The Gnat is a single seat airplane constructed using is a unique metal composite process. It is designed to fit into the Ultra light category of Canada or the Experimental or Amateur built categories of other countries. It is an evolution of several designs and can trace its genesis in the French CriCri and the Hummlebird. It's construction is simplified metal construction using Avex pull rivets and 6061-T6 alloy for economy. It can perform sportsman aerobatic manoeuvres. It has a full three axis trim system and a mechanism to give artificial control forces comparable of a larger machine. The cockpit is designed to fit a 95-percentile person. This is someone who is over 6'1" in height and around 220lbs. The interior dimensions of the cockpit are 26" wide at the longerons and 24" wide at shoulder level. The estimated flyaway cost in July 2001 was $2900 in Canadian funds. The estimated hours to build had been set initially at 600. The hours are being logged during construction of the proof of concept and we will adjust that number up or down as required. We’ve also been keeping a close eye on the cost and will report on that as well.