About Us
Our Values
At AeroPrinceton, we believe learning doesn't stop in the classroom. We give students the opportunity to apply engineering knowledge directly to aviation—gaining hands-on experience in riveting, wiring, metalwork, and more. Every skill learned contributes to something extraordinary: building fully functional, FAA-approved airplanes.
We're also committed to sharing this vision beyond Princeton, supporting other colleges in launching their own airplane-building clubs and expanding the reach of student-driven aviation.
Why AeroPrinceton?
We are the only student-run club in the world building full-scale, piloted aircraft. Our mission is simple yet bold: teach technical skills, foster innovation, and make aviation history—one airplane at a time.
Our Goals
- •Design and build an entirely original student-designed aircraft.
- •Launch the world's first transcontinental collegiate air race with student-built airplanes.
- •Support students in earning their Private Pilot License (PPL).
- •Count build hours toward an Aircraft & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic License.
About the Aircraft
What kind of airplane is this?
The aircraft is a Zenith CH 750 Cruzer — a two-seat, single-engine, all-metal light sport aircraft designed for safety, simplicity, and perfomance, making it perfect for hands-on learning.
Why did you choose this design?
The CH 750 is widely respected for its advantageous flight characteristics, excellent visibility, and straightforward construction — making it ideal for student builders and pilots. — Its also really fun to fly!
Is the aircraft safe?
Yes. Zenith has excellent saftey records and we have comprehensive safety measures. The aircraft is built to FAA standards and will be inspected by A&P Mechanics, Aircraft Technitians, NTSB, FSDO, test pilots, and more.
Who will fly the aircraft?
The aircraft will be piloted only by highly qualified FAA liscensed pilots. Contributing donors and students that have constructed a portion of the plane will get a chance to fly upon its completion.
What will the aircraft be used for?
Building a functional airplane allows for the unique opportunity to simultaneously learn technical airplane construciton in an experiential learning environment and pair it with the joy of aviation. In short: skill development and sport.
How far and how long can it fly?
With a range of approximately 520 miles and a take-off distance of 350 ft., The Zenith Cruzer is designed to the the bridge between endurance and performance, allowing flights up to 4.5 hours and landings at any condition of airstrip.
Is this a real, recognized aircraft?
Absolutely. The certified Zenith Aircraft designs are well-established within general aviation and flown worldwide. The aircraft will be registered, inspected, and operated under FAA regulations.
Why is this valuable for students?
Students gain rare, end-to-end exposure to aircraft design, fabrication, systems integration, testing, and flight operations — experience typically unavailable in traditional coursework.
Why does this matter?
This nonprofit matters because AeroPrinceton is truly our only opportunity to have such a unique opportunity in hands-on engineering. No where else in the world are students leading a project like this with the ambition to redefine aviation's incredible potential.
Fuel the Future of Student Aviation
Your support helps students design, build, and fly real airplanes—while shaping the future of collegiate aviation.
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