Twenty-five years ago, KITPLANES found its niche among exciting new Experimental aircraft.

By Cindy Pedersen

Maverick. The word took on new meaning during the 2008 political season, but its original connotation was simply that of an unorthodox or independent-minded person, inspired by a Texas rancher, Samuel A. Maverick, who in the 1800s chose not to brand his cattle. More than a century later, in 1984, Dennis Shattuck, the founding editor of this magazine, was something of a maverick, who challenged conventional aviation wisdom and coined a new term, KITPLANES®, which became the title of this publication. Shattuck, well-versed in general aviation, recognized that the number of home-built aircraft was growing, and proposed publishing a directory of manufacturers catering to this group of actual and would-be builders who eschewed the certified aircraft option. KITPLANES® branded this new category of aircraft, which were constructed from partially built (prefab) components. …

Electronic Subscribers: Click Here for the Full Story

Non-Subscribers: Click Here to Subscribe

Pay Per View ($7.50)