![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=534&h=462&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")
![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 "Manual Starting Methods")
![The newly-restored F-24 enjoying the morning sun. [All Images Credited to Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/DSC_0001.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Golden Age Revival")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AdobeStock_176619176.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Instructional Inflexibility")
25th Anniversary: The Glasair-Lancair Wars
The origins of Stoddard-Hamilton Aircraft precede Lancair Aircraft by a few years, but once Lancair entered the game, competition was not only fierce but also productive; by Marc Cook.
The Back Yard Flyer
When Dick and Sharon Starks found that Sharon's Airdrome Aeroplanes Morane Saulnier L Parasol replica was TPd at Oshkosh, the search was on to find the culprits. Along the way, they also discovered an innovative new ultralight from Valley Engineering;
ELTs of Tomorrow Today
The FAA mandates the use of emergency locator transmitters so that downed aircraft can be found and assistance provided. But times are changing, and its important to understand the nature of the new technology so that you can best equip yourself; by Bob Fritz.
Ask the DAR
DAR Mel Asberry answers questions from readers about approval of new 51% kits and what happens if the rules change, plus finding an experienced flight advisor for your project.
Around the Patch
The Editor-in-Chief discusses how the improper cut of his instrument panel affected the performance of his Dynon autopilot; by Marc Cook.
What’s New
Paradise Aircraft introduces a new LSA, there's a new fiberglass panel for the Glasair Glastar or Sportsman, and Fisher Flying Products is under new ownership; edited by Mary Bernard.
25th Anniversary: Homebuilts – The Enduring Soul of Innovation
This month we reflect on the changes we've seen over a quarter century of covering the homebuilt aircraft world; by Cindy Pedersen.
Ask the DAR
This month we address the question of where flight-test areas may be and how they may be structured;
Light Stuff
The next revolution in recreational aircraft is coming, and its electric! This is evidenced by Randall Fishmans ElectraFlyer-C electric-powered aircraft, which flew at last years AirVenture Oshkosh; by Dave Martin.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook offers an explanation of how the annual Aircraft Buyer's Guides are assembled, and his attempts to enhance the usefulness and relevance of the information provided.
In Case You Missed It
Maintenance Matters
Veteran A&P Steve Ells explains the basics of setting up and organizing your home workshop, and the tools you'll need to complete and maintain your project.
Hands On: Soup to Nuts
Mike Loehle, of Loehle Aircraft, discusses the development of his aero coatings system and details some of the pre-paint prep process.
The First Liar
Throughout the history of places where pilots gather—be it a hangar, lounge or friendly...