Ron Wanttaja
Ron Wanttaja is a retired space systems engineer. Over a 40-year career, he helped design, build, test, launch, and operate 18 spacecraft, up to and including the International Space Station. He has owned a Bowers Fly Baby since 1996 and flew the original prototype for seven years before buying his own. He is married to romance novelist Lisa McAllister and lives just outside of Portland, Oregon.
Polliwagen
A sharp-looking homebuilt with early promise, the Polliwagen suffered from pitch quirks that left it nearly extinct just decades after its debut.
Chris Tena Mini-Coupe
The VW-powered Mini-Coupe—with twin tails and all-pushrod controls—remains a standout among 1970s homebuilts.
Wheeler Express—Yesteryear’s Homebuilts
The Wheeler Express dazzled with sleek performance and bold promises but ultimately struggled with stability issues and company misfortunes.
Dyke Delta
Unconventional and striking, the Dyke Delta blends unique design with solid performance and a dash of homebuilt aviation history.
Light Sport Accidents: A Broader Look
Experimental Light Sport Aircraft have a better safety record than traditional homebuilts.
Special Light Sport Airplane Accidents
Some surprising results when compared to traditional Cessnas.
Homebuilt Accidents: Passing the Engine Baton
How does the Rotax 912 compare to traditional engines used in small homebuilts?
In Case You Missed It
Light Stuff
Motivated by an irresistible bargain and at least a modicum of nostalgia, author Dave Martin recaptures a piece of his earlier flying years when he purchases a twin-engine Lazair ultralight in partnership with two buddies. The Lazair is an unusual design to say the least, and Martin hasnt forgotten how to fly it, so both of his partners will benefit from his experience.
Unfit for Flight
Our culture’s version of schadenfreude often distills down to something called the Darwin Award,...
Finding the Perfect Project
The information in our Buyer's Guide is just the start. Here are some additional insights to help you make the right decision.