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It looks like an FAA funding bill has finally passed through Congress, but it’s not exactly a long-term funding bill. It’s been announced that a bipartisan, bicameral agreement was reached on an FAA funding extension through September 30, 2017. Key players in the crafting of this short-term funding Bill released the following joint statement that said in part, “We have reached an agreement on an FAA extension that provides much-needed stability for our aviation system through September 2017. This bill includes significant airport security reforms as well as critical aviation safety provisions and time-sensitive enhancements for air travelers.” Siemens researchers have developed a new type of electric motor that, with a weight of just 110 pounds, delivers a continuous output of about 260 kilowatts, which converts to about 350 horsepower… That’s a lot of ponies for 110 pounds! This record-setting propulsion system successfully completed its first public flight earlier this week in Germany, where it powered an Extra 330LE aerobatic airplane. This advance means that hybrid-electric aircraft with four or more seats will now be possible. We have an update on our continuing coverage of the skydiving operation known as, SkyDive Myrtle Beach, being shut down by the County Council for numerous alleged FAA violations. Now, Officials from SkyDive Myrtle Beach will make a presentation to the Horry County Council next week in an effort to have its closure reversed. All this -- and MORE in today's episode of Airborne!!! 

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