The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from trees during an approach in sun glare and hazy conditions.
Picture of the Day: Desert camping
Gil Jennings submitted this photo and note: “Casa Grande camping after the Cactus Fly-In. My tent and chair in the shade of wing. My old straight tail Cessna 172 would attract many other campers who placed their folding chairs under the wing during the heat of the day. Great memories.”
LSA manufacturers continue on despite war in Ukraine
Even as bombs fall and missiles fly, LSA manufacturers in Ukraine are able to continue manufacturing, even in the worst of conditions.
Number of fatal accidents in homebuilts ticks up
For the federal fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2022, the FAA reported there were 56 fatal accidents in experimental category aircraft over the preceding 12 months, including 39 in amateur-built aircraft. That compares to 42 total accidents — 33 in amateur-built aircraft — during the 12-month period between October 2020 and September 2021.
Preparing pilots for spatial disorientation
At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, students get the chance to experience spatial disorientation in a safe space in the university’s new Spatial Disorientation Laboratory.
Deadline extended for General Aviation Awards
The deadline has been extended to Dec. 31, 2022, to nominate someone for CFI of the Year, Maintenance Technician of the Year, or FAASTeam Representative of the Year. You can even nominate yourself.
Pilot’s assumption leads to near miss
The 310 announced downwind for Runway YY, but in my mind I was thinking XX since everyone else was using that runway.
Picture of the Day: My favorite co-pilot
Susan Ray submitted this photo and note: “My daughter, Chanel Ray, and I flying over Santa Barbara in a Piper Warrior III. Doesn’t get any better than this!”
What causes exhaust valve recession in an engine?
There are several theories, but the one that makes the most sense to me is that the lead in avgas helps sealing and improves thermal heat transfer.