Sesquiplanes enjoyed a moment in the sun as designers grappled with the robust structural truss integrity of biplanes versus the lower drag of monoplanes. Sesquiplanes, effectively a “monoplane and a half,” as described by aviation historian Joseph Juptner, used an abbreviated lower wing to enable bracing, while keeping overall span short, and reducing drag below that of a full-bore biplane.
Pilots
Researchers study near misses between airplanes and drones
Given that most close calls happen within 1.5 miles of a runway approach or departure zone, researchers recommend extending the runway exclusion zone for drones at the ends of high-risk runways from about 1 mile to 3.5 miles.
Diamond DA50 RG earns FAA certification
The first U.S. delivery, to Jordan Cram, occurred at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023.
Garmin’s PlaneSync now available for retrofit installations
PlaneSync automatically updates avionics databases, logs flight and engine data, and allows aircraft owners to remotely check fuel and systems status via the Garmin Pilot app, according to company officials.
Overloaded plane crashes in river
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during takeoff which resulted in a collision with a river. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s improper decision to load the airplane above its maximum allowable gross weight.
The men who built the largest piston engine in the world
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: My grandfather, Russell Leuck, worked at Avco Lycoming Engines in 1943. I found a picture of him with a group of men with the XR-7755 engine. I was wondering if you would possibly have any thoughts in regards to how he would have been helping with this project?
Daher partners with Recreational Aviation Foundation to help maintain backcountry airstrips
In 2023 Daher provided a Kodiak 900 to assist U.S. Forest Service (USFS) personnel in accessing two isolated grass strips in the mountains of southeastern Idaho.
Prepare for more turbulence ahead
Changing weather patterns have caused significant increases in turbulence over the past 40 years. Are you prepared for it?
Boeing donates $950,000 for flight training scholarships
Boeing is donating $500,000 to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Latino Pilots Association, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Sister of the Skies, and Women in Aviation. It’s donating another $450,000 to Fly Compton.