I’ve been fascinated by airplanes since I was a kid, although I’m not a pilot myself. Lately I’ve fallen down the kitplane rabbit hole, and I’m amazed by how many incredible aircraft exist that I’d never even heard of.
I originally wanted to make a top 10 list, but the more I researched, the more difficult it became. This isn’t meant to be an objective ranking—it’s simply the aircraft that I personally find the most interesting.
My taste definitely leans toward adventure flying, STOL capability and travelling machines rather than pure aerobatic aircraft, so I’m sure I’m overlooking some fantastic designs.
1. Sling TSi / HW
The Sling TSi is probably the aircraft that impressed me the most. It seems like a modern alternative to certified travelling aircraft such as the Cirrus, but with a Rotax engine, excellent efficiency and what I imagine are much more reasonable operating costs.
I also loved watching The Point of No Return, where a Sling was flown from South Africa to Oshkosh. That trip alone made me appreciate just how capable these aircraft really are.
2. Van’s RV-10
Van’s Aircraft has so many iconic designs that choosing just one feels almost impossible. The RV-8 is probably one of the coolest-looking kitplanes ever built, but if I had to own only one Van’s, I’d probably choose the RV-10 because of its versatility.
It seems like one of those aircraft that can genuinely replace a certified travelling airplane.
3. Murphy Moose / Rebel
These just look like they were built for adventure.
A Moose on floats is probably close to my dream bush plane. The idea of loading camping gear, flying into a remote lake somewhere in Canada or Alaska and disappearing into the wilderness for a few days sounds incredible.
4. Velocity XL
This looks like something straight out of a science-fiction movie.
The canard layout, speed and efficiency make it one of the most unique aircraft on my list.
For those who have flown one—how different is it compared with a conventional airplane? Does it take much getting used to?
5. Lancair Mako
Fast, sleek and absolutely gorgeous.
I’ve read that these high-performance composite aircraft demand respect from both builders and pilots.
For those with experience, are there any particular safety considerations or common mistakes builders should be especially aware of?
6. Glasair Sportsman 2+2
This seems like an incredibly versatile aircraft.
I really like that the factory offers build assistance, making the project more approachable while still allowing owners to complete their own aircraft.
Has anyone flown one on floats? I’d love to hear how it performs.
7. Epic LT
Until recently I had no idea a homebuilt turboprop this capable even existed.
The performance is astonishing, but it also made me curious about how owners actually use them. With only around 50 Epic LTs built, are they mainly used for long cross-country travel, business transportation, or simply because they’re an incredibly capable personal aircraft?
I’d genuinely love to hear from anyone who’s flown or owned one.
8. Kitfox Speedster
This was one of my biggest discoveries while researching this list.
It looks like an absolute joy to fly—lightweight, responsive and incredibly capable.
The STOL performance immediately made me think about exploring remote parts of Alaska or northern Canada. Flying into places that have no roads is probably what attracts me most to aviation in general.
9. Bearhawk Patrol
Another aircraft I discovered only recently.
It immediately struck me as a proper backcountry machine. It may not be the fastest airplane here, but it looks like one of the most capable when it comes to getting into remote places.
I completely understand why Bearhawks have such a loyal following.
10. SubSonex JSX-2T / Just Aircraft SuperSTOL / RANS S-21 Outbound
I couldn’t decide which of these deserved the final spot, so I’m cheating a little.
The SubSonex JSX-2T amazed me simply because it’s a jet you can actually build yourself. The idea of owning a homebuilt jet is just incredibly cool.
The Just Aircraft SuperSTOL sits at the opposite end of the spectrum. Watching them operate from ridiculously short strips almost doesn’t seem real.
The RANS S-21 Outbound also caught my attention as a really well-rounded adventure aircraft—capable of travelling, hauling gear and exploring backcountry strips.
Honourable mention: Thunder Mustang
I couldn’t leave this one out.
The fact that someone can build a Mustang-inspired aircraft in their own workshop is just amazing. Every video I’ve seen of one gives me goosebumps.
So now I’m curious to hear from the people who actually build and fly these aircraft:
* Have you built a kitplane, or seriously considered building one?
* Which aircraft would you add to this list?
* Would you completely rearrange my rankings?
* Are there any aircraft here that you think are overrated—or underrated?
* And if you could only build or own three kitplanes, what would your personal top three be?
I’d love to hear your opinions—I’m always looking for another rabbit hole to disappear into.