A new survey reveals that the general aviation maintenance industry faces intense pressure from rising costs and persistent staffing shortages. Despite these hurdles, 92% of mechanics remain proud of their profession, demonstrating remarkable operational resilience.
Aviation News
Where’s Jamail? San Diego
Jamail Larkins, the FAA Ambassador for Aviation & Space Education, brought the DreamLaunch tour to San Diego, where he learned about a local affordable A&P training program and helped a pilot with his medical.
The Big Picture on Unleaded Avgas
The EAGLE initiative — Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions — has updated its “Big Picture” flow chart, adding interactive links and pop-up narratives.
FlightSense Launches Version 2.0
FlightSense has launched Version 2.0, an AI-powered platform designed to modernize flight training recordkeeping. This update introduces FAR Part 141 compliance support to streamline student progress tracking and FAA documentation.
Student Crashes Into Fence After Failing to Use Carb Heat
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to use carburetor heat in conditions conducive to the formation of carburetor ice, which resulted in a partial loss of engine power due to fuel starvation. Contributing to the outcome was her failure to attain a proper touchdown point during the subsequent diversionary landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.
Picture of the Day: Ready for the next flight
Jan Randle submitted this photo with a note: “My Husky at Lower Creek Airport (NC27) in Lenoir, North Carolina. Just flown and fueled for the next flight.”
The Peril of Weekend Warriors
A new study suggests that many private pilots may be overestimating their proficiency, particularly in critical slow-flight maneuvers. Despite high confidence levels, data shows that infrequent flying and a lack of dedicated practice are quietly eroding essential safety skills.
Cold Courage: The Ups and Downs of Landing On an Ice Runway
Pilot Paul Russo will discuss his 100+ landings at the unique Alton Bay Ice Runway on Jan. 15, 2026. This Aviation Museum of N.H. presentation highlights the skill required for the Lower 48’s only FAA-approved ice strip.
Work begins on new university aerospace facility at KSYI
Middle Tennessee State University has begun construction on its new aerospace facility at Shelbyville Municipal Airport (KSYI) in Tennessee.