U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt has introduced the Modern Skies Act, proposing a $30 billion investment to modernize the nation’s air traffic control and airport infrastructure. This would follow on the $12.5 billion Congress has already approved for the modernization efforts.
Flying
FAA Certifies Garmin Autoland on Epic E1000 AX
Epic Aircraft has received FAA certification for the Garmin Autoland system on its newest E1000 AX turboprop. Autoland empowers passengers to safely land the aircraft with the push of a button should the pilot become incapacitated mid-flight.
New Prop STC’d for Air Tractors
MT-Propeller has received an EASA STC approval for its 4-blade AVIA propeller on multiple Air Tractor AT models. FAA STC approval is in progress.
Improper Fuel System Maintenance Leads to Engine Failure
Probable Cause: A loss of engine power that resulted from improper fuel system maintenance and the subsequent fuel starvation due to the leaking fuel pump outlet fuel line.
Picture of the Day: Smoky Halo
Sam Winslow submitted this photo and note: “I took this photo in September 2026 after flying up to Santa Rosa-Sonoma County Airport (KSTS) in California for the day. There was a touch of haze in the air from nearby wildfires and perhaps some ice in the high clouds. I saw a halo from the sun framed behind the control tower. This photo is unedited — it really looked like that.”
A Veritable Roll Call of Aviation Rarity
Step back in time at the 2026 Grassroots Fly-In, where rare vintage aircraft take to the Wisconsin skies and pilots are enthusiastic to talk about the rare aircraft they own and fly.
Yingling Aviation Named Epic Aircraft Authorized Service Center
Epic Aircraft has selected Wichita-based Yingling Aviation to join its network of Authorized Service Centers.
New Tanis Preheating System Approved For TBM Turboprops
Tanis Aircraft Products has secured an STC and PMA for its preheating system for Daher TBM 700-series turboprops, from the original TBM 700 through the recently certificated TBM 980.
Wiring Damage Leads to Beech 58 Landing Gear Collapse
Probable Cause: Damage to the landing gear selector switch wire bundle which resulted in an inadvertent retraction of the landing gear during the takeoff roll.