![[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")
Unusual Attitude
Vans Aircraft founder Richard VanGrunsven considers flight safety, and how improving our building and piloting skills would do more to reduce the number of mishaps than additional regulations would.
Alternative Energies
Electric Light Sport Aircraft are few and far between, owing primarily to the heavy batteries eating into LSA weight restrictions. The Alternair Amp is poised to change all that. By Dean Sigler.
Down To Earth
Homebuilt aircraft played a key role in bringing aid to the Bahamas after Hurricane Irene. Amy Laboda explains how you can join in future relief efforts.
Light Stuff
Interested in ultralights? Roy Beisswenger explains what is available and how to make the right choice for your needs.
Free Flight
The words "test pilot" conjure images of steely-eyed derring-do, but the reality is often a world away from all that.
Letters
Risky Business?Marc Cook, you have it right . Engines must have qualified technology and sufficient development, with a long gestation to work out the...
The Ultimate Upgrade
Wendell and Martha Solebee’s experience in the automotive restoration business came in handy when it was time to prep their Lancair Evolution for paint.
All About Avionics
Electrical components ahead of the firewall are crucial to the operation of the engine and aircraft systems. Stein Bruch presents a primer on wiring these vital elements of your electrical system.
Maintenance Matters
Veteran A&P Steve Ells explains the basics of setting up and organizing your home workshop, and the tools you'll need to complete and maintain your project.
In Case You Missed It
Viewfinder
Mark Cook revisits George Happs RANS S-19 project to see how the Rotax 914 installation has panned out.
Exhausting!
We visit Vetterman Exhaust for a behind-the-scenes look at how exhaust systems are made.
