Aero-News Network: The aviation and aerospace world's daily/real-time news and information service

Airborne 05.16.18: OSHStar! Pipistrel, iFlightPlanner, ASTM Ice Detection

Also: BRS Parachute Rescue, Joe Nall Canceled, Mars Helicopter, Top Teen Rocket Scientists

A growing presence at each year’s AirVenture Fly-Ins has been the availability of a number of electrically powered aircraft. While most are concept aircraft hoping for eventual production, one, the Pipistrel Alpha Electro, is already in production and for sale. So, for this week’s “OSHStar” Feature, we have to admit serious anticipation in regards to what’s next for the composite electric two place training bird. The capabilities of the Alpha Electro 2-seat electric trainer were tailo

Aero-TV: Textron's X5-55 - Thrust Vectoring Offers Intriguing Control Modes

Textron Unveils X5-55 Experimental Platform At AUVSI

Textron Systems unveiled its new X5-55 engineering test bed at AUVSI earlier this month. Textron’s senior vice president and general manager for unmanned systems, Bill Irby, told ANN at the show that the X5-55 aircraft is a blended-wing design that is powered by four independently-controlled rotors. There are no traditional control surfaces on the aircraft, giving it better maneuverability and greater resilience in windy conditions.

Airborne 05.14.18: GA Sales Report, Oshkosh Update, Helio Courier

Also: Robinson Safety Alert, Latitude DL150, F-16 Life Extension, Aviation Tech Shortage

GAMA has published the first quarter 2018 aircraft shipment report. The overall delivery of airplanes and rotorcraft rose compared to the same quarter of 2017, but with some mixed performance within the types. “We are pleased to see the industry is, overall, trending positively,” said GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce (pictured). “Training needs are driving the demands in the rotorcraft segment, while a stabilizing used market, overall global economic growth and aviation innovation are driving the

Aero-News: Quote of the Day (05.16.18)

“UAS has proven invaluable in strengthening our border security efforts, especially in regions like North Dakota where we are responsible for 900 miles of border. However, with the development and adoption of this technology, we are facing new challenges.” Source: Sen. John Hoeven, calling on the development of counter UAS technology for use by DHS.