Probable Cause: The pilot/builder’s modifications of the motorglider’s engine, which resulted in an excessively lean fuel air mixture, preignition, piston failure, and a subsequent total loss of engine power during the initial climb. Contributing to the outcome was the pilot’s failure to maintain airspeed and his exceedance of the motorglider’s critical angle of attack following the loss of engine power, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall/spin at an altitude too low to recover.
Picture of the Day: Taking Off at SUN ‘n FUN
General Aviation News Photographer Matt Genuardi, who is on the grounds at the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, sent in this photo from Tuesday’s air show of Melissa Burns taking off for her afternoon air show performance. The show continues through Sunday, April 19.
From Orbit to Open Cockpits: The High-Flying Life of Ron Wanttaja
Now retired from his career as a space systems engineer, Ron Wanttaja is writing books and enjoying life with his Fly Baby.
Cannonball Run Honors Airplane Repo Star Kevin Lacey
A 31-hour drive across the country from Florida to California will raise money for Tango 31 Aero Clube, a non-profit founded by Airplane Repo’s Kevin Lacey, who passed away in February 2025.
New Electric Motor for GA Introduced
The company is integrating the new motor into a Van’s Aircraft RV-10. The engine is expected to be on the market by 2027.
Mobile App Launches for 100LL
Debuting at the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL) in Florida, app users can get a discount of $0.45 a gallon during the event, according to company officials.
Landing Gear Fails Right After Annual
Probable Cause: An overstress fracture of the left main landing gear actuator, which resulted in the failure of the left main landing gear to fully extend and lock into place.
Picture of the Day: Super Guppy at Sunset
Michael Ladd submitted this photo and note: “Showed my niece Sarah Ladd around the SUN ‘n FUN grounds at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL) in Florida the Sunday before the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo opened and I happened to catch this neat picture of the Super Guppy with a reflection of the sunset on the Warbird Ramp.”
A Dying Trade That’s A Golden Opportunity
Many believe a fabric-covering shop is an anachronistic symbol of the past. Yet, it is very much a reality of the now and a potentially lucrative business in the future — all based on a skillset few seek out, but thousands upon thousands of aircraft owners desperately need.