We pay for aircraft insurance to finance the fallout of something bad happening — and very often that comes from our own lack of common sense.
20260521
Why Octane Ratings Don’t Tell the Whole Story for GA Engines
The general aviation industry faces safety and legal hurdles during the transition to 100-octane unleaded fuel. Understanding the discrepancy between test-engine octane ratings and real-world engine performance is vital for maintaining safety and protecting manufacturers from liability.
Questions from the Cockpit: Slow to the Party
Kimberly, the spouse of a pilot-in-training in Arizona, asks: With all the changes in aviation over the last few decades, how has the current training of pilots changed, compared to previous generations?
Maintenance: Is Less More? Or Just Less?
Should the FAA extend annual inspection rules? Explore how changing maintenance intervals could solve mechanic shortages while reducing maintenance-induced risks.
Sporty’s Founder Flies West
Hal Shevers, the founder of Sporty’s Pilot Shop, passed away May 12, 2026.
New Initiative Tackles Pilot Mental Health and Medical Certification Fears
AOPA is highlighting pilot mental health in May with new educational resources, videos, and advocacy updates. The initiative aims to reduce stigma and provide clear guidance on maintaining both mental wellness and FAA medical certification.
Curious About Learning To Fly?
The $895 Introduction to Aviation program includes an online ground school, two hours of flight instruction, two hours of simulator training, and more.
Flying a Piece of American History
Former corporate pilot Mark Peebles rediscovered the romance of aviation in a 1946 Fairchild 24W. With its radial engine, roll-down windows, and stately presence, this fabric-covered classic offers a nostalgic experience that turns heads wherever it flies.
Survey Seeks a Better Understanding of CFIT
The National Business Aviation Association’s Safety Committee is looking for pilot input as it seeks to better understand the human factors involved in Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT).