![The Hatz Biplane, NX71VH, re-engineered to be powered by a 124 hp radial engine. [Credit: Hatz Biplane Association]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hatz-Bantam-Radial-124hp_1000004521-Topaz-Gigapixel-2x-scale.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Airplane Almost No One Knows, Part One"){kind=tracking}
![[Credit: CubCrafters]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DSC04228.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "CubCrafters’ New Turboprop MOSAIC LSA")
![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=265&h=198&crop=1 "Choosing the Right Cockpit Fire Extinguisher for Your Aircraft"){kind=tracking}
![The Zenith CH701 outside the hangar at SMX, fresh from paint. The stars-and-stripes theme marks America’s 250th and the CH701’s 40th anniversary. [Credit: Carson Stilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_1726.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Zenith CH 701: A Proof of Concept Homebuilt on a Budget")
![Low-level aerial view of AirVenture, looking down the main thoroughfare toward Boeing Plaza, with the flightline and runway 18/36 beyond. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_4521.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "AirVenture 2026 in Review")
![[Credit: FAA]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FAA-Mosaic-1.jpg?w=324&h=235&crop=1 "MOSAIC Is Here: What It Means for Homebuilts")
MOSAIC Is Here: What It Means for Homebuilts
The FAA's new MOSAIC rule is here. See how it expands Sport Pilot privileges and revolutionizes maintenance for Experimental/Amateur-Built aircraft owners.
Building the 750 SDXTREME: Part 17
Custom mods to the 750 SDX main gear and nosegear bring serious weight savings and unique titanium parts to life—right down to the pedals and steering rods.
Case Parting Plates
A low-cost, effective method for separating stubborn Lycoming O-290 case halves using homemade parting plates and basic hardware.
Taking a Shine To 6061-T6 – Part 2
Cutting the initial shine with NuShine II F9 is key to a polished finish. Here's how to master the pad, pressure, speed, and polish for gleaming results.
Sitting Up Front Again
From hot rods to homebuilts, a new editor takes the stick at KITPLANES—with steady hands, clear skies, and a love for hands-on aviation.
In Case You Missed It
Down to Earth
Flight instruction has its challenges, but it has many rewards as well. Amy Laboda reflects on her recent successful launch of a brand new pilot.
![The Bonanze Fly-n-Eat founder Dr. Rick Rzepka flies to restaurant locations using his app. [Credit: Dr. Rick Rzepka]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Beechcraft-Bonanza-copy.jpg?w=324&h=160&crop=1 "Flying To Lunch Just Got Easier")
Ask the DAR
This month, a new column introduces Designated Airworthiness Representative Mel Asberry, who describes his background in homebuilding and details some of what hes looking for as a DAR. Questions welcome.