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June 02, 2024

B-17 Aluminum Overcast Tags Sold Via EAA

Collectibles Around, but Not for Long

PlaneTags has finished up a run of plates using some of the castoff skins of the upper wings from the Experimental Aviation Association's B-17 Aluminum Overcast. The skins were taken off in March of 2014, when the aircraft was overhauled and stripped down for a much needed refurb. The EAA has put up 8 different variations, since the removed skins had black, white, and silver sections to choose from. Most of the time, ones with some kind of striation or paint application seem to do better on the secondary market, so the "partial black paint" or riveted pieces will likely prove popular in years to come. Expect to pay about $110 on the lower end for a plainer tag, and about $165 for the more interesting variants.

Stefanie's Work Hides Behind First Responders to Gut the Affordable Drone Market

The Drone industry has raised its hackles regarding the Drones for First Responders Act introduced by Congressional rep Elise Stefanie, describing it as a boon to the EMS/Fire/Police crowd at the expense of the recreational and commercial drone industries. "While on the surface, this bill makes a lot of sense, and I believe the industry is on board with what the Congresswoman is trying to do for First Responders (in addition to farmers and ranchers, as well as those who work with critical infrastructure), that’s where our support ends," said Vic Moss of the Droning Company.

Flight Sim Association Studies the Age-Old Question

The Flight Simulation Association completed a survey of pilots and air traffic controllers across the country, looking to quantify the exact impact of home-based flight simulation on their resulting training. While it's long been said that flight simming is more harm than good, cementing bad habits and inflating egos in a phase that can't handle too much of either. That's been pushed back on in younger generations, however, as flight simulation became more advanced, and physical control setups came down in price. The Association found that for Private Pilot students, those who used the flight sim saved about 5.5 hours of training time - not too shabby when Skyhawk time seems to settle around $150

Also: NATA CEO In Legal Dilemma, WestJet Encore Settle, Drone Bill H.R. 8416, USN Jet Trainer

GAMA released their 1Q/24 GA Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report -- with mostly mixed news. The results for the first three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023, show deliveries were flat for piston airplanes and piston helicopters, decreased for turboprops and turbine helicopters, and increased for business jets. Total aircraft billings were up 3.2% at $4.7 billion. Czech sportplane manufacturer Direct Fly has finished delivering its 200th ALTO NG, the latest iteration of their 600-kg sportplane. The Alto was previously offered

F-16 Viper Demonstrators Reveal 50th Anniversary Livery

Paint Echoes Original Design of YF-16 in 1974

The U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demonstration Team showed off a brand new paint scheme to celebrate their 50th anniversary, mirroring the design of the original YF-16 prototype from 1974. The pain design took much longer than they'd expect, stretching a 3-week job into 8 weeks after all was said and done. The team worked with the 412th Test Wing to ensure it was done correctly, since their logistics manager Tony Accurso would be directing the Edwards AFB F-16 50th Anniversary celebration. He became their go-to for historical accuracy, ensuring the resulting paint scheme would be a spot-on evocation of the original prototype.

Also: Midnight eVTOL Certification, Falcon 9 Record, Pro Line Fusion, Europa Clipper

The warbird community celebrated Mark Novak, Chief Pilot of their B-29 'Doc', and his accomplishment of racking up 500 hours in the vintage bomber. On top of that, Novak built up more than 300 hours of time flying the other B-29 'Fifi', making him the modern era's most experienced B-29 pilot. The Airspace Center for Excellence has been given the blessing to begin operating Lakeland Linder International Airport's first concessions store, riding on the tail of new commercial service by Avelo Airlines. Evidently, there weren't too many bidders for the opportunity, wi

Nexus Full-Scale Technology Demonstrator Should Fly Next Year

Textron has successfully connected the two halves of the fuselage of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), Nexus, full-scale technology demonstrator. This significant milestone involves joining the central sections of the aircraft that are designed to seat passengers. “Since the formation of Textron eAviation, the team has been focused on vehicle design, performance confirmation and the build of our first full-scale technology demonstrator to test the control and functionality of the aircraft,” said Kriya Shortt, president & CEO, Textron eAviation.

Also: uAvionix AV-Link, F-16 Viper Demo, TN National Guard, 'Staff the Towers'

A Saturday afternoon jump run, originating from SkyDive Kansas City, went bad when it was reported that, "a Skydiver premature parachute deployment at 14,000 msl damag(ed) the tail section." The turbine-upgraded Cessna 206, N29173, was abandoned by the pilot, who made a safe and successful jump, though the aircraft is a total loss. The parachute-equipped jump pilot exited the aircraft after all six jumpers had cleared the aircraft. The fourth flight test of Starship could launch as soon as June 5, pending regulatory approval. SpaceX notes that Starship’s third fli

2024 SUN N FUN Innovation Preview Segments Published

Massive Aviation News Event Started 2024 Off With a Plethora of Exciting Info

Last year, we introduced the SnF Innovation Preview in which 25 companies introduced over 30 new planes, products, engines, accessories, and more… in other words… a LOT of news. Rotax previewed the powerful 916iS, CubCrafters showcased the Carbon Cub UL, Bose introduced the A30, Aerox revealed the Boomula… and so much more. This year, we went beyond that... way beyond all that, with a larger selection of news announcements that covered ALL aspects of sport, general and commercial aviation... all at the start of the

Also: VA Scholarships, Certification Standards, 'Staff the Towers', Women in Aviation Advisory

In partnership with Revv Aviation and the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), Coe College is opening a new flight school and aviation management program. Those interested in becoming a professional pilot can complete their certification while enrolled as students within Coe's new aviation management concentration. Just as they got themselves a new contract, things spiraled out of control as the NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots claimed, "Managers use intimidation, aggressive interrogation tactics to silence the Union's voice." Scarcely a few weeks passed si

Klyde's Not A Fan Of The Buffoons At NPS, Either...

FMI: www.klydemorris.com

Also: Samson Sky, CAF Great Plains Wing, New Cert Standards, Flying Start Day

There are, occasionally, blisteringly dunderheaded bits of governmental incompetence to be found with increasing regularity... but the most recent move by the Nat'l Parks Service leaves us shaking our heads and a bit ashamed of Uncle Sam. The leaders of the Arsenal of Democracy consortium had planned to execute a World War II aircraft flyover at Mount Rushmore on Memorial Day to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. It would have been grand... and NOT a sight to miss. Vertical Aviation International is worried that an NYC helicopter port is in danger of permanent cl

UAS International Trip Support Joins Hands with 4AIR

Partnership Brings 4AIR Programs, Software to UASITS Portfolio

UAS International Trip Support has started up a strategic partnership with 'aviation sustainability solution leader', 4AIR to offer the latter's programs to clientele. 4AIR's programs include software covering voluntary sustainability initiatives, regulatory monitoring, compliance , and sustainable aviation fuel inventory management. UAS International Trip Support, despite its name, is a flight support business not so much related to drones and autonomous flight, but focused almost entirely on ensuring easy, friction-free passenger operations around the world. Their footprint already touches on a variety of industry groups and businesses, giving them access to suppliers, fuel producers

Also: ALPA Warns, ASA Updates Training Logs, Florida Teen Scholarship, Aviation Meteorology

The EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program has seen its 500th student pilot graduate helped along the way, marking off a significant milestone for the group's most widely useful scholarship. The Ray Scholarship is funded by the Ray Foundation, but managed by EAA. That allows it to source candidates through its network of EAA chapters. Women in Corporate Aviation has announced the recipients of its Spring Scholarship Program, noting that they've had a record amount of applications in the last year. All in all, WCA saw more than 300 applicants for the scholarsh

Also: VAI v Anti-Heli Actions, Electric Aircraft Symposium, 2024 FAA Drone/AAM Symposium, Gravitymaster

Blue Origin's seventh passenger flight ended with a smidgeon of drama when one of its 3 parachutes failed to fully deploy, forcing it to rely on its remaining 2 units. That's not the worst system failure in the world, since the triple-chute system sports redundancy as a baseline, but it's always a little discomfiting to rely on a backup whenever parachutes are involved. Women in Aviation International (WAI) members and friends will honor the valiant service of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) by visiting their graves and leaving an appro

Easy Online Forms Available For Sport Plane Manufacturers And Suppliers To Be Listed In The Upcoming eSPRG

Work on the SportPlane Resource Guide is going well… Albeit a little bit behind schedule, because as we got into this process, things became a bit more complicated simply because we learned we could do an even better job at certain aspects of this project than we thought from the beginning. They say that the enemy of true quality is the phrase "good enough" and we want to be far more than “good enough.” FMI: www.sportplane.com,

Airborne Programming Continues Serving SportAv With 'Airborne-Affordable Flyers'

With The eSPRG Only Weeks Away From Its Start Date, A-AF Will Help To Support Sport Flyers, Worldwide

With the all-new and all-digital SportPlane Resource Guide getting ready for publication early next year, the Aero-News Network is pleased to announce yet another addition to the Airborne video news programming roster… Airborne-Affordable Flyers. Dedicated to keeping people up-to-date on the most affordable aspects of sport and general aviation, Airborne-Affordable Flyers is one of our most exciting offerings yet. A-AF will delve into more than just the current LSA community, but look at all aspects of aviation to examine and ev

First Pieces Of Wreckage Recovered At The Beginning Of The Path Consisted Of The Separated Elevator-Rudders

On May 15, 2024, at 1202 central daylight time, a Beech V35-TC, N47WT, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Franklin, Tennessee. The private pilot and the two passengers were fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot departed from Louisiana Regional Airport (REG), Gonzales, Louisiana on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan about 0850 and was enroute to Bowman Field Airport (LOU), Louisville, Kentucky to pick up an additional passenger before returning to REG. The planned flight was about 550 nautical miles.

From 2020 (YouTube Version): First Flight Conducted In Early 2019

SyberJet Aircraft recently completed the first flight of its SJ30i aircraft featuring SyberVision, an all-new cockpit based around the Honeywell Epic 2.0 avionics suite, new ergonomic enhancements, electronic standby attitude/heading display, and much more. SyberJet conducted the flight out of its Engineering and Product Development Center at the San Antonio International Airport (KSAT) and kicked off an 18-month certification test program which will culminate in an amende

Deal Helps Bolster Development Process on Road to Production for Helix eVTOL

Pivotal signed an 'Other Transaction Authority' contract with the US Air Force and its AFWERX Agility Prime program, providing them with access to testing facilities, segregated airspace, and "expert resources" for a 2-year term. The firm sees the contract as a very solid step in the right direction, where they'll be able to make the best use of government testing facilities and space to keep up developmental pace on their Helix eVTOL. “This OTA (Other Transaction Authority) Contract with the USAF is our first direct-to-government contract and only our second DoD related transaction. We see this as a strong vote of support for the mission potential of Pivotal&r

We're Accepting Resumes -- AND Hiring! ANN Puts Out 'Help Wanted' Sign

BIG Upgrades In The Works --- ANN Is Seeking EXCEPTIONAL New Staffers

The last few years have been about as challenging a time as we can recall... but we survive (yeah, we're kinda surprised, too) and look forward to 2023 and what we see as a very rewarding (and yes, still challenging) new generation of activities at ANN. After some truly weird times during the pandemic, ANN continues to expand slowly, but surely, and we have some truly intriguing upgrades coming up over the next few months. In other words, we're about to grow again -- REALLY/TRULY -- and in some novel directions. The much-appreciated expansion of

And That's But One Of Over A Dozen Major Developments Planned For The Next Year Or So

Aero-News Network is now available on Roku and Amazon FireTV! That’s right folks. You can now get your daily dose of aviation news… right on the ol' giggle box! This is an EPIC development for our network, one of many to come, and we’re thrilled to offer you this new way to watch our news programming. Whether you’re a traditional website reader, podcast listener, or YouTube subscriber, we’re dedicated to giving you quality, honest, aviation news that you can trust and broadening our reach and audience aggressively in the coming years, so that we may both Grow and Inform the aviatio

Brand New! Avoid The Need For A Comeback... Get Your Marketing Right, Right Now!

Some time ago, the Aero-News Network, responding to numerous requests, established a marketing and communications sister company by the name of AEROPRENEUER... and it's been doing amazing work under these difficult circumstances -- and getting results! We're getting rave reviews from our clients, and working hard to earn the trust of a number of new marketing partners along the way. ANN's Amber Cedroni has come up with a few tips to help aero-businesses stay alive in these tough times, and

Emphasis On Growing The Future of Aviation Through Concentration on 'AFFORDABLE FLYERS'

It's been a number of years since the Latest Edition of Jim Campbell's HUGE SportPlane Resource Guide first saw the light of day. That massive 1100 page book last featured over 800 exciting sport aircraft from all over the SportPlane universe... at a time when the SportPlane industry was still a healthy, thriving enterprise (those were the days...). While there has been some consideration, off and on, toward updating the nearly 5 pound book, the near implosion of the SportPlane and kit industry over the last decade has made such a pursuit an unwieldy one... until now.

Read/Watch/Listen... ANN Does It All

There Are SO Many Ways To Get YOUR Aero-News!

It’s been a while since we have reminded everyone about all the ways we offer your daily dose of aviation news on-the-go...so here is a full list of ways you can subscribe to our channels and get notifications when there are new episodes or breaking news! 1) Subscribe To Our Newsletter When surveyed, almost half of our audience shared with us that they rely on our daily newsletter to get their aviation news for the day and stay up-to-date in their field or craft. Are you subscribed yet? If not, use the link below to receive our daily Propwash emails that always feature a feed of our latest stories and breaking news. SUBSCRIBE >&g

Aero Linx: Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) The Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) is a non-profit association formed in 1961 as Canada's voice for business aviation. Since its inception, CBAA has assumed an increasing role in its advocacy for Canadian business aviation interests. With a membership of approximately 400 companies and organizations, including operators, management companies and suppliers, CBAA represents the entire business aviation community with a unified and collective voice.

Mach Technique [ICAO] Describes a control technique used by air traffic control whereby turbojet aircraft operating successively along suitable routes are cleared to maintain appropriate MACH numbers for a relevant portion of the en route phase of flight. The principal objective is to achieve improved utilization of the airspace and to ensure that separation between successive aircraft does not decrease below the established minima.

Growing The Audience For Your News

The goal of the Airborne Partnership Initiative is to grow this program to include a significant portion, if not a majority, of the aviation world’s pivotal organizations, interests, and viewpoints.

Aero-News: Quote of the Day (06.02.24)

"While on the surface, this bill makes a lot of sense, and I believe the industry is on board with what the Congresswoman is trying to do for First Responders (in addition to farmers and ranchers, as well as those who work with critical infrastructure), that’s where our support ends..." Source: Vic Moss of the Droning Company, voicing his agreements and disagreements with an effort by Congressperson Elise Stefanik to limit certain drone operations here in the US.

Airborne 05.31.24: 1Q GA Sales, 200th ALTO LSA, Spitfire Grounding

Also: NATA CEO In Legal Dilemma, WestJet Encore Settle, Drone Bill H.R. 8416, USN Jet Trainer

Upcoming "One FedEx" Program Ruffles Feathers at Cargo Carrier

FedEx pilots and the Air Line Pilots Association haven't been too keen on FedEx' new "One FedEx" scheme, to the point they're willing to set up an informational picket at their Memphis base. Roughly, the change is a consolidation of operating companies, which will herald a 10% dividend increase on the way to "$4 billion in benefits from transformation." It will bring FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, FedEx Services, and other FedEx operating companies into a single Federal Express Corporation.

ATG Network Provider Adds to the Family

Air-to-Ground internet provider SmartSky has added Aero Center Atlanta to their network of dealers and installers, adding 7 FBO locales to the roster. The addition means that Aero Centers can provide Part 145 maintenance services along with flu-service management, charter, and FBO services. Their Atlanta location is by far the most plush in the family, described as a crown jewel amongst a slate of smaller facilities throughout the US. They're already in the swing of things, installing SmartSky's Flagship and LITE systems to cover everything from smaller aircraft to large-cabin bizjets.

Merlin Begins Flight Studies in KC-135

While a Robo-Tanker Pilot is a Long Way Off, Everything Starts Somewhere

A lesser-known project from Merlin began doing some data collection flights with a KC-135 Stratotanker from MacDill AFB, gathering info about crew workload, tasking, and use cases for their future Merlin Pilot suite. They went on a pair of flights back to back, assessing tasks that pilots perform in the course of a normal tanker flight. The firm is reportedly assessing just where autonomy could actually make the most effective difference in improving safety, cost, and efficiency.

Also: Midnight eVTOL Certification, Falcon 9 Record, Pro Line Fusion, Europa Clipper

Army's New UAS Powerplant Looks Promising, with Increased TBO, Generation, and Power

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, in many ways America's flagship combat UAV manufacturer, has finished up durability testing on a new 200-hp engine. The firm calls it the "Heavy Fuel Engine (HFE) 2.0", designed to provide 2,500 hours between overhauls and chug along for long flights with nary a complaint. The final durability test put their test unit through a ringer of 1,250 full-power takeoffs and climbs, along with 200 hours of cruise with a fallback generator setup to simulate a worst-case loading condition. At the end of it all, General Atomics gave it the nod, setting it up for the Army's upcoming Multi-Domain Ops UAS. Now, it only needs one more 150-ho

Another Pie in the Sky "Game Changer" Program Sticks Around a While Longer

Bell has been given funding under Phase 1B of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) X-Plane program. Bell will move on from Phase 1A, where it completed a conceptual design review, and will now move on to "preliminary design efforts" for the SPRINT X-Plane. SPRINT aims to "design, build, and fly an X-Plane" aimed at a "transformational combination of aircraft speed and runway independence for the next generation of air mobility platforms". While much of the time these nifty pie-in-the-sky projects come to little more than some fun press releases and an aborted project at the end of their funding, ther

Airborne 05.28.24: Jump Plane Down, Starship's 4th, Vision Jet Problems

Also: uAvionix AV-Link, F-16 Viper Demo, TN National Guard, 'Staff the Towers'

UK Base Hones Skills in Overhauling Bizjet Classic

StandardAero announced that its Gosport, UK facility has taken in its 500th Pratt & Whitney Canada PW300 for scheduled maintenance. It's a small milestone but somewhat notable to get word out there that the 'newcomers', who started working on the type in 2009, have gotten the routine down pat. Gosport was added as a Pratt & Whitney Designated Overhaul Facility back then, and that slice of the pie has fed StandardAero's British operations quite well in the years since.

Also: VA Scholarships, Certification Standards, 'Staff the Towers', Women in Aviation Advisory

Also: Samson Sky, CAF Great Plains Wing, New Cert Standards, Flying Start Day

Airborne 05.22.24: NS-25 Chute Failure, #HonorTheWASP, SkyCourier 'Combi'

Also: VAI v Anti-Heli Actions, Electric Aircraft Symposium, 2024 FAA Drone/AAM Symposium, Gravitymaster

Also: ALPA Warns, ASA Updates Training Logs, Florida Teen Scholarship, Aviation Meteorology

Witnesses In The Area Reported Low Clouds, Fog, And Reduced Visibility Along The Accident Airplane’s Anticipated Flight Route

On May 17, 2024, about 1145 Alaska daylight time, a wheel-equipped Taylorcraft BC12-D airplane, N95744, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Nondalton, Alaska. The pilot and passenger were fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 flight. The uncertificated pilot, and his passenger, reportedly departed from the Port Alsworth Airport (PTA), Port Alsworth, Alaska, about 1130 and were traveling to the Nondalton Airport (5NN) Nondalton. The community of Nondalton is located on the western shoreline of Six Mile Lake. About 2000, the

From 2016 (YouTube Version): A Truly Unique Flying Experience…

Most of us have dreamed of being able to fly like a bird. And while that’s not an option for most of us, unless you’re interested in a wingsuit, one company has devised a way to at least get close. At I/ITSEC 2016 in Orlando, Florida, Tony Isaacs, VP of Development for PLW Model Works, told ANN CEO and Editor in Chief Jim Campbell that they have married high-resolution virtual reality with a fully-immersive simulation to allow you to “fly” over

ANN's Daily Aero-Linx (06.01.24)

Aero Linx: International Academy of Aviation and Space Medicine (IAASM)

The Academy was founded in 1955, with the object of searching for and promoting new knowledge in Aviation and Space Medicine and contributing to international co-operation and exchange of information among those devoted to education and research in this field. Members of the Academy (referred to as ‘Academicians’) are selected for their merit, based on their outstanding contribution to Aviation and Space Medicine, regardless of nationality, race, creed, ideology, political belief or any other characteristic. Membership is limited to 275 with representation from leaders in the specialty from all the regions of the

Hold For Release Used by ATC to delay an aircraft for traffic management reasons; i.e., weather, traffic volume, etc. Hold for release instructions (including departure delay information) are used to inform a pilot or a controller (either directly or through an authorized relay) that an IFR departure clearance is not valid until a release time or additional instructions have been received.

New Products And Programs From The Leader In Aviation News Online

The Airborne Partnership Initiative, we call it the API, is a plan developed by ANN CEO and Editor-In-Chief, Jim Campbell, to build a synergistic, industry-wide, aviation/aerospace news program. Our aim is to grow this program to include a significant portion, if not a majority, of the aviation world’s pivotal organizations, interests, and viewpoints.

“As FedEx begins its journey to restructure under the ‘One FedEx’ strategy, our pilots remind management that there’s still unfinished business to address in the near term. Our negotiations began well ahead of this realignment strategy, and we strongly believe management must resolve outstanding labor disputes to ensure the company’s continued success. Our outdated contract does not reflect the strategic direction of the company nor the standard for commercial airline pilots." Source: Jose Nieves, chair of the FedEx ALPA Master Executive Council, as

May 31, 2024

UK Spitfire Crash Grounds Battle of Britain Fleet

RAF Mourns Loss of One of Its Own, Squadron Leader Mark Long

A tragic crash involving a Royal Air Force Spitfire has led to the grounding of the fleet for the time being. The pilot's identity has been released to the public, Squadron Leader Mark Long. He was a Typhoon pilot with the Royal Air Force before getting a slot with the Memorial Flight, where he's been flying the last 4 years. Prior to the incident, the BBMF had 6 original Spitfires left, which fly alongside a dozen airworthy Hurricanes. The unit is staffed as a regular RAF unit, funded by the UK's Ministry of Defense.

Transition from 'Helicopter' Society to 'Vertical Flight' Helps Strengthen Industry Ties

One of the Vertical Flight Society's own has been given the Exceptional Public Service Medal from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), garnering just another smidgeon of prestige for the organization. VFS Director of Strategy Mike Hirschberg was recognized with the EPSM, which is awarded to those who contribute to NASA's mission without being on a government payroll. Hirschberg was honored at the NASA Ames Research Center’s “2023 Presidential Rank & NASA Honors Awards” ceremony, where 73 individual and 27 group awards were given to NASA employees, contractors and groups. Hirschberg was the only one out of 100 awards g

$7.5 Million Replaces 4 Out-of-Spec Taxiways at Tulsa Reliever

Tulsa Riverside Airport of Oklahoma has completed a small ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of a newly realigned Taxiway Alpha, correcting a collection of non-standard, angled taxiways. The project ran about $7.5 million in all, funded largely by a Federal Aviation Administration grant of $6.8 million. The rest was scraped together with $381,000 from an Oklahoma Department of Aerospace & Aeronautics (ODAA) Grant of $381,028, and the rest form the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust (TAIT) for $423,928. With construction complete, all four connector taxiways between Runway 01L/19R and Taxiway Alpha meet standard specifications, connecting at perpendicular angles for maximum visib

Expanding Portfolio Brings Eutelsat OneWeb to Wide Swath of Citation Family

Gogo Business Aviation has announced a European STC for the use of the Galileo HDX antenna for the Cessna Citation Latitude jet, paving the way for a Euro internet solution entirely from the Gogo fold. Much like the more famous but general-use Starlink, Gogo Galileo operates on the Eutelsat OneWeb enterprise low-Earth-orbit satellite network. That gives very global coverage, since, as Gogo notes, the Eutelsat network is already fully deployed. All in all, the STC for the Citation Latitude will cover almost 400 aircraft in the worldwide fleet. Other Euro STCS along similar lines include the Citation 525, CJ1, CJ2, CJ3, CJ4, and Embraer Phenom 300. With EASA blessing for eac

AeroVironment Begins Sharpening Wildcat UAS for DARPA

ANCILLARY Program Gets New Contender

AeroVironmen'ts Group 3 Wildcat is now being honed as one of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's inscrutably designated 'AdvaNced airCraft Infrastructure-Less Launch And RecoverY' program. In typical DARPA try hard fashion, the program is probably more 'backronym' than 'acronym', but ANCILLARY is easier to remember so it makes sense why it stuck. AeroVironment is hoping its little Wildcat will be the most promising of the bunch, since it offers the right blend of endurance, payload, VTOL and landing performance while managing to host enhanced autonomy. AeroVironment knows that the hardware is only part of what makes a successful UAS these days, so they promise the inclusion of their SPOTR-Edge machi

There Was No Record Of Any (Pilot) Experience In The Accident Airplane Make And Model

On May 20, 2024, about 0842 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Quicksilver Sport 2S, N960B, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Cleveland, Georgia. The sport pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 test flight. According to the owner of the airplane, he transported it via ground to the sport pilot/light sport aircraft repairman’s facility at Mountain Airpark (0GE5), Cleveland, Georgia. The sport pilot/repairman performed maintenance, which included replacing the fabric, replacing a throttle cable, and performing an annual condition inspection. The

From 2020 (YouTube Version): Aircare International Has Been Elevating In-Flight Safety For More Than 40 Years

For over 40 years, Aircare FACTS Training has been providing human factor-based emergency procedures training for pilots, flight engineers, flight attendants, other cabin crew and executive frequent flyers. Aircare FACTS Training offers a variety of research-based programs, specifically designed to meet the needs of business aviation and public/military aircraft, especially those looking to meet the cabin safety requirements outlined in FA

Aero Linx: National Naval Aviation Museum Located aboard historic Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, and offering free admission, the National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the world. With the mission to “select, collect, preserve and display historic artifacts related to the history of Naval Aviation,” you will enjoy an inspiring journey through history and much more.

ANN's Daily Aero-Term (05.31.24): Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP)

Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) Charts Portray the aeronautical data which is required to execute an instrument approach to an airport. These charts depict the procedures, including all related data, and the airport diagram. Each procedure is designated for use with a specific type of electronic navigation system including NDB, TACAN, VOR, ILS RNAV and GLS. These charts are identified by the type of navigational aid(s)/equipment required to provide final approach guidance.

As Long As You Ask Us, It's Usually OK

It's a question the ANN staff is asked too many times per week to count. The message usually goes something like this: "I really enjoyed the story Aero-News did on (fill in topic here.) I'd love to post it on my blog/newsletter/website... is that OK?"

"The loss of a pilot and a historic airframe is a terrible thing. Our thoughts go out to his family and teammates. BBMF is a very close knit organisation." Source: Aviation Heritage UK Chairman Allan Winn in a statement echoing the sentiments of the global warbird community while speaking with the BBC, following the fatal crash of a Spitfire and the voluntary grounding of their fleet.

Also: NATA CEO In Legal Dilemma, WestJet Encore Settle, Drone Bill H.R. 8416, USN Jet Trainer

More Videos

May 30, 2024

GAMA's 1Q-2024 Sales Report Brings Mixed Blessings

Pistons Up (Barely), Bizjets Up... Turboprops, As Well As Piston/Turbine Helis Are Down

GAMA released their First Quarter 2024 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report -- with mostly mixed news and not all that impressive news on any front, at that. The results for the first three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023, show deliveries were flat for piston airplanes and piston helicopters, decreased for turboprops and turbine helicopters, and increased for business jets. Total aircraft billings were up 3.2% at $4.7 billion.

SportPlane Finds Fans Across Europe, And The World, Thanks to Value Proposition

Czech sportplane manufacturer Direct Fly has finished delivering its 200th ALTO NG, the latest iteration of their 600-kg sportplane. The Alto was previously offered as the Alto 912 TG model, sporting some light tweaks and changes for improved stiffness and durability. One such modification added additional engine space up front, shifting the weight a tad to prevent the TG's habit of tail standing when disembarking. The newer ones also make full use of the 15-kg baggage compartment, with improved engine performance, intake, and cooling. Improvements to riveting points, welds, and fixtures help to streamline the build for those who complete their own sportplan

Pilots Insist They Want a Fair Contract, Not a Strike

At 1500 MT on May 29, WestJet Encore pilots issued a 72-hour strike notice to WestJet Encore management and the government. This started the clock on a 72-hour countdown to negotiate a fair and equitable contract before the pilots can legally utilize all the options available to them under the Canada Labour Code. After two weeks of bargaining following the pilots’ rejection of a tentative agreement (TA), some progress has been made; however, both sides remain apart on addressing the issues of central importance to the pilot group.

Engine Gremlins Flare Up for Second Operational Pause, But This Time It's (Probably) Fixed

The US Navy's T-45C Goshawk trainer is back in action, after a 1-month operational pause to assess an inflight engine mishap. The Navy's T-45C fleet can now return to duty, since a probe involving the Naval Air Systems Command and Naval Undergraduate Flight Training Systems Program Office showed evidence of parts failure, and not an issue with the fleet at large. Oddly enough, the pause wasn't the first one for the Goshawk, with another performed in 2022 for nearly the same issue.

Universal Avionics Shows new Kapture CVR System

6th Generation Improvement to Cockpit Recording Simplifies Data Retrieval

Universal Avionics has shown off their latest in cockpit recording tech, the 25-hour KAPTURE CVR. The system is a robust cockpit voice and flight data recorder, nominally a 6th generation piece that melds with all the tech operators run up front these days. The CVR/FDR offers readout services with full support for certification, checkouts, and datalink analysis & reporting. That provides easy compliance with EASA, UK CAA, and FAA requirements, all without requiring intense maintenance just to access the info.

Upgraded Citation Flight Deck Arrives for Euro Clientele

RTX Collins has been granted approval by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the installation of their Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system on the Cessna Citation CJ1+ and CJ2+. The news adds yet another nifty little option for those with legacy aircraft and old fashioned avionics, allowing operators to modernize their flight deck in one fell swoop. The Pro Line Fusion system does everything you'd expect befitting a private jet, with expansive 14" touch displays and the full gamut of flight planning, operations, and reversionary options needed to bring out the best of the Citation platform.

Expanding Network of Charter Ops Expands Domestic Footprint

Pegasus Elite Aviation has moved its East Coast airport base to Signature Aviation TEB East in Teterboro, New Jersey. The private charter operator has been collecting planes and accolades in recent years, helped along by an acquisition by Prima Air at the end of 2022. Today, the Pegasus Elite fleet has a pair of Gulfstream G650s, a single Boeing 737, and 10 Gulfstream Gas and GIVs. The change puts Pegasus about 30 minutes from Midtown Manhattan, a pretty good little spot to cater to its hoity-toity business operators in the area.

From 2015 (YouTube Version): A Familiar GA Airframe Is Repurposed For Futuristic Missions

ANN CEO and Editor-In-Chief, Jim Campbell, spent time at the Unmanned Systems 2015 Conference to find out more about unmanned aerial systems (UAS). When we think about a UAS, it’s common to visualize a remotely controlled vertical lift device or some other special purpose remotely controlled or autonomous aircraft. In this interview with Peter LeHew, the director of flight operations and UAS operations for Aurora Flight Sciences, you’ll

NTSB Final Report: Pietenpol Aircamper

Shortly After Takeoff From Runway 18, The Airplane Moved Laterally To The Left...

Analysis: The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff from runway 18, the airplane moved laterally to the left. The pilot tried to correct by inputting right rudder and right aileron. The left wing rose abruptly, and the airplane crossed to the right side of the runway. The airplane lost lift and landed in the grass on the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to stop, but the airplane slid into a drainage ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

Aero Linx: Malibu M-Class Owners and Pilots Association (MMOPA) The Piper M-Class Owners & Pilots Association (PMOPA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the interests and safety of owners and pilots worldwide who fly PA-46 derivative (Malibu, Mirage, Meridian, M-Class, JetPROP and Matrix) aircraft. PMOPA was founded in 1988, and now serves 1,200 members. Membership is available to any registered or prospective owner and/or operator of qualified aircraft or any qualifying individual or organization involved with or providing a service for the PA-46 family of aircraft. PMOPA is not affiliated with the Piper Aircraft or any other manufacturer/vendor.

Beyond Visual Line Of Sight (BVLOS) The operation of a UAS beyond the visual capability of the flight crew members (i.e., remote pilot in command [RPIC], the person manipulating the controls, and visual observer [VO]), if used to see the aircraft with vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, spectacles, and contact lenses.

Choose How YOU Want To View Your Aero News: View Everything

We're all pretty excited about the new website design here at ANN, but we HAVE heard from some of you that you liked the way that content was displayed on the old site. We hear you, and before you chuck your bitgrinder out a 5th story window, you should know that there are several ways that you can view your Aero-Content.

Aero-News: Quote of the Day (05.30.24)

“After eight months of negotiating, and a failed TA, unfortunately management has not recognized the pilots’ needs. We have expressed to management that we are willing to work with them to further address the issues that clearly remain for our pilots. Until WestJet Encore management negotiates a contract that recognizes the current labour market conditions in Canada’s airline industry, and addresses the needs of our pilots, management will continue to struggle to attract and retain the well-trained, highly skilled pilots required to help our airline be successful.” Source: Capt. Carin Kenny, chair of the WestJet Encore ALPA Master Executive Council, following the announcement of a 72 hour strike notice.

Also: Midnight eVTOL Certification, Falcon 9 Record, Pro Line Fusion, Europa Clipper

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May 29, 2024

Warbird Pilot Caps Off 500 Hours of B-29 PIC Time

'Doc' Has a Busy Season Ahead of Itself Heading Into Summer

The warbird community celebrated Mark Novak, Chief Pilot of their B-29 'Doc', and his accomplishment of racking up 500 hours in the vintage bomber. On top of that, Novak built up more than 300 hours of time flying the other B-29 'Fifi', making him the modern era's most experienced B-29 pilot. In celebrating the milestone, the details surrounding how one goes about becoming the world's foremost captain of a nearly extinct type certificate, unsurprisingly starts with 'who you know' like any cool piloting job.

With Commercial Service on the Way, Aerospace Center for Excellence Sets Up Terminal Shop

The Airspace Center for Excellence has been given the blessing to begin operating Lakeland Linder International Airport's first concessions store, riding on the tail of new commercial service by Avelo Airlines. Evidently, there weren't too many bidders for the opportunity, with most in the area eschewing what they believed is a non-starter. The approving body came by way of Lakeland commissioners, who voted unanimously to approve the Center's lease agreement. Airport Director Kris Hallstrand admitted that despite their best efforts... nobody really wanted 'in', aside from ACE.

Midnight eVTOL Certification Criteria Finalized

One Step Closer, But Many More to Go...

Archer Aviation has finalized the criteria for final airworthiness certification of the Midnight aircraft, laying out the path to come as they look to dive into the eVTOL market. The Midnight eVTOL has been given an updated, final set of airworthiness criteria by the FAA, which is a "significant regulatory milestone" but still a ways off from being production-ready. Archer does proudly note that it's one of only "two companies in the world to achieve this certification progress with the FAA for an eVTOL aircraft," helping to cement their position at the head of the pack.

Lawsuit Describes Nightmare of Intertwined Businesses

Long Beach Airport is home to some juicy gossip lately, after the Aeroplex and Aerolease Group fired their CEO and began a highly visible, contentious legal duel in the public eye. The outgoing CEO is a somewhat notable industry face in his own right, Curt Castagna, who led Aeroplex as CEO of its expansive hangar and office leasing operations. Castagna is involved in a good deal of industry advocacy, too, working with the local Long Beach Airport Association, Van Nuys Airport Association, and National Air Transportation Associations. Castagna wears many hats, being the president and CEO of NATA, and a co-chair in the EAGLE initiative.

From 2019 (YouTube Version): The Extra NG Is 'A Whole New Dimension Of Aerobatic Aircraft

Extra Aircraft unveiled its next generation of aerobatic aircraft during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The company says the Extra NG is "a whole new dimension of aerobatic aircraft", featuring an all-carbon rigid base frame - a first in aerobatic aviation history. The airplane truly represents a "quantum leap forward" by offering its owner not just a stunningly beautiful silhouette, but also an ergonomically advanced cockpit. It is designed for maximum pi

Falcon 9 Reusability Emphasized with 21-Time Veteran

SpaceX has really been driving home the concept of reusability for its Falcon series of rockets, with its recent Starlink mission account for the 21st launch for that particular spacecraft. It's a testament to the level of engineering and dedication they had to bring to the table, not to mention the attractive cost savings that come with reusing expensive space assets. In the old days, rockets were one-time use, costlier than even expensive aircraft by an order of magnitude, and about as long-lived as a Dixie cup moldering on a dorm room shelf (about 3 to 6 months, depending on how frequent room inspections are.) That particular Falcon 9 was Booster 1062, which managed to deliver 23 more V2 mini

EBAA's Passenger Name Record Case Bears Fruit

Polish Court Weighs in On Passenger Name Record Issue

The European Business Aviation Association has taken a victory lap regarding a successful legal victory in Poland, establishing a "historic precedent for the Passenger Name Record (PNR) issue in the country." It was the first 'PNR case' heard in Poland, setting a precedent to shape enforcement into the future. The case in question was brought by an air carrier in the business sector, fined by the Polish Border Guard for allegedly violating PNR law on the books. Poland's Supreme Administrative Court agreed with the plaintiffs, reversing the judgment of the lower court and annulled the decision imposing the fine, aligning its ruling with the provisions of the European Directive 2016/681 (PNR Dire

Wreckage Was Located In A Compact Area, With The Empennage Of The Airplane Folded Forward On Top Of The Forward Section Of The Airplane

On May 17, 2024, about 1430 eastern daylight time, an M-Squared Aircraft Inc. Breese 2 airplane, N99VY, was involved in an accident near the Culpeper Regional Airport (CJR), Culpeper, Virginia. The commercial pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a test flight conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. According to a representative of Flying Club 1 Inc., which was the club that owned the accident airplane, the pilot planned to complete a local flight to practice air work and aerodynamic stalls.

Aero Linx: International Association of Professional Gyroplane Training (IAPGT) We are an Association of people who fly, build or regulate Gyroplanes, who have a dream of a single Gyroplane pilot licence accepted in every country around the world, and a community of Gyroplane Pilots who are free from accidents.

How To Get A Story On Aero-TV News/Feature Programming

How do I submit a story idea or lead to Aero-TV? If you would like to submit a story idea or lead, please contact Jim Campbell via the link below. Please include the following information when submitting a story idea or lead: who the intended subject is, a general story outline of said subject, important dates or deadlines for the story lead, and any appropriate contact information for both yourself and related subjects.

ANN's Daily Aero-Term (05.29.24): NORDO (No Radio)

NORDO (No Radio) Aircraft that cannot or do not communicate by radio when radio communication is required are referred to as “NORDO.”

ANN's Daily Aero-Term (05.26.24): Parallel ILS Approaches

Parallel ILS Approaches Approaches to parallel runways by IFR aircraft which, when established inbound toward the airport on the adjacent final approach courses, are radar-separated by at least 2 miles.

Hi Folks... This is a special issue of the Propwash newsletter, dedicated only to its being a personal message from the ANN gang to you. I promise not to do this too often, but hope that I can impose on you for a few minutes in order to seek your continued support. We'd like to make one last pitch for book orders while they might affect the total print order. We have sent this book to the printer and are in pre-press prep right now (proofs expected today)... and the more we can add to the print tally, the more cost-effective our printing prices (per book) become. As you

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June 02, 2024

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Also: NATA CEO In Legal Dilemma, WestJet Encore Settle, Drone Bill H.R. 8416, USN Jet Trainer

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Also: Midnight eVTOL Certification, Falcon 9 Record, Pro Line Fusion, Europa Clipper

Nexus Full-Scale Technology Demonstrator Should Fly Next Year

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Klyde's Not A Fan Of The Buffoons At NPS, Either...

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Partnership Brings 4AIR Programs, Software to UASITS Portfolio

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Easy Online Forms Available For Sport Plane Manufacturers And Suppliers To Be Listed In The Upcoming eSPRG

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With The eSPRG Only Weeks Away From Its Start Date, A-AF Will Help To Support Sport Flyers, Worldwide

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From 2020 (YouTube Version): First Flight Conducted In Early 2019

Deal Helps Bolster Development Process on Road to Production for Helix eVTOL

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And That's But One Of Over A Dozen Major Developments Planned For The Next Year Or So

Brand New! Avoid The Need For A Comeback... Get Your Marketing Right, Right Now!

Emphasis On Growing The Future of Aviation Through Concentration on 'AFFORDABLE FLYERS'

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Growing The Audience For Your News

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June 01, 2024

Also: NATA CEO In Legal Dilemma, WestJet Encore Settle, Drone Bill H.R. 8416, USN Jet Trainer

Upcoming "One FedEx" Program Ruffles Feathers at Cargo Carrier

ATG Network Provider Adds to the Family

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While a Robo-Tanker Pilot is a Long Way Off, Everything Starts Somewhere

Also: Midnight eVTOL Certification, Falcon 9 Record, Pro Line Fusion, Europa Clipper

Army's New UAS Powerplant Looks Promising, with Increased TBO, Generation, and Power

Another Pie in the Sky "Game Changer" Program Sticks Around a While Longer

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Also: uAvionix AV-Link, F-16 Viper Demo, TN National Guard, 'Staff the Towers'

UK Base Hones Skills in Overhauling Bizjet Classic

Also: VA Scholarships, Certification Standards, 'Staff the Towers', Women in Aviation Advisory

Also: Samson Sky, CAF Great Plains Wing, New Cert Standards, Flying Start Day

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Also: VAI v Anti-Heli Actions, Electric Aircraft Symposium, 2024 FAA Drone/AAM Symposium, Gravitymaster

Also: ALPA Warns, ASA Updates Training Logs, Florida Teen Scholarship, Aviation Meteorology

Witnesses In The Area Reported Low Clouds, Fog, And Reduced Visibility Along The Accident Airplane’s Anticipated Flight Route

From 2016 (YouTube Version): A Truly Unique Flying Experience…

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New Products And Programs From The Leader In Aviation News Online

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May 31, 2024

RAF Mourns Loss of One of Its Own, Squadron Leader Mark Long

Transition from 'Helicopter' Society to 'Vertical Flight' Helps Strengthen Industry Ties

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Expanding Portfolio Brings Eutelsat OneWeb to Wide Swath of Citation Family

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As Long As You Ask Us, It's Usually OK

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May 30, 2024

Pistons Up (Barely), Bizjets Up... Turboprops, As Well As Piston/Turbine Helis Are Down

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6th Generation Improvement to Cockpit Recording Simplifies Data Retrieval

Upgraded Citation Flight Deck Arrives for Euro Clientele

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From 2015 (YouTube Version): A Familiar GA Airframe Is Repurposed For Futuristic Missions