I am 99% sure about this... ScaleWings SW-51

The picture says it all. A brand new ScaleWings SW-51!

Of all the images of real P-51's I have seen, I like the blue color the best. I found this image on the Internet and doctored it up with my name "Fire N' Forget" with tail number "N51FN" which is available via the FAA. What do you think? Do you like the way it looks? I plan on adding white and black stripes on the wings like many other P-51's have on them. The same stripes that are around the star. It looks really cool when the plane is angled and flying away from you. I have been thinking about this off and on for the last two months. My doctor cleared me this week to get my PPL, but as of October 22, 2025, only a Sport Pilot license is required for this plane. It meets the new restrictions on what kind of license is required to fly it. Here are the requirements for a Sports Pilot License:

• Be at least 17 years old (16 for gliders and balloons)

• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English

• Hold a valid U.S. driver's license or an FAA third-class medical certificate as evidence of medical eligibility

• Pass a FAA Sport Pilot knowledge (written) test

• Receive flight training in a light sport aircraft (minimum 20 hours flight time: 15 hours dual instruction, 5 hours solo)

• Pass a FAA practical test (check-ride) with a designated pilot examiner

• Obtain endorsements for the specific category and class of light sport aircraft you intend to fly

• Comply with sport pilot limitations, such as day VFR-only flying, and no flying for compensation or hire

  
  

Additional notes:

• If holding a previous FAA pilot certificate (like recreational or private), you may credit some time towards the SPL and use your existing medical certificate or driver's license for medical eligibility

• Currency requirements include three takeoffs and landings in the appropriate category/class in the last 90 days to carry passengers

• These requirements aim to provide a lower-cost, less medically restrictive pathway to pilot certification focused on recreational flying in light sport aircraft.

I think that is all very doable! I already have at least two friends on board to help build the plane with me, but it may actually be four: Bob, Steve, Jeremy, and Chuck. Next steps: check with Jon, my financial analyst, and see if he agrees with how I will roll out the money to pay for it. And, I have an email into ScaleWings to start up the negotiations. Fun times and RidgeMount High!

Fire and Forget - N51FN, ScaleWings SW-51