We used to just fly the airplane. Now, we want air-conditioning, glass panels, noise-cancelling headsets, and cupholders. All good things. All highly attractive to buyers. But they don’t make the airplane fly any better or the pilots any smarter.
flying
The Life General Aviation Built
In a new video posted by Habitat for Aviation, 83-year-old Vermont A&P mechanic and pilot George Coy says general aviation was never just a career, it was a way of life.
New Initiatives Launched by Revamped Oregon Pilots Association
From a new non-profit Oregon Air Safety and Education Foundation to increased legislative outreach to an airport passport program, the renewed association is ready to fly.
Sporty’s Adds PilotWorkshops Mastery Series to its Pilot Training App
Unlike traditional video courses, the Mastery programs immerse pilots in realistic flight situations that require evaluating weather, aircraft performance, charts, regulations, airport information, and operational risks before choosing a course of action. Each scenario includes detailed instructor analysis and roundtable discussions, featuring experienced flight instructors who often debate different approaches and techniques.
Hot Day, Heavy Airplane Bad Combination for Pilot and Two Passengers
Probable Cause: A loss of engine performance due to carbon fouling of three spark plugs that, when combined with the airplane’s high gross weight condition, resulted in a collision with trees and terrain.
Picture of the Day: No Frills Cockpit
Karyn King submitted this photo and note: “On a recent beautiful sunny day we flew to Payson Arizona, for a great breakfast. In contrast to the beautiful mountain scenery, I stopped to take a picture of the co-pilot backseat no frills cockpit of our 1982 Nanchang CJ6.”
Beech Bash: Where Flying Meets Family Fun
Beech Bash in the Bluegrass is an annual gathering of Beech owners — and so much more.
FAA Administrator Says ADS-B Should Not Be a Fee Collection Tool
At least a dozen states are considering legislation to prevent ADS-B from being used to collect fees. Montana and Florida have already passed bans. But aviation advocates say a nationwide ban is needed.
Oklahoma Greenlights $520 Million Airport Construction Program
The Oklahoma Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission has approved a $520 million, five-year Airport Construction Program running through 2031. Funding 176 total infrastructure developments—including terminal upgrades, runway extensions, and new hangars—the pro-growth initiative aims to enhance safety, boost local economies, and expand the state’s global aerospace footprint.