The decision to fly involves a series of decisions based on available information. Whether regulatory, contractual, or based on personal limitations, the legality and safety of flight comes down to us in the long run. So choose wisely.
Aviation News
Minnesota Pilot Rejects First Offer to Get Stinson Back From Tribe
In an interview with a local PBS station, Darrin Smedsmo said the tribe wants him to pay $7,250 to get his Stinson 108 back, which includes a $5,000 donation to the Red Lake Boys and Girls Club and $2,750 for the towing bill to haul the plane from the highway where it landed to a storage yard, where it has remained outside through the winter.
Laser Strikes on Aircraft Drop for Second Year In a Row
Pilots reported 10,994 laser strikes to the FAA in 2025 — a 14% decrease from the year before — but still too high, say agency officials.
Airglas Introduces Cargo Pod
The cargo pod has been STC’d for nearly all C172 and C175 models, according to officials with the Anchorage-based company.
Pilot Loses Control When Worn Aileron Cable Snaps During Landing
Probable Cause: Maintenance personnel’s failure to detect the worn aileron cable during the most recent inspections, which resulted in the separation of the aileron control cable and a subsequent loss of airplane control during landing.
Picture of the Day: Flying Home
Eric Meltzer submitted this photo and note: “My wife, Michelle shot this photo of our daughter, Erin, flying home from Bar Harbor, Maine, after maintenance. The Penobscot River and bridge is in the background.”
An Open Door in Flight Almost Killed Me
During his first flight in his flying club’s Cessna 172, Rajeev Pandey experienced a potentially life-changing situation.
Aerial Firefighting: 800 Gallons At A Time
The Fire Boss is aviation’s ultimate hybrid: An Air Tractor AT-802 turned elite firefighter. Discover the high-stakes world of water scooping, the veteran pilots behind the stick, and how this niche fleet dominates global wildfires.
Court Hands Victory to Watsonville Pilots in Airport Land-Use Dispute
A Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge rules the city violated state law in approving a residential development near Watsonville Municipal Airport in California.