Celebrates Greatest Achievement in Aeronautics for 2023
The Robert J. Collier Trophy has been awarded by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) since 1911 for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America, with respect to improving the performance, efficiency, and safety of air or space vehicles, the value of which has been thoroughly demonstrated by actual use during the preceding year. This year's award will go to the OSIRIS-REx Team at the Robert J. Collier Dinner on June 13, 2024 in Washington, D.C. In September 2023, the OSIRIS-REx Mission stunned the world when it became the first U.S. mission to collect a sample from an asteroid and return it to Earth. The material is the most significa
This Will Facilitate Maintenance For The French Piper Fleet From The Archer Up To The New M700 FURY
Piper Aircraft, Inc. and Authorized Piper Dealer, Flying Smart Aero, have announced the appointment of Troyes Aviation as the Approved Piper Service Center in France. Founded in 1973 by Françoise Horiot and transferred to new ownership in 2023, Troyes Aviation is a fully-owned subsidiary of JGH SAS and the sister Company of JG AVIATION, the Authorized Pilatus Service Centre for France. “Flying Smart is proud to add Troyes Aviation to our established network of approved service centers, covering France,” stated David Fabry, Dealer Principal at Flying Smart.
Cessna's brand-new regional turboprop, the SkyCourier, has received type certification from the Australia Certification & Accreditation Service Agency (ACASA). "The SkyCourier's incredible performance makes it a reliable business tool for customers all over the world," said Lannie O'Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. "This certification marks yet another milestone in the SkyCourier program. With the ability to load, fly, unload and repeat -- along with low operating costs and maximum cabin flexibility -- the SkyCourier is a game-changer in reaching remote destinations."
Though Negotiations Lag the Industry, Breeze Pilots Are Ready for a Fight
Breeze Airways pilots held the company's first informational picket at the Norfolk International Airport, aiming to "send a clear message to Breeze management that it's time to stop putting its profits over its pilots and deliver an industry-standard contract." "The airline is on track for a profitable quarter while our pilots are experiencing unilateral pay cuts and worsening work rules without protections," said Alexander Kluge, Breeze Airways ALPA Master Executive Council chair. "The airline has become profitable on the backs of all labor and especially the pilots through cutting our pay, work rules, and schedules."
Bell Textron showed off its new Bell 429 testbed aircraft for the ALFA project, showing the way forward for an industry eager to advance. The program, 'Aircraft Laboratory for Future Autonomy', seems more like a nice-sounding backronym, but the end result should be the same: Advanced, self-flying aircraft that can be trusted to operate with minimal human oversight. The ALFA platform will be dedicated to performing flight maneuvers with an aircraft safety system and executing autonomous fly-by-wire flights. That integration is a critical aspect of its development, Bell says.
Also: 1800th E-Jet, Uncle Sam Sues For Landing Gear, Embraer Ag Plane, Textron Parts
A friend of the family reported that Lt. Col. (Ret.) Richard Glenn Rutan flew west on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 7:08 PM PDT. The last time Dick Rutan flew towards the western horizon was on December 14, 1986 when he and copilot Jeana Yeager set the last great aviation record by flying around the world, nonstop and unrefueled, in nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds in an aircraft called 'Voyager.' designed by Burt Rutan. As we understand it, a 'stalking horse bidder' is the initial bid on a bankrupt company's assets from an interested buyer -- chosen by the bankru
Also: NBAA on FAA Reauth, DJI AG Drones, HI Insurance Bill Defeated, SPSA Airtankers
The Beechcraft Denali continues moving forward towards certification, having received its FAA Type Inspection Authorization early this year. Textron advertised that their single-engine turboprop competitor has logged more than 2,000 flight test hours across 830+ flights, on track for completion in 2025. Aerodyne, a new gyroplane manufacturer, will be commemorating its entry into the market with an attempt at setting some records as it runs a lap around the United Kingdom. Founder, executive chairman, and pilot Rangaraja Iyengar will make a full lap around th
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
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator
US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, or VISTA, to illustrate just how far autonomous aircraft have come. The aircraft sounds much snazzier than it is in reality, being a 30-year old, 2-seat F-16D with a nifty paint job and an R2-D2 in one of the seats. The aircraft has long been in the US Air Force Test Pilot School, where it received modifications for multi-axis thrust vectoring and aerodynamics. AgEagle Aerial Systems will ship 40 of its eBee VISION systems, along with 9 more eB
Yearly Training Adventure Warms Everyone Up for Summer
As the nation heads full tilt into spring, the northern Coast Guard stations bone up on their rescue ops as they ready themselves for an active Alaskan summer. This year's SAREX was, like so many others in a long string of yearly outings, successful at warming up everyone involved. "The 2024 SAREX enhanced collaboration among different organizations and first responders united by a shared objective of saving lives," said Capt. Vincent Jansen, commanding officer of Coast Guard Air Station Sitka. "Ongoing cooperation and understanding of each other's strengths are essential for overcoming potential challenges and during this SAREX we accomplished that. We are constantly humbled by our partner ag
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview
Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly (now in production with Pitman Air), has been lost in an aircraft test accident. Shortly after his appearance at SUN n FUN 2024, Bailey reportedly was asked to test fly a customer-built Dragonfly out of the Groveland airport in Florida... 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 compan
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview
Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly (now in production with Pitman Air), has been lost in an aircraft test accident. Shortly after his appearance at SUN n FUN 2024, Bailey reportedly was asked to test fly a customer-built Dragonfly out of the Groveland airport in Florida... 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
Aviation Education Efforts Capitalize on National Teacher Day
Oklahoman kids got to have a little fun for National Teacher Appreciation Day, in the sense that "fun" means "mandatory after-school education activities". The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics embarked on its first-ever partnership with the Bessie Coleman Aviation All-Star Program, introducing an after-school activity for 6th and 7th grade students across the state.
After dealing with a big letdown after the unexpected decision by Skyreach to discontinue the manufacture of the Bushcat, the Knoll family (AeroSport) has come up with a heck of a second act... and it should be a strong one. Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC (APS), under the new ownership of Jeremy and Daniela Knoll has acquired Leading Edge Air Foils, LLC (LEAF). Better yet, effective immediately, APS will serve as the ROTAX independent Service Centre for the Central United States. The Popular Rotorcraft Association is reaching out for help in rebuil
Easy Online Forms Available For Sport Plane Manufacturers And Suppliers To Be Listed In The Upcoming eSPRG
Work on the SportPlane Resource Guide is going well… Albeit a little bit behind schedule, because as we got into this process, things became a bit more complicated simply because we learned we could do an even better job at certain aspects of this project than we thought from the beginning. They say that the enemy of true quality is the phrase "good enough" and we want to be far more than “good enough.”
FMI: www.sportplane.com,
Read More
Also: NAAA Asks UAVs To Give Way, Viasat-uAvionix, Oshkosh Defense, Wright Intros WEAETC
Skydweller Aero successfully completed the first flight of its solar-powered aircraft, the Skydweller, earlier this month. This groundbreaking aircraft, which boasts a wingspan exceeding that of a Boeing 747, undertook its inaugural flight autonomously--without any human pilot onboard or in direct control--from Stennis International Airport in Bay St Louis, Mississippi. VoltAero has commenced certification testing for the innovative electric-hybrid powertrain of its Cassio 330 aircraft. This testing phase marks a crucial step in the development of the Cassio e
With The eSPRG Only Weeks Away From Its Start Date, A-AF Will Help To Support Sport Flyers, Worldwide
With the all-new and all-digital SportPlane Resource Guide getting ready for publication early next year, the Aero-News Network is pleased to announce yet another addition to the Airborne video news programming roster… Airborne-Affordable Flyers. Dedicated to keeping people up-to-date on the most affordable aspects of sport and general aviation, Airborne-Affordable Flyers is one of our most exciting offerings yet. A-AF will delve into more than just the current LSA community, but look at all aspects of aviation to examine and ev
From 2017 (YouTube Version): Zenith Offers Workshop For Beginners At Sebring Sport Expo…
The concept of building your own airplane can be daunting for a lot of people. Most wouldn't consider building their own car, much less an airplane. In an effort to demystify the process, Zenith Aircraft held a four-day workshop at the Sebring Sport Aircraft Expo in January to introduce beginners to the process of building their own airplanes. Zenith Aircraft owner Sebastian Heintz told ANN news editor Tom Patton that there were 17 rudder
Pilot Started The Engines, He Noticed The Fuel Gauge Was Flickering And Thought It Was Malfunctioning
Analysis: The pilot was taking the airplane on a flight to another airport for maintenance. During the preflight inspection, the pilot turned on the electrical power and noticed that the fuel gauge was indicating 80 gallons of fuel. The pilot reported the airplane holds a maximum of 156 gallons of fuel and he calculated that he needed 113 gallons of fuel to legally complete the flight. He informed the fixed base operator (FBO) that he wanted the fuel tanks topped off, but was informed by the ramp technician that the fuel tanks were full and he did not need fuel.
BIG Upgrades In The Works --- ANN Is Seeking EXCEPTIONAL New Staffers
The last few years have been about as challenging a time as we can recall... but we survive (yeah, we're kinda surprised, too) and look forward to 2023 and what we see as a very rewarding (and yes, still challenging) new generation of activities at ANN. After some truly weird times during the pandemic, ANN continues to expand slowly, but surely, and we have some truly intriguing upgrades coming up over the next few months. In other words, we're about to grow again -- REALLY/TRULY -- and in some novel directions. The much-appreciated expansion of
Read More
And That's But One Of Over A Dozen Major Developments Planned For The Next Year Or So
Aero-News Network is now available on Roku and Amazon FireTV! That’s right folks. You can now get your daily dose of aviation news… right on the ol' giggle box! This is an EPIC development for our network, one of many to come, and we’re thrilled to offer you this new way to watch our news programming. Whether you’re a traditional website reader, podcast listener, or YouTube subscriber, we’re dedicated to giving you quality, honest, aviation news that you can trust and broadening our reach and audience aggressively in the coming years, so that we may both Grow and Inform the aviatio
Brand New! Avoid The Need For A Comeback... Get Your Marketing Right, Right Now!
Some time ago, the Aero-News Network, responding to numerous requests, established a marketing and communications sister company by the name of AEROPRENEUER... and it's been doing amazing work under these difficult circumstances -- and getting results! We're getting rave reviews from our clients, and working hard to earn the trust of a number of new marketing partners along the way. ANN's Amber Cedroni has come up with a few tips to help aero-businesses stay alive in these tough times, and
Emphasis On Growing The Future of Aviation Through Concentration on 'AFFORDABLE FLYERS'
It's been a number of years since the Latest Edition of Jim Campbell's HUGE SportPlane Resource Guide first saw the light of day. That massive 1100 page book last featured over 800 exciting sport aircraft from all over the SportPlane universe... at a time when the SportPlane industry was still a healthy, thriving enterprise (those were the days...). While there has been some consideration, off and on, toward updating the nearly 5 pound book, the near implosion of the SportPlane and kit industry over the last decade has made such a pursuit an unwieldy one... until now.
It’s been a while since we have reminded everyone about all the ways we offer your daily dose of aviation news on-the-go...so here is a full list of ways you can subscribe to our channels and get notifications when there are new episodes or breaking news!
1) Subscribe To Our Newsletter
When surveyed, almost half of our audience shared with us that they rely on our daily newsletter to get their aviation news for the day and stay up-to-date in their field or craft. Are you subscribed yet? If not, use the link below to receive our daily Propwash emails that always feature a feed of our latest stories and breaking news.
SUBSCRIBE >&g
Aero Linx: B-21 Raider
The B-21 Raider will be a dual-capable penetrating strike stealth bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. The B-21 will form the backbone of the future Air Force bomber force consisting of B-21s and B-52s. Designed to operate in tomorrow’s high-end threat environment, the B-21 will play a critical role in ensuring America’s enduring airpower capability.
Hold Procedure
A predetermined maneuver which keeps aircraft within a specified airspace while awaiting further clearance from air traffic control. Also used during ground operations to keep aircraft within a specified area or at a specified point while awaiting further clearance from air traffic control.
A Few Questions AND Answers To Help You Get MORE Out of ANN!
I forgot my password. How do I find it?
Easy... click here and give us your e-mail address--we'll send it to you within a minute or so!
How do I register for ANN's Propwash Newsletters?
"Fly-by-wire flight, coupled with additional capability that are being integrated into ALFA, provide a great foundation for Bell to expand on its autonomous capabilities. This aircraft will serve as a flying lab that will inform future autonomous technology development, which we can ultimately leverage to deliver the best rotorcraft solutions to global operators."
Source: Jason Hurst, executive vice president, Engineering, Bell, in comments made as Bell Textron showed off its new Bell 429 testbed aircraft for the ALFA project, showing the way forward for an industry eager to advance.
Letters Inbound to Stakeholders As Part of Reauthorization Push Intensifies
The National Business Aviation Association has summoned the troops to come together and push their congressional reps to approve the FAA's reauthorization legislation. The FAA currently operates under an extension granted, which only allows it to function through May 10th, so the industry is cutting it close. The NBAA has a letter calling for the reauthorization's passage, and those supporting the measure are invited to sign on with their own names to give the letter a little extra 'oomph'.
More than 2,000 Hours Logged with Prototype, GE Catalyst Engine
The Beechcraft Denali continues moving forward towards certification, having received its FAA Type Inspection Authorization early this year. Textron advertised that their single-engine turboprop competitor has logged more than 2,000 flight test hours across 830+ flights, on track for 2025. Beechcraft's take on the niche will offer buyers something the rest of the field lacks: the brand-new GE Aerospace Catalyst engine, a newfangled turboprop that sits outside the paradigm of Pratt & Whitney's PT6 series.
Duo Aims to Raise Money for Children's Relief Charity
Aerodyne, a new gyroplane manufacturer, will be commemorating its entry into the market with an attempt at setting some records as it runs a lap around the United Kingdom. Founder, executive chairman, and pilot Rangaraja Iyengar will make a full lap around the whole lot with his 8-year-old daughter assisting, aiming to complete a 3-day, 5,000-mile journey. If successful, the daddy-daughter duo will be able to snag records in a couple firsts, with a pair for each. Raja can earn a record as both the 1st UK circumnavigation by gyroplane and the fastest; with similar records given to his second-in-command as the youngest woman to do the same.
Also: NBAA on FAA Reauth, DJI AG Drones, HI Insurance Bill Defeated, SPSA Airtankers
The Beechcraft Denali continues moving forward towards certification, having received its FAA Type Inspection Authorization early this year. Textron advertised that their single-engine turboprop competitor has logged more than 2,000 flight test hours across 830+ flights, on track for completion in 2025. Aerodyne, a new gyroplane manufacturer, will be commemorating its entry into the market with an attempt at setting some records as it runs a lap around the United Kingdom. Founder, executive chairman, and pilot Rangaraja Iyengar will make a full lap around the whole
No More Crop Dusters On Payroll Now That the Agras is On the Mission
DJI announced the new Agras T25 and T50 for sale, providing support for smaller and larger growers with application, fertilization, and similar sprays. DJI says that its agricultural drones have already treated more than 980 million acres in more than 100 countries and regions, not too small a record for a lineup that only showed up on scene in 2023. The T25 is the smaller, more affordable model, while the T50 gets to be the flagship of the Agras lineup.
Also: 1800th E-Jet, Uncle Sam Sues For Landing Gear, Embraer Ag Plane, Textron Parts
A friend of the family reported that Lt. Col. (Ret.) Richard Glenn Rutan flew west on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 7:08 PM PDT. The last time Dick Rutan flew towards the western horizon was on December 14, 1986 when he and copilot Jeana Yeager set the last great aviation record by flying around the world, nonstop and unrefueled, in nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds in an aircraft called 'Voyager.' designed by Burt Rutan. As we understand it, a 'stalking horse bidder' is the initial bid on a bankrupt company's assets from an interested buyer -- chosen by the bankrupt comp
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator
US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, or VISTA, to illustrate just how far autonomous aircraft have come. The aircraft sounds much snazzier than it is in reality, being a 30-year old, 2-seat F-16D with a nifty paint job and an R2-D2 in one of the seats. The aircraft has long been in the US Air Force Test Pilot School, where it received modifications for multi-axis thrust vectoring and aerodynamics. AgEagle Aerial Systems will ship 40 of its eBee VISION systems, along with 9 more eBees, wi
Electric Aircraft Shaping Up to Be Hot Commodity for Military Logistics
Pyka has leveraged its expertise in building electronic uncrewed cargo aircraft to offer the RUMRUNNER, a defense-oriented variant of their Pelican Cargo. in order to offer something workable to military clientele, Pyka tapped in SNC Partner for their "expertise in customizing solutions for the world's most complex challenges". The RUMRUNNER is the result, the "largest 100% electric cargo UAS for sustainment in contested operations."
Governor Aims to Highlight Impact of General Flight on State Economy
Governor Spencer Cox of Utah announced that the month of may would be known as General Aviation Month in the state, highlighting the "rich history, significant contributions, and promising future of general aviation in our state and across the nation." Governor Cox highlighted the particular impact of general aviation today, which sends out more than 200,000 aircraft on 26 million flight hours a year.
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview
Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly (now in production with Pitman Air), has been lost in an aircraft test accident. Shortly after his appearance at SUN n FUN 2024, Bailey reportedly was asked to test fly a customer-built Dragonfly out of the Groveland airport in Florida... 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 da
Also: NAAA Asks UAVs To Give Way, Viasat-uAvionix, Oshkosh Defense, Wright Intros WEAETC
Skydweller Aero successfully completed the first flight of its solar-powered aircraft, the Skydweller, earlier this month. This groundbreaking aircraft, which boasts a wingspan exceeding that of a Boeing 747, undertook its inaugural flight autonomously--without any human pilot onboard or in direct control--from Stennis International Airport in Bay St Louis, Mississippi. VoltAero has commenced certification testing for the innovative electric-hybrid powertrain of its Cassio 330 aircraft. This testing phase marks a crucial step in the development of the Cassio e-aircra
Also: Electra Aero, AMO-CBP v Smugglers, Naval King Airs, Boeing Deal
To the surprise of everyone involved, Waco Kitchen shut down both airport operations with little warning and has not said much since. Lakeland’s Airport reported that, "WACO Kitchen, owned and operated by Dimor Eats LLC, which leases space on the second floor of the terminal building at Lakeland International Airport, notified officials on Monday that they will be temporarily suspending operations..." After months of wrangling, an agreement has been reached on a final bill to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the NTSB for five years. The legislation priori
After dealing with a big letdown after the unexpected decision by Skyreach to discontinue the manufacture of the Bushcat, the Knoll family (AeroSport) has come up with a heck of a second act... and it should be a strong one. Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC (APS), under the new ownership of Jeremy and Daniela Knoll has acquired Leading Edge Air Foils, LLC (LEAF). Better yet, effective immediately, APS will serve as the ROTAX independent Service Centre for the Central United States. The Popular Rotorcraft Association is reaching out for help in rebuilding th
Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with the Ministry of Defence of Brunei for the acquisition of six H145M helicopters. The new aircraft will replace the country's older Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm BO-105s. The West German platform was pretty good for its day, offering the country a nimble twin-engine helo that could pull off missions outside strike roles alone. That's a nice value add for more cash-strapped nations, since they can't necessarily purchase and maintain an expansive fleet of single-purpose airframes.
(FAA) Inspector Observed That Both Fuel Tanks Were Intact And That Only A Minimal Amount Of Fuel Remained In Each
Analysis: According to the pilot, approximately 8 miles from the destination airport, and while flying at 2,000 ft mean sea level, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. The pilot subsequently conducted a forced landing to a blueberry field impacting several sprinkler heads, which resulted in substantial damage to both wings.
From 2017 (YouTube Version): Dynon Announces Certified Avionics For GA At AirVenture…
Dynon Avionics unveiled a new line of certified avionics for part 23 airplanes at AirVenture this summer. Michael Schofield, Marketing Director for Dynon Avionics, told ANN CEO and Editor in Chief Jim Campbell at Oshkosh that the line is lead by the company's flagship EFIS system. Dynon began working on the certified line shortly after the first STC was granted in April, 2016. Schofield said the company realized that attitudes at the FAA wer
Aero Linx: FAA Managers Association (FAAMA)
Recognized by the FAA, FAAMA is a professional association dedicated to the promotion of excellence in public service. The Association is a vehicle for managers and other non-bargaining unit employees to communicate their interests in the political arena. Acting as an original source of responsible, balanced, and fact based information to our employer, the White House, Congress, and other relevant venues, FAAMA pursues political solutions representing the interests of our membership.
It's a question the ANN staff is asked too many times per week to count. The message usually goes something like this: "I really enjoyed the story Aero-News did on (fill in topic here.) I'd love to post it on my blog/newsletter/website... is that OK?"
Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS)
A ground based GNSS station which provides local differential corrections, integrity parameters and approach data via VHF data broadcast to GNSS users to meet real-time performance requirements for CAT I precision approaches. The aircraft applies the broadcast data to improve the accuracy and integrity of its GNSS signals and computes the deviations to the selected approach. A single ground station can serve multiple runway ends up to an approximate radius of 23 NM.
“Pyka’s Pelican Cargo is unlike any other UAS solution on the market for contested logistics. We assessed a number of leading capabilities and concluded that the Pelican Cargo is significantly more capable than any other platform. It is the only all-electric, austere environment cargo aircraft with that kind of range, payload capacity, and cargo volume. While the clean energy aspect is important, creating a more diverse, distributed, and survivable supply chain is expected to be the primary driver in terms of interest from the DoD. The Zero-Fuel component minimizes the need to forward-stage bulk fuel, which significantly reduces the logistics tail normally associated with resupply operations. This presents opportunities to increase the survivability of our service me
Also: NBAA on FAA Reauth, DJI AG Drones, HI Insurance Bill Defeated, SPSA Airtankers
The Beechcraft Denali continues moving forward towards certification, having received its FAA Type Inspection Authorization early this year. Textron advertised that their single-engine turboprop competitor has logged more than 2,000 flight test hours across 830+ flights, on track for completion in 2025. Aerodyne, a new gyroplane manufacturer, will be commemorating its entry into the market with an attempt at setting some records as it runs a lap around the United Kingdom. Founder, executive chairman, and pilot Rangaraja Iyengar will make a full lap around the whole lot with his 8-year-old daughter assisting, aiming to complete a 3-day, 5,000-mi
Autonomous Falcon Shows Just how Far the Tech Has Come
US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, or VISTA, to illustrate just how far autonomous aircraft have come. The aircraft sounds much snazzier than it is in reality, being a 30-year old, 2-seat F-16D with a nifty paint job and an R2-D2 in one of the seats. The aircraft has long been in the US Air Force Test Pilot School, where it received modifications for multi-axis thrust vectoring and aerodynamics. It went on to be used in the Skyborg program, equipped with an autonomous control system. Its latest guise now holds an updated and upgraded AI 'pilot', making it the very first AI fighter to dogfight
Despite Somewhat Realistic Beginnings, State Committee Reaches Too Far, Faceplants
A state bill that would have required air tour operators in Hawaii to hold liability insurance over $20 million per person, per incident did not stick the landing, to the collective release of pilots in the area. Hawaii State Senate Bill 2747 was introduced by State Senator Chris Lee, D-25, with the requirement being $1 million in liability coverage per person, per incident. That didn't last long, though, since a Senate Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts removed the price requirement and punted the bill over to the House Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce (CPC) for review. They were supposed to check the language and find a more w
NBAA Honored Yeager And Rutan With The Association’s 'Meritorious Service To Aviation' Award
As expected (and is proper), the aviation world is expressing their feelings about the loss of LtC Dick Rutan... The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has therefore marked the passing of acclaimed pilot and aviation pioneer Dick Rutan. “We join with our global aviation community in mourning the loss of a true aviation trailblazer,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Dick Rutan was a legend who will be profoundly missed.”
First Of The Four Airplanes Is Expected To Arrive In Late Summer Of 2025
Premier Scott Moe and Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Paul Merriman have disclosed details on the four re-purposed land-based airtanker aircraft, consisting of two Dash 8-Q400AT models and two Dash 8-Q400MRE models, being purchased for the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) at an approximate cost of $187.06 million. The planes will replace the current fleet of land-based airtanker aircraft, which consists of four Convair 580 airplanes. Those planes will approach the end of their useful lifespan in 2027.
As Always, the Furnace of Battle Winnows Out Impurities
Ukrainians reportedly aren't too impressed with US drone tech, according to rumor, finding it more costly, finicky, and unreliable compared to Chinese equivalents. The Ukrainian battlespace has become the world's premier combat laboratory for anyone in the military industry, with all manner of funding and procurement routes to get untested-but-promising gear up to the frontlines of the most high-intensity combat allied armies have seen in years. The result? Cheap drones that can stay in contact with their command structure rule the day, allowing simple, effective placement of small ordnance on target, scouting from a safe distance, or intelligence gathering to form an accurate picture of
NASA Demo Program Starts Doing the Legwork on Electrified Commuter Planes
Indian regional carrier Air Tindi has promised one of its De Havilland Dash 7 aircraft for use under the magniX electric powertrain program, where it will be used as a testbed to establish the feasibility of their magni650 engine in a real-world environment. The news follows magniX’s successful completion of their 1st phase of testing in the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed facility in Sandusky, Ohio. Testing there focused on assessing its power us, 800-volt operations, and thermal performance using their magni650 engine at altitudes up to 27,500 feet. The company snagged a $74.3 million contract in 2021, assisting with NASA’s testing facility as a corporate
AMTs and Company Descend on Portland, Oregon in Force
The National Business Aviation Association capped off a successful 2024 NBAA Maintenance Conference, and already started looking forward to next year. The NBAA saw attendees make the rounds from all over the continental US, bringing those who want to foster a stronger generation of maintenance professionals. Keynote speakers included Greg Wooldridge, a 3-time CO of the US Navy's Blue Angels and Amy Grubb, an FBI psychologist who walked audiences through proper organizational handling.“I’ve taken the adage, ‘You fly the airplane, don’t let it fly you,’ and I’ve applied it to everything in my life,” said Wooldridge.
Student Pilot’s Failure To Maintain Helicopter Control Which Resulted In Impact
Analysis: The operator reported that the student pilot had completed three solo touch and go landings and was returning to land on the ramp. While approaching the parking area, he was distracted by two aircraft on the ramp, and the helicopter began an uncontrolled yaw. The student pilot lowered the collective and arrested the yaw, but as the helicopter entered ground effect, he raised the collective, and the uncontrolled yaw resumed. The helicopter impacted the ground and sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, main rotor, and tail rotor.
From 2017 (YouTube Version): Pilots Competed For $10,000 For A First Place Finish…
Drone Racing came to the Sebring Sport Aviation Expo in January, with pilots competing for a $10,000 first prize. But the event was about more than just the money, according to Chris Thomas, founder and president of MultiGP, which organized the event. Thomas told ANN CEO and Editor in Chief Jim Campbell that the Sebring event was the first time MultiGP had worked with the FAA to conduct a drone race in close proximity to General Aviation activity.&n
The T-6 Racing Association is all about T-6‘s and racing. Our mission is to bring great racing to our fans in Reno and other venues where racing may be. Anyone can join! Whether you are a race spectator, an aircraft owner, or just someone with a passion for airplanes, sign up today and help us keep this unique event going.
A Powerful New Tool For You To Use For Your Aero-Conversations
Want to start a conversation about a story you've seen on Aero-News? It's even easier with Disqus, a powerful, web-based comment tool you can use to talk about stories on Aero-News with your friends.
Hazardous Weather Information
Summary of significant meteorological information (SIGMET/WS), convective significant meteorological information (convective SIGMET/WST), urgent pilot weather reports (urgent PIREP/UUA), center weather advisories (CWA), airmen’s meteorological information (AIRMET/WA) and any other weather such as isolated thunderstorms that are rapidly developing and increasing in intensity, or low ceilings and visibilities that are becoming widespread which is considered significant and are not included in a current hazardous weather advisory.
"The need for innovation at speed and scale is greater than ever. The X-62A VISTA is a crucial platform in our efforts to develop, test and integrate AI, as well as to establish AI certification standards that will revolutionize the future of aerospace. Our proven hardware and software architecture enable safe and controlled environments for AI agents and advanced algorithms to rapidly prototype and develop."
Source: John Clark, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, following the successful flight in which US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, or VISTA, to illustrate just how far autonomous aircraft have c
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator
US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, or VISTA, to illustrate just how far autonomous aircraft have come. The aircraft sounds much snazzier than it is in reality, being a 30-year old, 2-seat F-16D with a nifty paint job and an R2-D2 in one of the seats. The aircraft has long been in the US Air Force Test Pilot School, where it received modifications for multi-axis thrust vectoring and aerodynamics. AgEagle Aerial Systems will ship 40 of its eBee VISION systems, along with 9 more eBees, with all the parts, support, connections, control stations, and miscellany required
Suni Williams Named The Crew Capsule Calypso In 2019
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will be the first to fly aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station, and the name of the spacecraft ferrying them to the orbiting laboratory holds a special place in Williams’ heart. Williams named the crew capsule Calypso in 2019 to pay tribute to the explorer Jacques Cousteau, who sailed across the world on his own ship named bearing the same name. Cousteau’s goal was to learn about the ocean and teach others about the wonders of the sea.
This Was The Depot’s First Time Restoring An A-4 Skyhawk For Historical Display
Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) artisans recently had the rare opportunity to restore a piece of aviation history for display onboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) opened its doors Dec. 16, 1943 as the Assembly and Repair Department at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. As an aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, FRCE’s Aircraft Clean and Paint shops prime and paint each aircraft that passes through the facility. However, artisans had the chance to “travel back in time” as they restored a retired Douglas A-4M Skyhawk – a platform that has not been service
Lake Amphibian Club (LAC) Received Approximately 27 Reports Of Cracks In The Wing Rear Spar Web
The FAA has issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) that alerts all owners, operators, maintenance technicians, and inspectors of Revo Incorporated Model Colonial C-1, Colonial C-2, Lake LA-4, Lake LA-4A, Lake LA-4P, Lake LA-4-200, Lake Model 250 (including those modified in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA469NE) and Lake 270 Turbo Renegade (Model 250 with STC AS469NE as noted in TCDS 1A13 Note 8) aircraft to potential cracks in the wing rear attach beam assembly and hole-quality issues that have been identified in a significant number of aircraft.
Air And Marine Operations Crews Have Rescued 98 People Since The Beginning Of Fiscal Year 2024
A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) UH-60 aircrew rescued a man trapped in rugged terrain in the Baboquivari Mountain region on April 30. The Tucson Air Branch aircrew was en route to a media event to demonstrate Search and Rescue (SAR) procedures for visiting journalists. During the transit, the aircrew diverted to respond to reports of an undocumented migrant in distress in the remote mountain range.
Readying To Collect Imagery Of The Most Rapidly Changing Areas On Earth As Frequently As Every 20 To 30 Minutes
Maxar Intelligence has confirmed that the first two WorldView Legion satellites are performing well after being launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket last week from Vandenberg SFB, California. Shortly after launch, the satellites deployed their solar arrays and began receiving and sending signals. These satellites will undergo commissioning, and Maxar Intelligence expects first images from the spacecraft later this spring.
Bye Aerospace, currently undertaking a slow path to the development of a number of electric aircraft... has replaced founding CEO George Bye with Rod Zastrow. Familiar with the territory, Zastrow had been serving as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Bye, before taking the top seat. Bye reportedly remains Chairman and now fills in as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The reasons for these changes in leadership have not been disclosed. Zastrow reports that the company will continue to pursue 'the final stages' of FAA certification and commence production of the eFlyer 2 -- which they say may ultimately be the first FAA Part 23 certified electric airplane -- but they're going to have to pick up t
AW-139 Helps Motor Vehicle Crash Victim in Allegany County< MD
The Maryland State Police Aviation Command had its work cut out for it, last week, as it rescued a man injured from a motor vehicle rollover down an 80-foot embankment in Allegany County. At approximately 6:50 a.m. on May 3, 2024, Maryland State Police Aviation Command was requested to assist Allegany County Fire and EMS personnel with a motor vehicle accident with entrapment, over an embankment. The Trooper 5 helo, based out of the Cumberland Section, responded to the scene. While on scene, the crew of Trooper 5 was able to make contact with the patient and rescue crews.
Accident Is Consistent With The Pilot Electing To Conduct An Ostentatious Flight Display At Low Altitude
Analysis: Relatives of the pilot said the pilot would often conduct low-altitude flights and perform aerobatic maneuvers over their home. They stated that on the day of the accident, the pilot overflew their home and made a total of three passes. During the third pass, the relatives estimated the airplane was about 100 ft above the ground flying from north to south when it entered a barrel roll and descended out of sight behind trees, where it impacted the ground.
From 2010 (YouTube Version): Cheri's Achievements Are Exceeded Only By The Heights She Has Achieved As A World-Class Balloonist
You may all be a little sick, by now, in hearing about the amazing team ANN's Aero-TV crews has at the 2010 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta... the sites, the sounds, the colors, the staff, the crews, the PILOTS... they all made an extraordinary week even more so. And one of our favorite people was a balloon pilot, Cheri White, who launched herself (and partner Mark Sullivan) into the late night ether to take a chance in seeking the top spot in the America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race.
Aero Linx: European Hang Gliding and Paragliding Union (EHPU)
The general aim of the EHPU is to promote and protect hang gliding and paragliding in Europe. In order to achieve this aim, as an independent, self-governing and non-profit umbrella association for national hang gliding and paragliding associations in Europe, the EHPU seeks in particular to consult with all relevant regulatory authorities in Europe, for the benefit of hang gliding and paragliding. It endeavours to cooperate both with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) and with Europe Airsports.
Choose How YOU Want To View Your Aero News: View Everything
We're all pretty excited about the new website design here at ANN, but we HAVE heard from some of you that you liked the way that content was displayed on the old site. We hear you, and before you chuck your bitgrinder out a 5th story window, you should know that there are several ways that you can view your Aero-Content.
Altitude Readout
An aircraft’s altitude, transmitted via the Mode C transponder feature, that is visually displayed in 100-foot increments on a radar scope having readout capability.
“Our aircrews are trained and capable of rapidly shifting from operational missions to humanitarian roles. We planned to demonstrate how we, and our BORSTAR partners, respond to emergencies. Our combined team ended up saving a person’s life on the way to that demonstration.”
Source: Jose R. Muriente, Deputy Director of Air and Marine Operations, Tucson Air Branch, discussing how a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) UH-60 aircrew rescued a man trapped in rugged terrain in the Baboquivari Mountain region on April 30.
Also: 1800th E-Jet, Uncle Sam Sues For Landing Gear, Embraer Ag Plane, Textron Parts
A friend of the family reported that Lt. Col. (Ret.) Richard Glenn Rutan flew west on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 7:08 PM PDT. The last time Dick Rutan flew towards the western horizon was on December 14, 1986 when he and copilot Jeana Yeager set the last great aviation record by flying around the world, nonstop and unrefueled, in nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds in an aircraft called 'Voyager.' designed by Burt Rutan. As we understand it, a 'stalking horse bidder' is the initial bid on a bankrupt company's assets from an interested buyer -- chosen by the bankrupt company. The proposed stalking horse bidder, SG Investment America Inc., has been des
Held More Than A Dozen NAA/FAI Aircraft World Speed And Distance Records
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Richard Glenn Rutan (Born July 1, 1938) flew west on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 7:08 PM PDT A friend of the family passed on some really unfortunate news... the passing of yet another aero-legend, Dick Rutan... and one of the most fun guys to 'rat-race' a pair of Long-EZs with... period (and yes, he waxed my tail more than a few times...). Rest Well, Lt Colonel Rutan... and thank you for your service. The last time Dick Rutan flew towards the western horizon was on December 14, 1986 when he and copilot Jeana Yeager set the last great aviation record by flying around the world, nonstop and unrefueled, in nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds i
Hi Folks...
This is a special issue of the Propwash newsletter, dedicated only to its being a personal message from the ANN gang to you. I promise not to do this too often, but hope that I can impose on you for a few minutes in order to seek your continued support. We'd like to make one last pitch for book orders while they might affect the total print order. We have sent this book to the printer and are in pre-press prep right now (proofs expected today)... and the more we can add to the print tally, the more cost-effective our printing prices (per book) become.
As you
Read More
