![[Credit: ChatGPT]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/What-did-you-miss-Topaz-Gigapixel-4x-scale.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Last Bits"){kind=tracking}
![The best builders learn to combine both mindsets. They build like engineers but think like future mechanics. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0037.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Building vs. Fixing")
![[Credit: Wikimedia Commons]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F-117_Nighthawk_Front.jpg?w=265&h=198&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")
Ask the DAR
Who can be in the cockpit of a homebuilt aircraft during Phase I flight testing? Mel Asberry answers the question.
Engine Update
UL Power engines have gained popularity in the homebuilt community in recent years. Marc Cook takes a closer look at the Belgian-made line and the people behind it.
Simplicity
Countless modifications for homebuilts are available, but does that mean they're right for our projects? Paul Dye discusses the value of keeping things simple.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir explains how LED strip lighting works and explores the ways in which it can be used in your homebuilt or your shop.
Wind Tunnel
Seemingly inconsequential alterations—even mounting an inflight camera on the airframe—can result in big changes to an aircraft’s handling and performance.
Zenith CH 650 B
With the UL Power 350iS engine and other mods, the new CH 650 B has advanced Zenith Aircrafts product line. By Marc Cook.
Are you considering an alternative engine?
Patrick Panzera explains some specific formulas he uses to see if an engine' claimed numbers pass muster.
What’s New
Dr. RoTech introduces an engine analyzer for Rotax 912/914 engines, Planemakers offers builder assistance for composite aircraft, and Ameritech distributes Electroair ignition systems.
Viewfinder
Editor-at-Large Marc Cook flies the RANS S-7LS at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida, and hears encouraging news from vendors.
Down to Earth
Amy Laboda discusses her approach to getting instrument re-current and describes the many tools available to help you en route.
In Case You Missed It
Staying Late
In magazine land—a parallel universe to the real world—I’m writing this between Oshkosh and...
