![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AdobeStock_176619176-534x462.jpg "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-265x198.jpg "Better Half VW")
![An Aerotrek A220 perched resolutely on the grass and ready for flight. [Credit: Aerotrek]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_2719-265x198.jpg "Aerotrek")
![[Credit: Zenith Aircraft Co.]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/wksp-3-21-group1-265x198.jpg "Zenith Building Momentum With Workshops, New Options and Mosaic Opportunity")
Light Stuff
Roy Beisswenger discusses the impact of the FAAs LODA order allowing Light Sport instructors to resume training with their Experimental aircraft.
Viewfinder
Marc Cook spends a few days helping perform the annual on a friends RV-7A, and finds it much easier than doing his own.
Engine Update: EI Commander
EI Commander helps keep you aware of both whats happening with your engines electronic ignition and, as importantly, why. By Marc Cook.
Alternative Energies
JoeBen Bevirt addresses future energy and transportation needs by tackling them head-on-Jetsons style-with the Joby Monarch. By Dean Sigler.
Editor’s Log
Mary Bernard explores the background of Jeff Ackland and his new Radial Rocket RG, this issues cover story.
What’s New
Beyerdynamic introduces the HS 800 Aviation Headset, Zenith Aircrafts Zodiac CH 650 meets FAAs 51% rule, and Jeppesen NavData is now available for MGL Avionics systems.
Editor’s Log
Mary Bernard discusses staff changes at KITPLANES and the new series and columns that are making their debut this month.
What’s New
Simplex Aeroplanes offers discounted plans for its Cloudster Ultralight, and Superior Air Parts has resumed shipping its Experimental XP Series engines to dealers.
Viewfinder
Mark Cook revisits George Happs RANS S-19 project to see how the Rotax 914 installation has panned out.
In Case You Missed It
Various and Sundry
Awash with ideas and follow-up chores, the writing workbench is looking about as disheveled...
Contributors
Stein Bruch
Starting the new year, we welcome Stein Bruch back to resume his extremely...
2012 Alternative Engine Buyer’s Guide
If you’re in the market for an auto-conversion engine for your homebuilt aircraft, here’s a definitive guide to the options. By Patrick Panzera.