While total operations for all six GA airports were down about 3% compared to the 352,195 total operations in 2021, three of the airports — St. Paul Downtown Airport (KSTP), Crystal Airport (KMIC) in northwest Minneapolis and Airlake Airport (KLVN) in Lakeville — saw increases in their operations, according to MAC officials.
General Aviation
Piper Seminole exhaust risers get FAA nod
The risers can be installed on 1979 to present Piper PA-44 Seminoles powered by two Lycoming 180-horsepower O-360 engines.
Decision to take off into IMC fatal for two
The pilot’s decision to takeoff into instrument meteorological conditions consisting of low ceilings and icing and his failure to remain clear of terrain while attempting to remain below the clouds, which resulted in impact with terrain.
Picture of the Day: What’s not to like?
Gary Lanthrum submitted this photo and note: “My Maule MX7-180C at Sullivan Lake in northeast Washington State. This lovely spot in the Selkirk Mountains is a gem of backcountry flying. The lake is clean. There is a state campground adjacent to the runway so potable water is available and the scenery is spectacular. What’s not to like?”
Human Factors: Say it out loud
In his report on the gear-up accident to the NTSB, the pilot said that he was alone in the airplane and “I did not state my GUMPS checks out loud,” adding that he normally “religiously” says a minimum of two out loud and sometimes three.
A new mission for an old research plane
A Twin Otter that served NASA for 40 years by flying experiments now has a new mission: Training the next generation of Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics.
Duncan Aviation opens avionics shop at KFRG
The Lincoln, Nebraska-based company used to have a satellite location at Long Island Mac Arthur Airport (KISP) on Long Island.
Radiant Technology introduces new Carbon Monoxide detector
Designed in accordance with FAA published guidelines for strength of CO and color coding, the Geiger Plus includes an additional feature that detects Volatile Organic Compounds, including exhaust and gasoline vapor, via a distinct, blue LED.
Pilot nearly hits skydiver
Ground Operations advised me that there was a NOTAM for jumping operations. I responded that I had not checked the NOTAMs for ZZZ since I wasn’t landing there.