Xega, a new flight planning platform that includes a maintenance tracking and aeromedical component, has opened its Founders Beta testing, which it is limiting to 100 pilots. Active beta testers who use the platform and contribute feedback earn free lifetime access when Xega launches publicly.
New Line of Sodium-Ion Aircraft Batteries Introduced
The AeroSodium batteries are primarily intended for use in experimental aircraft. While not currently standard for certified aircraft, installation may be possible via a 337 field approval process, company officials noted.
Zip Tie Fix Fails to Prevent Inflight Engine Fire
Probable Cause: The pilot’s inadequate inspection of the airplane following an inflight smoke event, which resulted in separation of the exhaust pipe and hot exhaust igniting the engine cowling, and a subsequent loss of engine power.
Picture of the Day: World War I replica aircraft attract fans
Gord McNulty submitted this photo and note: “The replica World War I aircraft of Canada’s Great War Flying Museum impressed aviation fans in 2025 at Brampton-Caledon Airport, just northwest of Toronto. In the foreground of this photo from Airport Day in September is the museum’s Nieuport 28 replica, painted in the colors of the American Air Service 94th Aero Squadron with the “hat in the ring” scheme representing serial 6159 as flown by Eddie Rickenbacker. The museum, established in 1970 to honor World War I aviators, has six aircraft in its fleet, with another one under construction.”
New Airport Operations and Response Center Opens at KPLU
The new center will house airport staff and serve as a coordination hub for local and regional responses to wildfires, natural disasters, search and rescue missions, and other emergencies.
Sporty’s Adds Compact Flight Sim Controller to Lineup
Designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane 12, the Echo Aviation Controller integrates primary flight controls (pitch, roll, and yaw) with secondary and trim inputs into a single, handheld unit. Throttle, propeller, and mixture controls are built directly into the controller, complemented by dedicated levers for flaps, landing gear position, speed brakes, and parking brake.
Pilot Crashes From Fuel Exhaustion on Way to Buy Cheaper Fuel
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper preflight fuel planning that resulted in the loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Picture of the Day: Night Flight
Jerry Webber submitted this photo and note: “A recent night flight across the south end of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (KDFW) in a Cessna 150C at 3,500 feet. Approach controller was very helpful.”
Pull A Plane Features B-29 DOC
“The Pull a Plane event is a unique way for the community to come together to honor the legacy of those who served our nation and put Wichita on the map as the Air Capital of the World,” officials said, noting the event will raise funds to keep DOC flying for years to come, as well as for scholarships.