Aaron Lade sent in this photo with a note: “The Pawnee, Lola, is ready to take the 2-33 aloft on a gorgeous day.”
The heart of an airplane
Talent and dedication — those words sum up all those who have cared for our little bird. They personify the saying, “Without mechanics, pilots would just be pedestrians with leather jackets, big sunglasses, and expensive watches.”
‘Tis the season for drone safety
If you are considering a drone as a holiday gift, the FAA wants you and your loved ones to understand how to fly it safely. The FAA is again launching its 12 Days of Drones campaign to educate people about the rules, regulations, and best practices of operating a drone. This December, the agency will […]
Retired mechanics honored with master mechanic awards
The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award is named in honor of Charles Taylor, the first aviation mechanic in powered flight. Taylor served as the Wright brothers’ mechanic and is credited with designing and building the engine for their first successful aircraft. The award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics.
Clay Lacy Aviation breaks ground on KSNA FBO
The company will redevelop its existing 14 acres on the airfield, which includes building a new home for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Air Support Unit.
Ag pilot vs drone
As soon as I pulled up out of the field from that pass, I saw the drone at my 2 o’clock, about 80-100 feet above me, at maybe 1,000 feet horizontally at the most. I abruptly pulled up to further ensure I wouldn’t hit it.
Picture of the Day: When the sun sets and the smoke clears
Jonathan Spoer submitted this photo and note: “A Sikorsky HH-60L operated by Santa Barbara County Fire Department takes a break from the initial day of the mountain fire on the tarmac of Camarillo Airport (KCMA) in California, only one mile south of the active fire. Sadly over 100 homes were lost but thanks to the effort of numerous local agencies and helicopter operators, more homes were not lost and embers did not cross the freeway and affect the airport. These helo pilots and crew are another breed as they continue to operate into the night hours and during high winds with gusts over 50 knots when fixed-wing aircraft are called off. We all appreciate the efforts of these pilots, their team of mechanics, and many others behind the scenes.”
Human Factors: A cold, hard lesson
The pilot’s cold weather start technique is blamed for accident when his Cessna 172’s engine quits due to a lack of oil.
Aircraft designed for aerial firefighting unveiled
Game Composites, maker of the GB1 aerobatic aircraft, is working on developing the GB2 Stormbird, an all-composite, two-seat, low-wing aircraft designed for aerial firefighting.