September 5-9 marks the dates for this year’s Triple Tree Aerodrome Fly-In near Woodruff, S.C., your blogger’s favorite sport aviation event of the year. Compared by many old-timers to the famed Rockford EAA conventions from years past, Triple Tree has all the ingredients needed for success: An incredible 7,000-foot smooth grass runway (SC00), camping, permanent […]
CubCrafters Carbon Cub SS evolves
After three years in production and a fleet of more than 100 aircraft, the CubCrafters Carbon Cub SS Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) is evolving for 2013. Changes include a new cowling design, an improved cabin heat system, a new starter, and a new system voltage monitor, company officials said. New options are also being introduced, including […]
What comes after GPS?
A report at Avionics Today notes that while GPS has more worldwide users than ever, safety and security concerns have insiders looking for what should replace it. The report details those safety and security concerns, as well as puts forth several ideas for the next big thing.
Concorde Battery approved for G36 Bonanza
Wilco has received FAA approval to modify its STC to convert Hawker Beechcraft Model G36s from existing lead acid batteries to Concorde Battery’s valve regulated sealed lead acid recombinant gas batteries. The STC permits the replacement of the main battery alone, according to Wilco officials, who note the main battery is replaced with Concorde’s RG24-16. […]
Latest FAA Safety Briefing online
Now available online is the September/October issue of FAA Safety Briefing, which explores the role of the aviation educator. Articles focus on flight instructor requirements and best practices, as well as the many tools and educational resources that can help sharpen teaching skills.
Misplaced fuel selector valve leads to crash
This September 2010 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others. Aircraft: Luscombe 8A. Injuries: 1 Minor. Location: Churchville, Md. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The pilot, who initiated a takeoff with the carburetor heat […]
General aviation goes to the political conventions
For the first time, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the National Business Aviation Association teamed to hold events at the two national party conventions. The goal: Schmoozing politicos to hold high the flag of general aviation. I attended the first, at the Republican National Convention in Tampa on Tuesday, Aug. 28, to see […]
FAA delays decision on Icon weight increase
FAA officials have informed Icon Aircraft that a decision on the company’s request for an exemption to the Light-Sport Aircraft weight limitations for its amphibious Icon A5 won’t be made until the end of the year, according to a report at AOPA.org. Icon Aircraft founder Kirk Hawkins asked for an exemption in May to increase […]
No more paper medical applications
Starting Oct. 1, the FAA will stop using the paper version of FAA Form 8500-8, the form used to apply for FAA medical certification. That means pilots must use the FAA’s online MedXpress to apply for medical certification, according to Kathy Dondzila in a post on AOPA.org. She takes us through her first experience using […]