Designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane 12, the Echo Aviation Controller integrates primary flight controls (pitch, roll, and yaw) with secondary and trim inputs into a single, handheld unit. Throttle, propeller, and mixture controls are built directly into the controller, complemented by dedicated levers for flaps, landing gear position, speed brakes, and parking brake.
Pilots
Pilot Crashes From Fuel Exhaustion on Way to Buy Cheaper Fuel
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper preflight fuel planning that resulted in the loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Picture of the Day: Night Flight
Jerry Webber submitted this photo and note: “A recent night flight across the south end of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (KDFW) in a Cessna 150C at 3,500 feet. Approach controller was very helpful.”
Human Factors: When Over and Above Isn’t Enough
A March 2024 accident where the engine failed “without warning” raises the question of whether an “old school” technique might be able to catch problems newer tools miss.
Bigger Is Better — At Least for Flight Training Organizations
Highlights from the annual State of Flight Training Report show that flight schools are getting bigger, students are learning faster, but it’s costing them more.
Pull A Plane Features B-29 DOC
“The Pull a Plane event is a unique way for the community to come together to honor the legacy of those who served our nation and put Wichita on the map as the Air Capital of the World,” officials said, noting the event will raise funds to keep DOC flying for years to come, as well as for scholarships.
Federal Grant Will Boost Aviation Training at WMU
The money will be used to purchase tools such as simulation software, maintenance training simulators, and cockpit electronic trainers, among other technology. It will also pay for new equipment for the uncrewed aerial systems operations certificate program, which Western Michigan University is considering expanding into a Bachelor of Science program.
Crankshaft Fatigue Fracture Leads to Emergency Landing
Probable Cause: A total loss of engine power due to a fatigue fracture of the crankshaft.
Picture of the Day: Special Delivery
Andrea Pietrowsky submitted this photo and note: “LifeLine Pilots volunteer Ed and his daughter deliver future service dog Chelsea to Canine Companions volunteer Mary.”