Probable Cause: The flight instructor’s decision to taxi behind a large multi-engine airplane, which resulted in an encounter with propeller blast and a loss of airplane control on the ground.
Picture of the Day: Kalahari
Stephan Hattingh submitted this photo and note: “A Zenith CH750 in Koppieskraalpan in South Africa, adjacent to the more famous Hakskeenpan where land speed records are attempted.”
Not the mission
Electric aircraft can’t match the range and speed of piston-powered planes like the Beech Baron for long flights, but they might excel in specific missions, such as short-haul routes with time for charging. While batteries lag behind 100LL in energy density, history shows early skepticism of disruptive technology — like automobiles — can evolve into widespread acceptance as use cases expand.
New documentary ‘Hops Across The Rockies’ premieres
The documentary follows FlyteCo Brewing founder Eric Serani, who demonstrates how general aviation flights across the Rocky Mountains enable his business to pick up hops and brew the freshest beer possible.
Aerospace Innovation Center in the works in New Jersey
At the new Aerospace Innovation Center, “companies can test and further their products, while students and entrepreneurs make discoveries and create new technologies to help move the industry forward,” according to officials.
ASA releases new editions of FAA handbooks for glider and balloon pilots
Both books have been updated to meet modern practices for safe glider and balloon flight and training operations, according to ASA officials.
Return to airport fatal for Cessna 414 pilot
Probable Cause: The pilot’s exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack and failure to maintain proper airspeed during a turn to final, resulting in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s distraction due to a non-critical radio anomaly.
Picture of the Day: Meyers morning
Jim Roberts submitted this photo and note: “It’s a misty preflight on this Meyers OTW biplane at the 2024 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo.”
Teen develops products to make flying safer and more enjoyable
A teenager has solved a problem facing ICON aircraft owners and is now working on products for other aircraft.