The cost of a quality airplane paint job borders on the astronomical. But, in fairness to the paint shops, that’s because the work involved in doing it right borders on the astronomical. In an effort to save money, can you paint your own airplane? Here’s what the FAA regulations say.
Opinion
Participation prizes of a different kind
Virtually all of us will want something from the government at some point in our lives. A building variance, a zoning change, a pothole filled, maybe even a commitment to keep a local airport open. When it’s time to take your concern to an elected official, who do you think they will listen to more carefully? Those who only complain, or those who participate in the process and offer solutions?
On seven wings and a prayer
The ultimate path was illuminated by the failures, as well as the successes. That’s the year [1916] a patent was filed for the Johns Multiplane, a seven-winged whopper ultimately powered by three Liberty engines.
Unblinking eye to aid in safety
“Imagine a sensor co-located with your aircraft light system. An unblinking eye that’ll warn you when another aircraft is getting too close for comfort. First versions may be simple auditory alerts in your headset.”
The woodpecker, the cat, and the rest of us
At some point in our lives, most of us probably have the chance to do something remarkable. Of course, decisions will have to be made. Sacrifices may be required. Primary training may make us queasy. Instrument training may give us a headache. The stock market may rise or fall. But if we persevere, like the woodpecker and the cat, we may very well get what we want.
Affordable aviation: How one man makes it work
By buying carefully, adding his own labors, and selling to someone glad to have a fully-finished experimental airplane, Wes has been able to keep his cost of acquisition surprisingly low. Based on figures we discussed, I’d guess Wes is in for about the value of a deluxe new SUV — and I’d call that achievement both inventive and economic.
Ask Paul: Adding insult to injury
If an engine conversion to 8.5:1 compression ratio pistons was not approved by Lycoming, the conversion to 9.5:1 in your engine is adding insult to injury.
Great vistas of green
There is an almost universally accepted belief that our world is over-developed. It’s excessively crowded. Steel and glass and concrete surround us everywhere we go. We’re hemmed in by our own construction projects. Cramped and confined to areas with heavy traffic, ceaseless noise, and crowds of strangers. Asphalt pathways lead us deeper into the chasm of our communities, yet make it nearly impossible for us to find our way out. Balderdash. Absolute rubbish. If perception is reality, then a realignment of our perceptions is in order.
What happens when the wrong fuel is added to a storage tank?
What happens to a fuel’s octane rating when two fuels are accidentally mixed in a storage tank?