The FAA has released its annual Aerospace Forecast Report Fiscal Years 2016 to 2036 that finds a sustained increase in overall air travel and the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).A key portion of the forecast focuses on projections for the growth in the use of unmanned aircraft, also known as drones or remotely piloted aircraft. […]
Briefings
NTSB issues safety alert on challenges of flying in to big airshows
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Transportation Safety Board has issued aviation safety alert SA-053, highlighting aviation safety issues pilots may face arriving at major fly-in events. The safety alert comes in advance of two major fly-in events — the April 5-10 SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo in Lakeland, Florida, and the July 25- 31 Experimental […]
FAA doubles ‘blanket’ altitude for many drone flights
After a comprehensive risk analysis, the FAA has raised the unmanned aircraft (UAS) “blanket” altitude authorization for Section 333 exemption holders and government aircraft operators to 400 feet. Previously, the agency had put in place a nationwide Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) for such flights up to 200 feet. The new COA policy allows […]
Sonex cuts price on SubSonex jet
OSHKOSH — Sonex Aircraft has launched a new sales strategy for the SubSonex Personal Jet, with a reduced airframe price to put this aircraft into the hands of more pilots. The SubSonex package is now available in separate purchases of Airframe, PBS TJ-100 engine, optional BRS package, and other optional accessories. The SubSonex airframe is […]
Flightsafety celebrates 65th anniversary
NEW YORK – FlightSafety International celebrated the 65th anniversary of its founding March 29. “Today we commemorate and celebrate FlightSafety’s 65th anniversary. Throughout our history, we have focused on our mission to enhance aviation safety while providing outstanding customer service and the highest quality training and equipment,” said Bruce Whitman, chairman, president and CEO. “We are most […]
Wipaire expands manufacturing facilities
SOUTH SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Wipaire is expanding its manufacturing facilities. In a purchase deal closed in late February, Wipaire became the sole owner of the 65,000-square-foot building it has leased a portion of since late 2012. Renovations will begin as soon as previous leaseholders move out of their leased spaces. “International demand is driving our expansion,” […]
Grand opening of the Wings of the North Air Museum set
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Wings of the North (WOTN) will host the Grand Opening of the Wings of the North Air Museum at the Flying Cloud Airport May 7 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. A pancake breakfast will be held from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. At approximately noon, weather permitting, one […]
Three CFIs earn Master Accreditation for 10th time
In March, Master Instructors designated its next class of Ten-Time Masters. The achievement marks 20 years of participation in the Master Instructor Continuing Education Program (MICEP). Three instructors make up this second group to reach the 10-time milestone: David Faile of Fairfield, Connecticut; Lonnie Hilkemeier of Boulder, Colorado; and Lou Wipotnik of Wheeling, Illinois. Faile is an […]
Partnership brings a new ultralight Alaskan Bush Tire to Europe’s LSA market
CHUGIAK, Alaska — Airframes Alaska reports the approval and first production run of the first Ultralight Alaskan Bushwheel. The Alaska-based company worked in collaboration with French wheel-and-brake manufacturer Beringer Aero to develop the new lightweight backcountry airplane tire specifically for European light-sport aircraft (LSA). The Ultralight Bushwheel is designed for off-field operations in France, Italy, and other European […]