Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper descent rate during the final approach, resulting in a hard landing and collision with runway edge lights.
Pilots
Picture of the Day: Seattle Sunset
Rahul Pathak submitted this photo and note: “Sunset approach in a Cirrus SR22T into Boeing Field (KBFI) from the east, with Mt. Rainier and downtown Bellevue in the background.”
Nose-Turreted Liberators: The Rigors of War
With Japanese and German fighter pilots making head-on attacks with closing speeds exceeding 500 mph, B-24s were modified with a manned nose turret.
The Final Push to 2.5 Million Young Eagles
The program is within 25,000 Young Eagles of reaching its goal of 2.5 million kids flown by EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.
AOPA Board Elects New Chairman
A new chairman of the board is named, while two long-time board members are not seeking re-election.
Aviation Sales Certificate Program Takes Off
The Aviation Professional Sales Certificate Program is designed to provide a structured pathway into aviation sales — an area of the industry that historically has had limited formal training options.
Skiplane Bent When Pilot Lands Between Runway and Taxiway
Probable Cause: The pilot’s loss of directional control while landing in soft snow, resulting in a nose over.
Picture of the Day: The $100 Hamburger
John Steffey submitted this photo and note: “My son, our dog, and my wife in the back of our PA-32. Family fun going for a $100 hamburger.”
Questions from the Cockpit: Complicated Characteristics
Trey, a student pilot in Colorado, writes: “I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the difference between maneuverability and controllability, I don’t think I’m stupid, but…”