Brad Koehn submitted this photo and note: “I snapped a photo of some of the planes attending the fly-in at Prickett-Grooms Field Airport (6Y9) in Sidnaw, Michigan, on Labor Day weekend 2025. The ground fog was coming up and the frost hadn’t yet formed, and everyone had a wonderful time.”
Questions from the Cockpit: Night and day
Mack, a student pilot in Florida, writes: I just learned that there are three different definitions of night in the regulations! What’s the deal with all these overlapping definitions? Is the FAA just trying to make it harder on students than it needs to be?
Medical updates reduce no-fly limits for eye surgeries, some medications
One of the most notable changes is a reduction in the required observation period for cataract surgery, according to officials with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). Previously, pilots had to wait up to two years before medical recertification was allowed, but under the new rules, this wait time has been reduced to just three months.
College wins grant to boost aviation in Appalachia
The grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission will help the college build on its Aviation Pathway model to prepare students for careers as pilots and air traffic conrollers.
uAvionix upgrades MFD software
uAvionix has released software version v1.8.0 for its AV-20-S and AV-20-E Multi-Function Displays (MFD), an upgrade that reflects customer feedback and builds on last year’s v1.7.1 release with performance, usability, and accuracy refinements, according to officials with the Big Fork, Montana-based company.
First flight after a year ends in fuel exhaustion
Probable Cause: The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to fuel exhaustion.
Picture of the Day: 47 Chief at rest
Gary Calgaard submitted this photo and note: “After a morning of grass strip takeoffs, landings, and a short trip to Forest City Municipal Airport/Trimble Field (KFXY) in Iowa, the Aeronca is back in its farm strip hangar, ready and willing for another wonderful flight! I recently purchased this old gal from a wonderful couple in Willis, Texas. Keith and Kim were sorry to see her leave and chose us as the next caretakers.”
So many choices
Aviation is so much bigger, more diverse, and more rewarding than I ever could have imagined. It wasn’t just the aircraft that made my life’s work worthwhile. My happiness wasn’t limited to the friendships I made, the destinations I discovered, or the challenges I faced and overcame. It was all of it. Every day was different. Every flight an experience I cherished.
Community celebration planned at SMO
The Spirit of Santa Monica presents Douglas Day 2025, a free community celebration honoring Santa Monica’s legacy of aviation innovation and community resilience on Sept. 21.