I’d hoped to fly large multi-engine aircraft built by Boeing and Airbus. I wanted to jaunt off on trips around the world, spend a third of my nights in hotels, and generally live the dream of a commercial airline pilot. But that didn’t happen. Thank goodness, my plans changed.
Opinion
Is it worth it to upgrade this Cessna 177’s engine?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: Good day Paul, we are looking at a Cessna 177 with a 150 hp engine. Wish it was a 180 hp, but the plane only has 988 total hours.
Ask Paul: Can I convert my narrow deck engine to a fuel injected engine?
The basic answer is yes, but converting an O-320-B3B engine to fuel injection may be a bigger mountain to climb than you’re up for.
Local safety procedures are not to be ignored
The erosion of safety in flight is not the fault of the FAA or your state’s Department of Transportation. The risks we’re seeing at non-towered airports are of our own making. A minority of us seem to be insistent that they are free to act without regard for others.
Owning > Zoning
Flight instructors teach aspiring pilots to “stay ahead of the airplane.” Do we do that when it comes to airports? Do we stay ahead of the airport or are we playing catch-up?
Does DEI have a place in aviation?
It’s time for us to put our individual anger and bitterness behind us. The talent pool of folks who are finding their way into aviation is growing. Some of these new entrants look familiar, some look different. It makes no difference. If they can meet the training requirements, gain the experience, and show proficiency in their chosen field, they deserve a green light from those of us who came before. More than that, they deserve our acceptance and encouragement.
Ask Paul: How can I improve my engine’s cruise oil pressure?
During my second test flight, I noticed cruise oil pressure at 55 PSI. As it has the longer housing regulator, I added three washers and replaced the check ball. The result was oil pressure at cruise around 65 PSI and 40 PSI at idle. It’s within spec, but I’d like some more room over minimums.
An expert’s tips on preheating your aircraft engine in the winter
What are the best recommendations for pre-heating an aircraft engine?
Questions from the Cockpit: Weighty words
Noah, a student pilot in Arizona, writes: I’m trying to get my head around weight and balance, especially the terms: Moment, arm, station, datum… None of them seem particularly descriptive. Can you help me out?