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The Iconic Zenith STOL

Join Zenith Aircraft's Sebastien Heintz and Roger Dubbert in the air for a flight in the Zenith STOL CH 701 "Sky Jeep" light sport utility kit aircraft. The iconic Zenith STOL design, first introduced in 1986 by aeronautical engineer Chris Heintz, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Watch the video.

New and updated kits for the STOL CH 701 feature final hole sized match-drilled parts and components, making it easier and quicker to build than ever before, while still being one of the most affordable kits on the market today.

During their flight, Sebastien and Roger discuss the history of the STOL CH 701 design and its impact on affordable sport aviation, and share how Carson Stilson (aka Wairworthy) is completing the build of a budget STOL CH 701 to demonstrate that an incredibly capable light aircraft can be built quickly and affordably:

"I'm going to show you, step by step, how to build an airplane like this on a budget, and then once we're done I'm going to fly it around and prove that it's a safe and reliable aircraft, and then give it away to one of you..."

Next month, On Saturday, June 20th, Zenith will host an annual "Fly-In to Summer" Open House at its factory in Mexico, Missouri. The Zenith Aircraft factory will be open from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm for self-guided factory tours, demonstrations, and more. Come a day earlier to participate in the popular hands-on Zenith kit airplane building workshop class (prior registration required for workshops). Note that in contrast to the annual ZENITH HOMECOMING event (held over two days, September 18 & 19, with scheduled workshops and forums), this June event is a very informal morning fly-in gathering, with no specific scheduled activities.

Upcoming workshops at the Zenith kit aircraft factory in central Missouri:

May 14 & 15 | June 19 & 20, 2026

Zenith Aircraft's hands-on workshop classes give you the chance to learn the skills and tools needed to build your own airplane while constructing your very own rudder tail section for one of Zenith’s popular designs, such as the high-wing Zenith CH 750 series or the sleek low-wing Zenith CH 650 cruiser. Participating at a workshop is an excellent way to learn about building your own kit aircraft, and to learn of the many advantages of owning and flying an airplane that you’ve built yourself. For many, building an aircraft (from a kit) is a very rewarding experience, and today’s modern kits make it easier and quicker to build than ever before. Standard workshop fees are just $375.00 (or $425 for the CH 750 Super Duty model) and include the complete rudder kit for a Zenith aircraft. Additional helpers (spouse or other family members) are encouraged to attend and can participate for free. Prior registration is required for the rudder workshop classes and class size is limited.

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