![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=534&h=462&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")
![sideview shows the Better Half with the full VW case. [Credit: Legal Eagle Airplane]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Milholland-V-Twin_Side-View.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Better Half VW")
Editor’s Log
Editor Mary Bernard introduces the new “Build It Better” series by Paul Dye and praises Kitfox Aircraft for its ongoing development efforts.
What’s New
MGL Avionics announces its new XTreme EMS engine monitoring system, the RANS S-19 Venterra has joined the FAA’s official 51% eligibility list, and Wicks Aircraft Supply adds a new Dual XGPS150 universal Bluetooth Receiver to its product lineup.
Capturing Air-to-Air Shots
Marc Cook reflects on the years of on-the-job lessons he learned while formation flying and shooting air-to-air photography.
Inside KITPLANES: How We Do Aerial Photography
Marc Cook explains the nuts-and-bolts of how we achieve the aerial photography that appears in the magazine, and offers a few pointers on how to capture your own plane in flight.
Unusual Attitude
Doug Reeves, creator of the Van’s Air Force web site, shares his personal philosophy about what it takes to fly safely and responsibly.
The Dawn Patrol
Dick and Sharon Starks mix it up with the “big boys” and draw their own crowd at Oshkosh AirVenture 2011.
Alternative Energies
Dean Sigler was on location at this year’s Green Flight Challenge in Santa Rosa, California, and he offers a report.
Light Stuff
Ready to jump into gyroplanes? Roy Beisswenger explains the options available and the regulations for this exciting segment of aviation.
Free Flight
Expecting your avionics software to be free of bugs is unrealistic, but there is a way to avoid being bitten.
Editor’s Log
Editor Mary Bernard discusses the reward of simplicity that a homebuilder can find when building from plans.
In Case You Missed It
The Meredith Effect-Fact or Fiction?
Can a properly ducted radiator offset all internal cooling drag and produce thrust?
Build A Spark Plug Resistance Tester
Checking resistance is an important part of plug maintenance. By Michel Suire.
Build Your Own Stall-Warning Device
Certified aircraft have had them for decades-but not Experimentals. By Michel Suire.