Satcom Direct has received FAA certification for its newly-developed Inmarsat Satellite Communications Training Course to count toward requirements for Inspection Authorization renewal. The course is approved to count for 16 hours toward IA renewal. The Inmarsat Satellite Communications Training Course allows Satcom Direct customers the opportunity to earn training hours toward their IA renewal while […]
‘From Props to Jets’
A new book, “From Props to Jets: Commercial Aviation’s Transition to the Jet Age 1952-1962,” by Jon Proctor, Mike Machat and Craig Kodera, is slated for release in May. Although the years from 1952 to 1962 saw the rise and dominance of piston-powered airliners like the Douglas DC-7, Lockheed Constellation, and Boeing Stratocruiser, the new […]
Metal fatigue leads to gear failure
This March 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: Spartan 7W. Injuries: None. Location: Santa Fe, N.M. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The pilot was practicing full-stop landings. He told investigators that […]
Singing the airport’s praises
It may seem odd to some, but I love spending time at the airport. Sure, pilots and aircraft mechanics understand the allure of the airport. But the average Jane or Joe may think it a little peculiar that a grown man has an interest in going to the airport whenever the opportunity presents itself. Part […]
SeaRey to move to ‘America’s Seaplane City’
Progressive Aerodyne, Inc., which manufactures SeaRey amphibious seaplanes, is relocating to Tavares, Florida, from Orlando. The successful recruitment of a seaplane manufacturing company strengthens Tavares’ brand of “America’s Seaplane City,” according to City Administrator John Drury, who notes, “A year’s worth of work went into attracting this company to Tavares. It never would have happened […]
Fight looms over FAA reauthorization
When the Senate approved a long-sought FAA reauthorization bill, it surprised — and pleased — many. (See Charles Spence’s report on the approval here). But those same people may not be so pleased to hear that the bill now heads into potentially lengthy and divisive talks with the House over pro-union and other differences, according […]
Eclipse production to resume, new owner promises
Production of the Eclipse EA-500 jet will resume, Eclipse Aerospace CEO Mason Holland said in a story in Aviation Week. The story notes that Holland “declined to say exactly when that will occur or at what rate. Rather, he says, formal announcements about the very light jet program will be coming soon and should clarify […]
Service difficulty reporting system in the works
The FAA intends to issue a Request for Proposals for the development and deployment of a web-based service difficulty reporting system to be used by general aviation type clubs. The primary objective of the system is to assist type clubs (user/owner of various models of Beech, Cessna, or Piper airplanes), and other interested general aviation […]
Pappy Boyington film showing celebrates National Medal of Honor Day
A special film screening of “Pappy Boyington Field,” a documentary about the Idaho airfield, will be held in Boise to commemorate National Medal of Honor Day, March 25, as well as Idaho native Pappy Boyington. Boyington was the leader of the famed Black Sheep Squadron in the Pacific during World War II. An ace fighter […]