Monthly Archives: May 2012
What’s New
MGL Avionics introduces a V6 com radio, and Grand Rapids Technologies offers a 10.4-inch HXr EFIS.
Viewfinder
Marc Cook considers the relevance of airworthiness directives for homebuilders and reflects on what he learned about the current homebuilt market at Sun ’n Fun.
Tools for Homebuilders, Part 1
Terry Edwards covers some of the less-often discussed aspects of homebuilding, from the decision-making processes, to the best sources for assistance to choosing a project director (and deciding if you need one).
Inside KITPLANES: Flight Review Procedures
KITPLANES has a system for conducting flight reviews of airplanes, much like homebuilders may (or should) when they are considering which project to build. Editor-at-Large Marc Cook takes you through the evaluation process.
Alternative Energies
Solar-powered aircraft may have some inherent limits, but they are also marvels of engineering that constantly push the boundaries of what’s possible. By Dean Sigler.
Light Stuff
The Sport Pilot rules allow you wide latitude in changing categories of aircraft without a lot of re-training, opening up intriguing options for pilots interested in diversifying their flying. By Roy Beisswenger.
Letters
Perils of PIOI must take exception to the statement, "The BD-5 suffered from a PIO problem, potentially worsened by sensitive controls" in the March...
Anatomy of a Modification
Paul Dye takes readers through a rework of his RV-3's fuel system to illustrate why some mods are a sound choice.
RANS S-7S Courier
Marc Cook pilots the new RANS S-7S and finds many improvements, from increased fuel and storage capacity to a simplified aileron-control system that makes handling better than ever.
In Case You Missed It
Buying a Used Homebuilt: A Serious Consideration
For someone considering aircraft ownership, used Experimentals deserve serious consideration.
Engine Beat
Do kit aircraft owners have to comply with ADs? Steve Ells examines the dos and donts of this tricky question.
Soul of the Machine
Paul Dye argues that there is more between man and machine than just the hardware.
Sim World
With X-Plane, you don't have to wait until the paint is dry to start test-flying your homebuilt project. A remarkable simulation will allow you to do that early on. By Chuck Bodeen.