enhances safety and performance in your kit aircraft. Ready to elevate your build? Check out this game-changing tool!

Powerful CAD software for homebuilt aircraft wiring is now available through an affordable monthly or annual non-commercial subscription.

09/23/2025

🚀✈️ Did you know that Cessna officially discontinued its iconic 152 model in 1985? Once the most popular two-seater training aircraft, the 152 faced challenges like changing market demands and rising liability costs. Despite producing over 7,500 units from 1977 to 1985, the shift in aviation dynamics led to its end.

Flight schools loved the 152 for its predictable handling and low operating costs, but by the mid-80s, rising fuel prices and interest rates made aircraft ownership more expensive. Even with these challenges, many Cessna 152s are still in use today, proving their durability and reliability!

If you're interested in finding a solid, reliable Cessna 152, or want to find out what yours is worth, we can help! Send us a message! 🛩️✨

09/16/2025

🛠️✈️ Building Your Own Aircraft? Let’s Talk Engines.

As aircraft brokers, we get to work with passionate builders at every stage of their journey—from first inspiration to final flight. One thing we see far too often? Builders getting stuck (or giving up) because they didn’t plan ahead for the engine. If you're thinking about starting a build—or you’re already knee-deep in it—here are a few tips to keep you flying forward:

🔍 Know your options. Engines can cost as much or more than your airframe. From Rotax and Lycoming to rebuilt or experimental setups, your engine choice affects performance, budget, and timeline.

⚠️ Watch for risk. Auto conversions and lesser-known engines can work, but they come with extra challenges. If you're not mechanically inclined, a proven engine with a support network might be the safer bet.

💸 Plan your budget early. I've seen too many builders hit a wall when engine costs sneak up. Rebuilds, financing, or even shared ownership can help make it work.

🤝 Lean on experience. Whether it’s Kean Aviation, a builder’s group, or a seasoned pilot, getting advice early on can save you thousands—and a lot of stress.

💡 Need help figuring out what engine fits your mission, budget, and build? That’s what we're here for. Let’s talk about your goals and make a plan that gets you in the air—with confidence.

Drop a comment or DM us anytime. We love helping builders make smart choices that go the distance.

09/11/2025

Congratulations to new aircraft owner Nick, who closed on this 150! Shout out to Adam who worked hard to bring it back to life. We would gladly recommend his services.