The Grumman F6F Hellcat entered service in the Pacific Theater in early fall 1943, yet by early fall 1945, it was relegated to second-line duty. “But what an impact it had in those two short years, sweeping the skies of Japanese aircraft and racking up the highest kill ratio of any World War II fighter,” say officials with the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing.
Aviation News
Fumbling with iPad leads to near-miss
When I looked back up, a plane was crossing ahead of me, right to left, same altitude, climbing, approximately 300 feet away. Seems that as I was descending on about a 060 heading, it was climbing and turning left slowly, causing it to be out of my sight until it got close to my altitude (visibility down and right is rather bad in a Cessna 182 since the door obscures the view).
Picture of the Day: Lining up for breakfast
Star Novak sent in this photo with a note: “Starting to line up for a Sunday morning breakfast outing at Gardner Municipal Airport (K34) in Kansas. Flying that morning was smoother than the butter and syrup on my pancakes!”
Thank you and Godspeed Mom
But one thing you never forgot and were never confused by was vanilla ice cream.
FAA testing solar-powered lights at KPEO
“The capability to install effective solar-powered lighting systems could benefit all types of airports — but especially rural, small GA airports — without sacrificing safety.”
2022 AirVenture Oshkosh Notice released
There are several FAA-approved changes in the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2022 Notice — the new name for the Oshkosh NOTAM.
Focused Flight Review updated
“Taking a flight review every 24 months is a requirement for most pilots, and for many, it is the only opportunity to reconnect with an instructor to hone their knowledge and skills,” said AOPA’s ASI Senior Director Paul Deres.
Improperly installed wing leads to loss of control on homebuilt’s first flight
The airplane builder’s improper installation of the lower right wing which resulted in an uncommanded left roll and the subsequent loss of control.
Picture of the Day: Time to let her shine
Gary Moore submitted this photo and note: “I enjoyed a day out flying the 1946 Globe Swift with some formation flying and photo opportunities alongside two of my sons, who were flying our Mooney M20-F. This photo was taken by my son Jack just prior to takeoff out of Centennial Airport (KAPA).”