Advanced Pilot Seminars (APS) has unveiled a web-based seminar. Now in its fourth year, APS has taught almost a thousand pilots and mechanics science-based techniques of engine management, backed by data acquired on the most advanced piston engine test facility in the world. APS teaches methods for operating piston aircraft engines for maximum fuel economy, […]
New book aimed at CFIs
A new book, “The Flight Instructor’s Guide to Endorsements and CFI Record Book,” was written by an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and Master CFI. It contains all endorsements, in order of use, a CFI would have to make. There are also notes and guidance, so nothing is forgotten or overlooked. There is a section to record […]
Lycoming ‘retires’ questionable crankshafts
Lycoming has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin 569, which effectively “retires” – to use Lycoming’s word – more than 5,000 crankshafts that the company suspects may be faulty. “Lycoming has continued to analyze crankshafts in service,” the bulletin states. “While there have been no failures in the crankshafts which are the subject of this Service Bulletin, […]
It takes a bomber to build a complex
After World War II Uncle Sam had hundreds of surplus B-17s. The ones that were not scrapped became cargo aircraft or fire bombers. A few were even converted into executive transport. B-17G Serial #44-85790 may have had the most unusual fate of the Boeing brethren as it was converted into the roof of a gas […]
Protect your plane at a fly-in
You put in hundreds of hours getting your plane from “project” status to showpiece and now you’re ready to take it to a fly-in for exhibition. From your arrival to departure, there are many steps you can take to ensure your plane’s safety at a fly-in. Let’s start at the beginning: Be aware of the […]
Are you a survivor?
The better you plan, the better your day will be at a fly-in. Follow these simple guidelines to enhance your air show experience: ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT A good pair of walking shoes is a must. You will spend a lot of time walking on asphalt, so make sure your insoles are in good condition. Socks should […]
Parks Service protects B-29 in Lake Mead
Are you a diver? How would you like to dive on a B-29 that has sat undisturbed below the surface of Lake Mead near Boulder City, Nev., for the better part of the last century? The National Parks Service, in charge of protecting the site, is pondering ways to allow access to the plane while […]
Grass roots effort thwarts fuel bill
When pilots in Washington State learned of legislation to require all automobile gas sold in the Evergreen State to contain ethanol, they went off like a stall warning horn. The problem is that many aircraft have been modified through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to run on auto gas. Operating an airplane engine with auto […]
Expansion continues at Kissimmee Gateway Airport
Florida’s Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM) is soaring to new heights with recent developments. Ranger Aviation, an FBO at ISM, is in the process of building a 60,000-square-foot executive terminal. This facility will house corporate offices, tenants, conference rooms, pilot facilities and a full-service restaurant. Meanwhile, another FBO, Marathon Flight Services, is nearing completion of a […]