Exhaust systems do more than just get air into and out of aircraft engines. Exhaust system design, in terms of exhaust pipe length, diameter and tuning, affect the efficiency and performance of the engine, for better or worse.
Seemingly two peas in a pod are the GlaStar and its factory-built derivative, the OMF Symphony. We flew both of these wonderful two-seat aircraft to get a handle on what either FAR Part 23 certification or the freedom of homebuilding means to those facing such a delectable decision. By Ed Wischmeyer
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook comments on Zenith Aircrafts turbulent year following several in-flight breakups of CH 601XL Zodiac aircraft, and the company's response with an extensive update kit.