Linda, an FBO employee in California, writes: What can you tell me about pilot’s watches? It seems like all the pilots I see — especially the men — wear HUGE watches. Is this something they actually need? Or is it a style thing? And are they as expensive as they look?
Opinion
The misplaced confidence of team spirit
Blind devotion to a sports team — or a political party — is as silly as adopting the belief that Cessna pilots are really good people, and Piper pilots are okay, but you need to keep a close eye on Grumman pilots, and Cirrus pilots don’t have any idea what they’re doing.
Blue collar proud
As a pilot, I check the oil, peek into the fuel tanks, then climb under the wing to inspect tires and brakes. Whether a pilot is wearing a crisp white shirt with epaulets or a T-shirt with oil stains, I consider that position to be very blue collar. Gratifyingly so.
The sleek Swan
After shipping delays, the Swan 103, designed specifically for the U.S., made its debut at the Midwest LSA Expo in September 2022.
The fate of World War II surplus aircraft
Thousands of war surplus aircraft were scrapped after World War II, many salvaged for their engines, parts, and aluminum. By removing aged warplanes from the scene entirely, the aircraft industry and the military did not have to contend with some in Congress who might be attracted to false savings with old airplanes versus the development of state-of-the-art new aircraft.
What is, what was, and what might one day be
Truthfully, the general aviation market and environment is as good or better than it has ever been. Our challenge remains, however. The pilots who attend safety seminars are by and large the pilots who least need the refresher. The pilots who don’t attend safety seminars are the pilots who present the greatest threat to the rest of us.
Be a goldfish
Research could lead to new methods for training current and aspiring pilots beyond the mechanics and memorization of flight.
First flight for Alice but still a long way to go
I’m one of many who are hoping for a breakthrough in battery technology.
Expanding on an open door policy
A student flying club’s open door policy was tested during Hurricane Ian and while the club’s hangar was damaged, club members are now confident the club can weather any storm.