The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from snow covered terrain while maneuvering at low attitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s loss of visual reference due to snow and flat light conditions.
Flying
Picture of the Day: Pattern work
Rahul Pathak submitted this photo and note: “A Cessna 172 doing pattern work at Renton Municipal Airport (KRNT) in Renton, Washington, on a blustery fall morning with Mt. Rainier in the background. The wind was gusty and Rainier was covered in dramatic lenticular clouds.”
Ask Paul: Why did my tach fail?
Our engines expert turns to another expert for help in answering a reader’s question.
Company creating fleet of jet airliner firefighting aircraft
Neptune Aviation will be the first company to use the Airbus A319 to fight fires.
New president for General Aviation Manufacturers Association
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Board of Directors has tapped James Viola as the association’s new president and CEO. He will replace Pete Bunce, who is retiring after 20 years at the helm of the association.
Taxi Camera introduced for experimental aircraft
The camera “provides excellent vision of what the pilot often can’t see: What’s straight in front,” according to company officials.
Student pilot loses control during engine start
The pilot’s loss of directional control during engine start.
Picture of the Day: King Air sunset
Matthew Baker submitted this photo and note: “A nice Florida sunset at the Bartow Executive Airport (KBOW) of a Beechcraft King Air 350 sitting on ramp.”
Expert tips on extending the life of your airplane’s engine
I have been working in the General Aviation fuels and lubricant area for about 45 years, and for the last four decades one of the most frequent questions I get is “what are the biggest problems in these areas?” The answer for both is the same.