Thanks to GAN’s fuel expert Ben Visser for sending this link to a video of the Besler Steam Powered Airplane. Demonstrated by the Besler brothers April 12, 1933, over Oakland California, the plane was powered by a steam boiler that was so quiet that spectators on the ground could hear the pilot calling to them. […]
PlaneTalk Radio’s next show out of this world
PlaneTalk Radio, an Internet radio program started by Florida layer Stewart Lapayowker to promote an appreciation and understanding of business aviation, will feature George Whitesides, president and CEO of Virgin Galactic, the winner of the X-Prize and the first to give civilians the opportunity to experience space travel, Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. (EST). Also […]
First flight of Elektra One may be this month
PC-Aero, a German company that is developing the Elektra One prototype electric powered aircraft, reports it successfully performed the static tests on the one-seater for German Ultralight Certification Dec. 22. The structure of the aircraft (wing, fuselage and tails) was loaded up to limit load, officials report, adding first flight is expected to take place […]
EAA No. 2 Carl Schultz Dies
Carl Schultz, EAA 2, who helped found the Experimental Aircraft Association and served as the organization’s first vice-president, died Dec. 25, according to a report at EAA.org, which notes that Schultz was already an established businessman in the Milwaukee area in 1953 when he helped Paul Poberezny start EAA. Read his obituary here.
Four inducted into Canada’s Hall of Fame
Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame (CAHF) will induct four Canadians, and recognize a Belt of Orion recipient, at its 2011 annual gala dinner and ceremony at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Hamilton, Ontario on May 26. The 2011 inductees are: John Crichton, the current president and CEO of NAV Canada, and previous president of the […]
Gleim offers Sport Pilot student certification
At the 2011 U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida, Jan. 20-23, Gleim will help pilots-to-be earn their wings. Individuals will be able to take a two-hour course at the show and achieve their Sport Pilot Student Certificate, which is required before flying a Light-Sport Aircraft solo. “Our online courses have benefited thousands of users,” […]
FAA Safety Briefing celebrates 50 years
The new issue of FAA Safety Briefing celebrates the publication’s 50th anniversary by looking back on the state of General Aviation safety and highlighting a half century of safety focus and progress. The magazine, initially called FAA Aviation News, was first published in January 1961, just three years after the creation of the FAA. Its […]
Hear problems before they become breakdowns
Spectronics Corp. has introduced the Spectroline Marksman ultrasonic diagnostic tool, which converts and amplifies inaudible ultrasonic sound into audible “natural” sound. Aviation technicians can hear sounds that signify problems, such as compressed air, vacuum, pneumatic and other pressurized leaks. It’s also used to check for electrical discharge due to insulation breakdown, carbon tracking and arcing. […]
Companies to collaborate on electric aircraft
Bye Energy, Inc., which is developing an electric Cessna 172, has signed an agreement with Panacis, a designer and manufacturer of advanced mobile power products. The companies are collaborating on the development, integration and manufacturing of battery storage systems for Bye Energy’s electric and electric-hybrid propulsion system for general aviation aircraft. George Bye, CEO of […]