Tom Wilson
Pumping avgas and waxing flight school airplanes got Tom into general aviation in 1973, but the lure of racing cars and motorcycles sent him down a motor journalism career heavy on engines and racing. Today he still writes for peanuts and flies for fun.
Gathering
Longtime readers may recall that before scribbling in aviation magazines I scribbled in automotive magazines. That seems like someone else’s life a long time...
Sherman Smoot, Czech Mate Lost in Test Flight Crash
Air racing fans were stunned to hear of the loss of veteran race pilot Sherman Smoot when his long-time mount, Czech Mate, crashed on...
Some Old Favorites
For those building a new airplane, chances are you’re getting more than familiar with certain tools at different stages of the build. For me,...
Reno Looking Good
Got post-AirVenture depression? Fear not, pylon racing at Reno is right around the corner and the entry list has just been posted by the...
Pinnacle of Tattoos
Stopping in the Pinnacle Aircraft Engines booth we were pleased to meet the relatively new owners Todd Lavelle and JD Kuti. They purchased Pinnacle...
Cool Cowlings at James Aircraft
We last spoke to Jimmy Cox, the new owner of James Aircraft, at the 2021 Reno races. Then he was getting the fiberglass specialist...
Postcards from Oshkosh 2022
Sometimes we just need to wander aimlessly around Wittman Field. It's good for the soul and it is fantastic inspiration.
Evoking Youth & Enthusiasm
Looking for a refreshing blast of youth and enthusiasm in the small airplane world? Then drop in to Gadsden, Alabama and try to keep...
In Case You Missed It
Editor’s Log
As Editor-in-Chief Mary Bernard steps down from her post at KITPLANES, she thanks the team that helps create the magazine each month and welcomes her successor, Paul Dye.
2012 Engine Buyer’s Guide
In Part 1 of our 2012 Engine Buyer’s Guide, Marc Cook explores what’s currently available in traditional powerplants, and why such engines might be the best choice for your homebuilt aircraft needs.
Around the Patch
Homebuilt aircraft manufacturers are sometimes reluctant to admit that they have created a less than perfect design, let alone offer a fix. Arion Aircrafts Nick Otterback is bucking that tide; by Marc Cook.