Four years ago John and Jan Sessions were looking for a plane with short field capability. John was in the process of bulldozing a flat 700-foot-long spot on top of a hill in the Texas backcountry and needed a plane that could take off and land in that space. He chose a Helio Courier, one […]
Tips to ground an aircraft while refueling
I am not sure this is necessary and am looking for examples of static electricity accidents with plastic containers. I have not found any problems, but will continue to look. If any of our readers know of any problems, please let me know.
World’s only Marine PBJ bomber flies after 23 years
CAMARILLO, Calif. — The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing reports that the North American PBJ Mitchell named Semper Fi returned to flight on May 15 after a 23-year restoration. Semper Fi is the only original PBJ flying in the world, according to CAF officials. During World War II the Marine Corps operated surplus B-25 Mitchells […]
FAA audits Sonex models
OSHKOSH, Wis. — Sonex Aircraft recently hosted the FAA’s National Kit Evaluation Team (NKET), as it audited the new Sonex and Waiex B-Model kits, and the new Xenos Motorglider Quick Build Kit. NKET evaluation is used to establish a kit’s compliance with Experimental Amateur Built aircraft “major portion” or “51%” rules. FAA NKET Amateur-Built Fabrication and Assembly Checklists for the new Sonex […]
Third Eye Blind highlights Oshkosh opening day
EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — Third Eye Blind, the San Francisco-based band that has sold more than 12 million records with a string of Top 20 hits, will perform on opening day of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016 on July 25. The concert, presented by Ford Motor Company, is free to all AirVenture opening-day attendees […]
New degree program launches in Colorado
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College will launch a new associate degree program designed to prepare students for a career in aviation this fall. Students who successfully complete the two-year program, which includes traditional classes as well as ground and flight training, will graduate with about 240 flight hours and will […]
Scholarship winners revealed
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has revealed the winners of two $2,000 aviation scholarships for students in their pursuit of aviation education and careers. GAMA named Benjamin Harris of Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua, New Hampshire, as the winner of the Edward W. Stimpson “Aviation Excellence” Award. Currently working toward his […]
SNJ-6 pilot loses control on landing
The pilot of the North American SNJ-6 had planned an overhead traffic pattern at the airport in Santa Fe, N.M, which provided for better visibility when he sat in the rear seat. While on downwind he was directed to extend downwind and fly a straight-in approach. He accepted the instructions, knowing his visibility for landing […]
Picture of the day: A well-deserved retirement
A special request from our friends at the General Aviation Manufacturers Association has us featuring Jeppesen CEO Mark Van Tine as the subject of Picture of the Day as he retires today, May 19, after 35 years with the company. The photos show Mark leading the formation of the Glasair Sportsman airplanes built by the 2013 […]