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Calendar of Events
To list your group’s event on a space available basis, please send your event notice with date, time, place w/city and state, contact name, and phone number to: Calendar, In Flight USA, P.O. Box 5402, San Mateo, Calif. 94402, or email 3rdavenue@embarqmail.com.
Note: Calendar includes only information available by our press date, Friday, Dec. 6.Confirm the status before attending.
JANUARY
4 Chino, CA: Hangar Talk/Flying Demo, 10:30 a.m., Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-3722, planesoffame.org.
Vacaville, CA: Cup of Joe, 9 to 11 a.m., Rowland Freedom Center, (707) 449-3402, rowlandfreedomcenter.org.
Hollister, CA: Antique Aircraft Display & Fly-In, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Frazier Lake Airpark, (408) 835-1694, frazierlake.com.
7 Chino, CA: Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 9 a.m. to noon, Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-7576, planesoffame.org.
Nampa, ID: Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 10 a.m., Warhawk Air Museum, (208) 465-6446, warhawkairmuseum.org.
18 Jurupa Valley, CA: Antique & Classic Aircraft Display Day, 8 a.m. to noon, Flabob Airport, (951) 683-2309, flabob.org.
19 San Diego, CA: Historic Aircraft Display, noon to 2 p.m., MontgomeryGibbs Field, (619) 301-2530.
25 Sanford, FL: Aerospace & Aviation Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Million Air Hangar, Orlando Sanford Int’l. Airport, (407) 585-4024, aviationdayorlandosanford.com.
Novato, CA: Planes & Coffee, SkyShare Terminal, Gnoss Field, (415) 897-2403, skyshare.com.
Riverside, CA: Aircraft Display Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, Riverside Municipal Airport, (951) 312-4832.
FEBRUARY
1 Chino, CA: Hangar Talk/Flying Demo, 10:30 a.m., Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-3722, planesoffame.org.
Vacaville, CA: Cup of Joe, 9 to 11 a.m., Rowland Freedom Center, (707) 449-3402, rowlandfreedomcenter.org.
Hollister, CA: Antique Aircraft Display & Fly-In, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Frazier Lake Airpark, (408) 835-1694, frazierlake.com.
4 Chino, CA: Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 9 a.m. to noon, Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-7576, planesoffame.org.
Nampa, ID: Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 10 a.m., Warhawk Air Museum, (208) 465-6446, warhawkairmuseum.org.
REMEMBERIN G SALLY GERSBAC H
In Flight USA is saddened to report the passing of long-time staff member Sally Gersbach. Sally worked for In Flight USA for more than 35 years. (She gifted now Managing Editor/Publisher Annamarie Buonocore with her first teddy bear!)
Sally most recently lived in Henderson, Nev She first worked for In Flight while living in the San Francisco Bay Area She was married to the late Frank Gersbach and will be entombed with him in Pennsylvania
As a tribute to her love of aviation, Sally once thought of having her ashes spread over an airport so she “could watch the planes come and go ” Upon discussing her plans with family, she decided it best to be with her late husband
Sally was a humble and generous person with a high-regard for professionalism
and perfection in the workplace. She was also vibrant and very active in classes, clubs and organizations More often than not, she met her In Flight deadline and was “out the door” to yoga class! She was also a huge pet lover she was preceded in death by her beloved Dickens
Most recently, Sally prepared the monthly calendar and classified ads for In Flight USA
Along with her family and friends, we will miss her very much Blue Skies, dear Sally!
Sally and her beloved Dickens (Photo Annamarie Buonocore)
FEATURED STORY
ANSWERIN G THE TOUGH QUES TIONS REGARDIN G AVIATION L AW: THE
L AW OFFICE OF L. FORRES T OWENS, P.A.; AVIATION LEGAL COUNSEL
The firm of Aviation Legal Counsel and its staff have years of experience in aviation, including aviation legal considerations, aircraft operations, and maintenance
The team has extensive hands-on knowledge, having tailored hundreds of aircraft transactions, ranging from homebuilt aircraft through the large-cabin corporate aircraft with every major manufacturer, including rotorcraft Aviation Legal Counsel concentrates on aircraft and aviation-related transactions, crossborder transactions, airman defense before the FAA and Department of Transportation, airport real estate and land use, and civil litigation arising from aviation-related disputes
Supporting a breadth of clients, the firm is well versed in the area of fractional ownership and shared or co-ownership arrangements “In the ever-changing business environment of aviation, our commitment is to stay current in support of your aviation legal needs, now and in the future,” said Forrest Owens, Principal of Aviation Legal Counsel
Aircraft transactions (including helicopters) can be varied in their nature and scope The sophisticated purchaser or seller of an aircraft will incorporate the representations of a legal professional familiar with the many considerations unique to the aviation industry The types of transactions which often require representation are purchase and sale transactions of whole or fractionalized aircraft There are many considerations depending upon if the transaction is a U S domestic transaction or if there is an international aspect
“Our legal professionals are familiar with both U.S. domestic and international transactions,” noted Owens. In addition, the following types of transactions are commonly addressed:
• Leasing arrangements both long and short-term
• Block time purchase and sale arrangements for non-commercial Part 91 aircraft
• Co-Ownership arrangements
• Joint use agreements
“The foundation of a successful transaction is planning for and addressing the
unique considerations of each transaction We are well versed in addressing the issues for a successful outcome,” Owens said Aircraft finance is another complex legal consideration Owens said, “We maintain relationships with the industry leaders in aircraft finance We have successfully arranged for domestic and international lending against U S and foreign-registered aircraft Our experience includes securing loans through both private and institutional sources ”
Further, Aviation Legal Counsel attorneys have prepared lending programs for financial institutions new to the aviation lending market. They have prepared the instruments and provided the guidance necessary for their clients to be secure in the enforcement of their loan while meeting any unique expectations of their regulators
When institutional lending is not available due to the circumstances of the borrower, Aviation Legal Counsel has made arrangements with private lenders to fill the void and permit clients to obtain lending on their aircraft and keep their capital flexible
The purchase, sale, and merger of FAA licensed companies presents unique considerations “Our methodology for FAA licensed companies is forwardthinking, progressive, and delivers pragmatic solutions,” said Owens “Our firm understands the FAA’s requirements and navigates these clients to represent our clients’ interests based on complete facts, law, and analysis ”
Further, Aviation Legal Counsel rep-
Continued on Page 22
L Forrest Owens (Courtesy Aviation Legal Counsel)
January2025
ANSWERINGTHE TOUGH QUESTIONS REGARDING AVIATION LAW
TheLawOfficeofL.Forrest Owens,P.A.; AviationLegalCounsel
StoryBeginsonPage4
CourtDelaysCorporateTransparencyDeadline....................7
NewRulesforColorVisionTesting..........................................8
GAMAAnnouncesJamesViolaasIncomingPres.&CEO....9
GAMAIntroduces2025ExecutiveCommitteeLeadership..11 BlackhawkGroupAcquiresGlendaleAeroServicesMRO..14 Embry-RiddlePartnersw/AirForceForInitialPilotTraining ..16
BellAnnouncesNewManufacturingFacilityinTexas..........18 LongBeachAirportGenerate$9BinEconomicImpact....26
HartzellExtendsBackcountryPropDiscounts toRAFSupporters..............................................................29 2024ICASConventionExceedsExpectations......................40
ClearLakeFlyingClubOffersFreeAviationClassesforYouth 43
WARBIRDS OVER SOUTH TEXAS
AOPAEditorial:ATimeForGratitude
ByMarkBaker,AOPAPresidentandCEO .......................8
Editorial:NewYearRevolution
ByEdDowns ................................................................10
HowGoodWillAIBeAtTeachingGroundSchool? InterviewwiththeSkyBotTeam ByAnnamarieBuonocore......................................................21
BoseBringsNoise-CancellingComfort ByAnnamarieBuonocore .............................................25
ScaleWingsSW-51Mustang DoubleOSeven
ByJohnCaldwell .........................................................28
AmericanFlyGirl AuthorAkenyIlluminates Asian-AmericanExperienceDuringWWII ByMarkRhodes ............................................................31
EscapetoAristaWineryinSonoma ByAnnamarieBuonocore ..............................................35
StoryandPhotos ByNickViggiano Page45
TheUpsand Downs ofFlightTraining:Distractionsand Priorities ByEdDowns ................................................6
TheSpiritofFlight:DiscoverSanCarlosinSan Francisco’sMid-Peninsula ByDeniseDeGregoire ...20
Goodies&Gadgets:HappyNewYearFromAircraft Spruce......................................................................30
CallBackSafeLandings:EverydayHeroes .................................................................................32
Homebuilder’sWorkshop:IThoughtIHadNoCardiac Worries ByEdWischmeyer .........................................37
The Ups and DOWNS of Flight Training
By Ed Downs
DIS TRACTIONS AND PRIORITIES
Distractions and priorities a topic that crosses a lot of lines Use of digital devises, increased technology in our airplanes, texting while driving and a myriad of other “things to do” when we should be paying attention to the priority at hand kick in at the most inopportune times, sometimes overwhelming our skill sets Of course, in the case of flying, the first priority is “fly the plane!” But sometimes that “priority number one” falls prey to a variety of distractions, not all of which are technology related Allow this writer to share such a distraction.
The year was 1964 and I received a call from a friend who had just purchased a new glider, a Schweizer 2-32 This new two-place design was considered to be a high performance sailplane in those days An invitation was extended to join him in Tehachapi, Calif , for a flight in his new toy Would you say no?
The small town of Tehachapi is located in a valley at the southern flank of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, with a field elevation of 4,000 feet and numerous mountain ridges close by for excellent ridge current soaring, an ideal location for glider ops This was my first exposure to gliders, and I loved it! Quickly deciding to take formal lessons, a terrific little trainer, the Schweizer 2-22 was presented to me, complete with a skilled instructor.
Given that this writer had a great deal of formation flying experience and was quite knowledgeable of ridge soaring and thermal principles (skills one learns when trained in planes with only 65 HP), the first two flight lessons went very well, each lasting about 20 minutes Yes, that sounds like very little time, but each lesson consisted of concentrated training in tow operations, glide ratio assessment, pattern procedures and energy control, resulting in surprisingly accurate landings My third flight in the 2-22 was super silent, as the instructor stayed on the ground Upon landing, I was invited to take up the school’s single place Schweizer 1-26, a higher performing and immensely popular sailplane, even today! For those who might wish to experience what this writer did so many years ago, Tehachapi now offers a terrific glider flight school at Mountain Valley Airport (L94) This is the home of Skylark North Glider flight school, Mountain Valley RV Park, and The Raven’s Nest Deli Whether you’re looking to take your first sailplane ride, admiring the scenic Tehachapi Valley, or looking for a bite,
Two Red Tail hawks don’t let them distract you (Courtesy/birdsofprey)
Mountain Valley Airport offers it all Visit their web site at www skylarknorth com for details or give Owner/Operator Jane Barret a call at (661) 822-5267.
What a thrill! Towed to 2,000 feet above the ground by a Super Cub, I cut loose and headed for a nearby ridge, reveling in the beauty and silence of flight without a belching engine to interfere with my reverie of flight I was close to my chosen ridge when I spotted two large, circling hawks, obviously enjoying a strong thermal Quickly altering course, I joined up with my soaring friends and immediately began climbing One can talk about “soaring with the eagles,” but to actually do it is a life altering experience until I was awakened by a “rumbling” sound, followed by a nose down pitch and slight roll-off Having been distracted by my feathered formation mates, I simply forgot that birds soar at a slower speed than a Schweizer 1-26. I forgot to fly the plane. That “rumble” was the sound of air breaking loose from the wing as my 1-26 gently stalled The inadvertent stall has taken many lives over the years, very often allowed to occur due to distractions while in a traffic pattern For this writer, a simple “stick forward” resolved the issue and reminded me that I needed to fly a larger radius, thereby maintaining speed (about 50 mph) and a wider position in the formation For the first time, those annoying written exam questions regarding rate and radius seemed to have meaning! To this day, I still swear that I heard those two birds laughing their feathered butts off! Also, to this day, I learned a valuable lesson about priorities and distractions.
The dangers of distractions in flight have been known since the beginning of flight The concept of having a co-pilot evolved not from the need to have a “spare pilot,” but the recognition that a particular machine was too complicated to be managed by just one person As
COURT DEL AYS CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY DEADLINE
By Ian Arendt AOPA
A federal judge issued an injunction putting on hold a Jan 1 federal mandate to disclose the ownership of all corporate entities
The rule requires virtually all corporations, limited liability companies, and other entities and legal arrangements (including many aviation businesses and entities owning aircraft) to report information about their owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.
The Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) rule arises from the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which Congress passed in 2021 as part of a larger defense authorization act
Since its passage, the CTA has been subject to a host of legal challenges, most of which have been unsuccessful Recently, however, a Texas court issued a nationwide preliminary injunction suspending enforce-
ment of the CTA and the BOI rule and staying the BOI reporting deadline pending further order of the court Although the court’s ruling is preliminary, and has been appealed by the government, it means that no one is required to file their BOI reports – at least for now.
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals scheduled oral argument for March 5 on the constitutionality of the CTA The deadline for businesses to file ownership information, which was briefly reinstated in the closing days of 2024, has again been stayed pending these proceedings AOPA recommends that companies subject to the BOI rule continue to gather requisite beneficial owner information But they need not file their BOI report Of course, those wishing to file their BOI reports may continue to do so voluntarily
AOPA will continue to monitor legal developments impacting the BOI rule Follow this continuing story at aopa org
The Ups and Downs
Continued from Page 6
large transport aircraft came into service, a third seat was added to the flight deck, a Flight Engineer, needed to manage increasingly complex aircraft systems
The early days of long-range flight included space for a full time Navigator Yes, there was simply more to keep track of than could be handled by a single pilot. None of the tasks that used to be handled by up to four crewmembers have disappeared As time moved forward, technology and automation have simply replaced the multi-person crew, but the tasks for which each of those crewmembers were responsible have not disappeared The modern, well-equipped Technically Advanced Airplane (TAA) has all the same systems and demands that early complex airplanes had, with the expectation that modern displays and automation will keep track of everything Even the FAA now refers to flight skills in terms of “managing” the airplane, not flying it
This writer is an active CFI and helps many students prepare for various check rides. Key to any check ride is the Airman Certification Standard (ACS), about half of which deals with the oral part of the practical test The ACS clearly expects the applicant to have the system and operational knowledge that once required four crewmembers, a tall order! Even more demanding is your need to figure out when the skills of one of those long lost four crew members becomes a
priority over the other three This is where distraction enters the picture One can simply become overwhelmed by trying to do too much in too short a period of time Have you consciously prioritized the most important factors of flight, placing into the background goodies and gadgets that have little to do with keeping you airborne and under control? Allow me to share what history has shown us to be the two most important priorities.
• Keep the engine running That takes fuel (fullest tank), Fire (ignition) and Air (carburetor/fuel injection) Given engine concerns, memorize those key concerns that keep that noisemaker making noise
• Fly the Plane, meaning prioritize the three essential “A’s,” Airspeed, Attitude and Altitude
In a pinch, forget about programming the autopilot, tuning radios or fiddling with a tablet These simply become distractions Establish what you consider to be a critical phase of flight (maybe 15 minutes before landing and 15 minutes after take-off) and restrict your activities to only those critical to safety, including telling passengers to hold off conversation until established in cruise climb or in the chocks after landing These must be conscious decisions, perhaps even part of your personal checklist Thinking more philosophically, those two hawks are always out there, quietly waiting to distract you, ready to laugh their feathered butts off don’t give them the chance!
Being a member of AOPA is more than a huge list of pilot benefits. Joining AOPA empowers general aviation with a louder voice, keeping skies safer and open to pilots everywhere.
By Mark Baker AOPA President and CEO
For the past 11 years, I have shared in this column at this time of year a reflection on what your association has accomplished and what our plans and hopes for the future are going into the new year It’s going to be an exciting year for your new president, Darren Pleasance; for our growing membership; and for aviation across the board But allow me to indulge in my gratitude for the accomplishments over the past year for one final time as your president
It will come as no surprise that one of my proudest accomplishments as AOPA president has been the launch and continuing support of the You Can Fly initiative. What started as a bold concept is now a confirmed reality, and this year ’s successes follow on seven years of remarkable growth From 100,000 students who have used the High School STEM program to more than 13,000 rusty pilots returning to the air, and from the start of the 250th flying club to the more than $1 5 million awarded in scholarships in 2024, even I could not have envisioned what we have accomplished, and 2024 simply built on our success I am extremely proud and grateful for the
By Dr. Brent Blue Courtesy AOPA
A TIME FOR GRATITUDE
hard work of a terrific staff and believe this initiative will continue to grow and strengthen our pilot community.
You know that the contributions to the AOPA Foundation are what help fund both the You Can Fly program and the work of the AOPA Air Safety Institute Generous donations helped ASI realize one of the safest years yet in general aviation I believe the videos, courses, and webinars that the ASI staff creates contribute to the remarkable fact that GA accidents have fallen by half in the past 30 years and GA had its safest fiscal year in 2021 Because of ASI’s efforts, we have better technology, training, and safety awareness
You’ll read in Kollin Stagnito’s kind tribute to me of my proudest accomplishments over my 11-year time at the helm of this association, and one of them is the success of BasicMed. In 2024, more than 80,000 pilots were using or had qualified to use this medical certification designed to keep pilots in the air longer and safely
And an FAA study found “no difference in accident risk between flights conducted by pilots operating under BasicMed and flights conducted by pilots holding third class medical certificates ”
Because I love to fly, I am especially gratified to see more pilots taking to the sky, more aircraft shipments, and
more flight hours being logged By all accounts from FAA data, GA flying is trending upward, and I believe that trend will continue. There was a nearly 8 percent jump in piston aircraft deliveries in 2024 according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association What an exciting time to be in general aviation!
All this good news also points to an issue that is top of mind for all of us, and yes, more so for me as I enter retirement – insurance costs that reflect experience and safety record and not just age Expanding medical options for pilots, improving safety trends, and growing educational offerings are all part of our efforts to let the insurance industry know that a safe pilot deserves to be an insured pilot, without penalty for age
Working with the insurance industry is just one of the efforts your association will be pursuing as 2025 begins. I am grateful that because of the work of your AOPA staff, Darren will be prepared to address the safe and smart transition to unleaded fuel by 2030 as mandated by Congress and that he will inherit a knowledgeable team ready to help implement MOSIAC – the modernization of special airworthiness certification This rule will allow manufacturers to expand the performance requirements of the light sport
category, thereby increasing the growth and vitality of recreational aviation
“Vitality ” I’m feeling good about this word as it describes our industry, your association, and, quite frankly, my own new world I will continue to play an active part of GA, AOPA, and the flying community In fact, I plan to be flying as much as I can, and I hope to see you in the sky or at the airport.
Darren can call me anytime. Unless I’ve gone fishing.
Blue skies!
Editor ’ s Note: In Flight USA extends best wishes to Mark on his retirement and our gratitude for all the work, effort and personal sacrifice in making general aviation continuously better and stronger for all of us In Flight has enjoyed and appreciated running his wise and encouraging words on our pages for the past 11 years
NEW RULES FOR COLOR VISION TES TIN G
The FAA is now fixing a problem that is not a problem – lying on color vision testing As of Jan 1, 2025, aviation medical examiners will rely on internet-based tests to detect defective color vision
The main difference between current testing and the new required online testing is that the color plates are randomized with each access so an applicant cannot memorize the sequence of the pseudoisochromatic color plates At least there is one good part of this change –any pilot who has passed the color vision test previously will, in most cases, not have to be retested
Color vision deficiency is usually red-green deficiency and is an inherited trait linked to the X chromosome, which makes it more common in men than women. Blue-yellow deficiency is rarer and affects men and women equally However, the overall incidence of color blindness is about 7 percent The important point is that color blindness is rarely functionally significant, in or out of the aviation environment
One reason for the changes to color
vision testing is an NTSB recommendation dating back to 2002 following a Tallahassee, Florida, crash involving a FedEx aircraft that was in part attributed to a color vision deficit. Accidents linked to color vision deficiency are rare
The basic changes are as follows:
• If a pilot has passed the color vision test prior to Jan 1, 2025, he or she does not need to ever be retested during medical renewal with the exclusion of reporting a new medication that can affect color vision perception, or developing a new medical condition that affects color vision Examples would include taking certain medications such as Viagra (sildenafil citrate), a vasodilator prescribed for erectile dysfunction Eye conditions including glaucoma, advanced stage cataracts, or age-related macular degeneration may also affect color vision.
• A first-time applicant for medical certification will be required to test for color vision with one of three computerized tests Applicants who pass will not have to be retested on future exams
A pilot with a statement of demonstrated ability (SODA) for color blind-
ness who moves up in medical class (e g , from third to second) would require retesting for color vision under the new policy. In most cases, the pilot will not pass the computer-based test. AMEs are instructed to issue the medical with a “No night flying” restriction until the pilot can satisfactorily perform a medical flight test showing they can safely operate an aircraft with the color vision deficiency There will be unintended consequences that will present problems for pilots Some AMEs may not want to buy the computerized program ($1,000) and devote a computer or laptop in their office to this purpose The FAA has suggested that AMEs who do not want to purchase the software or equipment refer pilots to vision clinics or other AMEs who are equipped to do the vision portion of the AME exam. However, some AMEs may say they have had enough of such shenanigans and quit. AMEs who purchased the materials may charge an additional amount for the new testing to recoup the investment
So, what is the point? The FAA is concerned about pilots misreading flat screen displays, runway glideslope indicator lights, and light gun signals However,
If a pilot has passed the color vision test prior to Jan 1, 2025, he or she does not need to ever be retested during medical renewal with the exclusion of reporting a new medication that can affect color vision perception (Photo courtesy AOPA)
you have to look a long time to find an accident caused by color blindness
Editor ’s Note: Article Author Dr. Brent Blue is an FAA senior aviation medical examiner and airline transport pilot with more than 9,000 hours of flight time Through his company, Aeromedix com, he introduced pulse oximetry and digital carbon monoxide detection to general aviation in 1995
Mark Baker, AOPA President and CEO, retires (Courtesy AOPA)
GAMA ANNOUNCES JAMES
A AS INCOMIN G
On Dec 12, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Board of Directors announced that James Viola would lead the association as the next President and CEO starting in the Spring of 2025 as current President and CEO, Pete Bunce, is set to retire after 20 years at the helm
“James Viola has an incredible passion for general aviation and will do a remarkable job representing the interests of GAMA member companies and leading the tremendous GAMA staff. His military, flying and regulatory experience, along with his proven leadership of a renowned international aviation association, will make him an extremely effective advocate for the economic and societal contributions of the global general aviation industry,” said Chuck Wiplinger, GAMA Chair and President and CEO of Wipaire
“GAMA has an outstanding reputation as a leader across the international aerospace ecosystem and I am honored and excited to work with GAMA’s members and team to further advance the critical interests and contributions of the aviation industry I look forward to championing general aviation’s significant work to provide growth and opportunity for individuals and businesses, enable innovative and technological advancements for safety and efficiency, and support the economic development and welfare of communities across the globe,” said James Viola, incoming GAMA President and CEO
Viola comes to GAMA from Vertical Aviation International (VAI),
James Viola will be the new GAMA President and CEO, following his work as President and CEO of Vertical Aviation International (VAI) and, prior to that, a decade with the FAA (Courtesy VAI)
where he serves as President and CEO Since 2020, Viola has led VAI in representing and supporting the interests of the global helicopter industry and other vertical aviation stakeholders Additionally, Viola spearheaded the association’s rebranding from Helicopter Association International (HAI) to VAI, which widened the association’s focus to encompass the rapid expansion and technological evolution occurring in vertical aviation.
Prior to VAI, Viola spent over a decade at the U S Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) His last role at the agency was Director of General Aviation Safety Assurance, where he was responsible for maintaining consistency and standardization in the application of safety oversight activities for the general aviation community Additionally, Viola spent over two decades as a U S Army aviator, achieving the rank of Colonel In addition to his more than 35 years of aviation experience, Viola holds several Master ’s degrees, including one in Strategic Studies from the U S Army War College in Carlisle, PA and one in International Relations from Auburn University in Montgomery, AL. Viola is an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for helicopters and airplanes and has accumulated more than 7,000 flight hours, including 1,100 with night-vision goggles
“James will be a bold leader for
Editorial By Ed Downs
NEW YEAR REVOLUTION
The discerning reader might immediately think that this writer, more a pilot than an eloquent composer of prose, should learn how to spell You are not alone, my fifth grade teacher and all that have followed would agree Certainly, one would think, the title to this opinion piece should be “New Year Resolution,” not “New Year Revolution,” right? No the word “Revolution” is most appropriate As has been said by many in the news media, “There is a new Sheriff in town ” We will get to some suggested “Resolutions,” but that will come a few paragraphs down Let’s first consider how 2025 might be shaping up for us aviators and a National Airspace System (NAS) that is supposed to serve all public needs, to include private and recreational flying, corporate transportation, the airline industry and the traveling public in general
Wow, we are now polishing off the first 25 years of the 21st Century Time flies when you’re having fun! Focusing on just a few adventures that await the aviation community, consider that the FAA Administrator, Mike Whitaker, has tendered his resignation as of January 2025 To say the least, the FAA has had a rough four years, given that it had no Administrator for almost two and a half years, with just one aborted attempt by the Biden Administration to place an historically unqualified person to that position.
Months followed prior to Mr. Whitaker stepping in for the last 14 months Take note that the FAA Administrator ’s position is for a five-year term, specifically intended to keep national political squabbling from influencing FAA actions It seems as though even politicians realize that a machine in flight has little regard for rhetoric It is considered normal for high-level bureaucrats to tender their resignation to an incoming President to honor the tradition of “I serve at the will of the President ” It will be most interesting to see how this plays out
FAA AeroMed and FAA Office of Aviation Safety come to mind Independent regional FAA management frequently steps in when central guidance is not available, often not in a coordinated manner While Flight Standards and Aircraft Certification have mostly held to common sense solutions when verified problems arise, others, notably FAA AeroMed, has endangered ATC services and become uncontrollably tyrannical with their use of class medical certificate denials, a power they plan to expand on later in 2025
Keep in mind, a class medical “denial” is a lifetime sentence with no appeal possible except to NTSB (yet another bureaucracy) law judges, a time consuming and expensive process. Specifically excluded from restraints is the Pilots Bill of Rights as they apply to airman certificate revocations FAA AeroMed can deny a class medical without stating specific medical reasons and need only have a “narrative” as proof of a medical deficiency Denials are already 300 percent higher than the last ten-year average and a consortium of the DC based aviation representative groups (like AOPA, EAA, GAMA, NBAA, and others) are stepping in to halt these harmful policies
Recent years have seen the FAA, like many other agencies, spend more time on equity and social engineering issues than maintaining the NAS. The lack of FAA leadership under the Biden Administration resulted in deeply embedded bureaucrats within the agency focusing more on their organization’s survival than serving the needs of the NAS, which means the creations of rules and policies more aligned with increased authority than solving real problems FAA divisions, like The Office of Chief Counsel,
FAA AeroMed has even computerized and made it much more complicated to administer the color vision test, claiming we aviators are “memorizing” the established card system. Yep, they are worried that a guy who cannot remember his own Social Security number or what he ate for breakfast will memorize dozens of weird numbers and letters Fortunately, under the leadership of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (RMo ), it was noted that the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act includes implementation of an Aeromedical Working Group by Congress to address concerns that are driving medical policy changes with modernization of the medical certification system It is time to give this “deep state” medical system the review it needs The considerable authority and responsibility demanded of a “pilot in command” should include one’s ability to assess their own health under the guidance of updated FAR 61/91 regulations and within the provisions of Operations Specifications required of commercial flight services Good health is a personal responsibility, given guidance from personal physicians and medical experts, not government
Continued on Page 12
GAMA ANN OUNCES 2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced on Jan. 6, the makeup of its Executive Committee leadership team for 2025. The Executive Committee is comprised of members of GAMA’s Board of Directors, who provide strategic leadership for the association and lead its policy committees
Henry Brooks, President of Power & Controls, at Collins Aerospace, has been named GAMA’s Chair of the Board (Courtesy Collins Aerospace)
Henry Brooks, President of Power & Controls at Collins Aerospace, will serve as Chair of the Board Previously, Brooks served as Vice Chair and chair of the Security Issues Committee
Ron Draper, President and CEO of
Textron Aviation, will serve as Vice Chair Previously, Draper served as chair of the Flight Operations Policy Committee.
Chuck Wiplinger, President and CEO of Wipaire, will serve as Immediate Past Chair Wiplinger served as GAMA’s 2024 Chair and previously chaired the Policy and Legal Issues Committee and the Technical Policy Committee
Tony Brancato, President of Business Aviation at StandardAero, will continue to serve as chair of the Airworthiness and Maintenance Policy Committee The committee works with authorities to promote appropriate regulations and policies for maintenance and repair stations
JJ Frigge, President of Hartzell Propeller, will serve as chair of the Communications Committee. The committee works to promote the general aviation industry and its benefits to the global economy and air transportation system This will be Frigge’s first time serving on the Executive Committee, he has served on GAMA’s Board of Directors since 2024
Kyle Clark, Founder and CEO of Beta Technologies, and Oliver Reinhardt, the Chief Risk and Certification Officer at Volocopter, will jointly lead the Electric Propulsion and
Innovation Committee (EPIC) as cochairs. The committee focuses on fostering an environment that supports the efficient development, production, operation, integration and maintenance of new emerging aircraft designs and automation technologies, including eVTOLs Reinhardt is extending his term as chair Clark has served on GAMA’s Board of Directors since 2021, and this will be his first time to serve on the Executive Committee
Frank Moesta, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Future Programmes for Rolls-Royce, will continue to chair the Environment Committee. The committee works to develop and represent the industry’s views on public policy affecting aviation related environmental issues worldwide, including CO2 emissions reductions, sustainable aviation fuels, supersonic aircraft and updates
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WHERE AVIATION COMES TO LIFE
Editorial
Continued from Page 10
bureaucrats, like those who managed COVID. It is time that pilots and ATC personnel are enabled to seek modern medical care without the fear of losing jobs or their significant investment in learning to fly and/or owning an airplane Maybe this gets fixed in 2025?
Hopefully, a new administrator will take the FAA Office of Chief Council to task regarding recent decisions that adversely affect both flight and maintenance training With the least qualified leadership in FAA history, FAA Legal seems determined to damage training in the name of “legal findings ” The ruling motto of FAA legal appears to be, “A Law a Day - Keeps Aviation Away ”
Regrettably, many of us who have dealt with the legal system (of any kind) find that the first response to most legal issues is a lecture on what you cannot do. Such legal traditions only encourage the reality of “don’t ask, don’t tell” thinking versus an open discussion on how to best solve questionable issues How about we get some leadership that stresses what can be done!
And, while thinking about legal stuff, has the reader noticed your local CFI walking around in circles wondering about the changes in the recertification process they must go through every 24 months? Some may not realize this but for many years, all CFI’s must have undergone a minimum of 16 hours of “refresher” training every two years in order to maintain their CFI Certificate An expiration date was written on the back of the certificate. If a Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic (FIRC, an FAA approved program) was not completed by the expiration date, the CFI had to take another check ride While the two-year training cycle has been retained, the end date (now with a limited three month grace period) is no longer printed on the backside and the “plastic certificate” is not replaced every two years Be sure to mark your calendar! But the FAA went a step further, defining five different ways a CFI can now meet “currency” requirements Regrettably, the new options are not clearly understood, and portions of the new system are not in place For now, this writer (a certified FIRC instructor) suggests CFI’s stick with live or online programs but stay tuned as other options become better understood
And here is the potential “biggy” for 2025 Remember “MOSAIC” (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification)? This major regulatory proposal was published as a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in late
2023 but was reopened for 30 days in February 2024 to allow for additional comment. This proposal is set to redefine a Light Sport Aircraft that may be flown by a Sport Pilot, eliminating the need for the archaic third class medical certificate In plain English, planes like a C-72, C-182, Cherokee and others, even with constant speed props and retractable landing gear, will now be available for those exercising the privileges of a Sport Pilot, needing no “one-time” class medical, as now required for Basic Med Although addressing the classification of an aircraft certification process, this new rule could fundamentally replace contemporary Private Pilot training as we now know it For many recreational flyers, a Sport Pilot Certificate may be all they need, thus avoiding the class medical requirement FAA AeroMed is very much involved in MOSAIC, trying to maintain some level of control over how many seats may be filled in a four-place airplane (come on Aeromed, this is not hard math) if being flown by a Sport Pilot This rule has the ability to open up flying for a lot more folks and could be a significant boon for flight schools The latest rumor is that a final rule could be announced in early 2025, which will add to the increase in privileges that became available in November 2024 for pilots now flying under Basic Med Other planned changes to the NAS are in the works and will be covered in these editorials as they become better understood Yep, 2025 could indeed be a “revolutionary year” as we see new leadership take the reins, hopefully with a “can do” attitude.
Now, what about the other spelling, “resolutions,” a great pastime of every new year No, not the “I will lose 20 pounds” or “cut back on watching cat videos” resolutions At the risk of offering up some suggestions that will last past midnight, Dec 31, 2024, consider the following:
• Read, as with real aviation magazines and news sources Be informed Stay away from social media type news For starters, subscribe to In Flight USA Magazine (a bit self-serving?) Easy to do, just visit www inflightusa com and hook up Our articles and news reports cover all subjects related to aviation, and the information is presented in a remarkably current format. Think of In Flight USA as your “monthly aviation news update.”
• Join aviation groups that represent your specific interest, such as AOPA and EAA These organizations have pros in Washington DC that can (and do) speak for you Give them your support
• If the owner of an airplane, check
Continued on Page 13
GAMA Announces 2025
Continued from Page 11
to the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change.
Carlos Brana, Senior Executive Vice President of Civil Aircraft at Dassault Aviation, will continue to serve as chair the European Leaders Steering (ELS) Committee The committee engages with senior European politicians and policymakers to advocate for the interests of general/business aviation in Europe including sustainability strategies, regulatory changes, policy initiatives and communications strategies
Bob Buddecke, President of Electronic Solutions at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, will serve as chair of the Flight Operations Policy Committee The committee works to ensure that an adequate air transportation infrastructure is available for general aviation and addresses impediments to operations of general aviation aircraft. This will be Buddecke’s first time serving on the Executive Committee, he has served on GAMA’s Board of Directors since 2024
John Calcagno, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft, will extend his term as chair of the Policy and Legal Issues Committee The committee tracks, analyzes and responds to legal developments, litigation trends and policies presenting business and legal risks or opportunities to general aviation manufacturers
Charlie Gregoire, President and COO of Redbird Flight, will continue to serve as chair of the Safety and Accident Investigation Committee The committee works to analyze policies, industry standards and regulatory activities related to proactive safety improvements and air-
craft accident investigation
Thierry Betbeze, CEO of Dassault Falcon Jet, will serve as chair of the Security Issues Committee. The committee works to establish best practices for general aviation security and engages with government agencies on security policies and regulatory requirements
Allen Paxson, Vice President of Commercial Strategy for GE Aerospace, will continue to serve as chair of the Technical Policy Committee The committee works with authorities on continuous improvement of certification and validation processes and to develop and implement effective standards and technical policies pertaining to the design, certification, validation and production of general aviation products and components
“As we begin a year of GAMA leadership transition with my good friend, Jim Viola, taking the GAMA reins, I want to thank this impressive list of industry leaders, as well as all those who have stepped forward in the past, for devoting their precious time and talents to serve all of civil aviation On both sides of the Atlantic, we are so fortunate to have this high level of experience and expertise to forge the continued growth of general aviation on a global scale,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO
The GAMA Executive Committee was elected by the Board of Directors during its Fall Board Meeting
For more information about the GAMA Executive Committee, visit gama aero
Continued from Page 12
out the web to see if there is a “type club” for your flying machine This can be a great way of keeping up to date on maintenance and safety issues
• Learn more about the NASA Aviation Safety Reporting system at ASRS - Aviation Safety Reporting System Subscribe to the NASA publication “CALLBACK ” It is a great read with terrific safety tips gained through experience.
• Write to your elected representatives about your aviation concerns… Yes, it can work Sometimes it takes just the right words at the right time no reason
they cannot be your words Yes, 2025 promises a lot of changes in many areas, including our special interest, aviation Pay attention and get involved, be it nationally or with your local airport community This writer is now on the planning commission for my local airport, having just completed a 20year expansion plan Given my nearly 70 years as an active pilot, I view this as a privilege, and an indication of great optimism that I will see these plans come to life. It feels good to speak to both national and local aviation issues… give it a try! Happy New Year!
THE BL AC KHAWK GROUP EXPANDS MAINTENANCE C APABILITIES WITH ACQUISITION OF GLENDALE AERO SERVICES' MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Blackhawk Group (TBG), a provider of sales, services, and upgrades for the light turbine aircraft market, on Jan 6 announced its acquisition of the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) business of Glendale Aero Services (GAS) This acquisition, the company’s fifth, strengthens The Blackhawk Group’s Performance Center network and underscores its commitment to exceptional service and innovation in aircraft modernization The GAS MRO business joins an existing network of Blackhawk and AVEX Performance Centers located across the U S and will be rebranded under The Blackhawk Group umbrella as a Blackhawk Performance Center (BPC) to further align with the TBG enterprise mission. The Blackhawk Group is a portfolio
company of New State Capital Partners. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Located in Glendale, Arizona at the Glendale Municipal Airport (KGEU), BPC-Glendale specializes in servicing Cirrus SR series and Vision Jet aircraft, as well as Cessna aircraft The Part 145 certified repair station, an authorized Cirrus and Textron service center, boasts impressive capabilities, including Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) services and state-of-the-art avionics installations as a Garmin dealer The GAS Director of Maintenance, John Fisher, will remain at the helm of BPC-Glendale, to maintain the high quality of service that his customers have come to expect
“Partnering with The Blackhawk Group is a significant achievement for our
business,” said Fisher. “Our dedication to high quality service and customer-centric operations makes this a natural fit and a mutually beneficial partnership I’m excited about BPC-Glendale’s future and continuing to service the Cirrus and Cessna communities and beyond for years to come ”
Strategic Value of the Acquisition
The addition of the Glendale Performance Center marks a significant milestone for The Blackhawk Group By bringing BPC-Glendale’s skilled technicians into the fold, The Blackhawk Group expands its ability to service a larger and more diverse fleet of aircraft.
Continued on Page 18
Cirrus SR-22 panel upgraded with the Garmin G500 TXi system (dual GTN 650Xi with GTX 345 transponder), GFC 500 autopilot, and GI 275 standby instrument at the newly acquired Glendale Aero Services facility (Courtesy Blackhawk Group)
GAMA Announces James Viola as Incoming President and CEO
Continued from Page 9
GAMA His industry experience and knowledge, combined with his excitement for the future of general aviation, make him a great proponent to champion the critical work and priorities of GAMA, its members and the aviation manufacturing industry,” said Henry Brooks, GAMA Vice Chair and President of Power & Controls at Collins Aerospace
“GAMA has been fortunate to have Pete Bunce leading GAMA for the past 20 years and we are confident that James will carry on and strengthen that foundation and work. On behalf of the entire GAMA membership, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Pete who has done a tremendous job over the last 20 years growing GAMA’s membership, broadening its policy and regulatory reach, honoring our nation’s veterans and being a staunch advocate for the industry,” said Eric Hinson, GAMA
Immediate Past Chair and President and CEO of Simcom International Bunce joined GAMA in 2005 Under his tenure, he led the organization through the 2008 economic crisis, numerous FAA reauthorizations, the pandemic and its aftermath, and numerous legislative and regulatory milestones Bunce worked to expand GAMA by opening a GAMA European headquarters and growing the GAMA membership with the inclusion of rotorcraft manufacturers and the emerging advanced air mobility sector He also has a deep commitment to expanding the aviation workforce best exemplified by the GAMA Aviation Design Challenge, which encourages, inspires and attracts future generations to the general aviation industry He has been a strong and respected leader in aviation in the halls of the U S Congress and with the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) He has also been an advocate for aviation at the grassroots level, supporting groups like the
Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) and Veterans Airlift Command (VAC) and engaging in key policy issues like the transition to an unleaded aviation fuel for piston-engine aircraft
“It has been a true honor and joy to lead such a phenomenal team of experts that delivers results for its members and the entire civil aviation industry Over the past two decades, I could not have asked to work for, and with, a more supportive board of directors and fellow GA association head colleagues My wife, Patty, and I will always cherish our time at GAMA and the close friendships we’ve been blessed to forge with so many leaders in the entire GA community Jim has been one of those good friends who I have had the privilege to work with and build a close professional bond I look forward to watching Jim take GAMA to new heights as our industry journeys into the most exciting time in aerospace since the dawn of the jet age,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO
on his appointment as incoming President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) An industry legend like Pete Bunce is a very hard act to follow, but Jim is capable and up to the task Jim’s aviation and agency experience, combined with his passion for safety and focus on moving the industry forward, are crucial to continuing the organizational growth, sustainability advancements, and aviation innovation shepherded by Pete for the past few decades at the helm of GAMA,” stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. “NATA looks forward to continuing our partnership for business aviation progress with Jim under his new leadership role at GAMA and we join our industry colleagues in saluting general aviation’s stalwart champion, Pete Bunce ”
NBAA Welcomes Jim Viola as New GAMA President and CEO
NATA Congratulates James Viola on Upcoming GAMA Leadership Post
NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) issued the following statement on the selection of James Viola to succeed Pete Bunce as President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) in March of 2025 Bunce has led GAMA for nearly 20 years, while Viola has served as President and CEO of Vertical Aviation International (VAI) since 2020
“NATA congratulates James Viola
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) also welcomed James “Jim” Viola as the incoming president and CEO of GAMA “GAMA has chosen a proven leader and strong general aviation advocate in the selection of Jim Viola,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We have an outstanding relationship with Jim, and look forward to working with him in his new capacity ” Viola will officially start at GAMA in mid-March 2025 Bunce will stay on to assist with the transition and shift to a special advisor until his official retirement date in April 2025
Learn more at www gama aero
By Sarah Barczyk ERAU
Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical Univer-
sity’s Prescott Campus announced on Jan 2 that it has signed a landmark agreement with the U S Air Force to provide Initial Pilot Training to commissioned officers selected for Undergraduate Pilot Training
These officers, who have already graduated from college and received their commissions, hail from various institutions
The training program at Embry Riddle will result in selected officers earning their Private Pilot – Single Engine Land certificate, instrument rating and airplane multiengine rating for private pilots
Embry‑Riddle President P Barry Butler, Ph D , said that the collaboration will not only assist the Air Force in addressing its growing need for skilled pilots but will also support the country’s defense
“Embry‑Riddle is proud to offer our rigorous and structured training, ensuring that each officer will be equipped with
the vital skills necessary to progress to advanced flight training in the Air Force,” he said “This partnership is not only a testament to Embry‑Riddle’s commitment to aviation excellence but also to our unwavering dedication to defending our nation By preparing these officers with top-tier training, Embry Riddle is directly contributing to the strength and readiness of our armed forces ”
Embry Riddle’s training program will leverage its nearly century-long history of training the next generation of pilots and supporting the U S military by employing its existing flight and Aeronautical Science course structure. This will ensure that select officers receive the same exceptional education and practical experience from which the university’s flight students benefit Training will take place at Embry‑Riddle’s Prescott, Arizona, campus, known for its advanced flight training program and comprehensive instruction and education
Dr Ken Witcher, chancellor of the Prescott Campus, remarked on the significance of this partnership “We are honored to support the United States Air Force in its mission to train the next generation of pilots Embry Riddle has been educating pilots for nearly 100 years, and this agreement underscores our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with the U.S. military,” he said. “Our experienced faculty and cutting-edge resources will provide these officers with the unparalleled training they require to excel in their military careers and in serving and defending our country ”
Embry‑Riddle’s Aeronautical Science curriculum is designed to ensure that students receive a holistic education in aeronautical theory and practical flight skills The combination of the Private Pilot – Single Engine Land certificate, instrument rating and airplane multiengine rating will prepare the incoming cohort of officers for the diverse challenges they will face as Air Force pilots This training will not only meet but exceed the stringent standards required by the military.
Embry Riddle’s Prescott Campus recently completed upgrades to its Robertson Flight Simulation Center, introducing state-of-the-art simulation and virtual reality technology that will allow future aviators to train in safe, sustainable and controlled environments
Prescott Flight Department Chair Parker Northrup, a retired Air Force
Embry Riddle’s Prescott Campus has signed an agreement with the U.S. Air Force to provide Initial Pilot Training to commissioned officers selected for Undergraduate Pilot Training Prescott Flight Department Chair Parker Northrup, a retired Air Force colonel, says Embry ‑Riddle is prepared to provide the high-quality training needed to meet the Air Force’s requirements
colonel who flew B-52s and directed combat training for all B-52 crewmembers, expressed confidence in Embry‑ Riddle’s commitment to providing the high-quality training needed to meet the U S military’s requirements “Our existing flight program produces top-tier aviators We are excited to extend this opportunity to these commissioned officers and support them in their training and subsequent careers in the military,” he said.
Embry Riddle has a demonstrated and strong commitment to the U.S. armed forces Approximately 15 percent of students at Embry‑Riddle’s Prescott Campus are enrolled in ROTC, and Embry‑Riddle’s two Air Force ROTC detachments form the largest universitybased Air Force commissioning source in the nation These detachments produce more commissioned officers, pilots and other rated officers for the Air Force than any other institution in the country except the Air Force Academy The university’s Worldwide Campus additionally supports over 10,000 active-duty servicemembers around the world
“The partnership between Embry Riddle and the United States Air Force epitomizes our shared commitment to excellence, innovation and service,” said President Butler “We are dedicated to continuing our legacy of producing world-class aviators who are equipped to meet the demands of modern aviation and national security ” Learn more about Embry-Riddle at erau edu
Y FOR THE U.S. ARMY’S FUTURE LON G RAN GE ASSAULT AIRCRAFT
Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, announced on Dec. 17 a facility site selection to support production of the U S Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) The new 447,000square-foot factory, located in the Denton County region of Fort Worth, Texas, will be dedicated to FLRAA component manufacturing Bell plans to begin facility modification and equipment installation and achieve facility readiness for Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) by 2028
"Bell is committed to establishing future manufacturing locations to deliver the first fielded aircraft by the early 2030s and do our part to revolutionize U S Army aviation,” said Lisa Atherton, President and CEO, Bell “This facility also represents a strong economic partnership with the State of Texas, the City of Fort Worth, Northwest ISD, and Denton County Their support has made it possible for Bell to significantly expand our footprint in North Texas and provide revolutionary capability
to our nation’s warfighters.”
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“The Army is committed to delivering the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft providing the speed, range, and endurance needed to conduct effective air assault, MEDEVAC and resupply missions for future Large Scale Combat Operations,” Brig Gen David Phillips said “It is great to see our industry partners share in that commitment by investing in state-of-the-art facilities to produce the Army’s first 'born digital' aircraft weapon system ” Following the U S Army’s FLRAA contract award in December 2022, Bell has established several new state-of-the-art facilities to instantiate innovative manufacturing processes driving affordability, schedule and performance As Bell and the FLRAA team work through the EMD phase, Bell’s focus will be on continued design maturation and prototyping.
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A new 447,000-square-foot factory, located in the Denton County region of Fort Worth, Texas, will be dedicated to FLRAA component manufacturing (Courtesy Textron)
The U S Army’s new long-range assault aircraft will fly twice as far and twice as fast as the current fleet By utilizing mature tiltrotor technology coupled with an innovative digital engineering approach and a modular open systems approach, it will be the most reliable, affordable and high-performing longrange assault aircraft in the world Learn more at textron com
The Blackhawk Group
Continued from Page 14
The expertise, CAPS capabilities, and avionics offerings from BPC-Glendale complement the high standards already established across Blackhawk’s Performance Center network
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“This acquisition supports our strategic objective to grow our Performance Center network with targeted additions that bring enhanced capabilities and value to our organization, and especially to our customers,” said Chad Cundiff, CEO of The Blackhawk Group “The Glendale facility is renowned for delivering high quality service to the Cirrus community As one of the largest Cirrus Service Centers in the US, the facility boasts a team that is consistently tested with demanding projects and turnaround times, and consistently delivers on its commitments We’re excited to have the Glendale Performance Center join The Blackhawk Group family and look forward to a bright future together ”
To learn more about the Glendale Performance Center, visit https://www blackhawk aero/technologies-overview/
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Flight by Denise DeGregoire
DISCOVER SAN C ARLOS ON
As another year comes to a close, I look up to the clouds and smile as I watch planes fly overhead while shifting my gaze to the birds that have taken flight around me One of my favorite places to “ fill my heart’s tank” is the San Carlos Airport (SQL) near my hometown of San Mateo, Calif I often sit at the Sky Kitchen and enjoy a bite while watching air traffic through the café windows or grab a cup of coffee and sit on a bench outside to watch the many landings and take offs at this bustling little airport on the San Francisco Peninsula
Each time I visit the airport I can’t help but take a stroll down memory lane Some 50 years back, my dad and I would walk the bay trails to see how many planes we could count as they flew overhead while my father would identify different types of aircraft My love of flight began there and I was hooked! Our aviation viewing often ended at SQL as we sat and watched smaller aircraft take off and land while having breakfast or lunch
Whether you’re young or old, visiting or living local, an aircraft aficionado or “white-knuckle flyer,” I recommend taking some time out of your day to enjoy a bite followed by a visit to the phenomenal Hiller Aviation Museum that sits across the tarmac The Hiller Aviation Museum is filled with wonders for kids of all ages to have fun, learn, and play while remembering to do something that fills up your heart’s soul and puts an authentic smile on your face. Try taking a couple hours out of your day to wander through the museum and experience for yourself the hidden treasures of flight exploration Take part in the special events and hands-on activities, flight simulators, and the Invention Lab The museum houses a collection of more than 40 unique aircraft and an array of artifacts, interpretative displays, and interactive exhibits for all to enjoy
As a member of the Women in Aviation, International (WAI); one of my museum favorites is the “Women in Aviation” exhibit You can learn about pioneering women aviators such as Lillian Bland (The first woman to design, build, and fly her own plane in 1910), Bessie Coleman (The first African American and Native American to hold a pilot’s license), Valentina Tereshkova (The first woman to go to space – a Russian cosmonaut in 1963), Amelia Earhart (The most famous female aviator), and Zara Rutherford (World Record holder for being the youngest women to
SAN
FRANCISCO’S MID-PENINSUL A!
(Denise DeGregoire)
circumnavigate our globe solo in a microlight)
In September 2021, I had the privilege of witnessing one of Zara’s historic landings as she arrived at Palo Alto Airport on her journey around the world Zara set out on a mission to inspire young women and girls to go after their dreams and encourage them to learn to fly, while continuing to advocate for the study of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), and related fields Zara would later go on to study Aeronautical Engineering at Stanford University; where she continues to hone her craft and has recently published her first children’s book entitled, I Flew Around the World: The True Story of a Young Female Pilot’s Record-Breaking Flight that can be found in the museum’s gift shop
The SQL airport is conveniently located just off Highway 101, with a variety of hotel accommodations to suit any traveler ’s needs If you’re day trippin’, then the airport is a great jumping off point for a day of exploring the City of
(Denise DeGregoire)
San Carlos and the surrounding area’s many shops, restaurants, wineries, and museums Spend a quiet afternoon taking in the fresh air and the cool breeze hiking one of the many Peninsula Bay trails in the neighboring towns of San Mateo, Foster City, Redwood Shores, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Mountain View If food and wine is your game, then look no further than the Osteria at Domenico Winery on Industrial Road in San Carlos Domenico’s ‘playful eatery and bar ’ is family owned and operated, offering Estate wines from their Vineyards in the Sierra Foothills Go to domenicowinery com for more information on events, weddings, and wine tastings. As a foodie, this writer can vouch for the diversity of the cuisine up and down the El Camino Real corridor
“If you’re on the peninsula and craving it, chances are you will find it around El Camino Real ” SQL is in close proximity to a few cities, and downtown Redwood City is one to pay close attention to for its easy walkabil-
The Fox Theater and Club Fox bring high-quality entertainment to the area
(Denise DeGregoire)
ity to food and drink, and entertainment
Downtown Redwood City also has a robust nightlife The Fox Theater and its sister joint, Club Fox can be heard rocking the house down on most nights Club Fox is known for booking high-quality tribute bands, like the Garcia Project and the Refugees You can always expect an intimate, up-close show, so be sure to have a look at their upcoming line up at clubfoxrwc com
If you are local, staycations are great! If it’s time for a revisit or exploring anew, then there is no better spot to start than your own backyard. Local treasures await you’re uncovering. If you are looking to fly into SQL airport for work or play, then I recommend you have a look around Stay the night if you can, and find out first hand why the San Carlos area is in this author ’s opinion, “the jewel of the peninsula ” Fly Well, Blue Skies!
Friends enjoying a meal and taking it in at Sky Kitchen (Denise DeGregoire)
Meet the owners of Domenico Winery, Dominick and Gloria Chirichillo (Denise DeGregoire)
Samuel serving up some hot coco with a smile at Sky Kitchen
Hiller Aviation Museum, a must-see destination!
HOW GOOD WILL AI BE AT TEAC HIN G GROUND SC HOOL? An Interview with the SkyBot Team
By Annamarie Buonocore
ne of the most important technological and business developments of this day and age is the creation of artificial intelligence. As AI develops, it presents many questions and controversies What jobs will be replaced? How will education change? How will this technology affect life as we know it? Here at In Flight USA, we have asked the question of how AI will affect aviation When most of our readers think about AI and aviation, they think about unmanned aircraft, but it runs deeper than that The subject of ground school is one of the most important ones for our industry to consider, for ground school provides a foundation for all pilot training In recent years, we have seen several developments in how ground school is taught: in-person, online, or via mobile apps. Recently, we became aware of two Minnesota State University, Mankato students who have developed SkyBot, an AI-powered platform aimed at enhancing aviation communication training The co-founders are Akrem Ahmed and Melan Shifa Melan was kind enough to grant us the following interview In Flight USA: What is SkyBot and
what prompted you to create this?
SkyBot: My co-founder and I are both students at Minnesota State University, Mankato We are computer science students, but we also have a passion for aviation My co-founder, Akrem, come from an aviation family back in Ethiopia I’ve also worked closely with pilots and have always had a passion for aviation Coming to the United States as an international student, I had the chance to explore aviation and take some demo flights One thing that fascinated me was air traffic control communication This was something that other international students and I found very hard to pick up We noticed that because people were having a hard time with it, they were having a harder time with flight training in general. We found a gap in communication training that we thought we could solve with AI We developed the interface, took it around to some flight schools, and found that it could work well in their operations We found that it worked very well in preparing students for emergency situations
IFUSA: Is this a web app or a separate device that you can talk to, like an Amazon Alexa?
SkyBot: It is a web-based applica-
tion on top of a finely tuned AI model. We eventually plan to develop a bot that you can talk to, but right now, it is a web application where you can communicate with it through audio and it will simulate conditions, sort of like Alexa
IFUSA: What areas of ground school are you mainly trying to address? What are some of your students’ pain points?
SB: The main problem we are focusing on is communication There are more international students coming into the United States for flight training, and the language of aviation is English The application or bot mainly assists students with learning how to communicate in aviation and with air traffic control. It also helps simulate real-life scenarios by recreating environmental factors like background noise, adding an extra layer of realism We especially focus on emergency situations where life depends on communication
IFUSA: What is your strategy for bringing in more learners from around the world?
SB: Here at our university, we have many students coming in from around the world They are required to take basic
English classes, but I am not sure those are enough to practice for a career in aviation Any airport you go to around the world is going to speak English This will give them an introduction to the language itself and the opportunity to practice We plan to market this to international students, but as we develop, other ground school concepts will be covered, and we can market to flight students everywhere
IFUSA: How does SkyBot work? Is it a free application or is there a subscription model?
SB: Thank you to the Microsoft program we are using, we have been able to offer it for free for now. All you have to do is go to the SkyBot website (skybot tech) and sign up They can start training immediately Once we have developed a solid product, the plan is to sell a license to aviation schools so that their students can use it It would be covered in the fees students pay We offer bulk discounts for students, especially for major university programs
IFUSA: Thank you
For more information, visit skybot tech
YOUR TRUSTED PERSONAL DRIVER
TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH 2025
Advance tickets are now on sale for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention, which will be held July 21-27, 2025 The 72nd edition of “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” hosted by the Experimental Aircraft Association takes place at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh
“As the excitement builds for the world of flight returning to Oshkosh in 2025, we wanted to ensure that advance tickets are available , ” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions “Even at this time of year, aviation enthusiasts around the world are planning for their own AirVenture experience and sharing photos, videos, and memories of past trips to Oshkosh.”
EAA AirVenture 2025 programming plans are already underway, encompassing this year ’s “One Week: Endless Possibilities” tagline More details on specific aircraft, events, and personalities will be announced as they are confirmed EAA officials will also be attended the
International Council of Air Shows convention to solidify the air show lineup for 2025
Along with AirVenture admissions, other items available for advance purchase include camping credentials, auto parking passes, and Aviator Club tickets (both North and South locations), as well as B-25 and Ford Tri-Motor flights A special “Oshkosh Bound” T-shirt is also available for those already planning their journeys to AirVenture, as well as a unique way to gift wrap those holiday AirVenture passes All advance purchase items are available at EAA org/Tickets
In 2024, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh saw a record attendance of 686,000 from an all-time high 94 nations.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” and EAA’s membership convention Additional information, including advance ticket and camping purchase, is available at www EAA org/airventure For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-5646322) or go to www EAA org
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The Tough Questions
Continued from Page 4
resents banks (and other lender and lessors), credit unions, vendors, borrowers, lessors, and lessees “Our firm assists our clients in secured transactions involving aircraft,” said Owens. “We focus on domestic and international private aircraft financing and leasing where we extend our capabilities to dry leases, operating leases, and other agreements that may be covered by various secured transactions We routinely seek to optimize transactional efficiency for financial institutions as well as private lenders ”
With regard to registering an aircraft with the FAA, there are many considerations to address These range from the company registration to individual and partnership arrangements as well as the intended operation of the aircraft There are many underlying filing requirements, which can cause aircraft owners to place the registration of their aircraft in jeopardy. The firm stands ready to assist, providing guidance, in avoiding any pitfalls.
Registered owners need to be vigilant regarding the 180-day re-registration, as failure to re-new registration can have many consequences, including but not limited to grounding of an aircraft as well as default under lease and lending arrangements “We are able to assist our clients to successfully navigate the considerations
and requirements necessary for aircraft registration,” said Owens, noting that the firm touts an extensive catalogue of transactions registering aircraft for non-U S citizens via use of an approved legal framework
Aircraft title and liens are also a significant consideration and sometimes problematic. At the time of purchase and sale or in the event of dispute with a vendor or customer, encumbrances to the title of aircraft often occur These encumbrances are often mechanic’s liens, fuel liens, and undischarged lender interests
“We are well versed in the cost-effective discharge of these claims We represent aircraft owners, lenders, repair facilities, and vendors in the lawful negotiation and litigation of such disputes,” Owens said
Along with other areas of expertise, including commercial and civil litigation and U S Customs Enforcement actions, the firm can help with taxation matters, including federal tax, sales and use tax and sales tax mitigation.
Clearly, aviation law can become complex and overwhelming but with the right help, most problems can be resolved effectively To learn more about the Aviation Legal Counsel, contact them at 1-888-6FLYLAW (1-888-635-9529) They have offices in Florida and Washington D C The firm’s website is aviationlegalcounsel com
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BOEING/STEARMAN A75 N1
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PORTERFIELD LP-65
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BOSE BRIN GS NOISEC ANCELLIN G COMFORT
By Annamarie Buonocore
Perhaps one of the most important decisions we make as pilots and small-plane passengers is what headset to use or purchase There are many great options on the market, but Bose produces a great lineup of choices that every aviator should consider in 2025 The A30 is one of their best products, and here at In Flight USA, we were recently given the opportunity to try it out in flight and speak to the Business Development Manager at Bose, Chris Wuerfl Here is his advice for flying with the best headset technology available
In Flight USA: What do you do as the Business Development Manager at Bose?
Chris Wuerfl: As the Business Development Manager, I mainly work with our OEM (original equipment manufacturers) partners, whether it be in the helicopter or fixed-wing space They use our headsets on their aircraft and for owners of their aircraft I also work with our airline partners I have relationships with several airlines We are building awareness in that space Fortunately, a lot of people are familiar with Bose Then I kind of support the group as a whole, but another portion of my business is the military work that we do So, we do sell our headsets into the military Those are my three primary roles
IFUSA: How does your technology reduce the impact of noise?
CW: It actually goes back quite a ways. Back in the late ‘70s, Dr. Bose himself was excited to hear about this new technology of headphones on aircraft for transatlantic flights He got a chance to use them and was very disappointed in the performance Though they sounded better than the pneumatic headphones that were being used at the time, you could still hear everything in the aircraft It was on that flight that he started designing and doing the math for reducing noise He wanted to create noise-cancelling headphones, so he came back to Bose, gathered a team of engineers, and they came up with a prototype that was used on the Voyager flight, which was a non-stop around-the-world flight. The medical staff was confident that the pilots would lose 20 percent of their hearing if not more on this flight When the headphones proved them wrong, they became mission critical Bose pioneered this technology, and we’ve been in the business for quite some time We’ve developed the original headset, using different materials to make them more comfort-
The Bose A30 headset is a popular choice because anyone from a piston Cessna 172 pilot up to commercial aircraft pilot can use it. (Courtesy Bose)
The Bose A30 headset features clear communication coupled with a noise canceling microphone that blocks background noise and the fully flexible boom makes it easy to position the microphone right where you need it Further, the headset is comfortable with less clamping (Courtesy Bose)
able and enhance the performance We focus on three things: quality of audio, comfort, and noise cancellation
IFUSA: Pilots know that even the slightest bit of discomfort can wear on you. How are you improving the headsets to make them more comfortable?
CW: Over the years, as you can imagine, different materials have been invented Bose has adopted them We’ve gone off to invent our own materials, and I have lost count of how many patents we have We have made them lighter weight, reduced the clamping force, and made the inner cushions softer The inner cushions are not just for comfort but to increase performance of the headset We’ve made our round earphones softer We also have some, like ProFlight Series 2, that are designed for a quieter flight deck For piston or louder aircraft, we recommend the A30. We have different use cases.
IFUSA: How was your recent experience at NBAA 2024?
CW: It was great It is always a combination of people who use our headsets who are kind enough to swing by our booth and compliment us They go on about how comfortable and noise can-
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LON G BEAC H AIRPORT COMPLEX GENERATES $9 BILLION IN ECON OMIC IMPACT, SUPPORT S 42,000 JOBS
Highlighting the critical role of Long Beach Airport (LGB), a study recently released shows that the LGB Aviation Complex is responsible for generating $9 billion in total economic output and supporting nearly 42,000 jobs across the region
“Long Beach Airport and the many surrounding businesses create thousands of jobs and bring in billions of dollars that have a significant impact on our city’s economic vitality,” said Mayor Rex Richardson “This report underscores how LGB – celebrating a century of service (in 2024) – has long been a critical cornerstone of our economy ”
To recognize the important role LGB plays in the region’s vitality, the study, which was conducted by Unison Consulting, measured the total economic impact of both the Airport and the broader Complex, which includes all business entities within a defined area north of Interstate 405 and south of Carson Street, bordered by Clark Avenue and Cherry Avenue Most, but not all, of the property is owned by the City of Long Beach
Based on data collected in 2023, LGB directly contributed to the regional economy by supporting 10,753 jobs (including 8,042 in Long Beach alone), generating $589 million in labor income
In total, LGB is responsible for $2 1 billion in economic output across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties. When adding in the businesses clustered around Long Beach Airport, the Airport Complex supports 41,721 jobs, $2 7 billion in labor income and $9 billion in
The Long Beach Airport and Aviation Complex in Southern Calif is responsible for generating $9 billion in total economic output and supporting nearly 42,000 jobs across the region (Courtesy Long Beach Government)
total economic output These figures encompass direct activities as well as indirect effects from businesses within the supply chain.
“Long Beach Airport, as well as the surrounding Complex, is showing once again its tremendous local economic impact,” said Fourth District Councilman Daryl Supernaw “From job creation to tourism, this report reflects their continued commitment to innovation and supporting our local economy ”
“This report highlights Long Beach Airport as a champion of local economic growth,” said Fifth District Councilwoman Megan Kerr “The continued development of the Airport Complex means we are attracting more businesses and creating more opportunities for success ”
No local taxpayer dollars are used to fund Long Beach Airport. The economic activities generated by the Airport contribute significantly to tax revenues, which in turn fund local government
services and public infrastructure
The study also points to the positive impact of visitor spending, which is responsible for 54 percent of LGB’s total output. Visitors to Southern California, arriving through the Airport, spend an average of $640 per person, generate more than 6,400 jobs and contribute $887 million in economic output through spending on accommodations, dining and local attractions
“The LGB Aviation Complex is a dynamic commercial hub, and this report underscores the importance of it as a catalyst for innovation and opportunity for Long Beach and surrounding communities,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry “I’m delighted that Long Beach Airport continues to be known not only for convenient air travel but also for its major role in economically supporting our community.”
The Long Beach Airport Aviation Complex houses 814 businesses, providing employment to more than 14,000 people The Complex continues to attract
Bose Brings Noise-Cancelling Comfort
Continued from Page 25
celling they are They like how there are three modes of noise cancellation Then we have those who are just starting out in their aviation careers Many of them have never used a noise-cancelling headset, so it is fun to give them a demo We get the “wow” effect Others are familiar with Bose, but they don’t use the headsets At NBAA, there are many flight departments. Some of them consist of a couple of pilots while others are huge. They’ll come by with an interest in purchasing for their fleet or pilot base It’s always great to have those conversations, as well
IFUSA: So, you have two models: the A30 goes around the ear, like most headsets do, and then you have the ProFlight Series 2 that goes in the ear
Which one is more popular?
CW: That’s a good question, and it depends on the use case We sell far more A30s than we do ProFlight The reason for that is that there is a much larger market for A30s Anyone from a piston Cessna 172 up to commercial aircraft can use the A30 It is the perfect headset for beginners, and there is no reason experienced pilots can’t use it. ProFlight has a narrower audience. That is mainly the quieter jet environment. NBAA is a good audience for ProFlight, as it is lighter weight and has in-ear active noise cancellation It really just depends on the platform on which they’re flying
IFUSA: Are you working on any new developments in the headset space?
CW: We are always working on new
developments For example, we ended the A20 about a year ago and came out with the A30 We’re always adding new features and benefits Bose is a heavy research and development company I am not on the engineering side, but they are always looking at new technologies, materials used, and noise cancellation They also consider add-ons to increase performance. We don’t just slap bells and whistles on a headset that don’t benefit the pilot. It has to have a benefit for the end user for us to want it We do a lot of work with CFIs, commercial pilots, and the military We’re always getting their feedback and expanding our reach
IFUSA: A lot of headset companies are making sets in different colors now What are your thoughts on that? Do you
new businesses, particularly due to the ongoing development of Douglas Park and the Long Beach Exchange These developments have further solidified the Airport area as a key commercial and industrial hub, especially as an epicenter for aviation and aerospace industries
Additionally, the Airport’s recent capital improvement projects have added thousands of jobs and billions in output while the Airport continues to set new alltime commercial passenger records, expecting its busiest fiscal year on record with a projected 4 1 million passengers from Oct 1, 2023, through Sept 30, 2024
For more information or to read the full report by Unison Consulting, an aviation consultancy firm specializing in airport finance and economics, visit www lgb org/economicimpact
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.
For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach gov and on social media
offer different colors?
CW: That makes me think of the old Henry Ford adage, “You can have any color you want, as long as it’s black or sort of dark gray ” Right now, we don’t offer that, but it is something that we have considered In the aviation world, people just care about performance If you look at our consumer headsets for listening to music and whatnot, we offer many different colors. Consumers consider them more like accessories, so style and color are important It’s something that we look at that might be in the works, but we don’t currently offer it in the aviation space
IFUSA: Thank you To learn more about Bose headsets, visit bose com
By John Caldwell
First Impressions: You know all those feelings that you get when beholding a P-51 Mustang? Awe Nostalgia Inspiration But mostly awe Perhaps your heart beats a little faster and your palms sweat a little? Well, these are the same feelings you get when you look at the SW-51 Those responses alone are a testament to how well this 70 percent replica was designed and manufactured It looks like a real P-51D from a distance; even more remarkably, it looks like one close up!
Background: ScaleWings was founded in 2017 by a team of passionate aviators from Germany and Austria with backgrounds in innovation, engineering, finance and management. Their mission was to utilize breakthroughs in carbon fiber technologies, CAD programming and advanced avionics in the art of aircraft model making Their goal was to excite the General Aviation world by providing a realistic and practical 70 percent scale Mustang at a significantly more affordable price than an actual P-51 With their headquarters near Munich and their factory in the “Aviation Valley” of Poland, today, ScaleWings employs more than 70 designers and artisans Purchasing a ready-to-fly SW-51 is the start of an enjoyable and memorable adventure that combines a streamlined build experience at their Krosno, Poland factory with a culturally rich travel experience to Krakow (one of the most beautiful cities in the world).
In the scale replica world, it’s all about percentages A SW-51 can be acquired for about 10 percent of the cost of a real P-51 The real kicker is you can operate a SW-51 for below 5 percent of the operating costs of a real Mustang while enjoying 90 percent of the fun (Ok, I made the fun percentage up, but it’s probably close!)
Design Characteristics: This SW51, serial number 007, definitely has that James Bond vibe Gunmetal grey and black, this 70 percent scale Mustang is a Walther PPK with wings The first time I saw the rivets and screw heads in the wings, it was difficult to convince my brain that the wings are completely carbon fiber. Even the tail feathers appear to be fabric-covered, complete with pinked tape and rib-stitching details They’ve even perfected a paint that looks indistinguishable from polished aluminum
More than 100,000 details are preformed in the molds As far as I am aware, this level of detail in a composite
SC ALEWIN GS S W-51 MUS TAN G
Double O Seven
The SW-51 Mustang is a double seater with full controls even at the rear seat (co-pilot, or passenger) The pilot sits in the front, just like in the original (Courtesy ScaleWings, John Caldwell)
aircraft is found nowhere else. Of course, with a scaled replica, there will be some compromises, but they are well-handled in the SW-51 design The canopy slides aft about 8-inches and then swings open to the right for easy access to the rear cockpit ScaleWings now offers a locking position 4-inches aft of the canopy bow, which allows the canopy to be partially open inflight Everything on this airplane is designed and built with precision Even the three 50 caliber gun ports on each wing serve as landing lights and are HOTAS-selectable to flicker if you’d like to simulate spitting lead at a Fockewulf
Powerplant: There is no 70 percent scale Merlin (engine) hiding under the cowling, as the six exhaust stacks per side suggest. There are plenty of other scaled P-51 designs on the market, many with modified automotive engines, but ScaleWings purposely steered away from such designs to give customers a reliable, less maintenance-intensive powerplant The turbocharged Rotax915is was an easy choice and it fits nicely, requiring no cowling modifications Even the P-51’s distinctive radiator belly scoop is used for the Rotax radiator One difference from a full-scale Mustang is the prop diameter
A 70 percent scaled propeller would measure 94-inches, which a Rotax was not designed to turn An MT four-bladed, hydraulicly controlled 71-inch constant speed propeller was chosen because, well, a Mustang must have a four-bladed prop! When turning, the diameter difference is not noticeable.
There is a 12.5-gallon fuel tank in each wing Although the outer wing tank caps on 007 are not real, a buyer can opt for an additional tank in each wing for a total of 47 gallons Depending on the cruise power setting, this will provide about five hours of endurance, with reserves
Safety: Carbon fiber is not just light; it is also strong, which is why it has gained popularity in aviation in recent years Furthermore, it is highly resistant to corrosion - a huge factor to those who live near coastlines Should the engine fail, the SW-51 not only has a generous glide ratio of 11:1, but it has the option to deploy a GRS (Galaxy Recovery System) parachute Each landing gear has its own electric motor to extend the main landing gear in about 2 5 seconds and the tailwheel about one second later Should one of the electric motors fail, one of three corresponding red handles, located at the bottom of the center console in the front seat, can be pulled to extend that gear This ingenious design uses a coiled spring, mounted directly behind each electric motor. When the appropriate handle is pulled, a cable releases a pin that allows the tensioned spring to uncoil and turn the rotary gear until the over-center mechanism locks the landing gear into place
Ergonomics: Both the front and aft rudder pedals are adjustable, and seat height is adjustable by adding or removing a cushion The layout includes a circuit breaker panel on the right, and throttle, prop control, and tailwheel lock handle on the left The shielded instrument panel contains a full Garmin suite with the G3X multi-function display as the centerpiece Even though the SW-51 is certified as experimental, all switches, wiring, and hardware are certified aircraft parts. The cockpit layout makes sense, but doing a blind cockpit check is a good idea in any plane in which you don’t want to spend a lot of “heads down time” in which, in my opinion, is all of them
Taxi/Takeoff: Turn master, EFIS, fuel pump, and both lane switches on Push the start button and even a cold Rotax will roar to life A unique feature
The SW-51 Mustang is the world’s most authentic replica of the legendary P-51 Mustang, with a perfect fusion of classic allure and modern technology (Courtesy ScaleWings, John Caldwell)
that makes taxiing easier is a small camera, mounted in the belly scoop. You can select the camera’s video display on the G3X for a quick scan of what is in front of you while taxiing, eliminating the need to make large swerves to clear the way visually The tailwheel locks by pulling and twisting a lever mounted under the throttle, making it easy to taxi in a straight line Unlock the lever to make sharp turns, using differential braking After the pre-takeoff checks are completed, line-up on centerline, and ensure the tailwheel is locked Smoothly add full power and work the rudders as required At about 40 knots, you can push the tail up for a better view After lift-off, the gear is retracted with a switch at the top of the instrument panel Once clean, the SW-51 accelerates fast. Even at max gross weight, you will see nearly a 2,000 feetper-minute climb rate.
Flight Characteristics: The SW-51 is 70 percent the size of a P-51, but only 16 percent of the weight This means performance! The roll rate and elevator authority make the SW-51 fly like the sub-scale fighter it is Scaled from
Continued on Page 29
The SW-51, serial number 007, definitely has that James Bond vibe (Courtesy ScaleWings, John Caldwell)
DR. BETTINA MRUSEK NAMED COLLEGE OF AVIATION DEAN AT EMBRY RIDDLE WORLDWIDE
Dr. Bettina Mrusek has been named Dean of the College of Aviation at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University –Worldwide, a role she has been fulfilling in an interim capacity since July 2024 In this role, Dr Mrusek will lead a team of more than 430 active faculty members and support over 14,000 students who are earning their education across the globe in over 23 degree programs
Dr Mrusek has been an integral part of the Embry Riddle community since 2014, according to Worldwide Campus Chancellor John R Watret, Ph D , FRAeS “Dr Mrusek demonstrates exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence for the College of Aviation,” Watret said. “Her vision for the future of the college embodies the culture of Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University to be the source for innovation and excellence in aerospace education ”
Prior to her role as dean, Mrusek served as an associate professor at the Worldwide College of Aviation, teaching various aviation maintenance classes and serving as the chair for the Department of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies (not simultaneously) She has published research in aviation maintenance, human factors, organizational leadership, orbital debris and uncrewed systems, and she has extensive knowledge in and experience with human factors, aircraft maintenance and inspections, organizational leadership, and business management
Before joining Embry Riddle, Mrusek dedicated 14 years to the U S Marine Corps. During her service, she functioned as an avionics communication/navigation technician and supervisor, overseeing multiple aircraft platforms, including rotary and fixed-wing Beyond her technical roles, she engaged
in operational responsibilities, supervised the Mobile Maintenance Facility program and fulfilled a three-year term as a drill instructor on Parris Island Her unique background equips her with comprehensive knowledge and experience in leadership, safety, preventive maintenance, inspections and general aviation Mrusek’s academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Science in Business Administration from Park University, a Master of Science in Aeronautics from Embry Riddle, as well as a Ph D in Business Administration with a specialization in Management from Northcentral University.
Said Mrusek of this new role and challenge: “I am eager to take on these new responsibilities where I can effect positive changes and improvements I look forward to the opportunities that lie
ahead and am dedicated to upholding the high standards of excellence that this position demands ”
HARTZELL EXTENDS BAC KCOUNTRY PROPELLER DISCOUNT S TO RAF SUPPORTERS FOR 2025
Hartzell Propeller has extended its $1,000 discount on new Hartzell backcountry aircraft propellers for members of the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) through the end of 2025
This offer, available for the fifth consecutive year, comes with an additional benefit: for each discounted propeller sold, Hartzell makes a $250 contribution to the RAF to support its mission of preserving backcountry aviation access
“We’re excited to continue offering these discounts and supporting the RAF’s work to preserve the adventure of backcountry aviation,” said Hartzell President JJ Frigge “This $1,000 discount paired
with a $250 contribution for each propeller sold demonstrates our commitment to ensuring access to remote and recreational airstrips for aviators ”
RAF Chairman John McKenna Jr added, “We’re truly grateful for Hartzell's sustained partnership with the RAF. This collaboration brings real benefits to our supporters and encourages new pilots to join our mission ”
Voyager, Pathfinder, and Trailblazer Propellers
Backcountry propellers eligible for the discount include:
ScaleWings SW-51 Mustang
Continued from Page 28
arguably the best fighter ever built, the fact it can turn, roll, loop and dive with grace is no big shocker. The SW-51 can turn on a dime, thanks to its light weight and wing-loading. Surprisingly, the roll rate feels as responsive during slow flight as it does during high speed All flight regimes offer very smooth control due in part to the carbon-fiber pushrods and precision-balanced controls
This aircraft is a fun weekend flyer, perfect for giving Young Eagle rides or
just decompressing from a long work week But it is actually a very practical and efficient cross-country machine You can cruise above 155 KTAS at 10,000 to 12,000 feet burning only 8 to 9 gph. Oh, and there’s plenty of room behind the aft seat for a few days’ worth of luggage
Landing: Manage your speed to arrive less than 90-knots abeam the numbers The panel-mounted flap switch is selectable from 0 to 30 degrees in 10degree increments The landing gear is extended via an electrical switch at the
• Voyager: A three-blade aluminum Scimitar propeller optimized for Cessna 180, 182, 185, and 206 aircraft, powered by certain Continental 470, 520, and 550 engines under a recent STC
• Pathfinder: A three-blade Raptor carbon fiber composite propeller, available for CubCrafters XCub and Carbon Cub FX, as well as the Glasair Sportsman, American Legend, and a variety of experimental aircraft
• Trailblazer: A versatile two- or three-blade carbon fiber composite propeller, compatible with various models from American Champion, American Legend, Aviat, AviPro, CubCrafters,
Glasair, Maule, and numerous other experimental aircraft
These propellers are designed to
Continued on Page 34
top of the panel If you have the belly scoop-mounted camera selected on the split screen G3X display, you can watch the main gear swing out. Three green lights illuminate when the gear is down and locked. Use 75-knots on final and transition to the flare while reducing power to idle I can personally attest that the SW-51 handles a direct 15-knot crosswind well As with a real P-51, a wheel landing is the preferred choice The tailwheel can remain locked as you exit the runway, unless you need to make a 90-
degree turn After shutting down in the line, it’ll be hard to not pat yourself on the back for being a Mustang pilot!
Wrap-up: This beautiful plane is a meticulously built and functional piece of art but let’s not forget that the SW-51 Mustang is a modern tribute to an incredible piece of history It’s also insanely cool!
Dr Bettina Mrusek has been named Dean of the College of Aviation at Embry Riddle Worldwide (Courtesy ERAU)
Hartzell Voyager Propeller on a Cessna 185 (Courtesy Hartzell)
OODIES
One of the truly great things about being an aviation buff is the number of “Goodies and Gadgets” available to play with. Here In Flight USA has collected a few new ones worthy of your consideration.
A N D A N D
ADGETS
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co has been the supplier that aircraft builders, owners, pilots, and aviation businesses have depended on since 1965 They carry a wide selection of aircraft parts, building materials, avionics, and pilot supplies, all of which are offered on their website (www aircraftspruce com) and in the famous Aircraft Spruce catalog, now over 1,000-pages available for download or for free in print You can depend on Aircraft Spruce for prompt shipping and competitive pricing on all orders
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM AIRCRAFT SPRUCE
Aircraft Spruce wishes all a happy and prosperous New Year! Visit Aircraft Spruce at www aircraftspruce com for all your aviation needs January is always a good time for a “spruce” up, either in the cockpit or in the hangar Aircraft Spruce has all of your needs covered Call an Aircraft Spruce representative to help you with any shopping questions: 1-877-477-7823
Odies Oil Universal Finish & Polish
auto detail, hot tub covers and even use it on a squeaky hinge! The list goes on and on! Odie’s Universal Oil is great for wood turners and can be used as a friction polish!
Aircraft Spruce is selling the nineounce container for $58 95 and the 32ounce container for $194 25
Dynon D30 Touchscreen
Electronic Flight Display –Experimental
port delivers up to 30 watts of power, supporting fast charging for a wide range of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones
• Enhanced Installation Options: With both back and bottom connectors, Stratus Power Max offers flexible installation options, making it easier to integrate into any aircraft
perform various tasks such as listening to ATIS transmissions without leaving the active ATC frequency
Odie’s Universal Oil (OUO) is a revolutionary true hardwax oil finish that was originally developed for wood but is so versatile it can be used on almost anything! Food safe, solvent free and non toxic, containing no added driers, heavy metals or part 2 catalyst
Odie’s Universal Oil protects, stabilizes, beautifies, waterproofs and enhances any surface easily, safely and naturally Provides a lustrous sheen in one coat! OUO is clear curing and non yellowing while containing natural UV inhibitors, helping to protect from the sun’s harmful radiation. OUO penetrates, cross links and bonds molecularly, becoming one with any surface it’s applied to and does not sit on top as a shell or film like many conventional finishes It cures fast and hard while also remaining flexible This means it will never peel, flake, chip, delaminate, wrinkle or leave unsightly white scratch marks or cracks! Odie’s Universal Oil will actually get better with age, becoming more durable and more beautiful!
Odie’s Universal Oil can be applied to everything from wood, metal, leather, rubber and concrete to plastic, vinyl, stone and more! Works for interior and exterior applications. Great for all species of wood, exotic and domestic, solid or veneer. Formulated to work on even the oiliest of woods Finish flooring, whether it be wood, concrete, terrazzo, bamboo or even cork! Use it on boats and brightwork, decks, siding, fences, gates, fine furniture, patio furniture, tables, countertops, bartops, bowls, charcuterie and cutting boards, spoons, knife and ax handles, toys,
Meet the latest addition to the Dynon product line: The Dynon D30
T o u c h s c r e e n
Electronic Flight Display The D30 serves as a backup set of flight instruments in SkyView HDX systems
The D30 features a large 4-inch, sunlight readable, high resolution touchscreen display
An integrated backup battery provides up to five hours of runtime in the event of aircraft power failure, giving pilots confidence that they have access to critical flight information when it is needed most.
Compact at only 3.7-inch deep, the D30 mounts in a slightly modified 3-1/8-inch instrument hole via a docking ring mounting bracket The bracket allows for one-screw installation and removal of the instrument
The unit sells for $1,935 00
Appareo Stratus Power Max
Dual USB-C FAA-TSO
Stratus Power Max is the latest addition to Appareo’s acclaimed line of T S O - c e r t i f i e d USB charging products It is designed to provide maximum power and versatility with dual USB-C connectors, delivering up to 60 watts of charging power This advanced charging solution ensures that pilots and passengers can keep their devices fully charged and ready for use throughout their flights
Features include:
• Advanced Safety Features: Stratus Power Max includes multiple safety mechanisms such as overcurrent, overvoltage, and short-circuit protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation
• Compact and Durable Design: Built with high-quality materials, Stratus Power Max is designed to withstand the rigors of flight while maintaining a compact and unobtrusive profile
Each Stratus Power Max unit sells for $449
Garmin GTR® 205X Panel Mount VHF COMM Radio For Experimental Aircraft
Designed for both fixed-wing aircraft
and helicopters, the GTR 205 is a versatile radio that can serve in a variety of aircraft types and panel installations The 1 3-inch height form factor matches previous-generation SL30 and SL40 radios, enabling easier upgrades and creating more room in space-constrained panels Pilot-selectable 25 kHz or 8 33 kHz channel spacing provides global capability The radio features a sunlight-readable color LCD display, indicating the currently tuned active and standby frequencies, as well as their station ID –such as KOJC TWR or KSLE ATIS The vibrant display as well as the dual concentric knob and backlit keys mimic those found on other modern Garmin avionics products, providing an intuitive user interface and simplifying product operation.
The worldwide frequency database makes it convenient to find frequencies by searching an airport identifier Frequency memory and instant recall make tuning to the most often or recently used frequencies quick and efficient, plus holding down the volume knob will quick-tune to the emergency channel 121.5. To assist with approaches, holds or other assigned maneuvers, the GTR 205 includes a built-in timer, with the option to count up or count down
The unit sells for $2,095 Options include Unit + 4 Ft Harness to Audio Panel 14v ($2,254 95); Unit + 4 Ft Harness to Audio Panel 28v ($2,181 00); Unit + 4 Ft Harness + Pigtail & Jacks 14v ($2,209 00); and Unit + 4 Ft Harness + Pigtail & Jacks 28v ($2,209 00) Call Aircraft Spruce (toll free 1-877-4777823) for assistance in selecting the best model for your needs
The Little Plane That CouldDashing To The San Juan Islands Children’s Book
• Dual 30w USB-C Connectors: Each
Adding advanced communication capabilities to any panel, the GTR 205 is an optimized and cost-effective solution The 2,280-channel capable VHF COMM radio comes standard with 10 watts of power Additionally, pilots can monitor a standby COMM frequency while tuned to the active frequency, allowing them to
And for the young (or young at heart) Dash, the star of The Little Plane Who Could and Let’s Fly returns for his third adventure Once again he is going to explore the world – but this time he’s going to help out a friend first, by making a delivery for Larry Long-Distance Once he’s completed this mission, he can go anywhere in the world: where will he decide to go?
But events run away from Dash and soon he has no choice but to land at the nearest possible spot! And this is how Dash comes to the beautiful San Juan Islands!
This book is great for young readers who enjoy adventures, feel-good stories and especially good for those whose gazes often turn to the skies, watching birds and planes flying effortlessly overhead! Add it to your home library, the bedtime story folder or just keep it handy for rainy days: no matter where you keep it, it will soon find its way into your young readers’ hearts, becoming a
Continued on Page 34
WITH AMERICAN FLY GIRL AUTHOR SUSAN TATE AKENY ILLUMINATES A HIDDEN PIONEER OF AVIATION AND THE ASIAN- AMERIC AN
EXPERIENCE DURIN G WORLD WAR
II
By Mark Rhodes
American Fly Girl (Kensington Publishing Corp/Citadel Press) is author Susan Tate Akeny’s narrative of Hazel Ying Lee, a figure of groundbreaking wide-ranging resonance in the history of World War II, aviation, women and the American experience Lee was notably the first Asian-American woman to earn a pilot’s license, which led to her joining the WASP’s during World War II fighting for her country while battling the forces of anti-Asian bias post Pearl Harbor, which led to the shameful policies of Japanese internment camps (among others).
Ms Akeny was kind enough to participate in an email interview about her work and the impact and legacy of Hazel Ying Lee
In Flight USA: What is the origin of this work?
Susan Tate Akeny: “It quite literally found me Wendy McCurdy, editorial director at Kensington Publishing, was looking for someone to write Hazel’s story My agent told Wendy, “I think I have just the person for you ” So I was lucky to the point of believing it miraculous, and I was honored to be chosen for the project
IF USA: Was there anything in Hazel’s early life to indicate she had the makings of an aviator?
STA: “Undoubtedly She was bigger than life and fearless, and a born leader even as a child She raced the boys in the streets of Chinatown, and won, even though her mother told her not to, girls didn’t race boys, or if they did, they let them win Hazel never shrunk from things that were considered unladylike She got a driver ’s license at a time when it was unheard of for women to drive She was athletic and highly competitive at swimming, tennis and handball She danced, smoked, gambled, played pranks and laughed loudly while paying no attention to what people thought of her Before she was 19 and had her first airplane flight, accidentally, she wanted to do something bigger than the limited opportunities available to a Chinese American woman She was bored and interested in everything that was new,
like aviation She was a typical American teenager in many ways, dreaming of a bigger and better life ”
IF USA: With anti-Asian sentiment at a zenith during World War II was Hazel readily accepted by her WASP counterparts?
STA: “Surprisingly, she was, and I believe mostly because of her outgoing personality, her surprising and sometimes shocking antics, her storytelling, and her sense of fun Everyone who knew her loved her, and there is no record of anyone having a negative opinion of her race, Of course, there were naive reactions to her ethnicity that might have offended Hazel, but seemingly didn’t. Many of the WASPs had never met a Chinese American person before Some women mentioned that they thought Hazel ate her dessert first because it was a Chinese custom, but Hazel told them, no, she just always ate her sweet things first She was innocently asked if she could tan, and after joking that she was born with a tan, she proved that she could Still, she certainly must have felt lonely and different and must have at times resented being the ambassador for Chinese Americans, especially when she considered herself American first and foremost ”
IF USA: Along those lines, was it more of a challenge for Hazel to deal with prejudices as a woman or an aviator?
STA: “Hazel’s biggest challenges were being a woman and being Asian American at a time when the Chinese Exclusion Act still allowed harsh discrimination against Chinese Americans Most of her obstacles in aviation were due to her being a woman The first woman earned a pilot’s license in the U S in 1911, the year before Hazel was born In the 1940s, the idea still existed that women did not belong in the air, not as pilots or even passengers It was believed by most that women were too sensitive and temperamental and were liable to go berserk when elevated off the ground in an airplane So it was difficult for Hazel to find an instructor who would teach a woman, but she did. Then as a trained combat pilot, she could not fly for the U S , or China, because she was a woman ”
IF USA: Was there anything about
writing about H life that sur you?
STA: level of discrim tion and hatred Hazel experien growing up Portland shoc me I grew up Portland a knew very lit about how bad Asian Ame icans had bee treated until th 1940s when China became our ally in World War II, but of course racism never dies a quick death and it took far too long for p u b l i c places like
r e s t a u r a n t s to allow Chinese Americans as customers again It was firmly ingrained and Euro Americans still wanted the Chinese to stay in Chinatown. Chinese Americans living in Portland after Pearl Harbor had to wear buttons identifying themselves as Chinese so they would not be mistaken for Japanese and taken to internment camps ”
be admitted to the military, but the work of the WASPs and their contribution to victory in WWII was not forgotten.
IF USA: Currently, is there a sense of Hazel’s place in aviation history with regard to her pioneering work as both a female and aviator?
STA: “Hazel and all of the WASPs laid the groundwork for women to become members of the military In order for that to happen, the women air force service pilots faced bitter disappointment when they were unceremoniously disbanded and sent home before the war was even over because they were women. The men were returning, it was time for the women to go back home and raise children Most never flew in an airplane again It took three decades for women to
“As for Hazel personally, she showed us that people of any gender or ethnic background can contribute to the protection and betterment of our country Patriotism is not limited to the country of one’s birth as Hazel proved while trying to fly first with China’s Air Force and then with the U S military And she was refused admittance to the U S Army Air Corps, despite her qualifications and training and her credentials as one of the best pilots among the WASPs She never gave up Despite all of the doors that were closed in her face, she stood her ground and in that became an American hero ”
IFUSA: Thank you. To learn more or to purchase a copy of American Fly Girl, visit Ankeny’s website: susantateankeny com
e-off Every action after take-off involves the skillful management of safe landing
iation professionals to share experiences in a frank, non-punitive manner. The ASRS structure allows pilots and other aviation professionals to file an anonymous report of an incident, error or occurrence that the contributor feels might be of value to others. These reports are gathered, analyzed and data based by NASA experts and made available to all interested parties as a tool for creating proactive aviation safety programs Additionally, NASA distributes an electronic publication, CALLBACK, which contains selected, de-identified, reports on a free subscription basis In Flight USA is proud to reprint selected reports, exerpted from CALLBACK, for our readers to read, study, occasionally laugh at, and always learn from Visit http://asrs arc nasa gov/ to learn how you can participate in the ASRS program
EVERYDAY HEROES
Aviation heroes can be found in every aviation working group
Most, however, may seldom experience a situation that taxes their ultimate capability Whether aviation is a vocation or avocation and you are a professional or enthusiast, excellence, dedication, exceptional performance, and professionalism are often exhibited during flight operations. Heroes are made the instant one reaches deeper into oneself than previously done or thought possible to unleash superior performance and professional grit needed in the moment
With this issue, ASRS offers a group of reports that extol excellence, exceptional performance, and professionalism Characters may not appear like supermen or wonder women, and heroes may be unsung, but their actions and accomplishments do stand out They are the devoted aviation professionals and enthusiasts who continually train for the worst and hope for the best, day in and day out
This month, CALLBACK sends you Happy New Year greetings as we present incidents that reveal some heroes who arguably deserve the spotlight. Recognize the heroes and enjoy their stories as aviation devotees practicing their craft, which sometimes demands sixsigma performance Then rhetorically ask yourself, “If that caliber of performance is what we all aspire to and train for, what is really average about aviation?”
Part 91 – Mechanically Speaking
This FBO repair facility Aviation Maintenance Technician reported a serious safety issue The investigation and level of concern clearly indicate superior professional dedication to the safety of flight and aviation itself.
• Increased frequency of maintenance [is] required on carburetors and fuel injector systems due to suspected cadmium particulate matter being found in float bowls, fuel injector nozzles, fuel screens, and fuel jets This impacts fuel flow and metering, impacting engine performance due to restriction of fuel flow
This phenomenon was observed on aircraft during unscheduled maintenance due to complaints of loss of power and also during routine scheduled maintenance Particulate accumulation [was] also found in check valves, auxiliary fuel pumps and mechanical engine pumps Clumps and screen obstruction [were] observed. This has been observed over the past four months, since aircraft started using Unleaded 94 Octane (UL94) The exact source of the cadmium is not definitively determined at this time We suspect the cadmium is held in suspension in the fuel, and in addition to accumulating and clogging the fuel system, some particles are entering the combustion chamber with unknown impacts on cylinders, valves, and exhaust systems A simple experiment was conducted Aviation cadmium bolts were placed in [100 Octane Low Lead] 100LL and UL94 for a few hours The bolts in 100LL remained intact with no change The bolts in UL94 showed flaking with particles suspended in the fuel, sparkling Cleaning of all fuel parts in the fuel systems clears the problem, but it reappears We are concerned since we have limited experience with UL94 and have not seen anything like this in our careers, which total over 50 years together as A&P and IA [Inspection Authority Mechanics]
Part 121 – A Hot Cabin Potato
This A321 Flight Attendant (FA) was confronted with a feverish problem during landing preparations Great instincts, quick actions, improvisation, and outstanding teamwork likely prevented a more serious inflight condition
• As we were preparing the cabin for landing…a passenger stated that she needed assistance She was going through her purse and noticed her external charging battery was doing something weird I noticed it was hissing, and [it] looked like smoke was coming from it I ran to get a fire containment bag and asked FA A to follow with water bottles He only had one, so we went to [the] seat and placed the battery in the bag along
with water Then I went to the aft cabin to get more water FA B assisted me in opening water and placing it in the bag I closed the bag, and we placed it in the cart FA C kept checking on the bag for the remainder of the flight We landed and the Fire Department removed the bag from the plane before deplaning
Part 121 – Through the Controller’s Eyes
A Nashville (BNA) TRACON Controller relates a few moments in the life of a professional Air Traffic Controller Ensuring safety and separation, constant vigilance and split-second decision-making likely averted a midair collision
• A non-participating, non-ADS-B, 1200 VFR code [aircraft] was observed violating the Class C airspace at 3,500 feet The aircraft proceeded toward the final approach course for Runway 20L, where six aircraft were being sequenced onto final The nonparticipating aircraft appeared to remain at 3,500 feet, so I descended all aircraft into BNA to 2,500 feet in order to go underneath the VFR traffic that was heading toward a 12-mile final Aircraft X was on a 12-mile final when that VFR traffic was overflying, northwest bound, and starting to descend I called traffic, and Aircraft X had the traffic in sight I then called traffic to the preceding Aircraft Y and told them to expedite their descent to 2,500 feet At that time, the VFR target started descending quickly and turning directly up the final for Runway 20L, head on to Aircraft Y I then issued a traffic alert, probably the best one you will ever hear in your life, and told Aircraft Y to stop their descent and to turn to heading 110 immediately I did not cancel their approach clearance because I felt the traffic alert and avoiding a head on collision in 10 seconds was slightly more important. I then told the preceding traffic to Aircraft Y, [which was] Aircraft Z, to turn and stop their descent to avoid the VFR traffic and keep the sequence No RAs and no deaths were reported
Expand the Class C and start working on finding the non-ADS-B aircraft
that violated the Class C Although the aircraft violated the Class C, the almost near midair occurred outside the Class C
Part 121 – Pilot ↔ Dispatch ↔ ATC Teamwork
This Captain encountered a safety hazard that lasted the entire flight. Dispatch became the critical link between the pilots and ATC, as ingenuity, coordination, and teamwork combined to overcome a paralyzing handicap and safely recover the mission
• My First Officer and I taxied out to Runway XXL On the takeoff roll, as soon as the main wheels got airborne we heard an incredibly loud squeal over the radios and intercom It was the same loud squeal we hear when the Ramp plugs in a faulty headset It was so loud, we were unable to hear ATC, communicate with each other over the intercom, or communicate with the flight attendants We immediately used hand signals to communicate, raising the landing gear and flaps in accordance with the AOM As soon as we were clean and safely away from the ground, the First Officer turned right to 360, continued the climb to 4,000 feet, engaged the autopilot, and we began troubleshooting We tried unplugging each individual headset as well as unplugging both headsets and selecting the overhead speaker We also tried selecting COMM 2 No matter what we did, the continuous loud squeal remained So, we unplugged our headsets and began making all radio transmissions in the blind utilizing the hand-held microphone We squawked XXXX and proceeded on our cleared route and began our climb to FL280 We sent Dispatch a message and had her coordinate with ATC to make sure we were cleared to FL280 Dispatch also relayed our clearance to descend [and] cross ZZZZZ1 at 9,000 feet, as well as our clearance to descend to 4,000 feet and shoot the [approach for] Runway XYL Dispatch also contacted ZZZ1 Tower and
www.premieraircraft.com
www.premieraircraft.com
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Safe Landings
Continued from Page 32
relayed our clearance to land
Because I was unable to verbally communicate with ATC or the flight attendants, I determined this could develop into a safety of flight incident, so I began looking for ways to lower this risk Because the QRH does not address this scenario, in accordance with the AOM, I told the FO I’d like to pull the Circuit Breaker (CB) to COMM 1 and then COMM 2 to see if we
could get rid of the squeal She agreed it was worth a try In accordance with the AOM, I first pulled the CB to COMM 1
We plugged our headsets back in, but the squeal remained So, I reset the CB to COMM 1 and then pulled the CB to COMM 2, but the squeal remained At cruise, the flight attendants called us
Since I was unable to communicate with them, I got up out of my seat, looked through the peephole, and opened the
door I told them what was going on, asked them to secure the cabin, and give me two chimes when they were seated They complied with this and later gave me two chimes to let me know they were seated
The FO and I briefed the [arrival] to XYL, then completed the Descent and Approach Checklist After landing on XYL, we cleared the runway and came to a stop I called Tower on my cell phone and received our clearance to taxi to the gate
After pulling into the gate, I made two logbook write-ups, contacted Dispatch, talked to the Chief Pilot on Call, the Company, and the local ZZZ1 Chief Pilot
Goodies
Continued from Page 30
firm favorite with the whole family!
HMEWatch is offering excellent prices on their long established Professional Flight Watch line.
They are offering an excellent clearance sale to make room on new models coming out later this year. Take advantage of these high-quality models while they last at really great pricing.
There are a number of different models and colors offering both, Metal Bracelet models starting at a low $139.95, as well as high-quality Rubber/Neoprene bands at only $119.95.
The ATP model is an all digital multi-function watch offering multiple alarms, stopwatch, as well as countdown time, multiple city “World-Time” covering every time zone on the planet, and a thermometer, as well as an altimeter/barometer. These popular full-featured models are newly priced, starting at $74.95!
There are four versions of the “ATP,” a larger all black plastic with either a regular LCD display or a reverse LCD display; the other, slightly smaller, offers a metal case and yellow rubber strap.
The HMEWatch A.T.C. (Aviator Timepiece-Chrono) Aviator watch is an all analog, high-quality aviator watch offered in multiple styles. This model features a 60- minute chronograph, date window and a second-hour indicator to show a constant display of a second time zone whether it be your home, destination or as most use it, G.M.T./Zulu Time. This second large hand is a 12hour hand teaming up with a 24-hour Subdial indicator.
There is also a simple, optional instant-reset for the Chrono, where an instant push of the lower right mode button resets the chrono; no more having to stop the chrono before resetting it if that is your wish. In addition, there is also a functional E6B calculator Bezel on each model.
The A.T.C. comes in either all-stainless with a stainless steel bracelet or a stainless steel body with a polyurethane strap. HME Watch offers all models, including the P.U. strap model with a deploy clasp instead of the lower price “Tang-Buckle” found on most watches. In keeping up with styles today, this is a fairly large watch, at 43mm diameter by 13mm thick. Weight is about normal for a stainless steel model.
Take advantage of these special prices while stock lasts. Also, they are offering prices well under retail on Citizen Eco-Drive Pilot watch models. Contact HME at 323-464-6660 or go to www.hmewatch.com to
Once you’ve read this book, if it’s your first adventure with Dash, why not look out for the rest of the books in the series and collect the whole set? Aircraft Spruce has several books in the series available The book sells for $14 95
Look for Aircraft Spruce at the following events:
• Feb. 5-7, 2025 – FSANA 2025 Conference and Trade Show, Orlando Fl
• Feb 14-16, 2025 – AOPA Fly-In at the Buckeye Air Fair, Buckeye, Ariz , Booth #36
• Feb 22-23, 2025 – Northwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show, Puyallup, Wash , Booth #127-128
• March 8, 2025 – Aircraft Spruce 60th Anniversary Celebration and Texas Grand Opening, Roanoke, Tex
Hartzell
Continued from Page 29
improve backcountry performance, enhancing takeoff and climb capabilities to navigate remote environments.
About the Recreational Aviation Foundation
The RAF, founded by Montana pilots concerned about the closure of recreational airstrips, is dedicated to preserving, improving, and creating publicuse recreational airstrips across the United States As a 501(c)(3) organization, the RAF advocates for public aviation access to places offering unique recreational opportunities Learn more at https://theraf org
Hartzell Propeller is a global leader in advanced aircraft propeller design and manufacturing. Headquartered in Piqua, Ohio, learn more about Hartzell Propeller https://hartzellprop.com.
Hartzell Aviation is an outstanding group of General Aviation companies and products The storied brands include Hartzell Propeller, Hartzell Aerospace Welding and Hartzell Engine Tech For more information, visit https:// hartzellaviation com
ESC APE FOR A DAY TO
ARIS TA WINERY IN C ALIFORNIA’S SONOMA WINE COUNTRY
By Annamarie Buonocore
Here at In Flight USA, we know that travel is at the heart of general aviation The ability to explore the world is one of the best parts of being a pilot, knowing a pilot, owning an aircraft, or having access to an aircraft For many years, In Flight USA has had a strong collaboration with California wineries and winemakers Many of these have become our readers’ favorite travel spots This month, we conducted an interview with Mark McWilliams, owner of Arista Winery in Healdsburg, Calif. Arista can be a perfect getaway for any aviation enthusiast.
In Flight USA: Thank you for joining me today Tell me a little bit about how you got into the wine business?
Mark McWilliams: Sure I was born and raised in a small town in East Texas called Texarkana When I was very young in the early 1980s, my parents vacationed in Napa and Sonoma My mother was originally from Northern California, so we had family connections back here In the ‘80s and ‘90s, my parents spent a lot of time visiting Napa and Sonoma In 1992, my father had the ability to purchase some land in the Alexander Valley My parents had a dream to plant a vineyard, and in 20 years, my dad would be ready to retire, and they could move to California and enjoy Sonoma. That was the gist of the dream. I remember visiting the vineyard when I was in my teens, and to be honest, I did not find it that interesting I did not spend a lot of time thinking about this place that we had in Sonoma County It wasn’t until I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in communications when I really started thinking about what I wanted to do with my life My parents suggested I go to California and work a harvest to see if I liked the wine business Without much thinking, I applied for and got a job at Kendall-Jackson winery’s parent company at the vineyard working for them I had an epiphany two weeks into the job I knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that I wanted to be in the wine business for the rest of my life. That’s how I got to this.
IFUSA: What do you like most about the Sonoma County wine scene and being a part of it?
MM: I know it sounds cliche to say this, but I’ll just kind of flesh this out Sonoma County is a magical place It’s so beautiful Because of that it attracts people
Mark McWiliams (pictured here), along with his brother Ben, own and operate Arista Winery (Courtesy Arista Winery)
of extreme talent in many disciplines, including winemakers, beer makers, cheese makers, chefs just artisans at an extremely high level That sharpens your edge You’re inspired by these amazingly talented artisans You can’t take for granted the great food that we have What I love about Sonoma County is the authenticity and the quality of the crafts that you can find here It is very unique in the world
IFUSA: Tell me more about the hospitality you offer at the winery and how it is rooted in your Southern upbringing
MM: I’ve lived here now for 25 years, and I have many friends who were born and raised in Sonoma County. Of course, they’ve left for college or whatever. It’s not like they never left. I think my friends here take for granted the beauty of this place When you come from somewhere else, you really see the beauty that this place has to offer Southerners have rightfully earned their reputation for hospitality and charm, and I think that’s where our distinction comes into play We try to bring an authentic charm that I think my family has Marrying that with this profoundly beautiful part of the country really brings it all together in the wines that we produce You can taste wine almost anywhere When people come to Sonoma County and travel onto our Arista property, I tell my staff that they can drink this wine anywhere. What they can’t do is venture out into our vineyard or touch a vine. They can feel the dirt or pet the animals. We have chickens, sheep, goats, dogs, and cats on the property They can pick fruit from the trees or take carrots from the ground We take a lot of that for granted, but for so many people, it’s such a foreign concept We like to get people out here to
Continued on Page 36
er
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Castle Air Museum, adjacent to Castle Airport (MER) is in its 41st year of operation, and has become the West Coast’s largest static display of vintage military aircraft dating back from the late 1930’s. With over 80 aircraft in the collection and more due soon, such as the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk and FA-18 Blue Angel Aircraft, the Museum is situated on 31 acres, 25 of which are currently occupied by aircraft. The most comprehensive collection of WWII Bombers, from the Douglas B-18 Bolo to the mammoth Convair RB-36 Peacemaker, B-52D Stratofortress view aircraft from the Lockheed F-80 to the General Dynamics F-16A Fighting Falcon.
The Museum is located at 5050 Santa Fe Dr., Atwater, CA 95301, and open daily 9 am to 4 pm, with last admission to the Aircraft Exhibit Grounds at 3:15 daily.
he Museum is located at 5050 Santa F T 95301, CA Atwater, sion to the with last admis pm, ounds daily Gr e information, or mor F .castleairmuseum.or or visit www ., e Dr t Exhibit Aircraf ase call 209-723-2178 ple g. -16AF
For more information, please call 209-723-2178 or visit www.castleairmuseum.org.
AH-1W Cobra
B-52D SH-60B Seahawk
Convair RB-36H Peacemaker
eacemak onvair
Arista Winery
touch, feel, and become a part of this process. Don’t just sit at a bar, drink four wines, and move on. We really want to use this platform as a living, breathing, teaching tool to help people learn the process Our hospitality program is all about making it an interactive experience
IFUSA: I recently heard about your
Signature Tasting Experience Tell me more about that
MM: The short answer is that the interactive experience is the Signature Tasting Experience, but we have also created four packages for tasting We have a lot of first timers who have never been here before, but we also have people who come back year after year, or multiple times per
year Our signature experience is a great way to be introduced to our Arista brand and to our philosophy. We focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and this experience focuses on that. This experience allows you to walk around, feel around, and get a better understanding of who we are There are other experiences that we offer that dive deeper These delve into the unique characteristics
of Chardonnay and Pinot We have seasonal food-pairing experiences that take the experience to the next level. Like a restaurant, we are constantly changing our offerings to keep things exciting. We mash the experiences with the vineyard
IFUSA: Tell me more about the property How is it different today than when your family bought it many years ago?
MM: That’s a great question My parents purchased this 36-acre estate along the famed Westside Road in 2002 Books have been written and movies have been made about this renowned winegrowing area It is a very famous place for Pinot Noir That alone is what drew my family here With such fame and history, almost everything is planted on Westside Road
We were fortunate to have encountered this property, beautifully situated among some of the most famous wineries in the area. It was just this undeveloped parcel wedged between them. So, when we bought the place, it was a blank canvas We knew the site had extreme potential We thought it out We worked with soil scientists to make informed planting decisions I would encourage anyone reading this to visit us Part of the beauty is not only the vineyard, but these oak trees that are hundreds of years old We worked not to tear them down, but to build an extension of their beauty We also converted an old guesthouse into a tasting room in 2005 This still remains the basis of our experience It’s like the lobby of the hotel where you’re greeted Then we have these beautiful outdoor areas where we host our tastings. And finally, in 2018, the completion of our dream was getting to build our own winery on the estate. Before that, we leased a building offsite where the wine production took place When we bought the place in 2002, it would have been nice to have done everything in one fell swoop, but that just wasn’t possible at that time
But what time allowed was for us to really understand this property and to develop it methodically We have learned so much in the development of this property
IFUSA: Do you have other family members in the business?
MM: Yes, I do My mom and my dad started this I am the oldest of four My brother, Ben, and I now own the business We purchased it in 2013 We have two other siblings who are not directly involved, but they do things to support the business.
IFUSA: What advice would you give to someone who wanted to get into the wine business?
MM: From my experience of starting a business and being part of a family business, it is really important that you have a passion for it It’s hard and at times
Wischmeyer
I THOUGHT I HAD NO C ARDIAC WORRIES
Eight months ago, I had a total knee replacement and part of the pre-surgery ritual was a 12 lead EKG that showed nothing significant Two months ago, I had emergency gall bladder removal and, again, the pre-surgery 12 lead EKG showed nothing significant Then one Wednesday morning, I had symmetric pain across my sternum and down both arms, with the palms being very painful In the ER, they hooked me up to a 12 lead EKG that showed nothing significant I thought
Well, I was in fact having a little baby heart attack, as indicated by heart enzyme in the blood, an indicator of how hard the heart was working or damaged or something like that Normal range is 050, and I presented at 630. That after-
noon, I was up to 5,222. They gave me three nitroglycerin pills that kind of helped, maybe And I got some morphine, too
While I was in hospital, another patient presented with chest pains, etc , that had been going on for a while The patient had waited too long to come in and did not survive
My only possible warning was high LDL that my primary care physician was watching, and threatening me with statins if I didn't improve my diet Too late
Actually, those EKGs did show a very slight irregularity in the ST wave, whatever that is, and the heart attack I had was an NSTEMI, less common and less damaging than a STEMI. You
guessed it, the N stands for “non.”
The day I was admitted to hospital, I did get an urgent appointment to the heart catheterization lab – they had to stay late –but they put in no stents The significance of this, as I understand it, is that it should be easier – supposedly – to get a restricted 3rd class medical But Basic Med, down the road, will give me all the privileges I need at this point in my flying career
My treatment is an extra four pills per day, statins, blood thinner, aspirin, and dietary restrictions As for food, if it tastes good, it's not allowed Same dietary restrictions as after a gall bladder removal
So, here I am, full recovery expected, but after the previous surgeries, getting back in shape is a slow process.
EKG strip showing a normal heartbeat (not necessarily representative of the author ’ s personal story) Image is courtesy of the American Heart Association Learn more at heart org (American Heart Association)
Cardiac rehab is interesting, 15-minute sessions on four different exercise machines I’m new to all this cardiac staff and have no idea what to expect, but to
Continued on Page 40
Arista Winery
Continued from Page 36
The Healdsburg Airport
excruciating to build a business If you don’t have a love and a passion for it, I can imagine how much more excruciating it is. I am so lucky. I pinch myself everyday because there is nothing in the world I would rather do than grow things Growing grapes and making wine for a living is my passion It’s in my blood Even with that passion, there are patches of time while growing this business that have been painful and difficult Without passion, I don’t know how we would survive, so my advice is find your passion and go with it
IFUSA: What benefits do you get if you join the A-list?
The Healdsburg Municipal Airport is situated on 45 acres of land approximately 3 miles northwest of Healdsburg, with quick access from the Lytton Springs Road exit on U S Highway 101 The Airport is owned and operated by the City of Healdsburg and administered by the City's Public Works Department
The Airport has one paved runway, 60 feet wide and 2,625 feet in length, which serves both single and twin engine aircraft under 6,000 pounds at takeoff Learn more at https://www.ci.healdsburg.ca.us/329/ Municipal-Airport.
The Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport
MM: Here at Arista, we do not have a wine club, per se That might be what is different about us We do not have a traditional system where you sign up for the red wine shipment, or the white, or the six bottles. Rather, it’s a mailing list that allows our customers first access to our newly released wines There is never an obligation to purchase anything, but being on the list gives you the best access to Arista We have been very fortunate as a small winery to produce six to seven thousand cases That’s not a lot We typically sell all of our wine to customers on the mailing list The list is closed at this time, however, we do offer a waiting list to get on the mailing list We’re trying to grow in terms of demand, and being on the list gives you priority access Some of our production is such a small quantity that we only offer it to the mailing list and those wines sell out instantly Since our wines aren’t available via online retailers, being on the mailing list is the best way to purchase our wines. I am on the road traveling across the country a lot, visiting different cities and hosting wine dinners Being on the A-List grants you access to special dinner invitations in-market, the first opportunity to purchase small-production and exclusive wines, invitations to private member events, and complimentary tasting experiences when you come visit us at Arista Winery You can join the Arista waitlist at www AristaWinery com/Acquire While you’re on the waitlist, we encourage you to try our appellation series wines, the Russian River Valley Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir, as we offer those two wines for purchase online to showcase the style of the Arista portfolio
IFUSA: Do you have any stories of famous or interesting people visiting your estate?
MM: It would be hard to pinpoint one or even a few Looking back on our history, I have so many fond memories of marriage proposals, weddings, birthday parties, etc And this includes employees of the winery and guests It always means the world to my brothers and me when
The Charles M Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS) is open to the public and located 6 miles northwest of Santa Rosa, Calif at an elevation of 128 7 feet
The Airport has two paved runways, with the main runway designated as Runway 14-32 and the secondary runway as Runway 2-20 Learn more at https://sonomacountyairport org/generalaviation/pilot-information/
people buy our wines for their wedding or the birth of a child It is especially moving when someone has died and they loved our wines, and now their children or family members are enjoying it People drink our wines and think of their parents We realize the impact way beyond a bottle of wine We are in the lives of so many people at their important moments. We’re here because we love to make wine, but we get these calls from people who say, “You were at our wedding” or “You were there for the birth of our daughter ” People don’t realize how much those calls mean to us
IFUSA: Are Pinot and Chardonnay your only two varietals?
MM: Yes, most of our production is Pinot Noir, about 60 percent We are 40 percent Chardonnay And I think that is what you’re going to find throughout the Russian River Valley here The two grapes are very much related These are our specialties
IFUSA: What are your operating hours?
MM: Arista Winery is open seven days a week. There is some flexibility around the holidays, but we are open to the public You don’t need an appointment, but we really suggest it So much of what we offer and can do is by appointment For more information, visit our website at: www aristawinery com
IFUSA: Thank you!
NEW YORK S TATE ASSEMBLYWOMAN AMY PAULIN PUSHES FOR SMALL PL ANE SAFET Y BILL S
New York State Assemblymember Amy Paulin is urging her state legislature to pass her bills to make small planes safer, A 3920 and A 1175 The legislation would require small plane owners to register with the NYSDOT and show proof of third-party insurance, helping to track small plane use and protect victims of plane crashes The second bill authorizes the study of general aviation flight operations by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), in order to update safety guidelines and address any current shortfalls
“In recent years, we’ve seen more and more incidents of small plane crashes, and just last week a small plane crashed onto I684 in Westchester County, tragically killing one of the plane’s two passengers,” said Assemblywoman Amy Paulin. “Improved safety guidelines and guidance are fundamental to help avoid this type of fateful accident State registration and third-party insurance should also be required so that plane passengers and victims on the ground are
protected. All this would be codified in my small plane safety bills, which I’ll fight to pass during the 2025 legislative session ”
Paulin’s bill A 3920 directs the NYSDOT to study aviation flight operations Specifically, the NYSDOT would be required to compile accident statistics, as well as assess the relative safety of flight operations in New York and in other states “By providing this information to the Legislature, policymakers will have the necessary information to understand best practices and make evidencebased policy decisions that promote the safety of New Yorkers,” said Paulin
Paulin’s bill A 1175 requires small plane owners to obtain third-party liability insurance, helping to ensure that insurance covers plane passengers and victims on the ground. Currently plane insurance is not required by law, therefore if a pilot chooses not to purchase insurance, and another in the plane or on the ground is injured or suffers damages, the victims
often have difficulties recovering for their injuries and losses. States that require this have found that by requiring insurance, planes are safer because insurance companies won’t insure them without annual safety inspections “Protecting innocent victims is why we have insurance requirements for motor vehicles, and we should have the same requirement in place for planes,” said Paulin
Paulin’s bill A 1175 would also require small plane owners to register with the State in order to keep track of small plane ownership, use, accident data, and accident cost information
“While the State can’t regulate the safety measures of general aviation aircraft, which is done by the FAA,” said Paulin, “the State Legislature can and should take these steps to improve small plane safety.”
A 3920/S 5982 (https://nyassembly gov/leg/?bn=A 3920&term=2023) is sponsored in the New York State Senate by Senator Monica Martinez
New York State Assemblymember Amy Paulin has served the 88th New York State Assembly District since 2001. She recently introduced two small plane safety bills (Courtesy New York Assembly (
Paulin/bio/)
A 1175/S 1664 (https://nyassembly gov/leg/?bn=A 1175&term=2023) is sponsored in the New York State Senate by New York Senator Jamaal Bailey
2024 IC AS CONVENTION EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS
The results of the 2024 ICAS Convention at Paris Las Vegas, held Dec 9-12, couldn’t have been clearer, according to ICAS administrators The industry is wholly, and truly, back in full force
This year ’s convention set an encouraging tone of growth and progress, with an attendee count that hasn’t been seen in two decades. A palpable energy and confidence were felt throughout the general
session ballroom, exhibit hall, education rooms, and the hallways and public spaces at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel as ICAS members conducted business, reconnected and continued their preparation for the 2025 season
While this year ’s convention didn’t set a record for registrations, it got very close with a total of 1,593… second only to the 1,605 mark in 2002.
Homebuilder’s Workshop
Continued from Page 37
the staff, this is all old hat It’s like they’re all ATPs and I’ve just soloed
But, after charging through PT at the PT clinic after the knee replacement, it was disheartening (sorry) the first day at cardiac rehab to be totally exhausted after three-minute sessions on four different exercise machines Hospital security gives rides to peoples’ cars, and I was glad of that I was completely exhausted the rest of the day
The insurance will let me fly the RV9A as long as I have a CFI on board, with no RV requirements on the CFI. Renting a C172 will not be satisfying, as I know from when I was rechecking proficiency (for my own peace of mind) after the knee replacement But that’s not any time soon
So, after 50 years, right at 200 makes and models logged, many great
friends made, does God have some new adventures in store for me, or is it time to sell the very nicely equipped RV-9A and be content with telling people how good I used to be?
But I'll also tell my friends, pilot or not, to watch diet, exercise, and blood test results, because an EKG might not be enough
The RV-9A is now out of (returned from) (annual) condition inspection. I’m hoping that I’ll be able to and still want to fly it after this year But I have been flying for 50 years, and taken a bunch of heat when my research data disagreed with the party line We will see
One casualty of galloping reality struck ten years ago with the second spinal fusion After that surgery, I was no longer
The Paris Las Vegas Hotel convention center welcomed 818 event organizers from 191 distinct air shows across the U S , Canada, and around the world The exhibit hall, sold out since October, featured 225 exhibitors who did business over three days with over nine hours of time to interact on the floor with business prospects.
“We’ve not seen a tone and a pace of
available to bend over a workbench for more than 20 minutes, and that did not facilitate aircraft building projects Or cooking or folding laundry, but I digress
A resident in the garage was a KitFox Lite ultralight, another casualty of said reality I’m not able to complete it, and test flying and basing it at another airport would be problematic It was originally purchased for a ridiculous project, namely, flying with the most identical engines I think that the amphibious Dornier DO-X has the record at 12 engines, configured in six push-pull pods above the wing. (Electric motors don’t count, according to my personal rules )
Anyhow, the KitFox Lite has been sold to the man who has helped me with some of the two-man jobs He is also buying most of my airplane building tools, including a full set of sheet metal tools that worked on an RV-3, back in the
business like this in many years,” said ICAS President John Cudahy “And, as an indication of the optimism and enthusiasm for the 2025 and 2026 air show seasons, it was both promising and encouraging ”
The 2025 ICAS Convention is set for Monday, Dec 8 through Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025 at the Paris Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada. Learn more at the ICAS website, airshows.aero.
day, back in those dark days before prepunch and when parts had to be cut from stock and trimmed And when the parts didn’t fit, either, hardly
Anyhow, he hired movers with a big truck (the fuselage is 13 feet long) and with extra sets of hands I thought that was a silly idea until I thought about it for more than 11 seconds
The garage now has a bunch of empty space, the first big step in downsizing – friends are recommending a senior living facility. There are other big projects to be done before then. And if it’s time to quit flying and sell the RV-9A, then there will be hangar accoutrement (whatever that means) to dispose of
Meanwhile, Happy New Year!
SCHEDULERS & DISPATCHERS CONFERENCE
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March 25–27, 2025 New Orleans, LA
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Let the Good Times Fly… Navigating Tomorrow, Today! The 2025 NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference (SDC2025) is where your journey towards success takes flight. Elevate your logistical planning and explore the latest in dispatch technologies and innovative equipment designed to propel your flight department operations to new heights. In the spirit of New Orleans, where timeless charm meets innovation, start planning today to ensure you’re part of this exceptional event you won’t want to miss!
March 25–erence y hers Conf Fly 27, our journe he 2025 NB T Toda Tomorrow, Tomor ards success w y to hedulers AA Sc ou w ent y ev meets inno operations to ne hnologies inno tec es Ele ak t ant to miss! t w ’ on art toda ation, st v w Ne e y vativ our logistical planning and e ate y v re of e ou’ y to ensure y
CLEAR L AKE FLYIN G CLUB OFFERS FREE AVIATION CL ASSES FOR YOUN G PEOPLE
The Clear Lake Flying Club, based in Lakeport, Calif , will begin its first Introduction to Aviation course for young individuals from 9 to 13 years old on Sunday, Jan 19, 2025 at 1 p m at Lampson Field Airport
The series of classes consists of four two one-hour classes, once per month, culminating in the Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles Rally which takes place as part of the 2025 Clear Lake Splash In
At the rally, young people will have the opportunity to take a flight in an airplane on the morning of Saturday, April 26, 2025.
There is no charge for the course or the flights
Space is still available
To participate, contact Herb Lingl, Education Director of the Clear Lake Flying Club at aerialarchives com/contactflyingclub htm
The Clear Lake Flying Club, Inc is a California not for profit corporation dedicated to promoting education about aviation in Lake County The club is producing the 2025 Clear Lake Splash In and assists Lake County high schools in teaching the aviation curriculum that is available at no
A free Introduction to Aviation course for 9- to 13-year olds begins this month at Lampson Field Airport in Clear Lake, Calif , culminating in participation at an EAA Rally at the 2025 Clear Lake Splash In on April 26
(Courtesy Herb Lingl)
charge from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Foundation For more information about the club, please visit: clearlakeflyingclub com
EAA RAY AVIATION SC HOL ARSHIP PROGRAM REAC HES 600 PILOT S
The EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program continues to make a difference for young people pursuing aviation dreams, as 600 scholarship recipients have completed flight training and earned their pilot certificates
The scholarship program is funded by the Ray Foundation, managed by EAA, and administered through the EAA Chapter network The program awards scholarships to qualified applicants to help them achieve their aviation aspirations The foundation has expanded its funding for the scholarship program to $2 25 million for 2025, including a boost of up to $12,000 per individual scholarship.
“EAA and the Ray Foundation continue to see the direct benefit the Ray Aviation Scholarship program has on students with pilot aspirations,” says Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programming “The completion rate of our scholars remains at approximately 80 percent, a near
inverse of the national average ”
There are EAA chapter and scholar eligibility requirements for the Ray Aviation Scholarship that indicate a commitment to success Once a chapter is approved for the program, it nominates the chosen scholar for EAA’s final review Many chapters are granted the full $12,000 for their selected scholar, but some chapters have committed 25 percent of the award, to secure their slot in the program All EAA and divisional chapters in the United States and Canada are eligible for a grant up to $12,000
The Lightspeed Aviation Foundation and EAA award a Zulu 3 headset to each scholar after they complete solo flight or, if they soloed pre-scholarship, after passing the written exam This recognizes the scholar as they progress and ultimately complete flight training
More information on the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program can be found at EAA org/RayScholarship
AIRCRAFT FOR SALE
American Aircraft Sales, Livermore Airport, CA, americanaircraft.net, cell (510) 783-2711, (925) 449-5151.3/13
From Trade-ins to Aircraft Management, financing and appraisals. T.J. Aircraft Sales, Novato, CA, (415) 8985151, tjair.com.3/13
AirplanesUSA Aircraft Sales, San Carlos, CA, Airport, (650) 394-7610, airplanesusa.com.1/16
Quality aircraft since 1948. Volare Air, a TECNAM dealership, (940) 800-8020, volareair.aero. 1/23
Historically significant 1950s-era aircraft for sale or trade. All in restorable condition with minimum corrosion. Inventory includes a Piasecki XHJP-1 and a Sikorsky S-55. American Helicopter Museum, West Chester, PA. Contact info@americanhelicopter.museum for more information.231000.TFN
1968 Nanchang CJ-6 Chinese warbird. Reliable Day/VFR, light weight. Apollo GX-65 nav/com, Digital Xpndr., intercom, Delco alternator. New seat cushions and canopy glass. Includes all support equipment, wing jacks, manuals, spare parts. Much more! $70,000. Located N. Calif., text/cell (530) 9579760, dennis@nickson.biz.24900:11
1966 Piper PA30 Twin Camanche for sale near Oceanside, CA. Call for pricing. Andrew Wignot, (760) 717-0640. 241100:12
JETS
Small Manned Aerial Radar Target, Model 1. Tiny jet aircraft, long-range tank. SMART-1, Tucson, AZ, (202) 2132400, smart-1.us.5/21
SPORT/ULTRALIGHTS
RV12i5. Total performance perfected. Easy to build, fly and own. Van's Aircraft www.vansaircraft.com.11/18
Bristell LSA 915 Turbo, 180 mph
@18,000. Bristell Aircraft, (516) 6581847. bristellaircraft.com.2/24
STOL
The STOL Super Breezy with fully covered fuselage. Yakima Aerosport, (509) 453-3412, superbreezy.com.5/23
AIRCRAFT SALES AIDS
Aviation Sales & Marketing by ABCI
Ideal for a startup or side hustle in the aviation industry. (702) 987-1679 or aviationsalestraining.com/startup.1/21
FLIGHT INSTRUCTION
Sunshine Flyers. Flight & tailwheel instruction, rentals, mountain flying, and aerobatics., Auburn, CA, (530) 820-3442, sunshineflyersaviation@gmail.com.3/20
Arizona Type Ratings
CE-500/CE-525 type ratings or recurrent. Insurance approved, staff examiner. arizonatyperatings.com, (602) 614-7994. 9309:TFN
Recurrent pilot training and services. L/D Aerospace, Grace Passmore, (916) 790-0501, ldaerospace.com.1/22
Fly for fun or career. Discovery flights, pilot training, AOPA Distinguished Flight School & Cessna Pilot Center. Smith Aviation, Napa County Airport, (707) 345-6526, mikesmithaviation.com.4/22
MAINTENANCE/INSPECTIONS
Custom-tailored programs for all aircraft. Livermore, CA, (925) 961-6135, xlaviationtailwheel.com.8/20
Iconic Aircraft Restoration. Repairs, refurbishments, parts fabricated, consulting at reasonable rates. The Wright Experience, (540) 379-9092.8/21
Custom aircraft & high-quality composite parts. Aviation Composites, Sandersville, GA, (937) 243-7303.1/22
All parts available to rebuild 1936 Rearwin Sportster. In Northern California. Contact Sue Harmuth at suewilldooo@ outlook.com.22801:TFN
FBOs
Serving the GA Community since 1981. Wisconsin Aviation, Watertown Municipal Airport, WI, (920) 261-4567, WisconsinAviation.com.3/13
World's largest network of FBOs with over 200 locations offering consistent, exceptional service. Signature Flight Support, signatureflight.com.4/23
Full-service center. Vista Aviation, Whiteman Airport, Pacoima, CA, (818) 896-5224, vistaair.com9/23
AVIONICS
Avionics for Every Mission. All major brands.Airtronics, Calaveras County Airport, CA, airtronicsavionics.com, (209) 736-9400.11/14
Basic installs to complete panel and glass retrofits. Pacific Coast Avionics, (800) 353-0370, PCA.aero.7/15
Update your avionics. FAA-Certified repair station. Treasure Coast Avionics, Ft. Pierce, FL, (772) 464-3148, treasurecoastavionics.com.2/23
AIRCRAFT PARTS
Keeping "classic" aircraft flying since 1946. Univair Aircraft Corp., Aurora, CO, (888) 433-5433, univair.com.3/21
Iconic Aircraft Restoration for all the classics. Reasonable rates. The Wright Experience, (540) 347-1909.2/23
SAVAGE Magneto Service since 1946. Hayward, CA, (510) 782-7081,2/23
Wingtips with total lighting solutions, aveoengineering.com.9/23
PROPELLERS
Aviation wood, composite or metal propellers. Sensenich, (813) 752-3711, (717) 569-0435 or sensenich.com.4/21
OXYGEN SUPPLIES
Cannula or Mask? For aicraft service ceilings to FL180 & FL250. Ask "The Oxygen Lady," info@aviationoxygen.com2/23
Fuel Cells. Repair, overhaul or new with 10-year warranty. Hartwig Aircraft Fuel Cell Repair, hartwigfuelcell.com.2/09
Home of GAMIjectors® fuel injectors! STCs and PMAs on over 300 different engine models! General Aviation Modifications, Ada, OK, (888) 3594264, (580) 436-4833, gami.inc.3/23
AVIATION SAFETY
Innovative aviation safety solutions and Parachute Recovery Systems for a variety of aircraft, including for sport, UAVs, more. AviationSafetyResources.com.2/22 Get ahead of your daily in-flight risks with SAFETYLINQ flight risk assessment. argus.aero/safetylinq.1/22
confidential solution for pilot medical certification. Free FAA medical consultations. Left Seat, (800) 699-4457.1/21
Global Aircraft Group. USPAP bank values for all aircraft, aircraft management, insurance claims & certified aircraft appraisals. Mark Parry, (855) 6GBLAIR, (413) 335-7507.4/22
At Thirty1 Hybrid, we help aviation companies, including flight schools, manufacturers, mechanics, brokers, and more, build a cohesive website that positively impacts their bottomline. And it’s not just a website — it’s an Experience.
We’ll take your prospects on a journey they’ll love (and you’ll love, too — because the final destination is a new client and more money in your pocket). It’s a win-win for everyone!
Contact us today at hello@thirty1hybrid.com or by visiting thirty1hybrid. com.24500:6
HANGARS/TIEDOWNS
One-piece doors. Hydraulic or bifold. Schweissdoors.com, (800) 746-8273.1/15
Aviation Building Systems, custom designed hangars. R&M Steel Co., Caldwell, ID, (208) 454-1800, aviationbuildingsystem. com, (866) 454-1800.51217:TFN
Specializing in personal, business and charter aircraft. Best price, coverage & customer service. Zanette Aircraft Insurance Center, (650) 593-3030, (888) 723-3358.10/06 Insurance solutions for all aviation-related services. Business Aviation Insurance, bizavins.com, (925) 825-1900.7/20 AVIATION CONSULTANTS
Informed, accurate aircraft appraisals. jetvaluesjeremy.com, (636) 751-3987.7/20
Complete Aviation Sales & Marketing Services. Use Promo Code "INFLIGHT" to save 10%. AviationBusinessComsultants. com/Lab, (702) 987-1679.4/23
PILOT SUPPLIES
No cheap imitation watches at HME! Special pricing on ATP series multifunctional watches with Altimeter. To order or for information, (323) 464-6660 or hmewatch.com.11/16
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty. Free 700page catalog, Corona, CA, & Peachtree City, GA, aircraftspruce.com.10/06
Protective covers for every make and model. Bruce's Custom Covers, Morgan Hill, CA, (800) 777-6405, (408) 7383959, aircraftcovers.com.10/19
Apparel as unique as your journey Discounts to members. AOPA Pilot Gear, aopapilotgear.com.9/21
Mountain Bike, Full-size, pilot-friendly, rugged. FLATBIKE, flatbike.com.10/18
AVIATION RESOURCES
Emergency services, group trips, consulting services. BizAvJets, Inc., Business Aviation Services, bizavjets.com, (702) 465-2027.10/20
Wherever business takes you. Navigate It. (575) 615-2091, vatit.com.10/21
Scheduling Software that connects to your flight department. Simple, affordable. airplanemanager.com.9/22
& Marine Tax Pros Legally avoid sales tax on your aircraft purchase. In El Grove, CA, (916) 691-9192, aeromarinetaxpros.com.18500:TFN
HOMES/AIRPARKS
New Runway & Taxiway Homesites Available in amentity-rich community, Granbury, TX. From $179,900. Pecan Plantation, AviationHomesites. com, (833) 273-2159.2/24
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Become an Aircraft Broker — #1 Largest USA Network of Aircraft
Start with USA’s proved system for listing and selling everything from highperformance single-engine airplanes, cabin class through jets, and helicopters & jet fractional shares. Includes multi-million-dollar inventory to start. Complete turn-key proved system. No experience necessary. Will train. Licensed USA Aircraft brokerage. Call (504) 723-5566 orvisit
Business Opportunity Section at usaaircraft.com 4208:TFN
Free avgas 100LL and free tie-down parking in exchange for help with projects for an airport in Southern California. Email: wignot@hotmail.com.23600:TFN
ART/VIDEOS/GIFTS
Specializing in aviation photography horizontalrain.com.1/15
Need a gift? Give a ride in an open cockpit biplane. WACO Air Museum, Troy, Ohio, wacoairmuseum.org, (937) 335-9226.20601:TFN
Fly By Wire Air, a one-stop site for aviators. flybywireair.com.4/21
Aces High Aviation & Military Art. (800) 528-0887, aceshighgallery.com.10/21
Shirts Made to Fly. Unique, original fabrics embedded with your sectional chart. Save 20% with "INFLIGHT20" code. PilotQuarters.com. 2/24
PUBLICATIONS
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Palm Springs
Story and
Photos
by Nick Viggiano
On Friday Nov. 15, I drove down to Rockport, Texas, to attend the Warbirds Over South Texas Fly In The event was held at the Aransas County Airport in Rockport Rockport is located on the western shore of Aransas Bay on the Texas Gulf Coast
Cody Stewart, owner of ACTS Aviation, is the driving force behind Warbirds Over South Texas Admission and parking were free all three days Friday was a special Education Day exclusive for local school districts, private schools, and home school groups
I arrived at 2 p m on Friday and was able to see the joy in the school children’s faces as they watched the aircraft take off and land and get to climb in some of the aircraft. I was able to meet up with Cody Stewart and other pilots and photographers It is always great to meet up with old friends and share our passion for aviation, warbirds and photography
The headliner in my opinion was the
WARBIRDS OVER SOUTH TEXAS
Commemorative Air Force’s Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, one of only three SB2Cs flying! Ed Vesely flew the Big Tail Beast to the fly in and was letting kids into the gunner position and offering paid rides
The CAF’s PBJ (Navy version of the B-25) Devil Dog was also offering paid rides, as were the Gulf Coast Wing of the CAF with their SNJ Trainer and C-45 Transport The Vintage Flying Museum brought their C-47 Southern Cross, offering tours and paid rides The CAF and other pilots/aircraft owners provided rides in their aircraft It is enjoyable to watch the excitement on people’s faces as they go to the aircraft they are flying in, and then to see the joy on their faces after their ride
Other headliners were the P-51D Mustang Glamorous Glennis III, and a T28 in “Jolly Rogers” markings flown by the Bohannon family. The sound of the Mustangs Merlin engine always turns heads, and it’s a joy to see the P-51 grace the skies
Throughout the day on Friday and Saturday, the flying was very active and
B-25 Devil Dog gave visitors
of soaring through the
the
very diverse Stearman’s, T-6 Texans, P51 Mustangs, C-40 sevens and a B-25, not to mention civilian antique aircraft, were flying into the airport and on display.
Warbirds Over South Texas is the a and fun event Between Cody Stewart and ACTS Aviation, his staff, volunteers and Marty Huvar and the Commemorative Air Force Marshalling Detachment, the event
is well run and a safe environment for family entertainment You can’t beat 80degree temperatures, sea breezes and warbirds
Can’t wait for next year ’s Warbirds Over South Texas, and when I find out the 2025 date, I will be making lodging reservations and hopefully plan a longer stay so I can enjoy the sea and the sand down at Rockport
The
at
Warbirds Over South Texas Air Show the thrill
skies in a legendary WWII B-25 Mitchell bomber (Nick Viggiano)
Guests had a great time viewing the last flying SB2C Helldiver in the World! (Photo by Nick Viggiano) (Nick Viggiano)
Guests at the Warbirds Over South Texas Air Show were able to relive history in the way that can only be experienced in a Navy N2S-1 Stearman while enjoying the beautiful coastal views (Nick Viggiano)
Cody Stewart in his BT-13 over Aransas County Airport in Rockport (Nick Viggiano)
in November.
P-51D Mustang “Glamorous Glennis III,” and a T-28 in Jolly Rogers markings flown by Bohannon family (Nick Viggiano)
Ed Vesely flying the SB2C (Nick Viggiano)
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