You may have heard somewhere that a pilot shortage is looming. Personally, I believe that rumor to be true. I also believe there will be challenges in finding qualified people to fill skilled positions as aircraft mechanics, engineers, designers, administrators, and maybe even line personnel. The future is a blank slate. However, we can affect […]
General Aviation
First flight: Flight Design C4
KAMENZ, Germany — Last fall, Flight Design, manufacturer of the CT-series of Light-Sport Aircraft, promised to fly its new, four-seater called C4 by the opening of the Aero Friedrichshafen show. On Friday, April 9, the company achieved that goal. The weekend was spent reviewing initial results and preparing to set up at the event that starts April […]
Searey riding the wave
While some beautiful looking LSA seaplanes have captured lots of attention — I am thinking of Icon’s vigorously promoted A5, the unusually capable MVP, the highly innovative Wave, and Finland’s ATOL … all of which have some fascinating features — all but one share one feature: You can’t get one yet. ATOL is preparing to deliver […]
Eclipse and Kestrel unite to form ONE Aviation
A new company, ONE Aviation Corp. has been formed, which will continue development of the Kestrel K350 single-engine turboprop, as well as manufacturing of the Eclipse 550 jet. Alan Klapmeier, who founded Cirrus Aircraft with his brother, Dale, will lead the new company. “I feel privileged to lead this experienced team of aviation professionals as […]
California Aviation Day slated for April 22
The third annual California Aviation Day will take place Wednesday, April 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the north steps of the State Capitol in Sacramento. This event provides an opportunity for the public and the industry to come together and celebrate the variety and vitality of aviation in California, according to organizers. The public […]
AEA convention sets attendance record
The 58th annual Aircraft Electronic Association International Convention & Trade Show, which took place April 8-11 in Dallas, Texas, attracted 1,897 attendees with more than 350 avionics repair shops and more than 20 countries represented. The attendance figure breaks the event’s previous high mark of 1,873 attendees back in 2005, a year in which the […]
Guidance Aviation launches LZ network
Guidance Aviation has launched its LZ Network, emphasizing off-airport operations and real world training. The off-airport network of helipads and landing zones includes a floating helipad atop the organization’s 75-foot houseboat. Students practice pinnacle landings, confined areas, off-airport operations, and water landings. In addition to the over-water helipad on Lake Powell, Guidance has established off-airport LZ’s throughout […]
Landmark Aviation acquires TWC Aviation
Landmark Aviation has acquired TWC Aviation, a private jet charter and aircraft management company with an extensive fleet and 17-year legacy. The companies will continue to operate under their respective brands as they begin the integration process. TWC Aviation manages a fleet of more than 50 aircraft based at 25 locations across the United States with offices […]
Simulated engine-out leads to wire strike
The pilot of the Cessna 152 and a passenger were returning to their home airport at the conclusion of a cross-country flight. The pilot elected to perform a simulated loss of engine power and subsequent practice approach to a farm field. During the approach, the airplane descended to about the height of the irrigation system […]