![A compact H3R Halon 1211 extinguisher, sized for a two-seat cockpit and safe on energized electrical fires. [Credit: H3R Aviation]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/mfr_H3R_A344T_Halon_1p25lb.jpg_preview-Topaz-Gigapixel-2x-scale.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Choosing the Right Cockpit Fire Extinguisher for Your Aircraft"){kind=tracking}
![[Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_2791.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The Safety Triangle: Balancing Skill, Knowledge, and Judgment in Flying")
![A SubSonex personal jet in aerobatic flight. Thea design will expand with a two-place model kit in the months ahead. [Credit: Sonex Aircraft]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SubSonex_Acro.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Sonex Reopens")
![A CubCrafter’s Carbon Cub headed to Sun ‘n Fun in the time-honored tradition. [Credit: CubCrafters]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Carbon-Cub-UL.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Sun ‘n Fun 2026 Highlights: Electric RV-10, Modular Avionics, and MOSAIC")
![Ten hours of dual instruction in a tailwheel-equipped aircraft is usually required for proficiency. [Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AdobeStock_354747155.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Learning How to Drag Your Tail")
Boots on the Ground
Paul Dye talks about meeting old friends and making new friends at air shows and fly-ins, and introduces several new columnists who will be regular contributors to KITPLANES.
Editor’s Log
With so many different types of Experimental/kit aircraft available, Paul Dye explains how KITPLANES tries to include something of interest for everyone.
What’s New: Garmin’s Bold Experimental Push
New equipment from Garmin’s Team X is tailored to the experimental builder’s budget.
Buzzwords: Human Factors—The Basics
Small design considerations can have a big impact on comfort, convenience and safety.
Alternative Energies
The Grand Unified Airplane: Is it possible to extract energy from the act of flight itself? By Dean Sigler.
Down to Earth
Even when built from the same kit, no two aircraft are exactly the same—that’s why you need a builder’s book. By Amy Laboda.
Light Stuff
Freedom from airports: takeoffs off and landings where there aren’t normal runways. By Roy Beisswenger.
In Case You Missed It
Editor’s Log
Mary Bernard explores the background of Jeff Ackland and his new Radial Rocket RG, this issues cover story.
