![Ten hours of dual instruction in a tailwheel-equipped aircraft is usually required for proficiency. [Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AdobeStock_354747155.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "The Wittman Tailwind")
![[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")
![[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")
![[Credit: FAA]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FAA-Mosaic-1.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "MOSAIC Isn’t a Question of Can You—But Why You’d Build")
Van’s Aircraft Update: We Let You Down, We’ll Do Better
CEO Mikael Via and COO Shawl Ell outlined the company’s path forward and spoke about the internal and external issues the company faced.
Van’s RV-15 Now Expected Late 2025
Van’s Aircraft offered an update on the high-wing RV-15, which is now expected to move toward production by late next year.
Legacy BD-4C Design Sold To SureWings
A BD-4C builder and fan, Attila Gahbro, bought the kit business and has plans for major enhancements.
Whelen Aerospace Technologies Announces Acquisition of AeroLEDs
Whelen Aerospace Technologies (WAT) signed an agreement to acquire the assets of AeroLEDs, LLC.
Garmin GTR 205X At AirVenture
We check in with Garmin's Brad Bensing for an overview of the new slimline GTR 205x comm radio aimed at experimental aircraft.
More information: www.garmin.com
Viking’s Latest—And Some Zodiac Eye Candy
There are couple of things of note in the Viking Aircraft Engines booth this year.
Oshkosh Diary: Let’s Get Busy!
0900 - the show begins! I made my first stops in the kit manufacturer area to greet a few old friends and see what was new.
Levil Aviation Announces New Wireless Autopilot
The company is seeking 20 pilots to participate in the beta testing program.
In Case You Missed It
Understanding the Scope of Your Operating Limitations
DAR Mel Asberry clarifies the confusion: Is a homebuilt owner bound by someone elses operating limitations?
H-tails and Triple Tails
The majority of airplanes use the conventional tail configuration with a single, centrally mounted...
