The Derby is a one-day aviation event designed to challenge pilots on precision, planning, and navigation. The event offers pilots the opportunity to select their own route and flight day, providing flexibility to work around their schedules and weather conditions. Flights for this year’s Derby may take place from Oct. 1-14.
Aircraft
Did you see that?
My student saw the plane. I never saw it. My student estimates the plane was roughly 50 feet from us. I don’t believe the other plane ever saw us.
Picture of the Day: Fresh out of annual
Matthew Keane submitted this photo and note: “A beautiful 1986 Bonanza, piloted by Matthew Keane, captured during sunset over Santa Cruz, California. Fresh out of annual and all cleaned up, an air-to-air photo shoot was in order. Photo by Marcus Davidson, with Ben Hoover piloting the chase plane.”
How are we doing?
Accidents are trending down this year (to-date) compare to 2024.
Airpark homeowners buy S36
After a decades-long effort, the Flying Acres Homeowners Association (FAHA) has purchased Norman Grier Field (S36), a privately owned public-use airport near Kent, Washington.
Applications open for 2026 Women in Aviation scholarships
The deadline to submit an application for more than $200,000 in aviation scholarships is Oct. 15, 2025.
Savvy Aviation unveils AI-powered aircraft anomaly detection tool
The new capability is designed to help Savvy’s analysts identify unusual engine behavior more quickly and precisely, according to company officials.
Piper hits truck during forced landing
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper preflight planning that resulted in the loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Picture of the Day: Stearman dreaming
Sid Pinney submitted this photo and note: “After an afternoon of detailing, both my Stearman and I are dreaming of the dancing…”