The pilot’s failure to properly set the parking brake before exiting an operating airplane, which resulted in a runaway airplane and subsequent impact with trees.
Picture of the Day: First time at the controls
Stuart Rauh submitted this photo and note: “Headed home after a weekend visit with me and her grandmother, our granddaughter Scarlett had a chance to ‘fly’ our 182. We may have a future pilot on our hands!”
Beech Party: Starship, Staggerwings and STOL
The annual Beech Party broke records in 2021, with a bumper crop of Beechcraft aircraft showing up for the fly-in in Tullahoma, Tennessee.
Pacific Ocean airstrip gets new caretaker
Led by volunteers with the Recreational Aviation Foundation, 17CL has already been improved, with encroaching vegetation removed, the 900-foot airstrip graded, and amenities added, including a picnic table and grill.
GA advocacy groups ask Congress to increase funding for alternative fuels
“We believe the fuels testing program is at a critical juncture and we request the final conference agreement contain a funding level of $10 million,” the GA advocates told Congress. “There is still considerable work to be done to address the environmental and regulatory challenges associated with piston aviation fuels and your support is key to addressing them in a way that does not compromise aviation safety.”
New book on navigating weather released
Aviation Supplies & Academics has released a new book, “Navigating Weather: A Pilot’s Guide to Airborne and Datalink Weather Radar.”
Near miss as CFI answers student’s question
I looked back outside in the general direction that the airplane was supposed to be at (right side) and saw the airplane in a steep bank at approximately 400 feet from us with no vertical difference. As soon as I saw them, I banked the airplane to the right and kept our climb pitch attitude. I reported to Tower that I had the aircraft in sight.
Picture of the Day: First flight for future pilot
Marcel Maritneau submitted this photo and note: “She wanted to absolutely ‘fly’ the airplane.”
Questions from the Cockpit: A colorful question
The cost of a quality airplane paint job borders on the astronomical. But, in fairness to the paint shops, that’s because the work involved in doing it right borders on the astronomical. In an effort to save money, can you paint your own airplane? Here’s what the FAA regulations say.