Presenter Mark Evans not only learns to fly but also builds his very own two-seater aeroplane, a Europa XS.

A Plane Is Born takes the viewer, for the first time, through the step-by-step process of building a 200 mph kit aircraft capable of flying from England to the South of France on a single tank of fuel.

From Mark's first tentative look at the kit plane market right through to the final test flight, he tackles everything from the composite control surfaces to the delicate installation of the engine. He calls on expert help to fit the dreaded wiring and instruments and the carpeting and upholstery.

Throughout the build PFA inspectors check his work, before giving him the certificate of air-worthiness. At the airfield Mark gets to grips with climbing, stalling, landing, radio communication, banking and spinning, and navigation, and eventually takes his first solo flight.