Ask the DAR
A reader asks if he can use his Experimental/Amateur-Built aircraft for instruction. DAR Mel Asberry’s answer: It’s not a problem, but charging for transition training of a non-owner pilot requires a specific operational exemption.
Light Stuff
Although Van’s has been a top-selling kit manufacturer for years, the company’s foray into the SLSA (factory-built Light Sport Aircraft) market with the RV-12 has proven to be challenging—and the airplane may not ever be sold ready-to-fly. By Dave Martin.
Alternative Engines and the Cult of Personality
Marc Cook digs into the challenging world of automotive conversions, reporting on the converts who learned how to build these engines at the West Coast Corvair College.
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.
Light Stuff
Its two aircraft in one: The Jabiru J230 is being sold both as a kit and as a Special (factory-built) Light Sport Aircraft thats ready to fly. By Dave Martin.
Around the Patch
Recent casualties in the kit-aircraft universe including AirlinkTECH, Pillar Point Avionics and Superior Air Parts reduce services available to builders and potentially eliminate some healthy competiton. By Marc Cook.
What’s New
The 6000th RV flies, there's a new quick reference checklist for Garmin portable units, and a new engine mount for Rotax engines is available. Edited by Mary Bernard.
AirCam Adventure
When a former editor of KITPLANES gets an invitation to fly with a group of AirCam pilots to the Bahamas, resistance is futile.
25th Anniversary: Builder Assistance
Builder-assistance programs continue to grow and change to accommodate both builders needs and FAA regulations. By Mary Bernard.
Ask the DAR
This month our DAR answers questions about the size and placement requirements for N numbers on Experimental aircraft.
In Case You Missed It
Maintenance Matters
No one wants to experience a faulty mag drop (especially with a nervous passenger on board). Steve Ells offers some tips on how to reduce misfires and maximize ignition-system performance.
Shop Safety
This article covers what you should have learned in your high school shop class, but didn't, and more. It discusses safety glasses, proper treatment of chisels, gloves, jewelry, shop coats, hand tools, urban myths, safe shoes, hardware, biomechanics, capturing wayward chips, machinery placement in the shop, air-powered tools, cleanup, pneumatic cutting tools, and other common sense advice; by Bob Fritz.
Zenith Goes Virtual
Stuck at home? It might just be time to start building the plane of your dreams.