![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=534&h=462&crop=1 "Learning How to Drag Your Tail")
![The alternative to bending down as the propeller is pulled through the compression stroke is to keep the back straight and bend the knees slightly, stepping away in a crouch. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_1519-scaled.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Manual Starting Methods")
![The newly-restored F-24 enjoying the morning sun. [All Images Credited to Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/DSC_0001.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Golden Age Revival")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AdobeStock_176619176.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Instructional Inflexibility")
Free Flight
To fly or not to fly? Often it depends on the weather, which can be uncertain. That’s why it’s good to have IFR clearance, and crucial to have a backup plan.
The Dawn Patrol
They may not be comfortable, and they don't go fast, but flying a WW-I plane is just plain fun. When you can share the experience with some American heroes, its even better.
Alternative Energies
While researchers seek electric flight’s Holy Grail—a 10X battery—aviation’s innovators are busy determining ways to use less fuel with the technology available now. By Dean Sigler.
Another Look at Fuel-System Testing
In light of additional research and input from manufacturers, Dave Prizio revises some of his previous recommendations on testing your fuel system.
What’s New – Oxygen Concentrator, Factory-Built Searey, Dynon ADSB-in
Progressive Aerodyne to offer factory-built SeaRey, Windblade introduces Inogen Aviator G2-1050, and Dynon ships new ADS-B “In” weather and traffic receiver for SkyView EFISes.
Go With the Flow…
When you build your own airplane, you get to design the cockpit you've always wanted, from the ground up. But facing that blank slate can be challenging and calls for a thoughtful approach.
Light Stuff
In an aviation segment where rentals are generally not an option, acquiring your own aircraft may be the way to go. There are deals to be had, if you know where to look. By Roy Beisswenger.
Alternative Energies
One plane, one pilot, 5 tons of garbage: How Jeremy Rowsell plans to crisscross the globe in a Cessna 172 powered by fuel made from recycled plastic. By Dean Sigler.
Down to Earth
Flight instruction has its challenges, but it has many rewards as well. Amy Laboda reflects on her recent successful launch of a brand new pilot.
Editor’s Log
Change is inevitable, and, in the media world, it’s coming at us hard and fast. Editor in Chief Mary Bernard considers the trends.
In Case You Missed It
Engine Beat
UL Power of Belgium adds two new engines to its product line that are distinguished by the inclusion of Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). By Steve Ells.
Cylinder Hones and Honing
Honing and lapping are similar inasmuch as both employ abrasive action to remove metal...