![Humberd and his daughter using the 701 for some farm duty transportation. [All Images Credited to Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/1-3.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Builder’s Spotlight")
![Checking out East Tennessee scenery from the 701. [Credit: Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Builder’s Spotlight")
![[Credit: Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/20-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Epic Is Back")
![Members of the North Idaho High School Aerospace Program gathered at KSZT [Credit: North Idaho High School Aerospace Program]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_3499.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "North Idaho High School Student ACES Fly the Aircraft They Built")
Stearns Stuff
Clean, fast, and composite, the KIS TR-1 makes a fine cruiser. There just aren't many of them.
Understanding Lithium Batteries
Kathy and Reg Nicoson of EarthX, Inc. explain what you need to know.
Error Chain
Forty-amp Catch-22. Accidentally bumping the alternator switch uncovered a circuit-breaker problem.
Effect of Propeller RPM on Speed, Efficiency, Noise, and Vibration
Getting better performance from a constant-speed prop.
Changing a Perfectly Good Airplane
Designing and building a modified RANS S-9, part 2. By Michael Ryer and John Wells.
In Case You Missed It
Maintenance Matters
In this new column, Steve Ells shares his background as an A&P mechanic and offers tips on keeping your homebuilt aircraft running smoothly.
Two Years to Solo
Ken Pollock did not come by his interest in flying in the usual way. His father was the first to want to learn, but then when he changed his mind, his son took up where Dad left off. All this despite the fact that Ken had broken his neck in a car accident, and had no use of his legs, and little use of his arms and hands.
The State of Auto Conversions
We take a look at the current auto-engine conversions for homebuilt aircraft. By Patrick Panzera.