Free Flight
The words "test pilot" conjure images of steely-eyed derring-do, but the reality is often a world away from all that.
Editor’s Log
Editor Mary Bernard makes the case for presenting the annual Aircraft Buyer's Guides data in a new, more useful form.
What’s New
Find welding resources at USAWeld.com, Ztron Labs offers an alternative to conventional aircraft circuit breakers, and record your flights with the AV-HD video system from Data Toys. Edited by Abby Ventzke.
Viewfinder
Marc Cook looks at the possibility of Glasair Aviation initiating a new Two Weeks to Taxi builder-assistance program for the Van's RV-10.
The Dawn Patrol
Dick Starks and the members of The Kansas City Dawn Patrol head out to take part in the Annual Salute to Veterans Airshow in Columbia, Missouri.
Expansion Team
For RV-12 owners looking for an alternative engine option, Jabiru offers a worthy contender. By Marc Cook.
Light Stuff
Roy Beisswenger reports on The Farm, and all that was new and exciting in the ultralight area at Oshkosh AirVenture 2011.
Editor’s Log
Mary Bernard discusses the challenges companies face when they try to improve an existing design, let alone develop a new product. The Glasair Sportsman TC is a case in point.
What’s New
TCW Technologies announces two new products, ChartFlier introduces a low-cost entry to the ADS-B market, and a veteran airshow performer pilots the SubSonex jet on its maiden flight.
Viewfinder
Marc Cook presents an argument for rewriting LSA weight-limit rules to encourage new design and technology, while improving safety and performance.
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![Sonex Reopens 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)
![Sun ‘n Fun 2026 Highlights: Electric RV-10, Modular Avionics, and MOSAIC A CubCrafter’s Carbon Cub headed to Sun ‘n Fun in the time-honored tradition. [Credit: CubCrafters]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Carbon-Cub-UL.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1)
![Learning How to Drag Your Tail 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)
![Manual Starting Methods 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)













