SPLOG By DAN JOHNSON In 2009 we’ve heard the surprising success of what many call “air shows” — those events where the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds and others perform over a weekend. Attendance has been very strong despite (or perhaps because of) the troubled economy. As it turns out, the success of those shows is […]
Opinion
Negotiations underway to increase airspace
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The FAA and the U.S. Air Force are trying to find ways for more civilian flights to use airspace now off limits because of military operations. This has been done in the past and the two are now trying to agree on ways to make it permanent. It is hoped a permanent […]
Endless Summer
SHORT FINAL By DEB McFARLAND Summer officially commands three months on the calendar, but according to Keely’s school calendar, summer only lasts eight weeks, hardly enough time for mind and body to slip gently into summer’s languid rhythms. This year, I can hardly conjure those memories of simple summer pleasures such as swimming in a […]
FAA unveils Hudson River changes
The FAA has moved quickly to announce proposed changes to the Hudson River corridor following the Aug. 8 collision between an aircraft and a tour helicopter, going beyond the National Transportation Safety Board’s recommendations. The proposed changes followed a report of the New York Airspace Task Force, chartered Aug. 14. The group’s work was conducted […]
American aircraft in the Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War, which began in July 1936, was the most significant of the conflicts that foreshadowed World War II. The war forced the world to take sides. Russia contributed military assistance to the cause of the newly elected Republican government, while Germany and Italy backed the Fascist rebels, followers of Generalissimo Franco, who […]
Tips to reduce spark plug fouling
Q: In my pilot club meeting last month, a pilot complained of spark plug fouling before takeoff in our Grumman Cheetah with 150-hp Lycoming. I suggested that after starting the engine, and before taxiing, she lean the mixture, keep it lean while taxiing and put on full rich for run-up. However, if there is a […]
Time to end TFRs
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: I totally agree that it is time to end TFRs. It is time general aviation and its airports are removed from the ridiculous so-called security rules that have been imposed. Also, there is no need for any more restrictions placed on GA aircraft and passengers departing and entering the USA than […]
BFR: Does nothing for safety
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: The original reason for the BFR was to reduce accidents. Where is the data that shows that it has done that? It don’t exist. It is nothing but a pain in the butt. It does nothing for safety. It’s like the helmet law for motorcycle riders. In California it was pushed […]
FAA proposes changes in pilot, instructor and flight school rules
The FAA is proposing several changes to the pilot, flight instructor, and pilot school certification rules. One proposal would allow future pilots to apply for a private license and an instrument rating at the same time. Other proposals would require pilot in command (PIC) proficiency checks for pilots who act as PIC of single-pilot, turbojet-powered […]