Marc Cook
KITPLANES Editor in Chief Marc Cook has been in aviation journalism for 30 years. He is a 4500-hour instrument-rated, multi-engine pilot with experience in nearly 150 types. He’s completed two kit aircraft, an Aero Designs Pulsar XP and a Glasair Sportsman 2+2, and currently flies a 2002 GlaStar.
PS Engineering PMA9000EX
After a quick and easy installation, PS Engineerings new PMA9000EX audio panel is test-flown by Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook in his Glastar Sportsman.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook discusses the potential impact of changes to the FAAs 51% rule, which are the result of increasingly complex aircraft being constructed with the aid of builder-assistance programs.
Commentary: Experimental "51%" solutions—is Primary Category the answer?
In February, when the FAA published the final report from the working group looking at “major portion” guidance, another proposal was floated to help...
News: On Changes to 51% Rule Guidance, VanGrunsven “Cautiously optimistic.”
Among the current kit manufacturers, Van’s Aircraft is indisputably the volume leader. Nearly 5600 RVs are flying, and like all other kit manufacturers, the...
News: Reworked Guidance for Kitbuilt Aircraft on the Way
Will revised Advisory Circulars kill builder assistance?Last Friday, the FAA published the final report from the Amateur-Built Aircraft Aviation Rulemaking Committee that outlines plans...
KITPLANES Magazine Newsblog Goes Live!
Welcome to the KITPLANES newsblog, where you will find the latest news and views on the world of homebuilt aviation. This is not intended...
RANS S-19
When new aircraft from two very different designers, in this case Randy Schlitter and Richard VanGrunsven, surface with considerable similarities, consensus about basic design tenets must be blowing in the wind. Certainly Light Sport regs do constrain performance considerations, but human factors are more up for grabs, and that’s where one or another design can truly shine; by Marc Cook.
RANS S-19
When new aircraft from two very different designers, in this case Randy Schlitter and Richard VanGrunsven, surface with considerable similarities, consensus about basic design tenets must be blowing in the wind. Certainly Light Sport regs do constrain performance considerations, but human factors are more up for grabs, and thats where one or another design can truly shine; by Marc Cook.
Around the Patch
Those who plan to build an aircraft from a kit would do well to visit the factory and get to know not only the owners but also the operation. So counsels Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook, whose recent visit to the RANS factory left him favorably impressed. RANS manufacturing is diversified to weather the ups and downs of the market, and the company knows what works and sticks to it.
Texas Sport Cub
The Texas Sport Cub’s combination of classic good looks and today’s technology will appeal to those who are looking to rekindle an old flame or those hoping to initiate a new love affair; by Marc Cook.
In Case You Missed it
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook looks at the changes within Lycoming and how they affect kit builders, as well as Superior Air Parts future since Thielerts bankruptcy.
