Even aircraft giants can have problems. Cessna recently issued work orders for more than 200 Skycatchers in an effort that has to cost the big Wichita company well over $300,000*. Can you imagine how that would affect a smaller company without the ability to write a six-figure check? Size has benefits, as those couple hundred […]
A memorable week at Sporty’s flight school
BATAVIA, Ohio — Ideal fall weather in the Midwest made for a memorable week of first solos and certificates at Sporty’s Academy at Clermont County Airport (I69). During Thanksgiving week, Sporty’s celebrated four first solos, two private pilot certifications, two commercial pilot certifications and a Certified Flight Instructor certificate. “We couldn’t be more pleased with […]
CAP to celebrate 71st anniversary
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. – The Civil Air Patrol will celebrate its rich history of protecting America Saturday when the U.S. Air Force auxiliary officially celebrates its 71st anniversary. The all-volunteer, nonprofit organization of more than 61,000 members was founded on Dec. 1, 1941, less than a week before the Japanese attack on Pearl […]
Pilot launches iFLYblog.com
iFLYblog.com recently launched its website to serve the general aviation enthusiast. Created by pilot Brent Owens, it offers flying stories, editorials, safety tips, and more. “iFLYblog.com has a mix of video, images, and text that provides a full visual experience for the reader,” Owens said. “Since it is published daily, there is always something new […]
AOPA praises Senate progress on FAA nomination
Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association (AOPA) President and CEO Craig Fuller Wednesday praised a decision by Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC), to lift his hold on the nomination of Michael Huerta as administrator of the FAA, noting that the agency requires consistent leadership at a time of wide-ranging changes in the nation’s aviation system. “Michael Huerta […]
Cessna inks deal with Chinese company for Caravans
Cessna Aircraft Co. has entered into a contract with China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Company Ltd., (CAIGA) to form a joint venture company to conduct final assembly of Cessna Caravans in China for the Chinese market. The joint venture contract also contemplates the possibility of designing and assembling new models of utility turboprop aircraft in […]
EAA Holiday Auction under way
Each year, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) hosts its Spirit of the Holidays online auction, with this year’s auction already under way. This year 52 items are up for auction, ranging from B-17 or Ford Tri-Motor type ratings — with the value designated as “priceless” — a special once-in-a-lifetime AirVenture VIP package, which includes weekly […]
Aviation art and a higher calling
SEATTLE — On Dec. 8, renowned portrait and aviation artist John Shaw will share his thoughts about his craft, World War II aviation and the stories that inspire his paintings. Joining Shaw is aviation historian Larry Chambers. This unique program will blend tales of the war’s heroism with recent stories about the peace time heroics […]
Tom Schad’s signature look
It’s not unusual to see a leather A2 flight jacket at AirVenture, but when it comes to a unique A2, Tom Schad of Gainesville, Texas, may have the granddaddy of them all. Schad is the proud owner of a customized A2 that bears the signatures of some of the most famous names in aviation. According […]