Van's aircraft has performed extensive tests of materials, fasteners, hole cutting methods and worst-case scenario holes. Van's contracted a reputable third party testing company to co-develop the testing program and to conduct testing to validate the tests and consistency of results. The engineering assessment document describes the engineering tests and results, as well as the resulting classification of the parts included in RV aircraft kits. Each parts has been conservatively tested and classified as recommended for replacement, or acceptable for use because it meets the design requirements and is functionally equivalent to the same punched part.

Please let us know if you have already performed an inspection of the parts in your kit(s) to determine whether each is laser-cut or punched. Please refer to the parts identification helper document as needed.

Certain laser-cut parts have been classified by Van's as "recommended for replacement" for reasons described in the engineering assessment and laser cut parts list documents. These parts are labelled with a red or yellow color code on the portal and in the laser-cut parts list. While none of these parts represent a a near-term fatigue or safety of flight risk, Van's is recommending they be replaced.

Many of the laser cut parts, based on highly conservative testing, have been determined to be functionally equivalent to punched parts, and therefore acceptable for use. These parts are labelled with a blue or green color code on the portal and in the laser-cut parts list Please tell us your plans and thoughts about the parts classified as acceptable for use.

If you have one or more Quick Build kits that are currently at Van's and which have not yet shipped, please let us know your direction, based on the engineering assessment. Van's plans to replace parts classified as Replacement Recommended with punched parts and/or new engineering-designed parts to be installed in the QB kit. Installation of the replacement and/or additional new parts will result in a Quick Build kit that meets the original product design requirements.

if you have already received one or more Quick Build kits please let us know your direction, based on the engineering assessment and the plan for Van's to replace those parts classified as Replacement Recommended with punched parts and/or new engineering-designed parts, to be installed in the QB kit. Installation of the replacement and/or additional new parts will result in a quick build kit that meets the original product design requirements.