![Maintenance technician William Vergonet conducts an inspection on a Cub. [Credit: Lisa Turner]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_3535.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Post-Flight Maintenance Debrief")
![Pat McKiernan has found that he and his dad who built this beautiful RV-7 simply learned to enjoy the build. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Builder.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Life Lessons From Building an Airplane")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AdobeStock_51865118.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "FAA MOSAIC Rule Fully Implemented")
![My 36 year old clipboard from when I started at Boeing. Engineering ruler and fastener/fastener hole cheat sheets. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Liaison_clipboard.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "What Is a Liaison Engineer?")
![At Sun ‘n Fun 2026, Viking Aircraft Engines surprised the crowd with its first complete kit — the V-42, a high-wing twin powered by two Honda-based engines. Here’s an early look. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/P1020293.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Viking V-42 Twin")
The Dawn Patrol
Dick Starks envisions the perfect vehicle for transporting messengers in the throes of trench warfare-and then he builds one.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir describes some close encounters with power regulators of the plastic and metal-can kind.
Wind Tunnel
Don your thinking caps, kids. Its time to learn about the value of nondimensionalized aerodynamic data.
Magneto Timing Made Simple
Its a question of degrees: Step-by-step instructions on how to set your magneto timing.
Ask the DAR
Readers want to know when you can use your homebuilt for paid instruction and how to convert a certified aircraft into an Experimental.
Flight Review: The Wittman W10 Tailwind
The apparently simple lines and construction of the Wittman Tailwind belie a thoughtful sophistication that even todays aircraft designers can appreciate.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook considers the current state of customer service and its implications for business success.
What’s New
The Dakota Cub Super 18-180 kit debuts, Dynon updates its autopilot software for EFIS units, and AeroLEDs updates its SunSport landing light. Edited by Mary Bernard.
In Case You Missed It
How They Build Them in South Africa
During my recent visit to Sling Aircraft in Johannesburg, South Africa, to fly the...
Building Before Kits
Ray Allen reminisces about building a Midget Mustang from scratch. By Ray Allen.
DIY Firewall Boots
Need to seal your firewall, reduce carbon monoxide and allow components to move freely? Chuck Dieterich shows you how to make firewall boots.
Alternative Energies
Three new aircraft, Synergy, Pipistrel Panthera and Volta Volare, are pushing the innovation envelope with their propulsion systems, performance and fuel economy. By Dean Sigler.