During an instructional pattern flight my student mistakenly did not switch tanks during the flight. Because of this we operated on one tank until that tank was empty, and the result was fuel starvation that caused engine failure.
Pictures of the Day: Red Arrows
Gord McNulty sent in these photos with a note: “The famous Royal Air Force aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, recently visited the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. The famous Royal Air Force aerobatic team, flying nine BAE Systems Hawk T1 trainers, visited Canada as part of a ‘Maple Hawk’ tour to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2024. The team received a warm reception at the museum before departing for a fly-past over Niagara Falls. The Red Arrows have displayed almost 5,000 times and in 57 countries since the team’s opening year of 1965. This year marks the diamond season (60 years) of the team.”
Thunderbolts & Lightning: A Warbird rhapsody
The 2024 Central Coast AirFest had something for everyone: Civilian performers, warbirds, modern jets, vintage jets, and even more warbirds. No less than 26 warbirds took to the air during the day.
Latest figures show drop in fatal accidents in experimental aircraft
While the final totals are still being tabulated, the initial total of 37 accidents is well below the FAA’s not-to-exceed figure of 46 for the period, according to officials with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). That includes 29 fatal accidents in homebuilt aircraft.
Flightstar president honored with Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award
The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award is the highest honor the FAA gives to pilots who have demonstrated professionalism, skill, and aviation expertise by maintaining safe operations for 50 or more years.
New book introduces children to aviation
Just published is a new children’s book, “Red Plane, Blue Plane, One Plane, Two Planes,” described by author Saba Shahid as “a vibrant and playful introduction to the world of aviation for young readers.”
Unstable approach bends 172
The pilot’s unstable approach, which resulted in a hard landing and impact with a runway threshold light. Also causal was the flight instructor’s failure to take remedial action to prevent the hard landing.
Picture of the Day: To the rescue
Timothy Washick submitted this photo and note: “Late on a Friday when you think you’re good to fly back home, your trusty 1959 182B has a front flat tire. The big shop on the field was closing for the weekend, and could not get me until Monday.
Camarillo Aircraft Service was happy to help a stranded pilot. They jacked up the nose and installed a new tire and tube. Camarillo Aircraft Service is pilot friendly and is happy to help their stranded fellow pilots. A big shot out to the A&P mechanics that help all of us fly home safe.”
Red light, green light, white light
You can request unique training opportunities from ATC. Things like light gun signals. If you’re a CFI you should expose your students in a controlled environment. If you’re an experienced pilot on your flight review, ask for something challenging. It might just make your life a whole lot more comfortable later on…when you least expect it.