Phase I Maintenance
Some of the things to which new mechanics or new owners of Amateur-Built aircraft should pay attention.
Pilot: The Verb
I pretend to play guitar. To my neighbor’s irritation, I use a real guitar when I pretend, not an air guitar. While learning new...
Headset Histrionics
I logged my first official instructional flight on June 17, 1975, at age 15. I already had my private and an instrument rating before...
Down to Earth
How do you build and fly a homebuilt aircraft while still maintaining a good relationship with spouse and family? That is the question, and Amy Laboda offers some answers.
Free Flight
EFISes provide a tremendous amount of information and extend the capabilities of todays homebuilt aircraft, but only if you take the time to learn how to use them properly.
Repetition
Repetition is a big part of building an airplane. Fortunately, for many builders, it is also good for the soul.
What’s The Worst That Could Happen?
When you're tempted to take shortcuts during a build or repair without asking questions about the ramifications, it may be wise to contemplate the worst-case scenario.
Shaving Time With Occam’s Razor
Troubleshooting is an art—an art based on experience, knowledge—and sometimes a little luck. I have been building and fixing things all my life, and...
In Case You Missed it
Firewall Forward: Oil Coolers and Oil Lines
The right oil cooler, installed correctly, can maximize your engine’s life. Of course, you’ll also need to consider crankcase breathers, oil separators, oil filters, oil lines and connections.
Flight Testing: Static System Error, Theory and Practice
Flight testing requires precise airspeed calibration and measurement. A less-than-optimal pitot-static system can compromise those numbers. Heres how to troubleshoot the problem.
Light Stuff
Now in its fourth year, the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo, aka Sebring Expo, continues to grow, and presents a golden opportunity for Light Sport aircraft enthusiasts to see the latest and greatest additions to the category. Jim Lauerman of Avemco Insurance was also on hand to present a forum about insurance for LSAs.