According to a preliminary NTSB report, the airplane took off over dark water with no discernable horizon, then began a shallow climb and a right turn. “It seems possible that this is a classic spatial disorientation accident due to somatogravic illusion, triggered by accelerating in situations without good visual references,” AOPA officials said.
News
College flying competition takes off in Oshkosh
The National Intercollegiate Flight Association SAFECON flight competition will be held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for the first time ever on May 8-13, 2023.
Grant to improve fly-in campground and more at 69S
The grant will fund improvements to the camping area, the installation of an additional windsock, hauling and leveling gravel to stabilize airplane parking, and resetting the existing outhouse on a new precast concrete vault.
Texas high school partners with flight school
Starting in their junior year, students will begin flight training at Thrust Flight, a flight school at Addison Airport near Dallas.
Pass rates on pilot practical tests trend down
The pass rates on practical tests for the initial issuing of pilot certificates, specifically private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor certificates, went down in 2022 for the first time in the past few years. What’s behind the decline and how can it be reversed?
Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame names Class of 2023
The Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame will enshrine three new members in 2023: Dean Hammond, Roy E. Osborne, and John Charles.
New study shows pilots hide health problems to keep flying
Knowing they could be grounded, pilots may not be truthful about their health if there is a chance their employers or the FAA could find out, according to the new study.
Electric ultralight to be unveiled at Oshkosh
The Dragon PAV, which will be sold as a quick-build kit, has a 250-pound pilot capacity, can fly for 20 minutes, and recharge in less than two hours, according to company officials.
Wyoming pilot association takes next step to promoting aviation awareness
“Our goal is to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals and enthusiasts while highlighting the importance of aviation in our community,” said J.T. Grainger, president of the Sheridan Pilots Association. “Now we can fully allow for the support of our community and membership to further advance our mission. We look forward to the potential this brings to the association, fellow aviators, and the local youth it will benefit in the future.”