![The Spirit Engineering SE-1 gleaming in repose. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_8605.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Spirit Engineering SE-1")
![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=265&h=198&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")
Ten Things That Will Have an Impact on Insurance
In today’s market you might not be able to get insurance for the plane you want or the premium might be more than you want to spend.
Breaking Bead
This month’s home shop project is a bead breaker for separating stubborn tires from rims.
All Over the Map
When the FAA inspector or DAR (Designated Airworthiness Representative) arrives to award you your airworthiness certificate, it’s likely that everything will go smoothly, right?...
Homespun Router Table
I’m drawn to the simple, low-cost end of the airplane market. The first airplane I bought plans for was the Evans VP-1. The first...
Where’s the Best Place To Build?
You and your airplane kit deserve a comfortable workshop area for the many days of building that lie ahead. If you are a first-time...
Common In-Flight Failures, Part 2
This column is a continuation of common in-flight failures that I began discussing in the September 2024 issue. With today’s glass cockpits and all...
Venturing the Cup
Started in 1997 by Eric Whyte and Erik Anderson, the AirVenture Cup offers its own twist on the traditional point-to-point air race. Namely, it...
Unlabeled Switch and Circuit Breakers
For safety’s sake, all switches and circuit breakers should be labeled as to function and direction.
In Case You Missed It
Build, Test, Refine and Fix—Part 5: High AoA Pitch Characteristics
Evaluating pitch stability, stick force gradients, and pitch-up warnings in stall testing to ensure safe handling at high angles of attack.
Sequoia Falco: Wings of Desire
Ten years of meticulous workmanship and a daughters dedication combined to result in a stellar example of a Sequoia Falco F.8L. Builder John Shipler enjoyed the fruits of his labor before his health declined, and his daughter Kris has continued to fly and maintain the airplane after his passing.
Down to Earth
When something doesn’t feel (or sound) right, trust your gut and stay on the ground. A stuck valve recently demonstrated this lesson to Amy Laboda.
Firewall Forward: The Oil Change
Let's get started with the KITPLANES Firewall Forward video series, sponsored by the Tempest...