Woodpecker experimental amateurbuilt aircraft the WoodPecker homebuilt aircraft by Brian Austein.

[@onethousandtwonortheast8848]

Man, so sad to hear of Brian’s passing! He was a young man!!! This little airplane had me marveling. You can’t beat the price and performance numbers. May he RIP and condolences to his wife, family and friends.

[@brianaustein927]

Brian Austein ( the designer ) here… Let me say Thanks to Dave and Dan for all the work you guys do. Besides going to all the shows and researching so many new products , there is still even more work to edit and publish… Good Job Sir And thx to everyone for the nice comments too…

[@bartgoins1782]

I am totally impressed with your airplane, your knowledge of airplanes, and you ability to "think outside the box" when designing and redesigning your airplane. Great job.

[@billyvray]

Brian, would you please share pictures (or a video slideshow) of your Woodpecker? Well done

[@PaulAnthonyDuttonUk]

Humbled...

[@Birddog66]

Brian Austein can you recommend the best books for building?

[@usquanigo]

"It doesn't run over me on asphalt anymore. So that's kinda neat." lol! Love the plane and the innovation. And great humor on top of it all.

[@johnnyporker8837]

That magnet solution was wonderful!

[@myotherusername9224]

".. that jis wadn't the 'Woodpecker way'... so Ah think Ah proved you could get a good finish fer a hunnerd bucks". The way this guy expresses himself is simple, clear, direct, plain and very American. He has a real gift for explaining what he does, too, on top of being such a good technician. This is what makes America great. A real American, this man has done more for the EAA with his work than a lot of slick brochures and imported engines and fiberglass airframes could ever do. The EAA should make a much bigger deal out of this guy's work than they have. This is why Paul Poberezny developed the EAA. This man is a great American, a true real life hero of aviation, and proof that the spirit of EAA, the "Learn, Build, Fly" motto has come down from Pietenpol to Poberezny, to Austein. Amazing what can be done with ingenuity, hard work, and persistence.

[@37livesDoc]

I agree, and if the FAA could be removed from GA imagine the progress that could be made let alone benefits. Look at how they have hurt aviation with their stupid weight limits. Even they admit that they should be changed but it has been ten years and nothing. This is why we need to be active in making GA of for and by the Pilots, builders and manufacturers. As it is some Ercoupes cannot be bought by Sport Pilots, many flight schools do not want to teach Sport Pilots because of insurance and tell me who will rent planes to them? More involvement means more innovation. and more plane sales. Think about it and remove the FAA from GA. My conclusion is we need more Woodpeckers and no FAA in GA, send them packing for Commercial aviation. And they wonder why there is a pilot shortage? Duh

[@apfelsnutz]

One of your finest interviews... To the family : So Very Sorry for your loss.

[@gmcjetpilot]

I'm sorry to hear of Brian's health issue and passing. He is what makes Aviation special, great people. I'm a member of EAA 182 and met him once. He flew this plane to an EAA meeting at Hernando Airpark. I was so impressed with his scratch built original design. I have been working abroad for a year and did not hear of this sad news.

[@anthonyrosa5006]

Sadly Brian passed away from cancer. He left a lovely wife and young son behind. Clearly he was a very talented and creative man. He will be missed.

[@jimwagner6260]

Damn. Well at least this video can live on

[@multa765]

That is so sad. From England, I salute the best of America. Creative, competent, confident, modest, well-mannered and enterprising. We should all aim to be like him.

[@starkkkindustries2998]

Very sad to hear 😢, Brian is very talented. Rip sir.

[@sacooper802]

RIP Brian, you left a great mark on us all, seemed like great guy and creative and brilliant, its a gift you gotta be born with and a gift he took with him when he passed away, god bless and watch over Brian in the great blue skys of heaven.

[@williamburgos2963]

Thats what Im talking about. Every other light sport out there is cost way too much. But this innovation is awesome. Working with wood is just old school. We have better glues today and a better understanding of aerodynamics. Wish I had a friend like you who wants to build. Everybody I know wants an off the rack airplane. Great job. You got me pumped.

[@nickbayer7847]

Super clever use of the magnets and worm gear👌👌

[@zendean5207]

Wow! This guy is an amazing craftsman and intellectual. Awesome plane.

[@praveensharma3456]

Just one of those guys demonstrating what I always look for and appreciate ie. Intelligent, his own guy, very capable, yet keeps a good nice verbal interaction and low voice tone, Unlike most Americans who don't know much and speak out loud and arrogant, intimidating kind of approach. So here's a great example of how people should be

[@brianaustein927]

Thx

[@neve1064]

Sir, I personally know many Americans who display these characters and dispositions. They span from republican to democratic, too.

[@37livesDoc]

You are right Brian is the real deal, a breath of fresh air.

[@CrabLouis]

Brian Austein, my new hero of experimental aviation!

[@ultralightnews]

Hi Dan, I hope all is well. My name is Jon Bailey and I am a very close friend of Brian Austein. Brian has spoken highly of you to me. I am writing you to inform you that the day after Sun N Fun (Monday April 16) Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. I has moved into his brain. Brian is a FIGHTER and he is fighting a tough battle right now. He is currently in Atlanta under evaluation for a second opinion. I will take him to another doc on Tuesday for his opinion. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. I know that you are well connected in the ultralight world and I know that a lot of ultralight people are amazed at what Brian has done. Can you share the attached Go Fund Me link. (www.gofundme.com/benefitingbrian) We set it up as a great way to give back and help out a man that has given so much to all of us. Please feel free to call or write with any other ideas or questions Thanks for your time, Jon Bailey

[@37livesDoc]

Brian may be the modern BH Pietenpol

[@sickvic3909]

More clever ideas in 1 craft than I've come up with in a lifetime.

[@37livesDoc]

You know Vic, I loved his conclusion on whether or not to use flaps on this plane. Just strait from the hip and accurate.

[@veritas6466]

Wish I would have had a chance to meet Brian. It’s so apparent he was a really good human being. I am certain he was missed. I want a two seater “Woodpecker”!

[@P-CROZIER]

What a Bloody Lovely Aircraft, Wish we could have this in Australia, Well done, what a great job you have done 👍🏼👍🏼

[@ednesbit2988]

i love it my best friend has a gift of inventing and putting things together great job man all american ingenuity here and a true american spirit thanks for sharing this great story guys

[@brent1041]

This guy is awesome. More of your videos should be like this.

[@haroldbrown1389]

She is one sweet bird, Conngrits

[@ultralightnews]

Hi Dan, I hope all is well. My name is Jon Bailey and I am a very close friend of Brian Austein. Brian has spoken highly of you to me. I am writing you to inform you that the day after Sun N Fun (Monday April 16) Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. I has moved into his brain. Brian is a FIGHTER and he is fighting a tough battle right now. He is currently in Atlanta under evaluation for a second opinion. I will take him to another doc on Tuesday for his opinion. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. I know that you are well connected in the ultralight world and I know that a lot of ultralight people are amazed at what Brian has done. Can you share the attached Go Fund Me link. (www.gofundme.com/benefitingbrian) We set it up as a great way to give back and help out a man that has given so much to all of us. Please feel free to call or write with any other ideas or questions Thanks for your time, Jon Bailey

[@edwardrichardson4788]

A great aeroplane built by one smart man 🏆

[@ryoungatlmidotnet]

Fantastic! Level of innovation and detail is great. I just noticed the aileron spades.

[@songmaster9308]

I'm glad I came across this video, what a brilliant, class act gentleman. Amazing innovation!

[@benherring4959]

What a nice design! Reminds me of a Stinson 108 from the outside - very classic, but lots of innovation inside too.

[@riverrat4631]

It was guys like this that made America the greatest country on earth. You have a idea and you keep working on it till you get it right. This man has a home built plane running 130mph with autopilot. Burns 3.5gal a hour in fuel. $100 paint job. I bet he don't have $6-$7k with motor and everything. And he flys it to the show. It's not a trailer queen. Great job.

[@johnsorber3546]

Great Build, well done . Very awesome and informative .

[@fbnc11]

Outstanding, Memphis proud!!

[@ultralightflyer]

Amazing built!!!

[@ultralightnews]

Hi Dan, I hope all is well. My name is Jon Bailey and I am a very close friend of Brian Austein. Brian has spoken highly of you to me. I am writing you to inform you that the day after Sun N Fun (Monday April 16) Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. I has moved into his brain. Brian is a FIGHTER and he is fighting a tough battle right now. He is currently in Atlanta under evaluation for a second opinion. I will take him to another doc on Tuesday for his opinion. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. I know that you are well connected in the ultralight world and I know that a lot of ultralight people are amazed at what Brian has done. Can you share the attached Go Fund Me link. (www.gofundme.com/benefitingbrian) We set it up as a great way to give back and help out a man that has given so much to all of us. Please feel free to call or write with any other ideas or questions Thanks for your time, Jon Bailey

[@woodyahh2110]

Nice Build 👍

[@earthsciteach]

I am in awe! So very inspiring!

[@chugachocho]

Nice AirPlane!! Top notch innovations.

[@ronlafitte6864]

Very nice job! And only $3000 from the firewall back? Amazing!!!

[@ultralightnews]

Hi Dan, I hope all is well. My name is Jon Bailey and I am a very close friend of Brian Austein. Brian has spoken highly of you to me. I am writing you to inform you that the day after Sun N Fun (Monday April 16) Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. I has moved into his brain. Brian is a FIGHTER and he is fighting a tough battle right now. He is currently in Atlanta under evaluation for a second opinion. I will take him to another doc on Tuesday for his opinion. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. I know that you are well connected in the ultralight world and I know that a lot of ultralight people are amazed at what Brian has done. Can you share the attached Go Fund Me link. (www.gofundme.com/benefitingbrian) We set it up as a great way to give back and help out a man that has given so much to all of us. Please feel free to call or write with any other ideas or questions Thanks for your time, Jon Bailey

[@BlueJazzBoyNZ]

Brian Austein , looks like a very sharp individual that anyone would welcome to their team

[@williamevans2400]

Soren Ingram uuuuuu}🇮🇲q

[@idontneednostinkingchannel6848]

Genius. All I can say Brian. Blue Skies old man!

[@laprepper]

When you build an entire plane to "promote the sport" and your personal enjoyment. LOVE IT. I WILL build a plane some day.

[@JayHeartwing]

Me too, I hope so

[@chetmyers7041]

The way this man smiles and is so full of joy, I'd believe he was the younger brother to Joel Osteen.

[@taguillard18]

This guy is awesome! I would love to meet him and have a chat!

[@ultralightnews]

Hi Dan, I hope all is well. My name is Jon Bailey and I am a very close friend of Brian Austein. Brian has spoken highly of you to me. I am writing you to inform you that the day after Sun N Fun (Monday April 16) Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. I has moved into his brain. Brian is a FIGHTER and he is fighting a tough battle right now. He is currently in Atlanta under evaluation for a second opinion. I will take him to another doc on Tuesday for his opinion. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. I know that you are well connected in the ultralight world and I know that a lot of ultralight people are amazed at what Brian has done. Can you share the attached Go Fund Me link. (www.gofundme.com/benefitingbrian) We set it up as a great way to give back and help out a man that has given so much to all of us. Please feel free to call or write with any other ideas or questions Thanks for your time, Jon Bailey

[@PaulAnthonyDuttonUk]

​@@ultralightnews Shocked....

[@ulfnowotny01]

Love it!

[@lebron3566]

awesome job on that beautyful plane.

[@samualwhittemore228]

BRAVO!!! Awesome build!

[@sacto56]

Brian Austein is an amazing guy! Woodpecker experimental amateur built aircraft, sure love to build this in the Philippines.

[@JayHeartwing]

That could be awesome^^ I'm a 21 year old Filipino guy and I would love to create one ultralight that I design. But sadly I'm not a guy who can buy anything so my designs are just drawings and can't be a reality. I have my own bush plane design, I called it the Aria: www.deviantart.com/sammfeatblueheart/art/Llevado-ARIA-The-New-Face-760096098 I first designed it as a tricycle geared aircraft last 2017, and now, it's a bush plane with improved shock absorbers and in a taildragger design.

[@jeffsanderson1314]

Impressive!, really thinking "outside the box". Weick, Rutan, and now we have Austein.

[@nickfury1279]

This is a beautiful plane, wish plans were available. Seems like it would be a great first aircraft

[@ultralightnews]

The craft was designed using the Fisher Dakota Hawk as a model.

[@FRIENDHORATIO1]

Nice

[@michaelsell6928]

I wish wish wish the plans were available for this aircraft. Well done Sir!

[@ultralightnews]

Similar designs using wood construction include the TEAM line of aircraft, they have a two seat unit almost ready to go, and Fisher Flying Products Dakota Hawk. TEAM does offer free plans - I just don't know if that includes the two place. The Ultralight Flyer

[@idontneednostinkingchannel6848]

Some "jerk" would ground-loop the thing.. ALL the "blame" would go right on to poor Brian and some Philadelphia lawyer would ruin his happy home. Nope, I agree with his logic - keep the plans under your hat Brian. I designed solutions to the impossible for a living (retired EE) and there's always some Monday morning quarterback to tell you how they (FAA) would have done it better.. never fails.

[@johnwiggs2028]

this man is the goat

[@cpfwriter]

In awe.

[@MrSamdoe100]

Gold! lol great job, love ur attitude. awesome.

[@raydreamer7566]

I like the way you think. I would like to see what you would create with a BIG budget and all your time for creating ( and family ) .

[@1STGeneral]

Very saddened hearing Brian Austein died of cancer praying for his wife and family

[@gmcjetpilot]

Really.... So young. My gosh... Condolences to family and friends. God Rest in Peace Brian.

[@ThomasLeonardSr]

$3k for behind the firewall and $500+k engineering from above the ball cap. Great job!

[@crissykaleekal21]

awesome!

[@ellieeverts8189]

RIP, Brian. Gone too soon.

[@cluelessbeekeeping1322]

Did the designer pass away? ???? I was going to ask him if he could help me with the autopilot. It's BRILLIANT! I too fly RC and absolutely LOVE the way this guy thinks! It's SO outside the box, but everything he touches works!

[@cluelessbeekeeping1322]

Bad ass!

[@tupperwaredenisepettitguin7813]

Please pray for Flyin' Brian...hospice has been called, as he has very little time left. We are heartbroken at this news.

[@grj512]

What's become of Brian's aircraft? Would love to see what grade of materials he used for this project?

[@Hyperious_in_the_air]

throw in an inav board to get some amazing autopilot systems!

[@FreedomofthepressCanada]

This guy should be working at NASA

[@williamburgos2963]

That plane is not dead. His memory also will not die if some of you engineer types would contact his wife or family. That plane is now complete can be reverse engineered. Do it in memory of him and then sell the plans. Give the money to his wife and keep him in the air. We all would like to give it a go.

[@Clarence_13x]

What did he say @5:44 ?

[@brianaustein927]

Thanks for the comments, here is a link to the Lightning Bug kzbin.info/www/bejne/paC4nJ6BaMx_obs

[@pete365720]

Where can I see more info on your autopilot? What servos are you using?

[@doranjaffas9645]

Definitely interesting fellow. Puts the home back into homebuilding. That seems to be getting lost in a lot of designs. The price point proves that a person with a minimum income can still achieve their dream of ownership with some labor and love put into building.

[@nick-dm3if]

its not really the airplane thats hard to afford ever, they are cheap. its the engines that are 25000 dollars which prices anybody out of them

[@haroldbrown1389]

She is one sweet bird Conngrits

[@johnwiggs2028]

i mean what a badass

[@thewyliestcoyote]

Finally an airplane I can afford on a graduate students budget.

[@kimog8406]

Dang make some plans and sell them

[@landurearnaud1677]

Steve wittman’s spiritual son with his aircraft.

[@margaretchriskurtz3819]

CAN IT BE POWERED BY A VW ENGINE CONVERSION?

[@ultralightnews]

Brian Austein of Hernando MS, the designer and builder passed away last month so I will answer as best I can. Since the aircraft is using a conventional 4 cylinder aircraft engine of 100 HP - it should also work with a 4 cylinder VW of the same or similar horsepower. The Ultralight Flyer

[@margaretchriskurtz3819]

OH IM SORRY TO HEAR THAT NEWS. HE DIDNT SEEM TO BE TOO OLD. THATS A DANG SHAME. THANK YOU FOR RESPONDING.

[@hdaviator9181]

@@margaretchriskurtz3819 What does age have to do with anything? He died of Cancer.

[@ToyManFlyer1100]

Marg, if it has the power, it can....I think it has a 4 cyl Lycoming.....115 HP...So, if that V-dub has the power...Shouldnt be a prob.....

[@ryoungatlmidotnet]

Probably better with a Corvair. 65 Hp is a better measure for a reliable VW conversion. There are other designs better suited to a VW.

[@ToyManFlyer1100]

Wow, Beautiful and well -designed plane that died w/ him...Such a shame, but, I guess he had his reasons.....😕😕😕😟...I think some one should be able to look and reverse-engineer it, tho.....

[@alparkopp]

Let's go ;Brandon!!!

[@tailwheelflier]

Omg that accent 🤓