Hangar Flying has updated its Panel Designer, a web tool that helps builders of experimental aircraft design their instrument panels. New features include custom colors, structural depth views, and automated equipment lists that streamline panel layout directly from your browser.
Pilots
Carburetor Ice Downs Piper Fresh Out of Annual
Probable Cause: The pilot’s inadequate use of carburetor heat during the engine run-up, which resulted in a partial loss of power due to carburetor icing during takeoff.
Picture of the Day: Night Landing
David Newill submitted this photo and note: “Pat Gaston and friends returning to Indianapolis Executive Airport (KTYQ) on a beautiful night for flying the Cessna 310. And yes he just rolled it on — night flying can be great!”
Tillamook Air Museum to Reopen Oct. 29
Following a storm-related closure and a landmark $1 ownership transfer, the historic Tillamook Air Museum is reopening Oct. 29.
Aviation Mechanic Certificates Reach Record High In 2025
Despite record FAA mechanic certifications in 2025, a new report highlights growing aviation workforce shortages as the industry continues to expand and mechanics retire.
AirQuest Aviation Named Authorized Piper Service Center
Expands maintenance support for Piper aircraft owners at its Pittsburgh-Butler Regional and Beaver County airport locations.
Deteriorated Gasket Leads to Fuel Starvation
Probable Cause: The total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of a deteriorated gascolator gasket. Contributing was the failure of the mechanic to replace the gasket during the most recent condition inspection.
Picture of the Day: A Cub in a Field
Jackie Burch submitted this photo and note: “Just three days after taking ownership of my new-to-me 2015 Carbon Cub SS, I landed on a rural road in Kansas to visit friends while flying home from Chicago to California. This was only my sixth landing in the aircraft, and I hadn’t flown a tailwheel airplane solo in more than three years. Quite the thrill keeping Lil’ Red on the centerline of the narrow farm road, especially with a bunch of guys watching. Here she sits, parked in the neighboring field during my visit. With grass too long and tires too small, landing in the field wasn’t an option. The road was the ticket. Clearly, bigger tires are in Lil’ Red’s future!”
When Skill Is Not Enough
Even experienced pilots can struggle under pressure. Why do some pilots find that their knowledge and skill seem to disappear exactly when they are needed most, such as during a check ride? And what can you do to ensure it doesn’t happen to you?