Class Golf to see 700 to 1,200 Feet for Model Events

The Academy of Model Aeronautics has gotten approval from the FAA to hold some sanctioned events higher up in Class G airspace in 2024, meaning 700 to 1,200 feet will be up for grabs. Exactly how much altitude is apportioned to each event will remain a case-by-case basis, unless the FAA reauthorization does away with the event waiver process for cases where the event can be held safely without one. The AMA is "working with Congress to include a process to fly at higher altitudes in Class G airspace for day-to-day operations as well." Should it come into practice, it could help defray the bureaucratic overhead required for small-time modeling events, which could translate to increased activi

Loss Of Power Was Accompanied By A Loss Of Oil Pressure And Dual Engine Control Unit (ECU) Failure

On December 14, 2023, at 2015 eastern standard time, a Diamond Aircraft Ind. Inc. DA-40 NG airplane, N907L, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Asheville, North Carolina. The flight instructor sustained minor injuries and the private pilot was seriously injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight. The flight instructor and private pilot were conducting a cross-country flight at night when they felt a “shudder” followed by a loss of engine power. The loss of power was accompanied by a loss of oil pressure and dual engine control unit (ECU) failure.