Butler National Corp., a manufacturer and provider of support systems for “classic” commercial and military aircraft, has acquired Kings Avionics. Annual sales for Kings Avionics were reported at $2.1 million with a backlog of approximately $1 million, according to Butler National officials. Clark Stewart, president and CEO, stated, “The acquisition of Kings Avionics provides Butler […]
Lack of experience contributes to crash
This November 2008 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 Champ. Injuries: None. Location: Chadron, Neb. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The non-certificated pilot was interested in buying the single-engine tailwheel-equipped airplane. […]
Going aggressive vs. being assertive
Jamie Beckett is a CFI and A&P mechanic who stepped into the political arena in an effort to promote and protect GA at his local airport. One of the big lessons to come from this year’s political battles has hardly been noticed in the press, but it’s such an important aspect of conflict resolution that […]
It takes a village…to build a plane
Talkeetna, Alaska, sits at the front door of Denali National Park and has a legendary history of aviation. When residents learned of a proposed new Build A Plane program where local high school students combine classroom learning with hands-on efforts to build a real airplane, word spread through the town immediately. “Once we announced we […]
FAA investigating Senator Inhofe’s closed runway landing
Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.) says he won’t guarantee he’ll be more vigilant about checking NOTAMs after he landed on a closed runway occupied by maintenance workers 10 days ago in Texas, according to a report at AVweb.com, which notes that Inhofe told the Tulsa World: “People who fly a lot just don’t do it. I […]
Skagit Aero Museum founder dies
The founder of the Skagit Aero Education Museum in Washington state, Harold Hanson, passed away Oct. 17. He was 81. Hanson had been living in the Puget Sound region of Washington for decades when he landed at the Concrete Airport in 1998 and immediately saw the potential of the beautiful natural surroundings. On that first […]
Flight of the Phoenix museum raffles Cherokee 140
The Flight of the Phoenix Aviation Museum in Gilmer, Texas, is conducting a raffle to fund the museum’s annaul budget, as well as acquire a USAF T-37 “Tweet” aircraft for static display. Only 1,100 tickets will be sold for the grand prize, a a Cherokee 140. Tickets are $50 each.The drawing will be held Nov. […]
‘Top Gun’ sequel in the works
Maverick, the lead character in the iconic aviator film “Top Gun,” has been cleared for another flyby at a theater near you, according to a report at EAA.org, which notes that Tony Scott, who directed the original film, confirmed during a press junket for his most recent film that he will direct Top Gun 2. […]
Hearing protection for your pet
4 Paws Aviation has introduced the Ear Gear, new hearing protection for your pet. Ear Gear hearing protection is made of nylon, aircraft approved sound deadening foam, non-toxic gel cups, webbing, and a safety “break a way” clip. Webbing is used instead of Velcro, so once the Ear Gear is adjusted, it will be the […]