General Aviation News

Better, more precise GPS coverage now available across U.S.

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There is now more precise GPS coverage across the U.S., thanks to the recent deployment of the FAA’s Geosynchronous Earth Orbiting 5 Wide Area Augmentation System navigation payload, which was developed by Raytheon‘s Intelligence, Information and Services business.

The GEO 5 payload joins two others already on orbit in correcting GPS satellite signal ionospheric disturbances, timing issues, and minor orbit adjustments, giving increased coverage, improved accuracy, and better reliability, according to Raytheon officials. [Read more…]

Washington state creates Electric Aircraft Working Group

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OLYMPIA, Wash. – Electric aircraft bring exciting possibilities, but also challenges.

To explore both, the state of Washington has created its first Electric Aircraft Working Group (EAWG), which met for the first time at Zunum Aero June 13, 2018.

Led by the Washington State Department of Transportation Aviation Division, the meeting brought together experts from the electric aircraft industry, manufacturers, airlines, state representatives, airports, and more. [Read more…]

Fly like the King

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One of Elvis Presley’s private jets, a 1962 Lockheed Jetstar, has returned to the auction block.

Grounded in Roswell, N.M, for decades, the jet remains unrestored and has not been altered since Elvis last owned it. This is the only known jet from Elvis’ fleet that remains privately owned.

The aircraft features original external painting and detailing, as well as an interior custom designed to Elvis’ specifications — from the gold-tone hardware, custom woodwork and inlays, to red velvet seats and red shag carpet. [Read more…]

GA advocates concerned about GPS interference from proposed cell network

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A coalition of 11 general aviation advocacy groups have expressed concern over the potential impact to satellite-based global positioning system (GPS) navigation capabilities from a proposed broadband cellular communications network operating within frequency bands currently used by GPS.

A prior attempt to implement a high-speed nationwide cellular network by Ligado Networks, formerly known as LightSquared, revealed signals from its cellular towers significantly disrupted aircraft navigation systems. [Read more…]

Non-towered airport operations webinar to discuss recent changes

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The FAA recently announced significant changes to the flight and ground operations, as well as communications, at non-towered airports. There are some important updates all pilots need to know about. Traffic patterns have changed, as have arrival and departure procedures, and the way pilots communicate intentions.

WINGsREALITY Edu is hosting a webinar on Thursday, June 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. ET, to discuss these important changes.  [Read more…]

The deadly flight risk that’s often ignored

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Most general aviation pilots spend the majority of their flight time below 10,000’. This has led many to become complacent to the risks of hypoxia.

Hypoxia is a killer, robbing our blood of much-needed oxygen — and the resulting effects can be deadly.

In recent years, the GA community has increased its vigilance in maintaining a healthy cockpit.

At this year’s SUN ’n FUN, there were several vendors selling the latest in cockpit carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. These monitors can help in early identification of the dangerous presence of CO in the cockpit.

And at the FAA Building, pilots could actually feel the effects of hypoxia. [Read more…]

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