Probable Cause: The premature retraction of the flaps by the student pilot, while just above the airplane’s stall speed. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision and failure to regain aircraft control from the student pilot.
Flying
Picture of the Day: Flying over a volcano
Marshall Severson sent in this photo with a note: “This photo was shot by me over the steaming Mount Spurr volcano in south central Alaska on May 24, 2025. It is a frame save from my GoPro 360 Max. The C172 is at 11,500 feet. It is pretty thrilling up there.”
A day at KLVK
With events like this, it’s hard to know in advance what you’ll see, but any airplane is better than no airplane.
Backcountry etiquette campaign rolls out
RAF officials noted that the organization has partnered with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Tread Lightly, and state pilot organizations on the initiative, which is designed to raise awareness “on the importance of respecting the backcountry to preserve access to these special places.”
French company introduces hybrid-electric engine for homebuilt aircraft
The HPU 210 hybrid power unit (HPU) is equipped with Kawasaki’s H2SX thermal engine, which provides maximum power of 150 kW, along with a 60-kW electric motor. In typical operation, the thermal engine delivers baseline propulsive power, while the electric motor kicks in during high-power demand situations, boosting power by 40%, resulting in shorter takeoff distances, enhanced obstacle clearance, and increased cruise speeds, according to company officials.
Go Rentals launches seasonal location at KJPX
Go Rentals, a car rental provider, has opened a new location at Sound Aircraft Services, an FBO at East Hampton Town Airport (KJPX).
Improperly adjusted propeller leads to homebuilt’s crash
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to properly adjust the propeller’s pitch angle, which resulted in a loss of thrust and an inability to maintain altitude.
Picture of the Day: Spring tailwheel turf trek
Christian McIntyre submitted this photo and note: “Taking advantage of the spectacular spring weather in New England to explore the many grass strips. This is Waterbury-Plymouth (N41) in Connecticut. Seems like the vibrant colors of azure blue, bright white, and emerald green are set off by my yellow Cub PA-12 Super Cruiser.”
Spatial disorientation: GA’s deadliest threat
According to 2025 research from the FAA’s Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, general aviation accidents caused by spatial disorientation had a 94% fatality rate compared to the 19% fatality rate for all GA accidents.