Post 18: From Lumber to Airframe in a Week

April 25, 2026

They tell me I'm crazy for dropping a 1940s textbook to build my own way. Well, 8 days into the Canyon Lightning™ prototype, the math is winning.

I'm building this the same way I build my RC planes - directly over 1:1 full scale plans. If it fits the line, it's flight-ready. This isn't just a build, it's a manufacturing system that eliminates the 'aviation tax' and 10-year project timeline.

Current status:

• Elevator and tail section: Built and ready for foam reinforcement and the carbon wrap

• The skeleton: 34 lbs of hand-selected Douglas Fir and foam shear webs

• The power shift: I'm officially designing the cradle for the Predator 670 V-Twin. Because of my carbon-hybrid frame I'll have the weight rebate to run a reliable, modified "tool store" 4-stroke while staying well under the Part 103 weight limit.

While the "experts" are busy debating 80-year-old designs, I'm lashing the future of STOL in my garage. This is the Canyon Lightning™. High performance, low budget, no excuses.

Stop dreaming. Start cutting. Fly carbon.™