![[All images credited to Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/DSC_6716.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Glasair Sportsman 2+2, Part Two")
![Dragging it in low and slow for the STOL competition. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/SnF_dragging_in.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Sun ’n Fun 2026 Recap: Avionics Upgrades, Thorp Kits, and STOL Action")
![[Credit: McFarlane Alaska]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/McFarlane_tailwheel.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "McFarlane Alaska Absorbs Backcountry Favorite T3 Tailwheel")
![Making rare use of my drafting tools for the internal timing. [All Images Credited to Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/P1010535.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Conquering the Magneto, Part 2")
![The integrated ECLIPSE NG features a very sunlight readable display that shows the engine and all flight data organized in one or more pages. [Credit: Fielden Aero LLC]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/1_Screenshot_.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "FLYBOX Avionics")
RANS Chaos and Sakota Aerobats Are Back
Due to popular demand, the RANS S-9 Chaos and S-10 Sakota midwing one- and two-place aerobatic kit aircraft are back in production, the company says. Deliveries will begin in June. The two kits were discontinued about a year ago, and will be offered in their original form. We are happy that the planes have commanded such strong response, says Randy Schlitter, RANS CEO, and will strive to supply the same top notch quality [customers] have…
Bosch Jigsaw Kit
The Bosch 18V cordless jigsaw has been added to Aircraft Spruces line of Bosch power tools. The 6-pound jigsaw has a One-Touch system that allows for easy [IMG(CAP1)]blade change and ejection of hot or broken blades with one lever. The Bosch also features blade retention, a three-way grip that maintains the blade position and allows for precise cuts. An adjustable dust blower keeps the cutting line clear.…
Products: Castleberry Attitude Indicator
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty is now carrying the Castleberry Instruments & Avionics attitude indicator, which is an approved substitute for the previously mandated rate...
CD-Based Weather Course Introduced
Weather Statement Groundschool is now offering a course on METARS (Aviation Routine Weather Reports) and TAFs (Terminal Area Forecasts) that you can complete on your home computer. METARS include temperature, dew point, wind speed, direction, precipitation, cloud cover, visibility, lightning and barometric pressure. TAFs are used in conjunction with METARS and use similar terminology. [IMG(CAP1)] …
Commentary: Experimental "51%" solutions—is Primary Category the answer?
In February, when the FAA published the final report from the working group looking at “major portion” guidance, another proposal was floated to help...
You Don’t Need a Weatherman to Know Which Way the Wind...
Yes, you do, if you’re going to fly safely. And while there are a lot of websites out there that give...
News: On Changes to 51% Rule Guidance, VanGrunsven “Cautiously optimistic.”
Among the current kit manufacturers, Van’s Aircraft is indisputably the volume leader. Nearly 5600 RVs are flying, and like all other kit manufacturers, the...
Update: Dan Parker's Altitude Attempt
KITPLANES readers will recall a recent article about Dan Parker and his High Flyer (January 2008 issue). He is in the process of...
News: Reworked Guidance for Kitbuilt Aircraft on the Way
Will revised Advisory Circulars kill builder assistance?Last Friday, the FAA published the final report from the Amateur-Built Aircraft Aviation Rulemaking Committee that outlines plans...
KITPLANES Magazine Newsblog Goes Live!
Welcome to the KITPLANES newsblog, where you will find the latest news and views on the world of homebuilt aviation. This is not intended...
In Case You Missed It
A Note From The New Editor
The primary focus of a new editor at a magazine like Kitplanes is where...
Texas Sport Cub
The Texas Sport Cub’s combination of classic good looks and today’s technology will appeal to those who are looking to rekindle an old flame or those hoping to initiate a new love affair; by Marc Cook.
Homebuilt Accidents-Comparing the Rates
A true head-to-head comparison with production aircraft is difficult to achieve.
What’s New
PS Engineering has introduced a new audio panel/com, Avemco creates a safety team, Comp Air offers special pricing incentives on its 6 kit, and UL Power of North America names Zenith as first OEM. Edited by Mary Bernard.