Probable Cause: The pilot’s decision to depart with the airplane over maximum gross weight, which reduced the climb performance and resulted in a collision with a tree.
Picture of the Day: What a Glory-Ous Day
Jerry Morris submitted this photo and note: “Descending into St. Simons Island Airport (KSSI) in Georgia with the sun in the right place created this perfect ‘glory.’ Another great day to be aloft!”
New Hangars and Fuel Systems at Oklahoma’s GA Airports
New T-hangars, a new self-service 100LL fuel system, and new fences were among the projects completed at some of the state’s general aviation airports.
Celebrating Wilbur Wright’s Birthday
The First Flight Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of the Wright Brothers, raised more than $7,000 during a celebration of Wilbur Wright’s birthday April 16, 2026.
Adventure Pilot Expands Into Dispatch Training
The FAA-approved programs align with FAA Part 65 Dispatch curriculum requirements, according to company officials, who note that some automated EFB features have been intentionally disabled to encourage manual flight planning and calculation skills — essential skills for students pursuing FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certification.
Pilot’s Attempt to Power Through Fails
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and his decision to continue the takeoff from the soft turf runway.
Picture of the Day: Flying Magic
Ronald Vandervort submitted this photo and note: “My RV-6 in flight. The picture was taken from Hal Downe’s RV-6A over Apex Airpark (8W5) in Washington State.”
High Desert Disaster
The Accident Case Study recreates the tragic events that led a novice backcountry pilot to crash on final approach to a backcountry airstrip in California’s Mojave Desert in 2021, killing both himself and his pilot-rated passenger.
Runway To Rise Scholarships Top $20,000
Deadline is May 25, 2026, to apply for more than $20,000 in flight training scholarshps.