Probable Cause: The pilot receiving instruction’s failure to extend the landing gear prior to landing. Also contributing was the flight instructor’s failure to monitor the airplane’s configuration while on approach to land.
Picture of the Day: Flying with a mate
Rick submitted this photo with a note: “Just a cruise along our beach in western Australia with a mate.”
Rare Nord Stampe restored
After a meticulous two-year restoration, a rare 1946 Nord Stampe SV4C biplane is once again flying over the Texas Hill Country from its base at Castroville Municipal Airport. Owner Tim Barrow and a team of volunteers brought this unique French aerobatic trainer back to life, making it one of only approximately 20 currently flying in the United States.
UL100E advances in race to unleaded avgas
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.
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.
New book about Tuskegee Airmen published
Investigative journalist Cheryl W. Thompson explores the lives and legacies of 27 Tuskegee Airmen who went missing in combat during World War II in her new book, “Forgotten Souls: The Search for the Lost Tuskegee Airmen.” Set for release on Jan. 27, 2026, the narrative honors the sacrifices of these valiant pilots while seeking closure for the families they left behind.
Cub pilot crashes into trees
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and terrain clearance during initial climb, that resulted in an impact with trees and terrain.
Picture of the Day: Last flight of the year
Whittaker Warrington submitted this photo and note: “Henry going on his last flight of the year over Hendersonville, North Carolina.”
Aviation ain’t what it used to be
Nope, aviation ain’t what it used to be. Frankly, it’s better. Much better. It’s more affordable, more accessible, more dependable, and far less prone to failures than it was in the past.