![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=534&h=462&crop=1 "Viking V-42 Twin")
![[Credit: Van's Aircraft]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_5238.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Part 22 Gets Real: Van’s Delivers the First MOSAIC-Certified Airplane")
![Backcountry manners intact: the ULT sits on a grass strip with the turbine spun up, built on the STOL-capable Carbon Cub UL airframe. [Credit: CubCrafters]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-20-at-11.12.13-AM.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The New Jetprop Carbon Cub")
![[All images credited to Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/DSC_6716.jpg?w=265&h=198&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")
Radiant Adds New CO Detector Models
RADIANT Technology expands its popular CO-USB detector line with two new models, including a battery-powered version with an aural alarm and lanyard.
Barefoot and Booted, the Power Lunch!
WomenVenture Day celebrates women in aviation with forums, flybys, and inspiring talks—including firebomber captain Tracy Zedeck's keynote.
Cleaveland Tools: Cowling Install Tool
Cleaveland Tool’s 3D-printed cowling fixture offers affordable, hands-free alignment for trimming and fitting—just $150 and shipping now.
Homebuilt Participation Down This Year
Homebuilt participation at Oshkosh 2025 is down roughly 15%, with fewer planes and tents in the Pavilion and camping areas.
Team Rocket Previews New Wing Design for F1
Team Rocket’s new F1 wing boosts fuel, improves cruise and landing performance—while maintaining weight and familiar handling.
Create Your Electrical Schematic with Wiring Planner
Powerful CAD software for homebuilt aircraft wiring is now available through an affordable monthly or annual non-commercial subscription.
Falken Avionics Unveils New EFIS and More
Falken Avionics unveils a suite of new products at AirVenture 2025, led by the affordable Astra Mini EFIS and next-generation FlightBox v3 ADS-B receiver.
All High-Wing Planes Are Not Alike
Comparing the high-wing airplanes reveals key mission and size differences—not a one-size-fits-all choice.
Quick Rivet Squeezer Setup with a Handy New Gauge
Flyboy Accessories' 3D-printed depth gauge simplifies squeezer setup—no more guesswork before setting your first rivet.
In Case You Missed It
2012 Kit Aircraft Buyer’s Guide
The 2012 Kit Aircraft Buyer's Guide features a stunning 316 designs.
Buying a Used Homebuilt: Pre-Buy Inspection
The pre-buy inspection-what is it and why do you need one?
Early or Late?
Long before I wrote for aviation publications, I was doing testing—of airframes, engines, avionics,...
Wind Tunnel
Involved in the flight testing of a friends aircraft, Barnaby Wainfan contemplates the consequences (and wisdom) of designing an aircraft around an engine that may prove unsatisfactory or, worse, unavailable.