Vic Syracuse
Vic is a fixed-wing and helicopter commercial pilot, CFII with ASMEL/ASES ratings, an A&P/IA, DAR, and EAA technical advisor and flight counselor. Passionately involved in aviation for over 40 years, he has built 11 aircraft and logged over 10,000 hours in 72 different kinds of aircraft. Vic volunteers as a Young Eagle pilot, has his own sport aviation business called Base Leg Aviation, and has written two books on aircraft prebuy and condition inspections.
Aircraft Modification Choices
Aftermarket mods for amateur-built aircraft are booming, but not all upgrades deliver on performance, safety or practicality.
Tools and Shop Organization: When It’s Time to Start
Organization, smart tool planning and connecting with local builders are essential first steps to a successful aircraft building project.
Check the Sump Screen
It is important to check the oil sump screen for contaminants at least once per year.
A Baker’s Dozen
Vic shares his decision process for both choosing another RV-10 as well as choosing some of the “upgrades.”
Common In-Flight Failures, Part 2
This column is a continuation of common in-flight failures that I began discussing in the September 2024 issue. With today’s glass cockpits and all...
Unlabeled Switch and Circuit Breakers
For safety’s sake, all switches and circuit breakers should be labeled as to function and direction.
Risk Tolerance
There’s only so much we can do to eliminate risk, so it becomes more about risk tolerance, which is usually different for everyone.
In Case You Missed It
Buying Used: GlaStar
Comprehensive guide to purchasing a used GlaStar, detailing design, engine options, performance, and buyer considerations.
Small-bottle O2: Aithre, Aerox Compacts
Personal-sized oxygen bottles save space and weight, while serving as belt-and-suspender backup. But go bigger if you use O2 regularly.
Metal Magic: Cutting and Shaping Angle Aluminum
In another segment of KITPLANES' Metal Magic series, editor at large Paul Dye shows...