FAA's Existence Secured (Until the Next Reauthorization at Least)

It seems to be a running theme with the FAA that things are never just running smoothly whenever it comes up for reauthorization, with a neverending back and forth between the Senate and House as lawmakers play the bureaucratic game - thankfully, this round may finally be coming to an end. "It is very encouraging to see that U.S. House and Senate aviation committee leaders have been able to work together to put forth a bipartisan, bicameral bill to reauthorize the FAA," said GAMA president Pete Bunce. Speaking on behalf of a string of domestic aircraft makers & shakers, he applauded the impending reauthorization. 

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This summer, history enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience World War II aviation as the EAA launches a nationwide tour with its restored B-25 Mitchell bomber, known as the "Berlin Express." The Berlin Express will begin its journey at the TBM Avenger Reunion in Peru, Illinois, from May 16-19, before moving on to other locations including Cincinnati, Ohio; Olathe, Kansas; Rockford, Illinois; and Madison, Wisconsin. Textron Inc. reported a solid financial performance for the first quarter of 2024, indicating a strong start to the year with notable gains across its primary business segments. The conglomerate announced a net income of $1.03 per share, up from $0.92 in the same period last year. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced the delivery of the first two G700 aircraft, marking a significant milestone with the rapid customer

Targets Will Bump Production Numbers in Nearly Every Market, Capitalizing on Competitor's Misfortune

Airbus capped off its 1st quarter reporting with fairly positive news despite challenges to its logistical operations around the world, seeing EBIT adjusted revenues of € 0.6 billion. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury was clear that what they managed to do was pretty good, all things considered. He said the stares down an "operating environment that shows no sign of improvement," adding that the "geopolitical and supply chain tensions continue" on all fronts. Even so, he pointed out that Airbus managed to deliver 142 commercial aircraft, with overall revenues of €12.8 billion, (EBIT Adjusted €0.6 billion), and EPS of €0.76 billion. Free cash flow wasn't so great, with about €1.8 billion coming out of Airbus' pockets to keep things chugging along. Faury said that the guidance for this year remains unchanged, though, thanks to "solid order intake across our businesses."

The Industry Continues to be Rocked By Some Questionable Operations

Recent investigations and a great deal of data has resulted in ANN’s SportPlane Resource Guide’s report card system having to deal with new and worrisome reports on a number of companies. Evidence and data received from customers of the Czech-based Orlican SportPlane operation has resulted in a ‘Not Recommended’ rating for the convoluted troubles documented by at least one owner who has been trying to get his aircraft for nearly two years. This, while also dealing with excuses, an absentee dealer that was highly recommended by the factory, some bizarre post-agreement pricing escalation for the aircraft he did not get (and reportedly won't get until he agrees to pay more than originally agreed), and then... there is another report of pricing escalation issues, as well as bad business dealings and such, from an owner who brought his bird to SnF in an attempt to sell it and “be done with it.”

FAI Announces Digital Drone Race World Cup for 2024

The International Aeronautical Federation announced a new type of drone race, this time using the EreaDrone flight simulator to offer the E-Drone Racing World Cup 2024. The E-Drone Racing World Cup is aimed at providing a more cost-effective, affordable, and accessible event than previous drone races, allowing competitors to join in on the competition from the comfort of their own couch. That's perhaps the most intriguing addition to the new series, which will end up with a 4 to 5-event based run.

Neil Robertson and Aleš Kubí?ek to be Awarded in October with In-Person Ceremony

The International Aeronautics Federation's FAI Ballooning Commission added a pair of pioneers to their CIA International Balloon and Airship Hall of Fame in the form of Neil Roberston and Aleš Kubí?ek, setting a date for their induction next October. The FAI's Ballooning Commission oversees the lighter-than-air side of record keeping and oversight for international operations, stewarding the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum and keeping track of every happening of the industry around the world.

Replenishment by Electric Plane? Naval Ops May Join the Future Soon

The US Navy awarded Electra Aero a contract under their NAVAIR development program to test out the battery-powered, high-wing, short-takeoff aircraft for possible use. Electra has been an unusually grounded and realistic developer in the race to create electric - but commercially viable - aircraft, and their selection by the ever pragmatic (okay, just sometimes kind of pragmatic) Navy folk speaks to that mindset.

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 50th Annual SUN n FUN Aerospace Expo... the undisputed start to the aviation year. This year was also a major news-breaker... especially with the announcement that the DeltaHawk Diesel engine folks were working with Piper Aircraft on an STC for the PA44 Seminole. It also hosted the first forma

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Norges Luftsportforbund chose Aura Aero's little 2-seater in electric trim for their next glider tow aircraft. The INTEGRAL E takes the low-wing, tricycle gear, bubble canopy design and replaces an assortment of piston engines with Safran's ENGINeUS electric power plant. The result, which should enter service in 2026 (or thereabouts, given developmental delays). French sport plane manufacturer Elixir Aircraft announced a continuation of its never-ending production expansions, this time adding facilities in the US and France. Stateside, Elixir will open a reassembly facility in Florida at the Sarasota Bradenton Airport. Parts delivered from France will be checked, inspected, and assembled into full aircraft there, with the Florida location becoming the administrative, sales, and support hub for the entire US domestic market. AeroMech Incorporated will offer

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Despite nearly 100 complaints totaling millions of dollars of potential fraud, combined with employees who claim to have been defrauded, numerous false statements, aand an attempt at a bankruptcy that failed; the Rotor X situation continues to decline. Rotor X STILL claims to be reorganizing and entertaining offers from investors -- but this is a well-worn excuse that has been utilized numerous times without fruition. The Fernandina Beach Florida Municipal Airport (FNB) is considering implementing an automated aircraft landing fee system proposed by Airport Director Sam Carver -- one that could have a decidedly negative effect on GA In the area. This initiative, aimed at generating additional revenue, is primarily focused on funding essential maintenance projects, including a $4 million runway refurbishment. Major Shane Gentry, a third-generation Marine a