Bill Canino submitted this photo and note: “Sunrise on a cloudy morning. We were waiting to fly as an RV formation to escort a B-17.”
SMO at 100: A century of history but an uncertain future
As the airport turns 100, the local newspaper, the Santa Monica Daily Press, has started a series of articles focusing on the future of Santa Monica Airport. The first delves into the “incredible history connected to this seemingly ordinary strip of land” and is well worth the read — if only to learn about the fake city that was created above the airport to protect it during World War II.
300 new pilots and counting…
“The cost of flight training can be a barrier for many aspiring pilots, so EAA working with the Ray Foundation helps break down the barrier and make the goal of becoming a pilot even more attainable for future generations,” says Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programming. “We’ve found that more than 80% of Ray Aviation Scholars are completing their pilot training, which is the complete opposite ratio of those who would start flight training on their own, so this program’s outcomes are having a direct, significant effect on the pilot population.”
FAA approves Aspen’s new software release
The FAA has approved new software enabling integration of Garmin’s GFC600 digital autopilot with Aspen Avionic’s EFD1000 Pro MAX Primary Flight Display (PFD), selected altitude support for Trio and the Bendix/King AeroCruze 100 autopilots, and extended runway centerlines on the MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function displays.
Picture of the Day: Waiting for skis
Rusty Eichorn submitted this photo and note: “Not many 1933 Stinson JR. SR left in the world. This one is patiently waiting on the ramp at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport (KGPZ) in Minnesota for its change over to skis.”
Pilot revealed as world’s dream job
A new study of Google searches finds that becoming a pilot is the world’s No. 1 dream job, topping the wish lists of 25 countries, including the United States, the UK, and Australia.
Able Flight reveals Class of 2023
One member of this year’s class is a veteran wounded in combat, and all use wheelchairs. They will fly three specially-adapted Sky Arrow Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA), and will be taught by instructors at Purdue University.
CFI Summit in the works
“The NAFI Summit will bring stakeholders in the flight instruction community together to share CFI tips, techniques and best practices, relevant business skills, and networking opportunities,” said NAFI President Paul Preidecker. “We will focus on the important topics of professionalism, proficiency, and pilot well-being, along with changes to FAA regulations and rules.”
Picture of the Day: Fiery flight
Sylwia Tylkowska submitted this photo and note: “An Aeroprakt 22L and a phenomenal sunset. Photo was taken in Poland in 2022 during the return flight from a sky trip.”