Building More Than Planes: The Zenith Zenair Project in partnership with EAA Chapter 613
Every first Saturday of the month, a small but mighty crew gathers at the Taylor Aviation Center at Franklin County State Airport to do something extraordinary: build an airplane—piece by piece, rivet by rivet.
The project? A Zenith Zenair 701, model 2200A, serial 22A 3369.
The build? A hands-on, community-centered endeavor that’s open to all.
Youth participants like Sam Longstreet, Ian Bradette, Aubrianna Mayette, and Liam Gallagher have rolled up their sleeves alongside seasoned mentors and fellow aviation enthusiasts to learn, laugh, and labor on this remarkable project. At the heart of it all is our beloved A&P-IA and master builder, George Coy, whose mentorship has guided every phase with care, precision, and generosity.
Over the past year, the team has tackled each element of the flaperons and leading-edge slats—from clecoing skins and aligning ribs to squeezing rivets, shaping fiberglass end caps, and fitting landing lights. What may sound like technical jargon on paper is, in person, a deeply collaborative and joyful process—rooted in learning by doing and fueled by teamwork (and no lack of snacks).
These Saturdays are more than build days—they’re community days. People drop in and find a place at the table. They bring questions, curiosity, and sometimes even cider donuts. No previous experience is required—just a willingness to learn, help, and be part of something that’s both technical and profoundly human.
Recent milestones include:
Finalizing the flaperons, with only splice plates and control horns left to fit
Progress on fiberglass end caps and leading edge slats, with thoughtful conversation about material durability and design
Fitting the landing light bracket (and considering adjustments for servicing access and fit)
Replacing suspect rivets and reviewing earlier structures to ensure quality across the build
None of this would be possible without the dedication of regular volunteers like George Thomas, Ron Mitchell, Jason Horne, Brett Sylvester, and others. We also thank Frank Shea for his generous donation of a press brake and shear—tools that made shaping key parts of the flaperons possible and have become valued additions to our growing EAA Chapter 613 Tool Crib.
Whether you're an aspiring builder, curious neighbor, or seasoned pilot looking to give back, you're welcome to join. Our First Saturday Build Days run from 10 AM to 3 PM, and all are encouraged to participate. It’s low-barrier, hands-on, FAA-aligned education—and it’s a lot of fun.
To get involved or learn more, drop us a know at info@habitatforaviation.org. Come be a part of Vermont’s aviation story—one rivet at a time.
