![[Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_2791.jpg?w=534&h=462&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")
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![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")
![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")
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.
What’s New
Sunbeam light from AeroLEDs, dealer agreement for Titan EXP engines, Snap-on LED Hybrid Light and Pioneer Aircraft’s new wood grip.
Building Efficiently
You'll be flying your finished aircraft much sooner if you manage your time, parts, workspace and tools efficiently.
The Dawn Patrol
When the National Geographic Channel throws down an aviation challenge, The Dawn Patrol answers the call.
Alternative Energies
They may be largely unknown today, but two French brothers were among those exploring battery-powered flight in the 1880s. By Dean Sigler.
Editor’s Log
The free flight of birds inspired the first forays into manned flight—a perfect example of the concept of biomimicry. Editor in Chief Mary Bernard sees a similar resourcefulness in plansbuilders who look at a set of drawings and create an airplane from scratch.
What’s New
Bogert Aviation introduces quick-drain oil valve probe, CubCrafters improves 2013 Carbon Cub SS, and MGL integrates Sandia Mode-C Transponder with its EFISes.
Alternative Energies
Experimental Soaring Workshop: This annual gathering of designers and builders of sailplanes, hang gliders and paragliders is an idea festival, and a must-attend event for enthusiasts. By Dean Sigler.
In Case You Missed It
X Marks the Spot
Light and slow, yet lacking control skittishness, the X-Air is a simple and fun way to go nowhere in particular. By Bob Grimstead.
