LeRoy Cook
Contributing Editor LeRoy Cook is an experienced journalist with writing credits in just about every aviation publication that counts. He brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to his flight reviews.
![The alternative to bending down as the propeller is pulled through the compression stroke is to keep the back straight and bend the knees slightly, stepping away in a crouch. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_1519-324x160.jpg "Manual Starting Methods")
Manual Starting Methods
Practical techniques for hand-propping and other manual engine starts when an electric starter isn't available.
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AdobeStock_176619176-324x160.jpg "Instructional Inflexibility")
Forgotten Flops
Many proposed, prototype, and production airplanes died at birth in aviation's golden age.
![[Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/DSC00008-324x160.jpg "Logging Time")
![[Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_4581-324x160.jpg "The Wild Traveler")
2025 Propeller Buyer’s Guide
Explore certified and Experimental propeller options to maximize performance, customization, and satisfaction for your aircraft build.
Sun ’n Fun to the Rescue: Aviation’s Spring Break
When you’ve had enough of winter, the aerospace expo arrives just in time.
In Case You Missed It
Just Call Him Mr. Pylon
Homebuilt aircraft builder Steve Wittman was one of Americas greatest air racers. By Amy Laboda.
