The money will be used to purchase tools such as simulation software, maintenance training simulators, and cockpit electronic trainers, among other technology. It will also pay for new equipment for the uncrewed aerial systems operations certificate program, which Western Michigan University is considering expanding into a Bachelor of Science program.
Aviation News
Crankshaft Fatigue Fracture Leads to Emergency Landing
Probable Cause: A total loss of engine power due to a fatigue fracture of the crankshaft.
Picture of the Day: Special Delivery
Andrea Pietrowsky submitted this photo and note: “LifeLine Pilots volunteer Ed and his daughter deliver future service dog Chelsea to Canine Companions volunteer Mary.”
Dreams Come Full Circle in Augusta
My initial curiosity about aviation — even just wanting to fly a simulator — started while I was sitting in a classroom in Augusta, Georgia. So it felt fitting to launch AviationStart’s new initiative in one of the same classrooms that helped spark that curiosity in the first place.
A Turn And Burn Rescue Mission
A change in weather took a planned weekend flyaway to save more than 100 dogs into an eight-hour “turn and burn” rescue mission for 30 general aviation pilots.
Take A Trip Back In Time
The 2026 Antique Airplane Association/Air Power Museum invitational Homecoming Fly-In will honor A&P mechanics as part of Charles Taylor Days.
First Round of General Aviation Award Winners Revealed
“This year’s nominations far exceeded expectations, highlighting the exceptional talent and dedication within our aviation and maintenance communities,” officials said. A record 72 nominations were received, a 26% increase over the previous year.
Contaminated Fuel Injector Assembly Results in Forced Landing
Probable Cause: A partial loss of engine power due to a combination of fuel/oil contamination in the fuel injector assembly.
Picture of the Day: Foggy Morning at The Cherry Pocket
Rusty Eichorn submitted this photo and note: “A foggy and quiet morning to start the day at the Cherry Pocket fishing camp in Lake Wales, Florida, winter home of Adventure Seaplanes from Tower, Minnesota. Seaplane ratings, float instruction, and flight seeing is available there from November until April.”