The American Society for Testing and Materials has published its first specification for UL100E, an unleaded aviation fuel co-developed by LyondellBasell and VP Racing. This milestone brings the fuel one step closer to fleetwide authorization as it continues full-scale evaluation under the FAA’s Piston Aircraft Fuel Initiative (PAFI) program, with testing expected to conclude by late 2026.
News
First Step Taken To Replace FAA’s Radar System
The FAA and U.S. Department of Transportation have awarded contracts to RTX and Indra to replace 612 aging ground-based radar units across the country. This modernization project, scheduled to begin in early 2026, will consolidate technical configurations to improve reliability and streamline maintenance for the National Airspace System.
Fuel prices fall with the temperature
The average price for 100LL in January 2026 is $6.42. How does that compare to your airport?
FAA Proposes Pilots Complete DPE Survey After Check Rides
The FAA is seeking public comments on a proposed survey that pilots will fill out after check rides to assess the DPE’s level of professionalism, the suitability of the exam environment, the content of the exam, and the duration of the ground portion and the flight portion of the exam.
Human Factors live broadcast series prepares for takeoff
Hosted by Jolie Lucas and Harvey Madison, On Second Thought explores the intersection of psychology, performance, and safety in the cockpit, according to Lucas.
World War II pilot takes flight again to celebrate 101st birthday
San Antonio native and World War II aviator B.L. Craighead Jr. celebrated his milestone birthday on Dec. 30 with a Dream Flight, soaring 1,000 feet in a restored 1940 Stearman biplane, the same aircraft used by the U.S. Army to train military aviators during World War II.
FAA Finds KSMO Violated Federal Law Over Fees
A report in the Santa Monica Daily Press notes that the FAA has determined Santa Monica Municipal Airport (KSMO) in California violated federal law by accumulating surplus revenues it intends to spend on general city services when the airport closes, rather than using those funds for aviation purposes.
Calendar highlights flying art
The 2026 Aerospace Coatings calendar from Sherwin-Williams recognizes the craftsmanship of aircraft painters and scheme designers across the nation.
Where’s Jamail? At a Florida air show
Jamail Larkins, the FAA Ambassador for Aviation & Space Education, brought the DreamLaunch tour to the Florida International Airshow, reaching about 1,000 students.