To improve torch control and performance when welding on thin- to medium-gauge materials, Weldcraft offers its WP-17 Series of air-cooled TIG torches, which includes six different styles of TIG torches, including models with gas valves and flex necks. The torches provide 150-amp DC and 115-amp AC welding capabilities at 60% duty cycle, and are available […]
Abrupt maneuver, abrupt death
This May 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: Champion 7GCBC. Injuries: 2 Fatal. Location: Surrey, N.D. Aircraft damage: Destroyed. What reportedly happened: The commercial pilot, who described himself as a self-employed farmer/aerial […]
What’s behind media frenzy over controller errors?
What brought about the heavy media coverage of the errors by air traffic controllers? Print and electronic media made this their lead articles for days. Members of Congress demanded answers from the FAA and Department of Transportation. The top manager of air traffic at the FAA “resigned” and at least two controllers have been discharged. […]
Warbirds rule at Tico Air Show
Story and Photos By J. DOUGLAS HINTON Warbirds ruled the sky March 11-13 when the Valiant Air Command Museum held its 34th consecutive airshow at the Space Coast Regional Airport near Titusville, Fla. With fine weather every day, attendance was estimated at 35,000-40,000 visitors, who were able to view 75 vintage aircraft from World War […]
Surprises in Illinois tax amnesty program
By Robert A. McKenzie & Edward A. Snyder, Arnstein & Lehr Some aircraft owners are going to get an unpleasant surprise in 2011: The new Illinois Use Tax Amnesty program does not apply to all aircraft purchases. In Illinois, the purchase of an aircraft by an Illinois resident is taxed in one of three ways, […]
Is America addicted to ‘Crystal Eth’?
Readers of General Aviation News know that ethanol is bad for planes, so we thought this study would be of interest: Long heralded as a green alternative to fossil fuel, corn-based ethanol has become a costly distraction that chiefly benefits corporate, political and lobbying interests rather than the American public, the environment, small farmers and […]
Master Instructor Program revised for glider instructors
Master Instructors has revised its Master Instructor Continuing Education Program to improve participation by glider instructors. An advisory committee of five Master CFIs who also were experienced glider instructors developed a number of glider-specific recommendations that have been incorporated into the Master Instructor application package, according to program officials. “Although numerous glider instructors have earned […]
Applications available for Angel MedFlight scholarship
Arizona aviation students can now apply for the 2011 Angel MedFlight Scholarship for Excellence in Aviation.Angel MedFlight Worldwide Air Ambulance will award this college scholarship in August and the recipient will receive $3,000 toward his or her tuition for a relevant program at an Arizona college or university. All entries must be postmarked by June […]
Crownair Aviation celebrates 60th anniversary
Crownair Aviation in San Diego is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Since 1951, Crownair Aviation has provided customers with aircraft maintenance, avionics and fuel. The key to Crownair’s longevity and reputation is the experience and expertise of its employees, according to company officials, who note that Crownair’s team of professionally trained technicians have over […]