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July 29, 2023

NASA Debuts Intriguing Automatic (But Non-Electronic) Vortex Generators

Heat-Sensitive Metallurgy Allows for Retractable, Simple Vortex Generators

Normally vortex generators have always been welded onto whatever aerodynamic surface requires their surface. Yet, these little aero-rakes are normally only required for very specific modes of a given flight, such as low speed. During the rest of the flight regime, the devices simply generate drag. Of course, that drag impacts fuel efficiency. If, however, the vortex generators could be retracted to any degree, that drag could largely be reduced. NASA is showing off a unique and passive system for self-retracting vortex generators at Airventure 2023. The basics of this device are demonstrated in a small model of a wing section in the NASA pavilion.

Turn of a Friendly Wrench

The need for aviation mechanics is even more acute than the well-publicized and documented pilot shortage. There’s a current and worsening aviation mechanics shortfall expected to exceed 600,000 jobs in the next two decades. The new King Schools Cleared for Aviation Maintenance product includes a fully-integrated home-study course, written exam test prep, and a complete syllabus that meets the requirements for aviation maintenance technician schools under the new FAA FAR Part 147.

A Farewell to 100LL

Continental announced that the FAA has granted Validated Type Certification (VTC) to the company’s CD-300 Jet-A Piston engine. This achievement validates the engine's compliance with the agency’s airworthiness and safety standards and exemplifies the streamlined validation process deriving of the FAA-EASA bilateral agreement.

Latest Air Series Model Offers Expanded Features

On 25 July 2023, DJI debuted its Air 3 model, a formidable addition to the company’s Air Series featuring dual primary cameras—a wide-angle and a 3x medium tele-camera—of eminent usefulness to aerial photography enthusiasts. The advanced and well-rounded Air 3 drone captures highly-detailed 48-Megapixel (MP) photos and 4K/60-Frames-Per-Second (FPS) videos, and is capable of remaining aloft for up to 46-minutes between charges. What’s more, the Air 3 model offers users omnidirectional obstacle sensing, DJI’s O4 HD Video Transmission System, and numerous additional flagship features.