Jimmy, a student pilot in Florida, writes: I’m confused about what seem to be overlapping definitions of cross-country flight, especially when it comes to what can or should be logged. I’ve talked to a couple of different CFIs at my school and I’m getting different answers. Can you help me sort this out?
Starting the New Year Right
EAA Chapter 534 in Leesburg, Florida, introduced 18 kids to the magic of flight on Jan. 3, 2026.
FAA Expands UAS Test Site Network for First Time Since 2016
The expansion of the test locations is designed to accelerate the integration of drones into the National Airspace System, including how they will share that space with manned aircraft.
Making it Easier to Get Parts for Diamonds
With more than $1.5 million in parts, Premier Aircraft has been named a top distributor for Diamond Aircraft parts.
Pilot Loses Control While Taxiing on Snowy Runway
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during taxi, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with terrain.
Picture of the day: With a little help from my friends
Ken Snyder submitted these photos with a note: “First flight after installing a Curtiss Reed propeller on my 1930 Waco RNF. In the background is Stanton Airfield (KSYN) in Minnesota. It’s a rare day to have such beautiful weather in mid November in Minnesota.”
General Aviation Maintenance: What’s Working, What’s Not
A new survey reveals that the general aviation maintenance industry faces intense pressure from rising costs and persistent staffing shortages. Despite these hurdles, 92% of mechanics remain proud of their profession, demonstrating remarkable operational resilience.
Where’s Jamail? San Diego
Jamail Larkins, the FAA Ambassador for Aviation & Space Education, brought the DreamLaunch tour to San Diego, where he learned about a local affordable A&P training program and helped a pilot with his medical.
The Big Picture on Unleaded Avgas
The EAGLE initiative — Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions — has updated its “Big Picture” flow chart, adding interactive links and pop-up narratives.