![[Credit: Lisa Credit]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Experimental.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Have You Seen Your Oplims?")
![[Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/737_VGs2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Vortex Generators")
![[Credit: Van's Aircraft]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Vans_RV14A.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Something New On The Horizon")
![[Credit: Lisa Turner]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Chute-Topaz-Gigapixel-2x-scale.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Should You Consider A Whole Aircraft Parachute?"){kind=tracking}
Sling Shot
From initial climb performance to Chuck-Yeager-like landings, the Sling 2 reveals its designer's emphasis on handling.
2013 Plansbuilt Aircraft Buyer’s Guide
There are developments in the world of plansbuilt designs. Here’s what’s new, what’s old (but still going strong, such as the Pietenpol Air Camper) and what’s on the horizon. By Mary Bernard.
Guest Editorial
We've made improvements: This year's printed Kit Aircraft Buyer's Guide has a new format that highlights the latest designs. Plus, the Online Aircraft Buyer's Guide's new features yield a better and more useful search result.
What’s New
MGL Avionics offers new touchscreen iEFIS, SkyVision Xtreme introduces a fully portable ADS-B In/Out system, and Worx SD SemiAutomatic Driver debuts.
Homebuilding in South Africa
On an “aviation safari,” Amy Laboda checks out South Africa’s homebuilding activity (and some spectacular scenery) and discovers the industry there is thriving—along with some of the factors that help keep it that way.
Dynon’s D1
Dynon’s “Pocket Panel” self-contained mini-EFIS has plenty going for it—excellent performance, portability and a reasonable price. By Paul Bertorelli.
The Dawn Patrol
When one email gets forwarded far and wide, an airport picnic (featuring a surfeit of fried green tomatoes) ends up attracting a mob. But The Dawn Patrol rises to the challenge.
Light Stuff
Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to aircraft—all that really matters is creating the flying experience you want to have. By Roy Beisswenger.
Alternative Energies
A new electric ultralight motorglider expands the boundaries of its category—and its plans can be downloaded free. By Dean Sigler.
Letters
Fish TalesConcerning Dean Sigler’s “Alternative Energies” article , he got one item wrong. Hydroelectric generators do not routinely “slice migrating salmon in their turbines.”...
In Case You Missed It
Insurance for Homebuilts: Planning 101
Choosing the right model for your skill level and one that’s well-supported is the first step in dealing with a hardened insurance climate.
How to Calibrate Angle-of-Attack on Garmin’s G3X Touch System
For pilots who fly with modern electronic flight instruments, having access to accurate, repeatable...
