How does the civil aviation authority certify homebuilt vs production aircraft?

[GraceJ]

I've been reading about different approaches globally, but I'm curious how the civil aviation authority in your country handles the certification process for homebuilt or experimental aircraft compared to standard production models. Is the process more collaborative and focused on builder education, or is it just as stringent and adversarial as certifying a major manufacturer's new plane?

[JacobW]

US homebuilt work goes through the experimental amateur built path under the major portion rule You must show more than fifty percent of the work was done by amateurs The FAA uses builder logs photos and an on site inspection to verify that and to issue the airworthiness certificate The process is learning driven and safety focused not a walk in the park

[JonathanH]

Compared to standard production certification this route is more collaborative The builder charts data logs tests and documentation The agency still checks workmanship and testing but the emphasis is on the builder education and proof rather than a full type certification

[JosephW]

Useful steps include joining the EAA finding a local designated inspector or DAR and collecting logs photos and a detailed build plan Start early with a flight test plan and a clear demonstration of the major portion being amateur built

[Mason82]

Be aware of the limits Once you fly under the experimental umbrella it is not for hire operation and there are restrictions on how the aircraft can be used It promotes safety and learning over mass production

[Gary47]

If you want more precise guidance I can summarize official FAA pages about the amateur built process and the fifty percent rule plus useful resources from the EAA It helps to compare with the 2025 air safety regulations and aircraft certification discussions to see how they fit your plans