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Free Flight
Which way do you lean? Techniques for improving performance by using the mixture control.
Editor’s Log
Paul Dye explains how it was possible for him to become editor-in-chief of KITPLANES before he actually left his old job at NASA and what you can expect to see in KITPLANES in the near future.
What’s New
AeroLEDs introduces new landing/recognition lights, Wicks Aircraft offers a comprehensive assortment of O-rings. Edited
Free Flight
When developing a strategy for a flight, it’s important to know the limitations of XM weather, NEXRAD radar, moving maps and other tools.
The Dawn Patrol
Bent landing gear on a Kolb Twinstar MK-II? This is a job for the Flabtrolic press—or maybe not.
Light Stuff
Sport Pilot rules make it possible to fly a powered parachute or flexwing trike at night, but make sure you have the right equipment.
Editor’s Log
As Paul Dye takes the helm at KITPLANES, he looks forward to covering this exciting time in the Experimental aircraft community.
What’s New
Just Aircraft introduces the Highlander SuperStol, Cockpit Apps launches new fuel tankering app, and there’s a new LED position/anti-collision light.
Nobody’s Perfect
Nobody's perfect. Neither is any airplane or airplane part—there’s always a tolerance from perfection, and that’s OK, as long as you understand the art of repair.
Down to Earth
When something doesn’t feel (or sound) right, trust your gut and stay on the ground. A stuck valve recently demonstrated this lesson to Amy Laboda.
In Case You Missed It
The $30,000 RV-9A
Two builders helped each other build RV-9As, each employing significantly different outlays of cash. The results are impressive in both cases, but for different reasons. They help us ponder the question as we build: “What is something worth?” By Marc Cook.
Channel Challenger
Dick Starks and the Dawn Patrol get a front-row seat to the Bleriot XI replica’s very successful first flight. Next comes flying off the 40 in preparation for its English Channel flight.
A Sign of the Zodiac (Part 6)
As the project is completed and is readied for its flight home, the author reflects on the challenges he overcame and the lessons he learned during the build; by Rick Lindstrom.
