Probable Cause: Damage to the landing gear selector switch wire bundle which resulted in an inadvertent retraction of the landing gear during the takeoff roll.
Pilots
Picture of the Day: Wisconsin’s Largest Weathervane
Sparky Barnes submitted this photo and note: “Though its flying days have gone by, this Cessna 150 is still aloft by the shore of Cedar Lake in Wisconsin, at Meister’s Grill and Bar. There’s a seaplane base at Cedar Lake (WI35), so folks can arrive by plane, boat, or car to enjoy great food! (Note: The seaplane base is “Private use. Permission required prior to landing.”)
The Big Wrap Up
After 16 years and hundreds of weekly columns, Jamie Beckett is stepping back from his regular spot at General Aviation News. In this final wrap-up, he reflects on his incredible journey, the amazing aviators he’s met, and his exciting next chapters in aviation.
New Meadow View Peak Backcountry Airstrip Planned For 2027
The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation has purchased 136 acres near Meadow View Peak in California to develop a new public backcountry airstrip. A $200,000 Phase 1 capital campaign will fund site improvements at the airstrip, which the foundation hopes to open in the summer of 2027.
New Aircraft Maintenance Division Opens at KDCU
The Pryor Field Airport Authority has launched a new aircraft maintenance division at Pryor Flight Center. Serving general aviation aircraft owners in North Alabama and the Southeast, this expanded facility offers inspections, avionics services, and emergency repairs.
New Glasses Feature More Lens, Same Fit Under a Headset
Flying Eyes Optics has introduced the Kingfisher Sport, a new sunglass model featuring an 8-base wrap and larger lenses for maximum visual coverage. Designed with patented, ultra-thin temples, the glasses fit under aviation headsets and helmets without causing pressure, pain, or noise leaks, according to company officials.
Fuel Control Unit Leak Causes Air Tractor Accident
Probable Cause: A partial loss of engine power due to a leak in the fuel control unit bellows, which resulted in the fuel valve moving to minimum fuel flow.
Picture of the Day: Flying Through a Rainbow
Joyce and Art Woods submitted this photo and note: “Flying through a New Mexico rainbow after a welcome rain just north of Albuquerque, in our Cessna Skyhawk XP. We observed the double rainbow ahead transform to a circle below us.”
Flight, Power, and Community Pride
The 35th annual Marion Fly/In Cruise/In brought together aviation enthusiasts and the local community for a showcase of vintage aircraft, classic cars, and warbirds. With the theme of “35 Years of Flight, Power, and Community Pride!” the event showcased an astounding variety of aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, tractors, and other vehicles.