Viper Aircraft Corporation said on May 5 that the latest addition to its Viperjet line – the Viperjet LXR – utilizes the certified Pratt & Whitney JT15D-1A, 2200 lbs static thrust turbofan engine to increase range, decrease emissions and lower fuel consumption. “Without sacrificing performance, we have achieved our company goal of offering customers a […]
American Capital gains $31 million on Piper sale
American Capital Ltd. realized a gain of $31 million from its sale of Piper Aircraft to Imprimis, “subject to post closing adjustments,” according to a May 1 news release from the company. American Capital’s total gain over the years of its Piper investment was $48 million and its compounded annual rate of return, including interest […]
New technology to save your life
Pilots love new technology, especially new technology that can help save their lives. That’s where My Med Stick comes in. The device stores all your medical information, personal information, contacts, even your living will, explained Greg Olusczak, territory manager for the company. Medical information is open to first responders, so if you are injured and […]
Samson Motors unveils ‘Switchblade’
At last year’s AirVenture, Samson Motors debuted its SkyBike flying motorcycle. This year at Sun ‘n Fun, the company showcased a proof-of-concept model of its “Switchblade,” the redesigned version of its flying motorcycle. Working in collaboration with Swift Engineering, the company drew inspiration for the new design from the responses to a survey in its […]
Phenom 100 makes its Sun ‘n Fun debut
For the last three years, Embraer has had a mock-up of the Phenom 100 jet at its exhibit at Sun ‘n Fun. This year, an actual jet was at the show. Deliveries of the Phenom 100, which was certified by the FAA in December 2008, have just begun. So far, 12 jets have been delivered, […]
Magic Laser debuts
The ACE Aviation Magic Laser weightshift ultralight made its U.S. debut at Sun ‘n Fun. The Magic Laser is manufactured in India and distributed in the U.S. by P&M Aviation USA. It is manufactured to ASTM standards, but meets Part 103 ultralight class, according to company officials. It has a cruise speed of between 45-55 […]
Erie Airport Economic Development Council formed
group of Erie, Colorado community leaders and area businesses have formed the Erie Airport Economic Development Council for the purpose of “maximizing the value of the Erie Municipal Airport and its economic impact for the benefit of the Town of Erie and its citizens,” said the group’s May 5 news release. “We have a great […]
New caucus educates lawmakers on GA issues
A new congressional caucus to help ensure the future of general aviation, founded and co-chaired by Reps. Allen Boyd (D-Fla.) and Vernon Ehlers (R-Mich.), is picking up steam as members of Congress in key aviation-related committees add their names to the ranks of those supporting GA, according to a May 4 news release from the […]
Mayors tell Obama of GA benefits to towns, economy
On May 6, mayors and county executives from across the country will release an open letter to President Barack H. Obama explaining to him the crucial importance that general aviation provides to small towns and local economies. Nearly 70 civic officials have signed the letter. Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer also renewed his invitation to the […]