Sun ’n Fun 2012 is about to begin. Billed as the “Spring Break for Pilots,” the central Florida airshow is revving up in numerous ways, thanks partly to the show’s new leader, John “Lites” Leenhouts (and yes, everyone really does call him “Lites,” his Navy pilot nickname). His team is refreshed and ready for a new […]
The FBO fuel sales model is broken and anti-competitive
In almost every article about the future of leaded avgas, this statement appears, “… only one fuel will be stocked by the FBO system.” This particular quote comes from a reply by Mac McClellen to Todd Petersen in Mac’s latest Left Seat blog on the EAA’s website. You will also find it in almost every […]
Twilight formation airshow act to debut at FIAS
Team RV will debut its formation twilight show on March 23 at the Florida International Air Show (FIAS) in Punta Gorda, Florida. Consisting of 12 aircraft, Team RV, is the world’s largest precision formation and formation aerobatic air show team. “At sunset, with the incredible colors and night sky descending, these 12 pilots are going […]
Massachusetts general aviation airports an economic boon
Massachusetts’ 30 general aviation airports accounted for 4,307 jobs, nearly $138 million in salaries and had a total economic impact on the state of more than $443 million in 2010, according to the Massachusetts Statewide Airport Economic Impact Study published recently by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MADOT) Aeronautics Division. The report also recognized that […]
ISM’s Blakeney honored with Controller of the Year Award
Kissimmee Gateway Airport’s (ISM) air traffic control service provider Robinson Aviation (RVA) has named John Blakeney Outstanding Controller of the Year for 2011. Blakeney was selected from more than 500 controllers throughout the U.S. and is the only remaining original controller at Kissimmee Gateway Airport’s control tower since opening in 1997. “From 58,000 control tower […]
Alaskan Bushwheel gets FAA nod for Maule Extended Gear
Alaskan Bushwheel has received FAA approval of its Maule 3-inch Extended Gear (P/N: ABI-4022X). “After two-and-a-half years of design, testing and fulfilling FAA requirements, we can finally offer this extended gear to the public,” company officials said. “Our Maule Extended Gear is 3 inches longer and stronger than stock Maule gear. It comes complete with […]
General aviation setting for new novel
Against a backdrop of general aviation operations at a mid-sized New England airport, the new novel “Cone of Silence” tells a story of corporate greed and government indifference … and the unexpected consequences of both. This novel will be of interest to pilots and flight instructors for its insights into the GA industry, as well […]
Special activities slated for every day of AirVenture
At this summer’s EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, each day has highlights for the most hardcore aviator as well as those who are just discovering all the attractions within the world of flight. The 60th annual edition of EAA AirVenture is July 23-29 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The action actually begins before the event with […]
Embraer receives Impact Award
Embraer Aircraft has been awarded the 2011 Impact Award by the Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce in Florida, which recognizes the contribution of aviation companies to the area’s economy. Embraer is receiving the award for the development of a final-assembly center for the company’s Phenom Executive Jets as well as its global Customer Center. “This […]