![A compact H3R Halon 1211 extinguisher, sized for a two-seat cockpit and safe on energized electrical fires. [Credit: H3R Aviation]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/mfr_H3R_A344T_Halon_1p25lb.jpg_preview-Topaz-Gigapixel-2x-scale.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Choosing the Right Cockpit Fire Extinguisher for Your Aircraft"){kind=tracking}
![[Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_2791.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The Safety Triangle: Balancing Skill, Knowledge, and Judgment in Flying")
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![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 "Sun ‘n Fun 2026 Highlights: Electric RV-10, Modular Avionics, and MOSAIC")
![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")
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook comments on Zenith Aircrafts turbulent year following several in-flight breakups of CH 601XL Zodiac aircraft, and the company's response with an extensive update kit.
What’s New
Garmin expands online training and Sky-Tec introduces ST5 starters for Continentals. Edited by Mary Bernard.
ADS-B and Experimental Aircraft
More acronyms? Amy Laboda details the integration of ADS-B into the ATC system, and what it means for the Experimental aviation community.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook looks at the editorial changes within EAA, and reinforces KITPLANES focus on homebuilding.
The Dawn Patrol
Dick Starks and The Dawn Patrol saddle, er, trailer up and head to the Salute to Veterans Air Show in Columbia, Missouri. Who else could lend his crimping pliers to a couple of sailors to fix an F-18s wiring problem?
Ask the DAR
Can a builder modify a Vans RV-12 kit under the 51% rule? How about changing the gross weight of a RANS S-7? Plus, the FAA releases revised homebuilding rules.
Engine Beat
There's a lot to know about aircraft oil: what to use, when to use it, when to change it. Steve Ells sheds some light on this essential fluid.
Light Stuff
Dave Martin looks at the future of ultralight-like SLSA trainers, and what may be in store from the FAA.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook reflects on the past years celebration of KITPLANES first quarter century, and finds that predictions for the next 25 years don't come easily.
In Case You Missed It
Homebuilt Accidents-Comparing the Rates
A true head-to-head comparison with production aircraft is difficult to achieve.
Working With Experience
Part of my job is surprisingly solitary, moving words and photos around from my...
Shining a Light on DarkAero
Ryley, Keegan and River Karl provide a behind-the-scenes view of the DarkAero 1.