Chelton Flight Systems debuted its latest software release, Version 6.0, at AirVenture 2005. The software is now available for experimental aircraft and will be available for certified aircraft in 2006. Some of the features added to the new version include: shaded-relief terrain with relative elevation-based coloring similar to a satellite map; 400-plus nm of terrain […]
A simple matter? Building a reduced-scale replica presents its own challenges
By PETER M. BOWERS. One of the popular areas of the homebuilt aircraft movement is the designing and building of reduced-scale replicas. For the most part, these are reproductions of well-known single-seat fighters which, when built, are right in the size-weight-power range of the typical single-seat homebuilt. However, this is not just a simple matter […]
Unusual Attitudes
After reading the letter “Training better, happier pilots,” (July issue), I thought that I would drop you a quick e-mail to tell you about a most enjoyable experience I had. I took my first aerobatic training this weekend with Greg Koontz. His knowledge and experience of aerobatics make a great combination for the perfect learning […]
Eclipse to start deliveries in March 2006
Eclipse Aviation is slated to deliver its first Eclipse 500 in March 2006. “Eclipse is on the verge of becoming a real company,” said CEO Vern Raburn, who explained that a “real” company is one where customers hand over money and the company delivers products. “Until then, you’re playing at being a company.” That first […]
Chapel Hill rescued — at least for a year
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill must continue to operate Horace Williams Airport (IGX) for the public and Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Medical Air Operations for at least another year, according to the state’s recently-passed budget bill. Meanwhile, the Legislative Research Commission will study the effect the closure of the airport would […]
Feds propose permanent ADIZ
Pilots have a chance to comment on a proposal to make the area around the nation’s Capital a permanent “National Defense Airspace.” The permanent ADIZ is the idea of the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Alphabet groups are lobbying intensely to fight the proposal. “No general aviation aircraft has […]
Tuskegee Airmen’s final mission
The Tuskegee Airmen never lost to enemy fighters any bomber that they escorted during World War II. They take justifiable pride in that fact. During the last year, however, they lost 50 members to age and illness. Although undefeatable by enemy fighters and 1940s prejudice, they decided at their 34th convention in mid-August that it […]
SpaceShipOne wows Oshkosh crowds
An estimated 700,000 people attended this year’s AirVenture in Oshkosh. While the highlight of the week was the arrival on opening day of White Knight and SpaceShipOne, this year’s big show was non-stop, with the Global Flyer making an appearance, as well as the debut of the new HondaJet and the unveiling of many new […]
60th anniversary special edition Mooneys
Mooney Airplane Co. unveiled special 60th anniversary editions of its Ovation2 and Bravo models, which sport distinctive logos and paint designs, as well as Garmin G1000 glass cockpits. Deliveries will begin in early 2006. The Kerrville, Texas-based company, which emerged from bankruptcy just a few years ago, is “running at full throttle,” according to Gretchen […]