Hartzell Propeller Inc. has received an FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for a 3-bladed propeller conversion kit for the Cessna 182 through 182R series and the Reims, France-built F182Q & R (1956 – 1986). The conversion kit provides Cessna 182s with improved performance, appearance, and decreased noise signatures, according to company officials. The new Hartzell […]
Quest expands sales and service networks
Quest Aircraft Co. has expanded its global sales network. Agreements have been reached with representatives in Africa, the Caribbean, India, the Middle East, South America, and the U.S. Company officials said they are currently working on additional agreements in Australia, Brazil, Europe, Mexico, the Pacific Rim, and the U.S. to highlight a few key areas. […]
Pilot Speech Recognition System available for GNS430W/530W
VoiceFlight Systems has received an amended Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that expands the applicability of its VFS101 pilot speech recognition system to include the popular WAAS enabled GNS430W and GNS530W navigation units. The enhanced VFS101 allows pilots to directly enter and edit the active flight plan on GNS430W/530W GPS units. New to the VFS101 is […]
Tailwheel airplane challenges pilot
This August 2009 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: Aeronca 7AC. Injuries: None. Location: Finleyville, Pa. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel-equipped airplane […]
21…and counting?
WASHINGTON, D.C. — With the latest temporary funding of the FAA, reauthorization has reached adulthood — that is, temporary approvals are now at 21. The FAA hasn’t had a full authorization vote since 2003. On 21 occasions, the Senate and House have not been able to agree. They have until Sept. 16 to finally agree […]
Ugly ducklings
Aviator opinion is widespread about CH 701 and CH 750 being ugly ducklings. Fortunately, plenty of pilots don’t care about looks so long as an airplane flies well (750 does!) and for some the, ahem… distinctive look of 750 is a thing of pride. Think Hummer or the old Volkswagen Thing. Indeed, Zenith Aircraft Company […]
FAA adopts changes to new IA policy
The FAA has issued its final revised inspection authority (IA) renewal policy, which included a broader interpretation of “actively engaged” than the agency originally proposed in 2010. EAA, the Vintage Aircraft Association, and Warbirds of America opposed the original proposed definition because it threatened the renewal of valued part-time IAs, so the groups provided suggested […]
Sporty’s takes delivery of 2012 Sweepstakes airplane
Sporty’s Sweepstakes airplane for 2012 is a Cessna Skycatcher — but this one is just a little more special. That’s because Sporty’s Sweepstakes Skycatcher is serial #100. “We are thrilled that Cessna reserved this milestone Skycatcher for Sporty’s Sweepstakes,” says Sporty’s President & CEO Michael Wolf. “It’s such a fun and popular airplane — in […]
AvFab receives STC for new divan
Aviation Fabricators (AvFab) recently received STC approval for its Beechcraft 400A 2-Place Divan. The STC allows for installation in all Beechjet and Hawker Beechcraft 400A series aircraft in addition to the 400 series. The AvFab 2-Place Divan adds utility to any Beechjet/Hawker Beechcraft 400A by adding capacity and refreshing the look of the cabin, company […]