marc cook kitplanes van's

Change Is a Constant

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Marc Cook steps away again, passing KITPLANES’ reins as we invite fresh voices from the homebuilt aviation community.
Engine plenum is a common aircraft modification

Aircraft Modification Choices

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Aftermarket mods for amateur-built aircraft are booming, but not all upgrades deliver on performance, safety or practicality.
spar marked for drilling

Errant Holes: Un-drilling, Up-drilling and Adopting

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Homebuilding has no undo key. Learn causes of drill errors, a hole‑marking prevention method, and three easy fixes when mistakes happen.

Catching Up

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Hangar tightens as a Murphy Moose build begins, sparking shop upgrades, parts hunts, and reflections on wind and freedom.
Wheeler Express illustration

Wheeler Express—Yesteryear’s Homebuilts

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The Wheeler Express dazzled with sleek performance and bold promises but ultimately struggled with stability issues and company misfortunes.
pulse oximeter

Medical Or No—You Could Still Fly

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Three ways to meet FAA medical requirements—BasicMed, Sport Pilot and more—could help you get back in the air. Here's what pilots need to know.
IFR or VFR panel -which do you need.

Building for IFR: Do You Really Need It?

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Thinking about building an IFR-capable homebuilt? Consider whether you’ll really use it—or just spend extra money.
artificial intelligence ai generated airplane design

AI Amuses, But It Can’t Replace Aviation Experts

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AI can't replace real aviation expertise—building safe aircraft requires hands-on knowledge, experience, and a well-calibrated BS meter.
Collection of tools - bucking bars and back plates for riveting.

Tools and Shop Organization: When It’s Time to Start

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Organization, smart tool planning and connecting with local builders are essential first steps to a successful aircraft building project.
Aircraft tailwheel springs and linkage

Putting Off the Tailwheel Spring Repair

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After decades of delay, a cracked tailwheel spring finally forces long-overdue upgrades on a well-worn Starduster Too.

In Case You Missed It

Bend It Like…A Pro

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If you always wanted a custom exhaust for your homebuilt but were too afraid to ask, consider this alternative where you build the model and then send it in to the shop for professional fabrication. Author Bret Davenport found the Aircraft Exhaust four-into-one collector system for his Pitts S-1S more than satisfactory.

NXT Next

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Electroflight and Rolls-Royce partner to set the world’s electric airspeed record.

Home Shop Machinist

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Cool tools for lathe work.

Checkpoints

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Group fly-outs.