The Recreational Aviation Foundation has unveiled Fly Rocky Top, a new network of backcountry airstrips in East Tennessee. Designed as a regional basecamp, this expanding collection of public and private airstrips offers pilots access to outdoor recreation, camping, and more.
News
First Flight Society Plans National Aviation Day Celebration
The mission of the celebration is to provide a fun and educational experience promoting, honoring, and celebrating the accomplishments of the Wright Brothers and helping educate the world about aviation, according to society officials.
High Flying Hangars To Build New Hangars at KOSH
High Flying Hangars has signed a Letter of Intent to build a hangar community at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. Slated to begin construction in 2027, the 8.8-acre development will feature up to 35 aircraft hangars and a clubhouse for pilots and guests.
Why Is 5J9 Being Closed?
Horry County’s decision to close Twin City Airport (5J9) in Loris, South Carolina, has sparked fierce pushback from the local aviation community. While officials cite high rehabilitation costs and low usage, local pilots and business owners argue the airfield has been systematically neglected for decades and are fighting to save it. It’s a story that’s common among small general aviation airports across the country.
Spirit of St. Louis 100th Anniversary Flight Launches at Oshkosh
The Lindbergh Foundation has launched the countdown to the 100th anniversary of the Spirit of St. Louis flight. Part of the festivities include the Centennial Charter Flight, a six-day luxury journey retracing Charles Lindbergh’s historic New York to Paris route, while supporting programs that inspire the next generation of aviators.
Tecnam Unveils Rivale
During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, Tecnam revealed the first physical design elements of its new aircraft program: The Tecnam Rivale. Showcased through a 3,000-pound stainless steel sculpture, the Rivale will feature Continental’s new V6 engine.
Piper Aircraft To Build New Service Center in Vero Beach
Piper Aircraft plans a major expansion of its Vero Beach manufacturing campus, featuring a new service center. Scheduled to open in late 2027, this new factory-supported facility will provide maintenance and aircraft delivery services for the general aviation community while creating 20 new jobs.
magniAIR Electric Engines Now Available for Pre-Order for Experimentals
MagniX has begun accepting pre-orders for its magniAIR electric engine, designed specifically for experimental and kit planes. With initial deliveries targeted for 2027, these firewall-forward packages will allow builders to integrate electric powertrains into popular aircraft kits.
Lycoming Engines Extends TBO to 2,600 Hours
Lycoming Engines has extended the Time Between Overhaul (TBO) to 2,600 hours for numerous factory-new and rebuilt engine models.