Mike Daniel’s new airplane is called the Cheshire Cat, with the idea that the Carbon Cub FX-3 is his guiding force to take him through the wonderland of backcountry flying.
SMO at 100: A century of history but an uncertain future
As the airport turns 100, the local newspaper, the Santa Monica Daily Press, has started a series of articles focusing on the future of Santa Monica Airport. The first delves into the “incredible history connected to this seemingly ordinary strip of land” and is well worth the read — if only to learn about the fake city that was created above the airport to protect it during World War II.
300 new pilots and counting…
“The cost of flight training can be a barrier for many aspiring pilots, so EAA working with the Ray Foundation helps break down the barrier and make the goal of becoming a pilot even more attainable for future generations,” says Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programming. “We’ve found that more than 80% of Ray Aviation Scholars are completing their pilot training, which is the complete opposite ratio of those who would start flight training on their own, so this program’s outcomes are having a direct, significant effect on the pilot population.”
FAA approves Aspen’s new software release
The FAA has approved new software enabling integration of Garmin’s GFC600 digital autopilot with Aspen Avionic’s EFD1000 Pro MAX Primary Flight Display (PFD), selected altitude support for Trio and the Bendix/King AeroCruze 100 autopilots, and extended runway centerlines on the MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function displays.
Seat cushion leads to bent Piper
The pilot’s failure to ensure that the aft seat cushion was adequately secured, which resulted in its movement, subsequent interference with the flight controls, and a hard landing.
Picture of the Day: Waiting for skis
Rusty Eichorn submitted this photo and note: “Not many 1933 Stinson JR. SR left in the world. This one is patiently waiting on the ramp at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport (KGPZ) in Minnesota for its change over to skis.”
Old dog, new trick
My new role with the AOPA Foundation is once again something audacious, something that has never been done on a large scale. I now hold the title of High School Aero Club Liaison, which gives me the freedom to work with kids, parents, teachers, administrators, airport administrators, and community leaders from coast to coast to help them create aero clubs where kids can get into aviation in a meaningful way.
Pilot revealed as world’s dream job
A new study of Google searches finds that becoming a pilot is the world’s No. 1 dream job, topping the wish lists of 25 countries, including the United States, the UK, and Australia.
Able Flight reveals Class of 2023
One member of this year’s class is a veteran wounded in combat, and all use wheelchairs. They will fly three specially-adapted Sky Arrow Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA), and will be taught by instructors at Purdue University.