![[Credit: Wikimedia Commons]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F-117_Nighthawk_Front.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Odd and Unusual Aircraft")
![After nearly 75 years, the basic Tailwind design remains sound. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_4636.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The Wittman Tailwind")
![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AdobeStock_125628775.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Roll Recovery, Part 2")
![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")
Air Racing: A Report
With the announcement of Roswell, New Mexico, as the new home of the National Air Races, it seems a good time to give an update on the go-fast crowd.
Orphan Part Angel
The Glasair static port design has a beveled segment that bisects the centerline of the port. This adds more than a minor complication to the machining process.
Manufacturing Considerations
The designer must consider all three factors: Mission, Manufacturing and Marketing.
Eclipsing
One of the big motivators to amateur aircraft builders is simply dreaming about the adventures that their personal aircraft will allow them to accomplish.
In Case You Missed It
Light Stuff
Shopping for a new airplane is never easy and there is much to consider. This article details one mans purchase decision, as he systematically weighs the pros and cons of various designs and ultimately decides on the Flight Design CT; by Dave Martin.
Ask the DAR
As a builder gets ready for his airworthiness inspection, he wonders if he can hire a DAR who is familiar with his design but lives in another state. And what if your airplane doesn't pass inspection?
Understanding Lithium Batteries
Kathy and Reg Nicoson of EarthX, Inc. explain what you need to know.