In Flight USA April 2024

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, March 29.Confirm the status before attending.

APRIL

Sat. & Sun. Atwater, CA: Tours of the VC9C Presidential Aircraft, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Castle Air Museum, (209) 723-2178, castleairmuseum.org.

2 Chino, CA:Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 9 a.m. to noon, Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-7576.

4 Santa Rosa, CA:Hot Dog Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Pacific Coast Air Museum, Sonoma County Airport, (707) 575-7900, pacificcoastairmuseum.org.

6 Bullhead City, AZ: Laughlin-Bullhead Air Show, gates 11 a.m., LaughlinBullhead Int’l. Airport, (928) 565-0221, laughlinbullheadairshow.com.

Chino, CA: Hangar Talk/Flying Demo, 10:30 a.m., Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-3722, planesoffame.org.

Hollister, CA: Antique Aircraft Display & Fly-In, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Frazier Lake Airpark, (408) 835-1694, frazierlake.com.

Vacaville, CA: Cup of Joe, 9 to 11 a.m., Rowland Freedom Center, (707)449-3402, rowlandfreedomcenter.org.

6—7 Montgomery, AL: Maxwell AFB “Beyond the Horizon” Air & Space Show, maxwell.af.mil.

San Antonio, TX: Great Texas Airshow & Open House, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., JB San Antonio-Randolph AFB, greattexasairshow.com.

9— 14 Lakeland, FL: Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo, Lakeland Linder Regional Airport, flysnf.org.

13 West Lafayette, IN:Purdue Aviation Day, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Purdue University Airport, purdueaviationday.com.

13—14 Fort Worth, TX:NAS JRB Fort Worth “Wings over Cowtown” Airshow, cnrse.cnic.navy.mil.

18 Miami, FL: Aircraft Financing & Investment Opportunities Roundtable, Vedder Price, aeropodium.com.

20 Atwater, CA: Bombs Away Spring Car Show, gates 7 a.m., Castle Air Museum,(209) 723-2178, castleairmuseum.org.

Riverside, CA:Aircraft Display Day Fly-In, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Flabob Airport, (951) 683-2309, flabob.org.

Hayward, CA:Aircraft Display Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hayward Executive Airport, (510) 280-4111.

Santa Rosa, CA:Open Cockpit Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pacific Coast Air Museum, Sonoma County Airport, (707) 575-7900, pacificcoasterairmuseum.org.

Petaluma, CA:Petaluma Display Days, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Petaluma Municipal Airport, (707) 778-4404.

20 — 21

Charleston, SC: JB Charleston Airshow “Heroes of Flight,” jbcharleston.com. Sanford, FL:Central Florida Air & Space Show, gates 9 a.m., Orlando Sanford Int’l. Airport, airandspaceshow.com.

21 San Diego, CA:Historic Aircraft Display, noon to 2 p.m., MontgomeryGibbs Field, (619) 301-2530.

27 Riverside, CA:Aircraft Display Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, Riverside Municipal Airport, (951) 312-4832.

Novato, CA:Planes & Coffee, SkyShare Terminal, Gnoss Field, (415) 897-2403, skyshare.com.

27—28 Vidalia, GA:Vidalia Onion Festival Air Show, Vidalia Regional Airport, (912) 538-8687, vidaliaonionfestival.com.

Wichita Falls, TX:Sheppard AFB Open House & “Guardians of Freedom” Air Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., sheppardairshow.com.

28 Half Moon Bay, CA: Pacific Coast Dream Machines. CANCELED MAY

Sat. & Sun. Atwater, CA: Tours of the VC9C Presidential Aircraft, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Castle Air Museum, (209) 723-2178, castleairmuseum.org.

2 Santa Rosa, CA:Hot Dog Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Pacific Coast Air Museum, Sonoma County Airport, (707) 575-7900, pacificcoastairmuseum.org.

2—5 Salinas, CA: Transam Speed Fest, Weather Tech Raceway Laguna Seca, (831) 242-8200, (seemonterey.com/event/trans-am-speedfest/9373.

3—5 Vero Beach, FL: Vero Beach Air show, Fri. 6:30 p.m./Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Vero Beach Regional Airport, veroairshow.com.

Monroe, LA:Red White and Blue Airshow, gates Fri. & Sat. 3 p.m./ Sun. 11 a.m., Monroe Regional Airport, redwhiteandblueairshow.com.

4 Abilene, TX:Big Country Air Fest, West Gate open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Abilene Regional Airport, bigcountryairfest.org.

Chino, CA: Hangar Talk/Flying Demo, 10:30 a.m., Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-3722, planesoffame.org.

Vacaville, CA:Cupof 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.

THE PREMIER AVIATION EXPERIENCEWITH PREMIER AIRCRAFT SALES

ByAnnamarieBuonocore

Wantingtobreakintoaircraft brokeringisnotanewtrend. Formanyyears,peoplehave lookedattheaircraftsalesindustrywith starsintheireyes.ApastInFlightUSA writeroncesaid,“Yes,itlookslikefun,but keepyourdayjob.That’swhythey’re calledjobs.They’renotsupposedtobe fun.”Ofcourse,nowweliveinadifferent timewherebreakingintotheindustryis notasdifficult.Butwhatmakesanaircraft firmgoodandworthyofdoingbusiness? PremierAircraftisashininglightinaconfusingpile.TravisPefferandJeffOwen workwithcustomersthroughouttheU.S. andhavebrokeredmanydealsintheir careers.Theirstoryisoneaboutbuildinga businessonthevirtuesofrespect, patience,andhonesty.Thisistheirstory.

InFlightUSA: Howlonghaveyou beeninbusiness?

PA(TravisPeffer): Wehavebeen inbusiness20years.

IFUSA: Doyoudomaintenanceor rentals,whatkindofservicesdoyouoffer?

PA(Peffer): Premierisafullservice aircraftdealerprovidingsalesofnewand

preownedaircraftfromourlocationsin FortLauderdale,Florida;FortWorth, Texas;andNorwood,Massachusetts.We alsoprovideaircraftmaintenanceservicesineachlocation.

IFUSA: So,youareamaintenance facility?

PA(Peffer): Yes,inadditionto AircraftSales,weareaPart145repair stationhereinFlorida,andin,

Massachusetts.WealsohaveaDiamond servicecenterinTexas.

IFUSA: Youmainlyserve Diamond.Isthatyouroriginalequipment manufacturer?

PA(Peffer): WeareaDiamond AircraftDealer,butinadditiontosales, weareafactoryservicecenter.Between thethreelocationsweareauthorizedby Diamond,Textron(CessnaandBeecraft)

EpicAircraftandMooneyAircraft,as wellasContinentalEngines,Austro EnginesinFlorida.

AtourNorwoodlocationweservice CirrusandGamebird,theacrobaticaircraft.

IFUSA: So,youhavethreelocations?Yourmainheadquartersisin Florida,andyouhavethreelocations,is thatcorrect?

PA(Peffer): Yes,wehavethreebrickand-mortarlocations,inFlorida,Texas,and Massachusetts,however,wehaverepresentativesthatworkforusremotely.

IFUSA: Travis,whatmadeyou wanttogetintoaircraftsales,doyou haveabackgroundinaviation,doyou enjoyit?Whatinspiredthis?

PA(Peffer): Iamapilot.Ihavea bachelor’sdegreeinaviationfrom KansasStateUniversity,andmywhole dreamwastogoflyforaliving,butwhen Igraduated,therewerenoflyingjobs.I gotintosellingpartsforCessna,andone ofthecustomersIhadforpartsales offeredmeajobsellingairplanes,soI wenttoworkfortheminMiami.Isold CessnaandBeechcraftforacoupleof yearsandthenGulfstreamforacoupleof

ContinuedonPage14

PremierAircraft’sTravisPefferandJeffOwenpridethemselvesoncustomerrelations andtop-notchfullservice. (CourtesyPremierAircraftSales)

ByAnnamarieBuonocore Page4

TecnamP2012MedevacinTaiwan:AYearlyReport................43 AEROCelebrates30thAnniversarywithFocuson Sustainability............................................................................45

CoverPhotoCourtesyPremierAircraft

Editorial:WhyWorry,WeHaveGPS

ByEdDowns ................................................................6

AOPAEditorial:RedefiningLightSport:Realizingthe PromiseofMOSAIC

ByMarkBaker,PresidentandCEO ..................................8

FlyoverOpensInChicago

ByLarryNazimek ..........................................................21

WillVTOLBecometheNextBigWaveinAviation?

ByAnnamarieBuonocore ..............................................24

LookingforFlightSchools

ByCynthiaWheatleyGlenn ............................................28

AOPA’sNationalBestCFIandFlightSchoolTurn StudentsintoFamily

ByNikiBritton,AOPA ....................................................39

ByCameronRolfe Page45

Editorial ByEdDowns

AirplanesUSA Aircraft Sales proudly presents this gorgeous Cessna 337GSkymastertomarket.Beautifulcosmetics are complimented byadamagefree, low time airframe and a highly capable IFR panel includingAspenEvolutionPFDand Dual Garmin WAAS GPS capability. Dual instruction, export and worldwide delivery are available. Alltrades considered..…........................................................$110,000

AirplanesUSA

WHY WORRY,WE HAVE GPS

AAirplanesUSA is proud to present this pristine Glasair Sportsman GS-2 to the market! Absolutely stunning. This was the 2nd aircraft togo through the famed “Two Weeks to Taxi” Program from Glasair. Lowtime,paintand interior are in an almost like new condition, and shehasneverbeenonsalt water. This is the ultimate adventurer’s airplane with an oversized baggage area, strut attached canoe, and anewhome..…….................................................................$299,900

AirplanesUSA Aircraft Sales proudly presents this beautiful and exceptionally well-maintained Cessna 182 to market. The aircraft has had the same owner for the last 30+ years and has been meticulously cared for. The recent annuals were extremely comprehensive and completed by some of the most respected maintenance facilities in Northern California to include Advantage Aviation of Palo Alto and San Martin Aviation of San Martin. This outstanding maintenanceis complimented by a fresh full top overhaul, beautiful cosmetic condition and capable IFR avionics. This airplane is turn-key and needs nothingbutanew home. Fly it away!................................................$149,900

Steve Feldman • Sales Manager (650) 394-7610 • steve@airplanesusa.com

San Carlos Airport • 620 Airport Way • San Carlos, California 94070

www.airplanesusa.com

sregularreadersof InFlightUSA alreadyknow,ourpublicationis differentthanmostaviationmagazines.Withaninputcutoffdatethatis onlyfivedaysinfrontofourmonthlypublicationdate, InFlightUSA ismorea “newspublication”thansimplyamonthly periodical.Thisisenhancedbyourvirtual magazineatwww.inflightusa.comwhich isupdateddaily.Sowhythe“salespitch?” Asaneditorialsupporterofmanyfineaviationgroupsthatrepresentflyingactivities,organizationslikeAOPA,NBAA, EAA,andothersaremonitoredonaregularbasisforimportant,reportableinformation.Suchisthecasewitharecentarticle runatwww.nbaa.org,homesiteofthe NationalBusinessAviationAssociation. Undertheir“NewsandPublications”link isasubtitle“NBAAInsiderDaily.” AnnamarieBuonocore,ourAssociate Publisher,InFlightPublishing(theBoss!) noticedanNBAAarticletitled“GPS Spoofing:ShouldOperatorsbeConcerned?”ReadatGPSSpoofing:Should OperatorsBeConcerned?/NBAANationalBusinessAviationAssociation. Annamarieforwardedthearticletothis writer,asking,“isthissomethingonwhich weshouldcomment?

LittledidAnnamarieknowthatover relianceonGPSbasedaircraftsystems anditspotentiallackofreliabilityisa soapboxthisoldpilotmountsand preachesfromineveryclassIteachand everystudentIflywith.Withmorethan 300pilottestendorsementsmadebythis writer(allratings)injust2023,thetrend towardscompleterelianceontabletand aircraftGPStechnologyfornavigation andflightplanningisnotjustthe“norm,” butoftenconsideredtheonlyformof dataneededtosuccessfullyflyfromone placetoanother.

ManyrecentgenerationCFI’sactually scoffatolderVHFbasednavigationsystemsandthethoughtofdeduced(dead) reckoningorpilotagenavigationissimply nottaughtduetoCFIignorance.Okay,you maybethinking,thisisjustgoingtobea tiradebyanoldtimepilotwhothinks everythingwasbetterinthe“goodold days,”right?ABSOLUTILYNOT!Justtry toreachformytabletoraircraftinstalled advancedGPS-basedsystemandyouwill findoutwhatitisliketofeedyourselfwithoutanopposingthumb!Thiswriterloves theadvancedcapabilitiesoftechnology. Theyallowmetosignificantlyenhancemy fundamentalskills.Butnotice,thekeyto thatlastsentenceistheword“enhance,” not“replace.”

Driftingslightlyfromthemaintopic ofGPSreliability,thiswritermostenjoys conductingFlightInstructorRevalidation Clinics(FIRC’s).Itiswonderfultoshare knowledgewithpeers,allofwhomknow moreaboutsomethingthanIdo.Overthe years,twoobservationsofferedbyFIRC attendeeshavereallystuckwiththis instructor.ThefirstcamefromaCFIwho isamiddleschoolteacher.Indiscussing technology,sheobserved,“weareno longerallowedtoteachinamannerthat encouragesstudentstoknowstuff,theyare simplyallowedtolookitup.”Iseethis trendinalmostallclassesnowtaught, wherereadingananalogclockisamystery,not“knowing”howmanydegrees thereareinacircleorwhatthedifference isbetweenastylusanda#2pencilarenow commonplace.

Therealproblemwithasearch enginedependentworldisthatthoserelyinguponsuchtechnologydonotknow whattheydonotknow.Averysenior Cessnatestpilotmadeanotherobservation.Heobserved,“Imissthedaysof NDB(NonDirectionalBeacon)instrumentapproaches.Theytaughtmehowto maintainafour-dimensional(spaceand time)holograminmyheadatalltimesso thatIcouldanticipatewhatwasgoingto happennext.”Thesetworemembrances begthequestion,doyouknowwhatyou donotknow,anddoyouhavethatfourdimensionalhologramgoinginyourhead atalltimes?Ordoyoujustlookatyour tabletoradvanceflightdisplayandaskthe questions,“whatisittellingmenow?”

Let’sgetbacktothereliabilityof GPS-basedsystems.Ifprogrammedand runproperly,withtheautopilotengaged, whatistheproblem?Letmytrustedsystemdothework…right?Maybe,butthe NBAAarticletalksaboutGPS“interference”and“spoofing.”Yes,therearebad guyswhowillfully“interfere”withthe GPSinputtoyouraircraft’ssystem,renderingitinaccurateorinoperative. Perhapsevenworse,arethosewhowill “spoof”yourGPS,causingittolooklike itisworkingbut,infact,beleadingyou astray.NBAAobservesthatsuchanomaliesareincreasinglycommoninthe MiddleEastandportionsofEastern Europe,asfarnorthasFinland.Thetechnologytoconductsuchsabotageisreadilyavailable,andtoday’sunstableworld encouragessuchnefariousactivity.The U.S.MilitaryregularlyconductsinterferencetestingandWAASinterruptionsfor trainingpurposes.Ofcourse,NOTAMs

1994 Commander 114B

2017 Socata TBM 930

1975 Cessna U206F

1976Cessna337G

1967Cessna182K 1943Stearman

N520PC2006 Glasair Sportsman GS2

proudly presents this Oshkosh award winner! Timeless warbird with Navy colors and military records. Zero-timeengine with 2022 overhaul by Radial Engines. This excellent example needs absolutely nothing. This is your opportunity to own a piece of history. Ready for aerobatic ridesand grass strip adventures!.….............. CALL!

CalendarofEvents

ContinuedfromPage3

4—5 Panama City, FL:Gulf Coast Salute Air Show, Russell-Fields City Pier, (850) 233-5070, visitpanamacitybeach.com.

7 Chino, CA:Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 9 a.m. to noon, Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-7576.

10 Montreal, Canada: Flightpath to Net Zero-Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville, aeropodium.com.

11 Paso Robles, CA:Estrella Warbirds Wings & Wheels, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Paso Robles Municipal Airport, (805) 286-5566, ewarbirds.org.

11—12 Cherry Point, NC:MCAS Cherry Point Air Show, gates 9 a.m., cherrypointairshow.com.

Fort Lauderdale, FL:Fort Lauderdale Air Show, Drop Zone Beach open 9 a.m., fortlauderdaleairshow.com.

17—18 Peru, IL:TBM Avenger Reunion, schedule TBA, Illinois Valley Regional Airport, tbmreunion.org.

Hayward, CA:Hayward Air Rally, 8 a.m., Hayward Airport to Livermore, (530) 621-1049, hwdairrally.org.

17—19 Hillsboro, OR: Oregon Int’l. Air Show, Portland-Hillsboro Airport, (503)629-0706, oregonairshow.com.

18 Comox, British Columbia:19Wing Comox Armed Forces Day & Air Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., comoxairshow.com.

Salinas, CA: Sun, Wind and Wine Festival, noon to 2:30 p.m., River Road, santaluciahighlands.com/events/wine-festival.

Atwater, CA: Open Cockpit Day, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Castle Air Museum, (209)723-2178, castleairmuseum.org.

Riverside, CA:Aircraft Display Day Fly-In, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Flabob Airport, (951) 683-2309, flabob.org.

Hayward, CA:Aircraft Display Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hayward Executive Airport, (510) 280-4111.

Santa Rosa, CA:Open Cockpit Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pacific Coast Air Museum, Sonoma County Airport, (707) 575-7900, pacificcoasterairmuseum.org.

Petaluma, CA:Petaluma Display Days, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Petaluma Municipal Airport, (707) 778-4404.

18—19 Duluth, MN:Duluth Air & Aviation Expo, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Duluth Int’l. Airport, (218) 628-9996, duluthairshow.com.

Dover, DE:Open House & Air Show, Dover AFB, dover.af.mil.

19 San Diego, CA:Historic Aircraft Display, noon to 2 p.m., MontgomeryGibbs Field, (619) 301-2530.

22—24 Annaplis, MD:U.S. Naval Academy Blue Angels (part of commisioning week), 2 p.m., Severn River, visitannapolis. org.

24—26 Monterey, CA:Cali Roots Festival, Monterey Fairgrounds, californiarootsfestival.com.

25 Riverside, CA:Aircraft Display Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, Riverside Municipal Airport, (951) 312-4832.

Novato, CA:Planes & Coffee, SkyShare Terminal, Gnoss Field, (415) 897-2403, skyshare.com.

25—26 Wantagh, NY:Bethpage Air Show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Jones Beach State Park, (631) 321-3510, bethpageairshow.com.

Miami Beach, FL: Hyundai Air & Sea Show, air events 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., South Beach, usasalute.com.

Augusta, GA: Augusta Air Show, gates 9 a.m., Augusta Regional Airport, augustaairshow.com.

Breckenridge, TX: Breckenridge Airshow, gates 9 a.m., Stephens County Airport, (254) 294-7393, breckenridgeairshow.com.

26 Indianapolis, IN:Indy 500 Thunderbirds Fly-Over, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, tickets (317) 492-6700, indianapolismotorospeedway.com.

30 Colorado Springs, CO:USAFA Graduation-Thunderbirds Fly-Over, U.S. Air Force Academy, usafa.edu.

JUNE

1 Chickasha, OK:Chickasha Wings & Wheels, airshow noon to 2 p.m., Chickasha Municipal Airport, (405) 222-6020, chickasha.org.

Rochester, NH:Wings & Wheels, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Skyhaven Airport, flight4cf.com.

Chino, CA: Hangar Talk/Flying Demo, 10:30 a.m., Planes of Fame Air Museum, (909) 597-3722, planesoffame.org.

Vacaville, CA:Cupof Joe, 9 to 11 a.m., Rowland Freedom Center, (707)449-3402, rowlandfreedomcenter.org.

1—2 Terre Haute, IN: Terre Haute Air Show, gates 9 a.m., Terre Haute Regional Airport, terrehauteairshow.com.

Bolingbrook, IL:Cavalcade of Planes, Clow Int’l. Airport, cavalcadeofplanes.com.

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.

6 Santa Rosa, CA:Hot Dog Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Pacific Coast Air Museum, Sonoma County Airport, (707) 575-7900, pacificcoastairmuseum.org.

15 Riverside, CA:Aircraft Display Day Fly-In, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Flabob Airport, (951) 683-2309, flabob.org.

ByMarkBaker AOPAPresidentandCEO

Ifthereisonethingthat’sconstantin aviation,andinlife,it’schange.

Everythingingeneralaviationcontinuestoevolveandourindustrycontinuallymovesforwardwithenhancements intechnology,updatestorulesandregulations,andever-changingissuestotrack.

AOPAcontinuestotakealeading roleinmakingsurethattheseareasof changeevolvetohelpyou–ourmembers,andourfellowpilotsandaircraft owners.Wearemanagingseveralof theseissuesthatwillhaveagreatimpact onyourfreedomtofly–includingairportsandFBOsthatwanttochargeoutrageousandoftenhiddenfees,andthe movetoafullyunleadedfuture(progress isbeingmade!).

Astheyearunfolds,oneofthe biggestmeasuresofchangeinGAthat we’llbothfollowandadvocateforisthe shiftingdefinitionofthelightsportcategorythroughtheModernizationofSpecial AirworthinessCertification(MOSAIC). MOSAICwillredefinegeneralaviation, invitingmorepilotstojoinusintheskies,

andpermittingmoreaircrafttobecovered underthecategory.Allinthenameof expandingthisgreatpassionweshare.We needstrengthinnumbers.

Nodoubtyouheardthegoodnews fromtheFAAlastyearthatit’sfinally takingmeasurestoredefinelightsport. Formany,thisconversationislongoverdue,andnowIamhearingfrompilots andaircraftownersacrossthecountry askingwhereMOSAICstands,andwhat itwillmeantothem.AsIwritethis,the FAAisreviewingmorethan1,400commentstotheMOSAICnoticeofproposedrulemaking(NPRM)–including commentsfromusonyourbehalf.We applaudtheFAAfortakingthislongawaitedandoverdueaction,andweare watchingwithgreatinterest.

Withtheworkaheadofit,theFAA expectstoissuethefinalrulearoundmid2025,whichwillbeginanapproximate six-monthimplementationperiod.

AsmuchasMOSAICwillshapethe categoryandgreatlychangeGA,AOPA lookedatthefineprint(theproposalis morethan300pages!).WhileMOSAICis agreatstepforward,wewanttomakesure itgoesfarenoughsothatwecanallreal-

izethefullpotentialofthischangeand representthefullstepswe’vebeenadvocatingforovermanyyearsnow.Wewant tomakesurethatthelegacyfleetofGA aircraftgettheirduethroughthenewrule.

Considersomeofthesignificant changesthatMOSAICwillbringtoGAin expandingthedefinitionoflightsport:an increaseofthelightsportstallspeed (clean)to54knotsandraisingthemaximumairspeedto250knotscalibrated. Retractablelandinggearandcontrollablepitchpropellerswouldalsobeallowed, andtheaircraftweightlimit(currently 1,320pounds)wouldbeeliminated.

ThanksinparttoAOPA’sadvocacy efforts,MOSAICwouldexpandtheprivilegesofsportpilotsflyinglightsportaircrafttoincludecertainoperationssuchas aerialworkandproductdemonstrations. Sportpilotswouldalsobeallowedtofly atnight,operatingmorecapableaircraft, withappropriateinstructorendorsements.

Goodnews,yes.Butwedon’tthink it’sgoesfarenoughandwearebusy workingonthatforyou.Toomanyofthe legacyGAfleetwouldnotbecovered, andthatincludesmanyaircraftthathave

beenusedtotrainpilotsandgettheminto GA.Forinstance,themaximum54-knot cleanstallspeedistoolow.MOSAIC wouldallowaCessna182toflyunder thecategory,butnotallowsomePA-28 aircraftandotherpopularfour-seataircraft.AOPArecommendsincreasingthe maximumstallingspeedto61knotswith safetyenhancingdevices,andatminimumanincreaseto58knots.

Wearepushinghardtogettherule revisedtoincorporateallfour-seataircraftthatmakessenseforthecategory. Weneedtoprotectmanyofthethousandsoflegacyaircraftthataretakingto theskiestoday.

MOSAICisagreatstepforwardthat AOPA(andyou)havebeenlongadvocatingfor.Itmakesstridesthatwehavebeen workingonwiththeFAAforyearsnow, andwejustneedtoseetherulegothe distanceandexpandthecategoryto whereitshouldbe.

ThiswillcontinuetobeamajorpriorityforAOPAoverthecomingyearand nodoubtyou’llreadmoreinthesepages andhearmorefrommeaswetravel acrossthisgreatcountry.

Blueskies!

Editorial:WhyWorry

areissuedwellinadvanceofsuchU.S. basedactivities.

Youmayask,“whydon’tIknow aboutthis?”Responsibleagenciesaretryingtogetthewordout.WhileGPSspoofinghassofarproventobemorearelative nuisancethanaserioussafetyissue,pilots needtobeawareoftherisks.InFebruary 2024,theFAAissueditsSafetyAlertfor Operators(SAFO)onGPSspoofing attacks.TheEuropeanUnionAviation SafetyAgency(EASA)issuedasimilar SafetyInformationBulletinlastyear. Surprisingtomany,thereisawell-written sectionintheAeronauticalInformation Manual(AIM)dealingwithGPSandits manyformsanduses.Notsurprisingtothis writeristhefactthatNONEoftheinstrumentstudentsIworkwithwhoareflying TAA(TechnicallyAdvanceAircraft)know thattheAIM(Section1-1-7to1-2-4)coversGlobalPositioningSystemsindetail. Thisincludesadedicatedwrite-uptitled “Recognizing,MitigatingandAdaptingto GPSinterference(JammingorSpoofing).” Ifusingthe2024ASAFAR/AIMbook, lookforpages485to503.

Let’stalkaboutsolutions.Howdoes onedealwithintentionalGPSproblems orperhapsjustthevagranciesofsatellite positions,solarburst,andelectrical storms?NOW,thiswritergetstotalk about“thegoodolddays!”Andthose daysstartedin1956,whenthiswriterand histwinbrotherbegantakingflyinglessonsattheageof14(threemonthsshort of15!).Withaloanfromourgrandmotherof$150each,wepurchaseda10-hour “solo”coursewhichincludedseveral weeksofgroundschoolforatough true/false50-questiontest.

Thetrainerofthedaywasafleetof 1946Aeronca7AC’s…butthesewere notregular“AirKnockers.”Whilenot havinganelectricalsystem(nostarter, handproppingwasthenormoftheday), flyingfromVanNuysAirportrequireda radio.Hangingfromanexposedportion ofthefuselagesidetrusswasalowfrequencyLearradiowithtwo(2)transmittingcrystals,runfromasix-voltbattery thatwasrechargedfromawinddriven generatormountedbetweenthelanding gear…eatyourheartout,Cirrus!The VORwasjustenteringservice,soradio navinvolvedthemuchmorecommon four-courseradiorange.Sure,ifyouhad the$8-$10KtobuyanewBeech Bonanza(that’sdoctor/lawyerkindof money!)youmighthaveaspiffy

NARCOVTH3VHFradiowithVOR anduptosix(yep,6)transmittingcrystals.Shucks,tossinsomefancygyros, andyouweresetupjustlikeanairliner!

Butgiventhespartannatureofthe Champ,navigationandoverallsituationalawarenessamountedtoasimplegoldenrule.Alwayshavethreemethodsof navigationinplayatthesametime.Back then,itwaspilotage(locationandterrain awareness),deadreckoning(magnetic directionsandwind)andelectronicif available(inthiscaselowfrequencyfour courseradiorange).Weweretaughtthat byhavingthreesystemsinplayatall times,youcouldwrapyourheadaround whatwasgoingon(thathologram?)and usetwosystemsto“vote”outathirdsystemifsomethingdidnotlookright.

Asforplanningaflight,awellknownLockheedtestpilotandfamily friend(whomIlaterworkedforin Lockheedflightops)keptitsimple.His planningmethod…“alwaysplanyour flightsothatifyouneedtoputtheairplanedown,orbailout,youwillbewithinwalkingdistanceofabeer.”Think aboutthat…yousurvivetheeventand areclosetohelp…aplanthathasserved thisoldpilotwellfor65yearsofproflyinginmorethan30countries.Ohyes,I didexplainthatasateen,Icouldnotorder abeer.Thetestpilot’sresponsewas,“if youhavetobailout,youwillhaveaged enoughtoearnit.”Hewasright.

Sohowdoestheprecedingfitintothe worldofGPS?ReadtheAIM,readthe NBAAarticle.Thewordsareabitfancier, butthemessageisthesameonethisold pilotgotover67yearsago.Haveanalternatenavsysteminplayatalltimes. Constantlycrosschecksystemstomake suretheyagree.Ifsomethingdoesnotline up,votethebadguyout,anddon’tmake excusesforit.Beawareofwhereyouare, yourheading,terrain,andoptions.Sounda bitlikedeadreckoning?Alwaysplanroutingandalternatesthatgiveyouasecond chance,withanalternatedestinationthat canserveyou(abeer?)andyourplane… donotpushtothelimitofenduranceor range.OnelineintheNBAAarticle causedmetogiggle…“asalastresort,go backtodeadreckoning.”Remember,that wasLindbergh’s“first”resort!Thebottomlineissimple,we,meaningCFI’sand theaviationcommunity,mustbackaway fromourworshipoftechnologyandbe surewearewellversedinthefundamentals.TheE6-BcomputerisNOTyour enemy…scary,eh?

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION'S 2025 BUDGET MAY BREAKDOWN BUSINESS AVIATION

FollowingPresidentJoeBiden’s stateoftheunionspeechonMarch7,severalpointsweremadetowardmakingthe “wealthy”paytheirfairshare.Underthat umbrella,theBidenadministration intendstocrackdownoncorporatejet loopholesandincreasefueltax.

AccordingtotheWhiteHouse,the Budgeteliminatesataxbreakthatgives preferentialtreatmentforwritingoffcorporatejetpurchases,comparedtocommercialaircraft.Itwouldalsoincreasethe fueltaxoncorporateandprivatejettravel,sothatcorporateexecutivesandother wealthyAmericanspaytheirfairshare fortheuseofairspaceandotherpublic servicesrelatedtoairtravel.

Aviationorganizationswerequickto respond.

NBAAPresidentandCEOEdBolensaid theBidenadministration’sproposed FiscalYear2025budgetsinglesoutbusinessaviationforafive-foldfueltax increase,eventhoughcurrentfueltaxes alreadycovertheincrementalcost imposedontheaviationsystem.

(CourtesyNBAA)

StatementfromNBAA

TheNationalBusinessAviation Association(NBAA)expresseddeep concernovertheBidenadministration’s FiscalYear2025budgetrequest,issuedto CongressonMarch11,whichincludes multipleproposalsthatwouldbeharmful toanessentialAmericanindustry.

“TheBidenadministration’ssweepingplanwouldhurtbusinessaviationand thejobsandcommunitiesthatdependon it,andmakeitharderforU.S.companies tocompeteinaglobaleconomy,”NBAA PresidentandCEOEdBolensaid. “Amongtheproposalsthatsingleout businessaviationforoneroustreatmentis afive-foldfueltaxincrease,eventhough currentfueltaxesalreadycovertheincrementalcostimposedontheaviationsystem.WeurgeCongresstotellthe Presidentthathisgambitwon’tflywith thecitizens,companiesandcommunities thatrelyonbusinessaviation.”

Aviation-LaborCoalition WarnsofHarmfromTax ProposalsTargetingBusiness Aviation

OnMarch14,adiversecoalition ofaviationandlabororganizations joinedinopposingproposalsinthe BidenAdministration'sfiscalyear 2025budgetandregulatorychanges thatsingleoutbusinessaviation.

FollowingatroublingStateofthe Unionreferencetogeneralaviation, PresidentBidenrecentlyunveiledan FY25budgetplanthatincludesafivefoldfueltaxincreaseonbusinessaviation,aswellaschangestothedepreciationscheduleforapurchasedbusinessaircraft,fromfivetosevenyears.

Thegroups’March14letterwas senttoU.S.SenateCommitteeon FinanceChairmanRonWyden(DOR)andRankingMemberMike Crapo(R-ID),andU.S.House CommitteeonWaysandMeans ChairmanJasonSmith(R-8-MO)and RankingMemberRichardNeal(D-1MA).

Bolennotedthatbusinessaviation supports1.2millionjobsandcontributes $250billiontoGDP.Businessaircraftare usedtooptimizeefficiency,productivity andflexibility,mostlybysmallandmidsizedcompanies,andsometimesbythe president’sownCabinetmembers.

Accordingtoindependentstudies, themajorityofbusinessaviationflights carrymid-levelpersonnel–liketechnical andengineeringstaffandmanagers,as wellascompanyclientsandcustomers–largelytosmalltownsandcommunities withlittleornoairlineservice.

Theadministration’sbudgetpropos-

ContinuedonPage12

Signingtheletterweretheleaders oftheNATA(NationalAir TransportationAssociation),Aircraft OwnersandPilotsAssociation (AOPA),ExperimentalAircraft Association(EAA),GeneralAviation ManufacturersAssociation(GAMA), InternationalAssociationof MachinistsandAerospaceWorkers (IAM),NationalBusinessAviation Association(NBAA),NetJets AssociationofSharedAircraftPilots (NJASAP)andVerticalAviation

ContinuedonPage13

VINTAGE WINGSOF C ANADA’S “VICTORY FLIGHT” TO SOAR AT AIRVENTURE 2024

ThreeiconicWorldWarII-erawarbirds–theSupermarineSpitfire,Hawker Hurricane,andNorthAmericanP-51 Mustang–willrepresentCanadian wartimeaviationatEAAAirVenture Oshkosh2024,asVintageWingsof Canadabringsthosehistoricaircraftaspart ofthe“VictoryFlight”atOshkoshinJuly.

TheaircraftwillbeatAirVentureas partofthecentennialcelebrationforthe RoyalCanadianAirForcetobefeatured atOshkoshthissummer.Theywilljoin theCanadianForcesSnowbirdsaerial demonstrationteam,whichinDecember confirmeditsparticipationatthe71steditionofEAA’sfly-inconvention.

Eachoftheaircrafthasauniquestory:

• SpitfireMkIX –Oftenconsideredthe mostbeautifulaircraftdesignofitsday,the “Spit”becamelegendarywithitsperformanceduringtheBattleofBritainin1940. TheVintageWingsofCanadaexampleis paintedinthemarkingsofArnold Rosemond,aCanadianwhoflewmore than65missionsbeforebeingshotdown overNormandyin1944.Itreceivedthe WorldWarIIReserveGrandChampion andPhoenixGoldWrenchawardsatEAA AirVentureOshkosh2018.

• HurricaneMkVII –Thisversatile

aircraftwasanextraordinarilycapable dogfightingairplanethatwasalsodevelopedintonumerousvariationsfrom fighter-bomberstocarrier-basedSea Hurricanes.Thisaircraftwasbuiltby CanadianCarandFoundryinFort William,Ontario.Itcarriesthemarkings ofFlightOfficerWilliamLidstone “Willie”McKnight,whowaspartofthe RoyalAirForce’sall-CanadianNo.242 SquadronandCanada’smostoutstanding fighterpilotduringthefirst18monthsof WWII.

• P-51DMustang –Oneofthebestknownandcapablefighteraircraftof WWII,morethan16,000Mustangswere producedbeginningin1940inresponseto aBritishpleaformorefighteraircraftfrom theU.S.Thisaircraftispaintedinthe markingsof442Squadronasthey appearedtowardtheendofthewar.Itis dedicatedtobrothersLarryandRocky RobillardfromOttawa,Ontario,whoboth flewwiththatsquadronduringthewar.

VintageWingsofCanadaisthecreationofMichaelPotter,whofoundedthe VintageWingsofCanadaFoundation andhasbeencollectingandflyingvintageaircraftsincethemid-1990s.Theaircraftofhiscollectionaremaintainedin

flyingconditionandflownannually throughoutthesummertosupportair

Continued on Page 13

Right: The Vintage Wings of Canada example of a Spitfire is painted in the markings of Arnold Rosemond, a Canadian who flew more than 65 missions before being shot down over Normandy in 1944. It will be at AirVenture this summer.

(Courtesy EAA)

InFlightUSA ispublishedeachmonthbyInFlightPublishing.Itiscirculatedthroughoutthecontinental UnitedStates.Businessmatters,advertisingandeditorialconcernsshouldbeaddressedto InFlightUSA,P.O.Box 5402,SanMateo,Calif.94402orbycalling(650)358-9908–fax(650)358-9254.Copyright©2008InFlight Publishing. InFlightUSA isnotresponsibleforanyactiontakenbyanypersonasaresultofreadinganypartofany issue.Thepiecesarewrittenforinformation,entertainmentandsuggestion–notrecommendation.Thepursuitof flightoranyactionreflectedbythispaperistheresponsibilityoftheindividualandnotofthispaper,itsstaffor contributors.Opinionsexpressedarethoseoftheindividualauthor,andnotnecessarilythoseof InFlightUSA Alleditorialandadvertisingmatterinthiseditioniscopyrighted.Reproductioninanywayisstrictlyprohibitedwithoutwrittenpermissionofthepublisher.

InFlightUSA isnotliableorinanywayresponsiblefortheconditionorairworthinessofanyaircraftadvertisedforsaleinanyedition.Bylawtheairworthinessofanyaircraftsoldistheresponsiblityofthesellerandbuyer.

Biden’s 2025

Continued from Page 10

al reflects comments made by President Biden in his March 7 State of the Union speech, which echoed policy statements issued just hours before his remarks. Just a few days ahead of the speech, Biden’s IRS chief unveiled a plan to audit companies using business aircraft.

Statement from GAMA

General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) reflected similar concerns. GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said, “The general and business aviation industry has supported the Biden-Harris Administration in strengthening safety, furthering workforce investments and enhancing sustainability of the sector. We are pleased to see that the President’s Budget prioritizes investment in the FAA to improve certification and oversight, and address air traffic workforce and facilities and equipment issues. It is, however, disheartening to see that short-sighted political proposals are now being put forth that can set back our industry with consequences that harm our indispensable workforce, the very same men and women in the United States manufacturing sector that the Administration claims to emphatically support.

“The political soundbites of closing the so-called corporate jet loophole and drastically increasing the jet fuel tax, by nearly five times, does nothing more than harm demand for state-of-the-art aircraft that are called ‘business jets’ or ‘corporate jets’ for a specific reason. These vehicles facilitate efficient mobility for businesses to create jobs throughout our nation, particularly in communities underserved by commercial service. Why would the Administration want to hurt workers who make these aircraft or those communities that benefit from the jobs and/or mobility these vehicles enable?

“It is important to note that general and business aviation supports $247 billion in total economic output and 1.2 million total jobs in the United States. The industry fosters and provides critical transportation options to companies and organizations of all kinds and sizes, including nonprofits, agriculture, emergency response, forest fire suppression, law enforcement, humanitarian services and government agencies. The general and business aviation industry has also been an innovation incubator for the entire aviation sector whether through implementing safety or efficiency improvements or being first adopters in the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The health and livelihood of our industry is dependent on having an effective, reliable

and conducive regulatory and business environment. These tax proposals go in the wrong direction.

“While the President’s Budget is an outline of the Administration’s priorities, we encourage Congress to have a more constructive approach as it works to set and pass the budget for the federal government in the coming fiscal year. In the meantime, GAMA will continue its staunch advocacy of our world-class manufacturers and workforce, demonstrating the utility and importance of the industry and its great manufacturing jobs before the Administration and Congress.”

Statement from Alliance For Aviation Across America

The Alliance for Aviation Across America also issued a statement in response to the release of the White House’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget: “The President’s budget unduly singles out business aviation with several harmful proposals that would hurt jobs and local economies in America,” said Devin Osting, interim executive director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America.

“It is unfortunate that the Administration has singled out a vibrant American industry as an easy target to vilify by evoking simplistic stereotypes. Even worse, the White House has chosen to dampen the economic benefits, shared by workers across income levels, generated by the industry,” Osting stated.

Statement from NATA

NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna said, “Business aviation is in the crosshairs again at a time when it is needed the most. The White House budget includes multiple provisions that mischaracterize the value of and would adversely affect the business and general aviation sectors, jeopardizing the jobs they provide and disregarding the critical services they support.”

During the State of the Union address, “President Biden spoke passionately about our country’s freedom, future possibilities, and job growth–all attributes fostered by our essential industry. Rather than singling out general aviation, the Administration’s first priority should be creating and preserving an environment in which aviation continues to facilitate business growth and contributes to the national economy,” stated Castagna.

Of particular concern is the Administration’s proposed five-fold increase in the jet fuel tax paid by private and business aircraft operators, to be carried out over five years.

“NATA opposes such an increase in

Continued on Page 13

Vintage Wings

Continued from Page 11

shows, commemorative military flypasts, and other special events. Several aircraft of the collection are owned directly by the charitable foundation as well as by other individual operators.

Potter has put together a collection of some of the finest examples of Canada’s, and indeed the world’s, most historically significant aircraft. The collection is housed in a 24,000 square-foot, state-of-

the-art hangar at the Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport near Ottawa, Canada.

Current plans call for the aircraft to arrive at the start of AirVenture week and to initially spend several days in the warbirds area. The aircraft will also fly on selected days in the afternoon air show prior to spending the final weekend on Boeing Plaza. Learn more at eaa.org.

Aviation-Labor Coalition

Cotntinued from Page 10

International (VAI).

“According to a 2018 Harris Poll, 85 percent of companies relying on an airplane to meet their transportation challenges are small and mid-size enterprises,” the groups wrote. “The passengers aboard a business airplane are typically technicians, mid-level managers and customers, not C-suite executives.”

Those companies use business aviation to optimize efficiency, productivity and flexibility, the letter continued. Additionally, further levies would harm communities that depend on business aviation for essential lift and to support law enforcement, medevac and humanitarian operations utilizing business aircraft.

Negative tax proposals would also adversely impact an industry that supports 1.2 million jobs and contributes nearly $250 billion to the country's gross domestic product. The coalition further warned

Biden’s 2025

Continued from Page 12

fuel taxes for these private, noncommercial operators. In addition, we are concerned that the Biden Administration is failing to account for the billions of business aviation tax dollars that are diverted from the Airport and Airways Trust Fund (AATF) into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Such diversion weakens the National Airspace System and could place the safety of the industry at risk.

“Unfortunately, the Biden Administration is proposing a tax increase it mistakenly believes will benefit the national aviation system. This is not the case. For nearly two decades now, Congress and the IRS have failed to address provisions in the tax code that allow for the HTF to erroneously keep billions of aviation tax dollars that were

of their impact to the industry’s continued role as “an innovation incubator” driving the aviation industry’s advancement toward greater safety, sustainability and net-zero carbon emissions.

“The health and livelihood of our industry is dependent on having an effective, reliable, and conducive regulatory and business environment,” the coalition continued. “Harmful tax proposals go in the wrong direction.

“Rather than ill-considered tax proposals and regulatory changes, we urge Congress to partner with the business aviation community, which is leading the way in developing new and innovative safety and environmental technologies, connecting communities, creating jobs, and benefiting American businesses of all sizes,” the letter concluded.

A copy of the letter is available at https://www.nata.aero/assets/Site_18/file s/Legislative/coalitionletter0314.pdf .

intended for the AATF,” added Castagna.

In 2016, the GAO released a report on the impact of diversions of non-commercial jet fuel tax revenues from the AATF to the HTF. The report concluded the diversion of funds stemming from a 2005 change in tax law resulted in a loss to the aviation fund of between one and two billion dollars intended for airport improvements and system modernization. The diversion has continued since the 2016 report, costing the Airport and Airways Trust Fund billions of dollars.

“Should the Biden Administration seek to have a meaningful increase in funding to the AATF, fixing the multi-billion dollar diversion to the HTF is where we suggest they begin,” concluded Castagna.

years, and now I am getting tired of business jets. I find they are just a tool; there is no joy, there is no aviation, there is no fun. I got into aviation because I love it, and with business jets, it’s really just selling a time machine or talking to the accountants. You are not talking to the people who are actually buying it or using it, so I wanted to get back into general aviation. That was when we opened the Texas shop for service and sales, and then in 2020 or late 2019, I came in as a CEO.

IFUSA: Great! Are you a partner in this firm or what is your role there?

PA (Peffer): I am the CEO and minority partner as well.

IFUSA: Ok, so we will give Jeff a turn to answer a little bit about his background and what his role is in the company. Jeff?

PA (Jeff Owen): I have been in the General Aviation business for about 40 years in various different areas. I started out in a famil-owned aviation insurance business when I was only a young man. Following that, I went to work for Cessna in the late ’70’s and stayed there until they stopped building piston airplanes in the mid 1980’s.

After a brief stint back in the family business, in the early 1990’s myself and three others started Diamond Aircraft in 1993 in Canada. I was there for about 14 years and in 2007, I moved to Florida to join Premier. I had signed them up as a Diamond dealer in 2002, and five years later, I joined the company. Now 18 years after that, I am still here and enjoying every minute of it.

almost the entire life of the company. I have never, no matter how hard it has become, through the dark days in 2008 when the world economies cratered, there was never once a thought to go to something any different, and it is all because of the way that we care for each other. That translates to how the company views and cares for its customers, which is entirely different from anything that I have seen or been a part of.

Sometimes at our significant expense, we do things because it is the right thing to do, and it is very rare that you run into a company that has ethical principles that are that strong. We say what we do, and do what we say, because that is the right thing to do. We have sold 2,400 airplanes through the years and a lot of those are repeat customers. When you look at any organization, a repeat customer is the absolute best testimonial you can ever possibly have because people don’t deal with people they don’t trust. We like to say we provide “big service”, sometimes service well beyond the size of our company because that is the right thing to do. The largest, most successful automotive dealers, especially luxury car dealerships, care about looking after the customer, because the customers expect it and deserve it.

C Air Museum, Castle (MER) is in its 41st ye oast est C W become the air of

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air s.1930’ such as the L e and mor A-18 Blue Nighthawk and F Museum is situated on 31 acr ently air curr ehensive collection of compr omfr

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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.

WWII Bombers, tratofortress B-52D S er, -80 ockheed F alcon. ighting F F SH-60B

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.

IFUSA: That is a great story, and I love hearing about people’s backgrounds. So, what sets you apart from other aircraft brokers that are out there? I know you have some exclusive OEM deals and things like that, but tell us a little bit about how you take pride in your work and what sets you apart?

For more information, please call 209-723-2178 or visit www.castleairmuseum.org.

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. F-15A

PA (Owen): One of the reasons that make us different is also why I work here. Out of all the places that I have worked and of the significant exposure that I have had to general aviation over the years, Premier stands head and shoulders above the others. Everybody talks the talk, but not everybody walks this walk. However, Premier prides in it. It is all in how they treat people, and it all starts with how they treat the people who work for the company. This company treats its contractors and employees better than any company I have ever worked for. We recognize the value in those people and make an investment in them so we have a workforce here that generally tends to stay a long time.

I have been here 17 years, and that is

Unfortunately, in our business we often get reduced to the lowest common denominator, and if someone was treated poorly by someone else, they expect you are probably going to treat them at least as bad or maybe worse. Our job is to exceed that expectation by a long way. Many of our customers say, “you guys are amazing at what you do,” and I think that is the culture we have come to create. We are a fullservice organization. There are knowledgeable and successful people that do nothing but broker airplanes. But what sets us apart is that we think the sale transaction for an airplane is much more than signing a contract, collecting some money, and saying, “see you later.” We want to stay connected with you, like a luxury car dealership wants to stay connected with you, because when we look after them, you get the next sale, and the next one and so on. We have a high number of repeat customers, if the customers are still involved in GA, often times we either get their business or we have a good chance at getting it because we try very hard to look after them. That is the significant difference between a brokerage, someone who does nothing but buy-sell transactions. This is a total experience, whether you need training, parts, financing, maintenance, or even if you just need little hand holding we are there for you.

AH-1W Cobra Boeing B-52D SH-60B Seahawk FA-18 Blue Angel 2 F-15A and F-16A

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Cover Story: Premier Aircraft

The psychological part is how can we support your desire, dreams, and ambition to fly. We want you in. We do not want to push you away. Our industry is all too good at erecting barriers that make it very difficult for people to become involved in General Aviation. Our job is to take the barriers away and help you as much as you need to be helped. We take all the time with the customer that is necessary.

Deals take time. I think the longest one I have ever had was a little over two years from the time I first talked to him to the time he finally felt comfortable enough to make a decision. You talk to them, and you help them along and once they trust you have their interests and purpose in mind, they make a purchase… people don’t buy airplanes from people they don’t trust. So, it is all about earning the trust. If you read the blurb on absolutely every airplane sales company’s website, they are going to say all the same things, but not always do they walk the talk.

IFUSA: I really appreciate you elaborating on that. I can really see how strong you are and how you have set yourself apart over the years. What do you enjoy most about being in the aviation industry. What is your favorite part about doing this?

PA (Owen): The people. We deal with this cross section of people – from people who have big dreams and no money to people who have more money than I could ever spend in 100 lifetimes –and everything in between. Aviation and airplanes do one thing: they level us all; we are all the same when it comes to flying. Billionaire customers and literally multimillionaire customers who come in with handfuls of paper and ask, “what do you think about this” and “what do you think about that.” They often are very excited and it is a great thing to see.. Some people are amazing, and there are some of them who are very challenging, but that is all part of the game. So, I think the thing that I like most about it is the people and how enthusiastic they are about airplanes. It is infectious. It makes it fun because they enjoy it, so what is not to enjoy about that, plus we get to fly around in nice shiny new airplanes all the time, and there is nothing bad about that part either.

IFUSA:Travis, did you want to add anything about your favorite part of the business? What do you like best about doing this?

PA (Peffer): The people are a big aspect, but it is all a leveling field. You go and do a demo with somebody, and the smile from ear to ear that they have when they get out of the plane is great. It might

not always be the right plane for them, but it is the joy that they get from it, and I love that part. That is why I got back into this side of aviation because you get to sell them or lead them in the right way of lifetime goals, of buying and owning a plane or becoming a pilot, or just somebody that didn’t know they loved aviation, and you took them up on a flight as a demo, and they want to get their license. We do that quite a bit.

Airplanes are a quality-of-life things. There are very few things in this world that really do improve the quality of life, and airplanes are one of them. Not only are they convenient, but they are challenging. They are exciting and a whole host of other things that go on. There is only one thing we don’t have enough of and that is time. Airplanes are the only thing that can cut time in half. Airplanes are not only for the fortune-type corporations that fly a Global Express, etc. They can really change people’s lives, and a lot of people do not understand that. They don’t know how that works, and they need to be led a little bit. We tell them, “You can do it.” They say, “Oh, really, I can do that? That’s amazing, I didn’t know that!”

A lot of what we do is educational, and it is less of a sales process than a mentoring and service type of exercise. It is the mechanical part of it, like selling something to somebody. You must have the capability not only with the people, but the facilities, the products, and what goes on behind the scenes, because you can’t do it all yourself. You must have all these things together and to coordinate that for the customer. You can’t have sleazy sales stuff. We advise more than we sell. It is very personal, and there is a lot of consulting. The sleezy sales stuff expired in 1975.

always been back there and you want start looking into it.

When we know about you, we can help you at whatever stage you are. Don’t wait. There is no reason to wait. There is always a way to get it, and like I said before, our industry is like the poster child of how to be difficult. There are still a lot of barbwire fences and gates, and it can be a strange environment that does not seem particularly welcoming to people. You might ask, “am I supposed to be here.”

IFUSA: Yes, the used car salesman vibe I can see is not present here.

PA (Peffer): No, you can’t convince someone to buy something they don’t want to buy, and if you do, they are going to hate you, and they are never going to come back.

IFUSA: It just doesn’t work. How many are on you staff and are you hiring?

PA (Peffer): There are 32, and yes, we are hiring. Most aircraft brokerages have a few people, and there are not a lot that have more than 30 employees that look after the customer. That is something here at Premier we are big on. It is our staff that are here, and for every delivery that we have, we will have staff come and congratulate the customer. It is not one person, it is not the salesman who made it happen, it is everybody, everybody has a hand at keeping the customers in the air and keeping them up there.

IFUSA: Great! That is true. You have to take care of your people in the office and behind the scenes, and it looks like you do that. What advice would you to give to somebody who is looking to get into aviation or purchase a plane?

PA (Owen): Call us! Call us and we will take it from there. I would probably encourage you to watch a couple of things. One of our main manufactures, Diamond, did a video on a couple of their models, but one of them was on the DA 62 and at the very end of that video, I said we spend all too much time trying to justify things to ourselves. You only live once. If you are thinking about it, at least action it. We can’t find you, but you can certainly find us a lot easier, and we are happy to, no matter where you are in the process, no matter whether it is very front of mind and you are active, and want to do something, or it is something that has

I have never had an office that I have worked out of in my aviation career that didn’t face a parking lot, and that is the most important part of our business. It is the new people that come in that build our business. Let’s pay attention to those new people. That is a different process than the people who have been here before. We want you to come in and say hello, send us an email, text us, walk in the door, send us a smoke signal, whatever… we will find a way to engage with you and help you. That’s what we are here to do. We want to help you do something. You are far more liable to remember us than someone who does nothing but sell you what was advertised on the Internet.

IFUSA: It sounds like you have a great human connection. People rely on the Internet so much for referrals and things like that now a days, and having that human connection and offering that concierge service that goes beyond simply selling the aircraft, like offering instruction, offering opportunities, referring to partners in the business… I think it is wonderful. What are your plans for the future? What are your goals for the company going forward?

PA (Peffer): You obviously must have money and make money for this to succeed, but that is not what keeps Premier going. It is and it isn’t… without money, I can’t pay staff, and I can’t keep going, but we are not here to make millions of dollars. We are here to promote aviation, keep people safe, and have fun while doing it. If you walked around our facilities, I would be shocked if you didn’t see 99 percent of people with smiles on their faces. Somebody is always going to be having a bad day. You are never going to have 100 percent, but the people who work here are happy, and that is everything. As far as our goals and what we want to do for the long term, we want to just keep doing what we do best. We want to keep people flying, keep people safe, and have a good time.

IFUSA: That is awesome, and I appreciate how you keep safety as a top priority. Do you have anything else that you would like to add: any safety tips,

Jeff Owen of Premier Aircraft Sales (Courtesy Premier Aircraft Sales)

any advice, anything at all?

PA (Owen): One thing that came to my mind, it can be confusing what we do, and it is really our job to un-complicate things for people. We want to guide them and make sure that they don’t get misled, and that they know what to expect. I watched a YouTube video a couple weeks ago about these guys who bought a jet, and the guy did a follow-up thing three months later, and he says, “I knew it was going to be expensive, but I had no idea how expensive it was. And would I have

done this if had I known beforehand, probably not, but I am in now so…”

As long as you know the important stuff the satisfaction that you have with your airplane and the way it serves you, you will be fine. It is all about expectations. Once the expectations are set reasonably and clearly and you know what is going to happen, your enjoyment will be many times greater than if you are six months in and all of the sudden, it is this horrendous surprise like, “Oh my God! I didn’t know this.” It kind of sours you, so we try to help people avoid those things.

Trusted.

Also, we have a few taglines with Premier that really define us. We are committed to the best customer service in the industry, and we live by that in every aspect of what we do in every division of Premier.

PA: (Peffer) We would not sell an airplane that we would not fly ourselves. So, we don’t just broker anything. If something does not look right and it is not a Premier quality airplane, if it is not something we would put our families in, we won’t sell it. We are not going to touch it. For the most part, Jeff and I fly all the airplanes that come through here.

Not only is it a tagline we speak to, but it is one that we live by, and we do the flights on most of them.

Any airplane I am flying is mine, and I want to make sure they all come home safely and always will. Sometimes it won’t meet a customer’s schedule over time, but the last thing you are ever going to remember is how annoyed you were about something that took two days longer when your right engine is on fire. It is that kind of thing…

Cessna

Cessna

Cessna

Cessna

Cessna

Cessna Turbo 206H 1998+

Cessna Turbo 210M Centurion1977-1978

Cirrus SR20 Analog Gauges 2000-2003

Cirrus SR20 G1-G2 2003-2007

Cirrus SR20 G3 2007+

Cirrus SR20 Perspective 2008+

Cirrus SR22 G1-G2 2003-2007

Cirrus SR22 G3 2007+

Cirrus SR22 Perspective 2008+

Cirrus SR22 G3 Turbo 2007+

Cirrus SR22 Turbo Perspective 2008+

Diamond DA20 C1 1998+

Diamond Star DA40 2001+

Piper Archer II PA-28-181 1976-1994

Piper Archer III PA-28-181 1995-2002

Piper Arrow 180 PA-28R-180 1967-1971

Piper Arrow II PA-28R-200 1969-1976

Piper Arrow III PA-28R-201 1977+

Piper Arrow III Turbo PA-28R-201T1977-1978

Piper Arrow IV PA-28RT-201 1979-1982

Piper Arrow IV Turbo PA-28RT-201T1979-1990

Piper Cherokee 140 PA-28-1401964-1977

Piper Cherokee 150 PA-28-1501961-1967

Piper Cherokee 160 PA-28-1601961-1967

Piper Cherokee 180 PA-28-1801963-1973

Piper Dakota PA-28-236 1979-1994

Piper Cherokee Lance PA-32R-3001976-1978

Piper Navajo PA-31-310 B/C 1972-1980

Piper Navajo Chieftain PA-31-3501973-1984

Piper Saratoga SP PA-32R-3011980-1992

Piper Saratoga SP Turbo PA-32R-301T1980-1987

Piper Tomahawk PA-38-112 1978-1982

Piper Warrior 151 PA-28-151 1973-1977

Piper Warrior II PA-28-161 1976-1986

PA (Owen): Doing it the right way! There is only one way to do it, and that is the right way, no matter how long that takes. Being responsive to people, answering them as quickly as you can. If they take the effort to call us, email us, send us a text message, or walk in the door we are going to pay attention to them as quickly as possible, and I think that is different because a lot of people in the one-, two-, three-man band, serve as multiple masters: they are flying, they are organizing maintenance, they are talking to customers, they are sitting on an airline, they are doing all of these things without any support, and sometimes it takes days or weeks to get back to somebody, not because you don’t want to; it is just simply because you cannot, you don’t have any infrastructure behind you.

I think trying to be responsive to the customer, making sure you know we will be there, that is all our guys know.

I will give you one other example. I will never personally barge in on somebody. I will not interrupt their workday or their family time without at least asking if it is okay to call them, or when it would be convenient. I will call them when it is good for them, not when it is good for me, and people appreciate that. That is part of being in the service business.

IFUSA: It sounds like you provide excellent customer service.

PA (Peffer): We are the new Diamond rep for about half of the country. We represent Diamond for new aircraft, and we sell other piston and turbine aircraft also.

IFUSA: So, you are really a GA versus corporate focused company, and you don’t do a lot of jet work?

PA (Peffer): Not much jet work at all. If we have a customer who needs some help, we guide them and help them, but that is not our forte. PC-12 down if you will, personally our customer is principally the one who sits in the left seat, not always, we will help the one who doesn’t fly to figure how to operate the airplane, but most of our customers are the ones who fly the planes themselves.

IFUSA: Thank you for your time.

VERTICAL AVIATION INTERNATIONALISTHE NEW IDENTITY OF HELICOPTER ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL

By ROTOR Staff

As of Feb. 27, 2024, the world’s leading association for the vertical aviation industry will be known by a new name.

Helicopter Association International officially became Vertical Aviation International, or VAI, during the HAI Heli-Expo 2024 Welcome Reception on Monday, Feb. 26.

Why the name change? The association’s board wants to reflect the organization’s intention to become a more inclusive association that brings together all parts of vertical aviation – including helicopters. As the world’s vertical aviation fleet continues to expand and diversify, the industry is strengthening its ability to provide vertical flight’s unique benefits to communities around the world. And by embracing all vertical aviation as one united industry, VAI will increase the power of its advocacy.

Here’s what this change will mean for HAI – now VAI –members:

•HAI members will become VAI members, with the same access to their member benefits

•No changes are anticipated for member dues at this time

•The HAI Board of Directors and staff will now become the VAI Board of Directors and staff

•The board will review member classifications, the VAI bylaws, and other aspects of governance to ensure they align with the association’s strategic initiatives

•VAI will continue to provide connection, advocacy, safety, education, and support for its individual and company members in the form of meaningful benefits and superior service.

Why did HAI rebrand to VAI?

To be the world’s most vital membership association for vertical aviation, the organization felt it had to expand its scope and influence to represent all forms of vertical flight. By joining together as a united industry, VAI intends to strengthen its ability to advocate for that industry with legislators, regulators, and other stakeholders so that communities around the world are strengthened by the power of vertical flight.

(Courtesy Enstrom)

HAI Heli-Expo 2024 By the Numbers

HAI’s Heli Expo 2024, the world’s largest vertical aviation conference and trade show held Feb. 26-29 at the Anaheim Convention Center in the Los Angeles area, proved once again to delight thousands of aviation professional from around the world with the latest aircraft and technology, as well as 100-plus education and networking opportunities.

HAI – now rebranding as Vertical Aviation International (VAI) – had 15,000 attendees and 625 exhibitors. Participants came from 87 countries. The event featured 63 aircraft on display.

Known as platform for excellent educational opportunities, 4,181 people attended 125 courses and sessions offered throughout the four-day conference.

HAI Heli-Expo will be re-branded at Verticon next year and is scheduled to take place March 10-13, 2025 in Dallas. Learn more at rotor.org. The organization’s new website (verticalavi.org) is expected to launch in August of this year.

Who made the decision to rebrand the association?

The HAI Board of Directors decided to rebrand the association. In the Strategic Industry Plan unanimously approved by the board in October 2022, Strategic Initiative 1 directs the association to “unify the industry around a new vision of vertical aviation.”

How were the new name, logo, colors, and other brand aspects chosen?

The rebranding of the association, led by the Board of Directors over the past 18 months, has been purposeful and deliberate. Each element of the new brand – including the name, vision, purpose, colors, tagline, and even the new name for the annual conference and trade show – was supported unanimously by the board.

To assist in the process, the association engaged a marketing agency with expertise in rebranding associations. The board felt strongly that this effort should be driven by data, so the agency reviewed past data and conducted new research, including:

•Interviews with members and other industry stakeholders and other member outreach

•An analysis of the vertical aviation industry

•Surveys and secondary data research •Brand workshops

Who should join VAI?

VAI embraces all aircraft that are capable of vertical or short takeoffs and landings (V/STOLs). If you build, fly, fix, supply, or operate V/STOL aircraft, or if you work in or support vertical aviation in any way, you can join Vertical Aviation International!

Are helicopters still important to the association?

Yes! VAI’s purpose is to fuel the growth of the vertical aviation industry, and the helicopters that perform so many essential missions to keep modern society running are not going anywhere. They have unique capabilities that can’t be duplicated by any other aircraft. Helicopters will continue to play an important role in serving communities around the world, and VAI will represent the people who build, operate, fix, fly, support, and supply them.

Aside from the name, what else will change?

Members can expect VAI to provide the same services – connection, advocacy, safety, education, and support for individuals and businesses – they currently receive. There’s complete continuity of leadership by the VAI Board of Directors and staff. They not eliminating any programs or services but instead have rebranded to grow.

What does the VAI tagline, Powering Up, mean?

Powering Up is what VAI does for the vertical aviation industry. Their goal is to empower all vertical aviation stakeholders to grow and succeed through connection, advocacy, safety, education, and support for businesses and individuals.

What about HAI HELI-EXPO?

The organization is changing the name of HAI HELI-EXPO to VERTICON, and invite all to attend VERTICON 2025 in Dallas, Texas, Mar. 10–13! The show will still feature:

•Vertical aviation manufacturers and suppliers from all around the world, including the major airframe, engine, and technology OEMs

•A complete education program, including long-form education courses, shorter education sessions on safety and business topics, and manufacturer technical briefings

•Industry meetings, including with VAI working groups, on every topic important to the vertical aviation industry

•An industry job fair and Mil2Civ workshop

•Plenty of opportunities to expand your network and reconnect with old

Continued on Page 22

Two Enstrom helicopters were among the 63 aircraft on display at Heli-Expo in Anaheim. President Todd Tetzlaff and owner Chuck Surack were in attendance to touch base with current Enstrom owners and to share the Enstrom story with other rotorcraft enthusiasts.

BEARHAWK AIRCRAFT COMPANY SOLDTO YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

Kit manufacturer Bearhawk Aircraft founder Mark Goldberg recently announced that he has sold AviPro Aircraft, Ltd, which does business as Bearhawk Aircraft, to Virgil Irwin and his company, Bearhawk Aircraft, Inc.

“It was about 23 years ago when we formed a company to manufacture kits for the four-place Bearhawk. After deciding the plane fit my needs and buying a set of plans for the Bearhawk, I realized that plans/scratch building a Bearhawk was beyond my ability. So the idea was born to manufacture a kit for the plane,” said Goldberg.

The factory was set up in 2001, and the first kits were shipped in the summer of 2002. The very first kit produced at the factory turned into N303AP in December 2003. N303AP now has more than 1,300 hours and is still flying well.

After several years, the kit factory developed a kit for the two-place tandem Bearhawk Patrol. The Bearhawk LSA was next a few years later. “After being asked many times about a two seat side by side model – we developed the Companion,” said Goldberg. The last of the five designs of kits now being made is the six seat Bearhawk Five.

“The success and longevity of the company is due to two factors. First, design engineer Bob Barrows has designed incredible flying airplanes that have unbelievable performance. Every one of the Bearhawks have great STOL ability but also possess unmatched cruise speeds for utility class planes. Second,

the hard work of the kit factory to make quality kits while continually improving the kits and making them easier and faster to build. These efforts continue to this day,” said the founder.

After turning 70 years old 20 months ago, “I began to think it was time to let someone younger take charge of the company. There were discussions with several individuals and companies. However, none seemed (to be) a really good fit to take over. My primary interest has been the future success of the company and the kit manufacturing factory. At Oshkosh 2023, Virgil and I began discussions about passing the torch to him. I became convinced of his abilities, honesty, and willingness to do the hard work to take the company to the next level. Virgil will be a great captain to drive the company going forward,” said Goldberg.

“I am especially appreciative of all the new friends made during these 23 years. Both customers all over the world who are now friends and vendors and others who became much more than just business associates. I learned a tremendous amount from working with design engineer Bob Barrows whose engineering talent is just off the scale.

“My involvement with the company will continue as long as is needed to make the transition smooth and easy. Thank you to everyone in the Bearhawk community who has been a pleasure to know and work with,” said Goldberg.

“I entered into the Bearhawk world as a customer. At the time, I was in search of a utility airplane that could serve overseas in a remote environment. I needed true off airport capability with great cross-country performance. I had searched high and low throughout many

experimental aircraft companies, but nothing came close to the newly announced Bearhawk Five. I was thrilled when I called and spoke to Mark. I put down a deposit and was able to receive serial number one of the Bearhawk Five,” said Irwin.

As he began to build the airplane, Irwin said he was “blown away by the amazing craftsmanship that went into the airplane and the potential that the entire Bearhawk line had. Bob Barrows, the original Bearhawk designer, has without a doubt designed a line of aircraft that have carved out their own section of the market. I remember thinking a couple of times while beginning my build, ‘I wonder if Mark will be ready to retire soon’ as I had dreams and aspirations of owning my own aircraft company.”

Fast forward to the end of his kit building project, “I remember thinking on a few late nights in the hangar, ‘I really hope I like this airplane and the performance is what was promised, otherwise I just wasted a large amount of time and money.’

“I can honestly look back and say there are very few things that compete with the thrill of flying an airplane you built yourself. As the Bearhawk started to teach me how it wanted to be flown, I was continually blown away by the performance and handling of the aircraft,” said Irwin.

Goldberg called Irwin shortly after he began flying the airplane and asked if he would be interested in displaying it at Oshkosh 2023. Irwin accepted the offer and in July headed to Oshkosh not knowing what was to come that week. While getting to know each other at Oshkosh, Irwin shared his dreams of owning his own aircraft company one day with Mark, “and that is when we started exploring what it would look like for me to purchase the company,” said Irwin.

The first question Irwin had for Goldberg was manufacturing, as he stated he was not interested in a company that mistreated its employees or did not uphold the same standards he has for himself and his family. “In August, Mark, my wife Mackenzie and myself went to Mexico to get to know the amazing managers and employees that make the Bearhawk line possible. I was blown away by the quality of construction, cleanliness of the factory, and overall work environment that has led to many employees working for Bearhawk for an entire career. Employees do not leave, they choose to stay and that speaks volumes to the company culture,” said Irwin.

“Mark truly did what many have

Continued on Page 21

Images and visions of Sagar Pathak

The Bearhawk LSA is a truly capable backcountry traveling airplane. While the company desired to create a versatile and affordable airplane, it became so much more. The large wing area coupled with the overall light weight of the aircraft grant the LSA an exceptionally low-wing loading. These features create a light and well-balanced flying experience. (Courtesy Bearhawk)

By Larry E. Nazimek

Not all readers of this magazine are pilots, but all are interested in flying, and if flying turns you on, you will certainly want to see this new attraction. It can be best compared with a high-performance ultralight, that is, if such a thing were possible.

FLYOVER OPENS IN C HICAGO

In this “immersive flying journey,” guests are strapped in their seats with their belongings stowed beneath their seats. The seats then move forward, so their feet are dangling in the air, and then the nine-minute movie starts. The film is shown on a 65-foot curved screen, where the six degrees of motion platform makes guests feel like they are flying as the seats change pitch and bank, as they fly around Chicago. There are, however, other features, such as a light mist sprayed as the flight passes over the top of the iconic Buckingham Fountain, or as the flight goes low over the Chicago River and jet skis. There are also places where guests smell coffee, or rubber, as cars perform donuts. “Bumps” are felt as the flight goes through the wake turbulence of an aerobatic aircraft trailing smoke.

The film begins as you are west of Chicago’s downtown area, heading east as you descend. It felt realistic to the point that my right hand was grabbing an imaginary stick, pushing forward for the descent. The

flight levels off just above the skyscrapers and later descends to go through streets, going from one scene to another, climbing and descending over buildings.

General Manager Derek Poitras explained that it took more than two

Bearhawk Aircraft Company Sold

Continued from Page 20

failed to do,” said the new owner. “He created a manufacturing system that is able to reliably produce quality aircraft. You can have the most capable designs in the world, but if you cannot reliably produce and deliver for your customers, you do not have a product. For over 20 years, Mark built the Bearhawk brand from the ground up, his hard work is evident.”

After this first trip to Mexico, Irwin knew that he was not only comfortable but highly impressed by the quality of the company, it was just a matter of “how do

I make this company work?” After several months of negotiations, he was able to return to Mexico in December to celebrate the company Christmas party. “It was truly humbling to see the culture and meet the families of the men who are the backbone of the company,” said Irwin.

On Feb. 2, 2024, “my wife and I were able to sign the final documents and are proud to be the new owners of Bearhawk Aircraft. As we move forward with the company, we have standardized our kits across the board but these are the same great airplanes that have been available for

years. We will be revising our kit manuals, developing new products, and overall expanding the offerings that Bearhawk has for our customers. Our new facility in Fairview, Oklahoma will be home to our demo planes, transition training, build assist center, warehousing and so much more. We look forward to welcoming you to our new facility and will be doing several events throughout the year. We know that we have big shoes to fill, but we are honored and extremely excited to advance the Bearhawk brand,” said Irwin.

He expressed his desire to reassure

years to complete the filming with drones. “When we were getting ready to film this, we found that we could not actually use any of the in-market drones to do exactly what we wanted to do, because we don’t just fly through the city, we fly into some buildings, so we had to develop a whole new type of technology just for this.” There are Flyovers in Reykjavik, Vancouver, and Las Vegas, but they are all focused on scenery and do not fly inside of buildings.

The attraction, in Chicago’s Navy Pier, was built in space that had been occupied by an IMAX theater. They still had to replace the IMAX sound system and dig some 15-feet down to accommodate the large screen.

The attraction was built, and is operated, by Pursuit, an attractions and hospitality company that owns and operates a collection of inspiring and unforgettable experiences in iconic destinations.

This Flyover is a must for both Chicagoans and visitors. I give it “5 stars!”

For further information: https://www.experienceflyover.com/chic ago/.

customers that all current orders will be honored and “we will continue to provide you the same great airplanes. We look forward to serving the Bearhawk community and earning your trust and support.”

Learn more about the transition of Bearhawk Aircraft on the company website, bearhawkaircraft.som. Also, see a video with Goldberg and Irwin at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1S pfs8QkYE.

Special drones were used to create an “immersive flying journey” of Chicago now playing in a revamped theater at Chicago’s Navy Pier. (Courtesy Larry Nazimek)

By Cameron Rolfe

Many people walking to the ‘biggest people trap ever built by a mouse’ thought so as they stopped and watched 40 helicopters land in a parking lot across the street from “The Park.” Bell, Sikorsky, Airbus, Leonardo, and Robinson – common names to Hover Lovers, as Cessna, Piper, and Cirrus are to airplane pilots, landed at 15-minute intervals this last February weekend, landing in the Anaheim Convention Center parking lot literally across the street from “The Park.” (YouTube Search, ‘2024 HAI Fly-In’ to see it all). Every four years it all happens in Anaheim, California.

It was Heli Expo, a gathering of more than 60 helicopters. “Rotor Heads” as they are called, are already planning to make the trek to Dallas, Texas to the rebranded name Verticon 2025, March the 10th. Helicopter Association International (HAI), the show organizer, has also changed their name to Vertical Aviation International (VAI) to embrace every aircraft that flies vertically not limiting their base to helicopters.

Fifteen thousand people from more than 87 countries mingled with more than 600 exhibitors displaying everything from ‘cutaway’ engine models allowing a look inside of the latest turbine engines, giving pilots a chance to see how the turbine engine that powers their helicopter actually works, to the latest flight safety devices and flight deck panels designed to get more information to a helicopter pilot in a less distracting form, were on site.

Bringing a new level of forest fire suppression on display was one of the 12 Sikorsky S-70i Firehawks purchased by the California Division of Forestry. Based on the military UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter, it was a huge hit of the show flown in by CDF Pilot Justin Wick. He explained that he is able to drop 1,000 gallons of water in less than three seconds, and for the first time do it at night,

BETTERTHAN DISNEYLAND?

thus providing invaluable assistance to firefighters on the ground. Its integrated retractable snorkel can drain a swimming pool in minutes, and then arrive on a fire scene at a speed of 150 miles per hour.

Two General Electric Turbine engines provide almost 2,000 horsepower that allow him to lift more than 22,000 pounds, or moving a fire crew of 12.

Chuck Surack was another highlight of the show, announcing that he personally brought Enstrom Helicopter back to American ownership. “Built with Passion, Made to Perform” was his motto, and he introduced Todd Tetzlaff as Enstrom’s new CEO, who handed out ‘challenge coins’ to more than 20 private Enstrom helicopter owners who attended the show. The flat screen instrument panels in both their 280FX and 480B were an audience favorite, as well as extolling the Enstrom as one of the safest helicopters in production due to its high flight stability, wire strike resistance, high inertia rotor blades

Vertical Aviation International

Continued from Page 19

friends

Will my membership dues change?

We have no plans to change VAI membership dues at this time.

What about HAI’s publications, ROTOR magazine

and ROTOR Daily?

VAI will continue to publish the association’s quarterly magazine and daily e-newsletter. Updated and redesigned versions of each will be launched later this year. In the meantime, current subscribers will continue to receive the publications.

Where should I go to get more information, renew my

and direct connect flight controls.

Hill Helicopter had a mockup of their HX-50. It drew a large audience who marveled at its sleek design and innovations. Many commentated on Hill’s undertaking of designing and building their own turbine power plant.

Robinson Helicopters traveled only 25 miles to showcase their popular helicopters, as they are based at the nearby Torrance Airport. Scheduling factory tours displaying how they manufacture more than 250 aircraft a year was a fascinating trip for many.

McDonnell Douglas was showing their MD-500 line of helicopters heavily outfitted for law enforcement work. Sporting high-definition infra-red cameras and powerful searchlight, these ‘force multipliers’ held a unique audience of interested buyers. A turbine fandesigned stabilizing system attached to rescue baskets was demonstrated stopping an out-of-control loaded rescue bas-

ket when being hoisted up to a helicopter. A YouTube video showing such a basket spinning event is popular viewing, and when activated, this accessory adds stability to the lift.

From highly detailed wooden models of helicopters painstakingly painted to your specifications, night vision goggles, flight suits, headsets and tactical radios, I saw it all. Seminars on helicopter safety were conducted throughout the day, as well as management courses and training events. If you spent only one minute talking with each exhibitor, picking up their free pen, chocolate or key chain, it would take well more than a day to get through the show.

Next March it’s in Dallas…. and I’ll be there!

membership, or update my member profile?

Organizers are working on a brandnew website, verticalavi.org, but it’s not ready yet. They expect to roll out the new website by August 2024, but in the meantime, visitors can use either the association’s new Web address, verticalavi.org, or its current one, rotor.org, to access VAI member accounts. During their transition

to the new website, both Web addresses will take users to the site currently in use.

If you still have questions, concerns, or comments about the rebrand, feel free to reach out to VAI President and CEO James Viola at president@rotor.org.

Organizers say they may have a new name, but member service is still their passion!

One of 12 Sikorsky S-70i Firehawks purchased by the California Division of Forestry for advanced forest fire suppression. (Courtesy CDF)

Chuck Surack brought Enstrom’s Helicopter back to American ownership. (Courtesy Enstrom)

Todd Tetzlaff is Entrom’s new CEO. (Courtesy Enstrom)

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ByAnnamarieBuonocore

Inoureffortstodeliverthemostrelevantnews, InFlightUSA paysattentiontobigtrendsthathavethepotentialtoalterthecourseofaviationaswe knowit.Overtheyears,wehavelookedat dronesandotherunmannedaircraft.Will thesereplaceaviationasweknow?We say,notsofast.Butanotherbranchofaviationthathastheabilitytobringaboomto privateaviationasweknowistheVTOL (verticaltakeoffandlanding)industry. Alsoknownasairtaxis,VTOLaircraftcan transportpeopleandcargowithinashort time,takingoffandlandinginthemiddle ofmajorcitiesorinruralareas.TheVTOL industrywillincreasethenumberofpilot jobs,reducelandtrafficcongestion, improvetheplanet’senvironmentalquality,andwillincreaseinterestinaviation andallthingsthatfly.

Earlierthismonth,IhadtheopportunitytoattendtheVerticalFlight Society’sconferenceinSantaClara, Calif.Thiseventwasanintriguingthree daysoflearning,networking,andexploringsomeprettycoollookingaircraft.See photos.Atthisevent,Ilearnedmore aboutverticalflightandthisCaliforniabasedsocietythatisdedicatedto researchingandpromotingit.Imet

industryprofessionalsandstartupowners alreadyvestedinthissectorofaviation.I alsometprofessionalsfromotherindustrieslookingtobreakintothisnewboomingmarket.

Acoupledaysbeforeattendingthis educationalevent,Ihadtheopportunity tointerviewAmitDutta,theManaging DirectorofHunchMobility,anairtaxi companybasedinIndia.AsoneVTS conferenceattendeesaid,“Ifyouthink thetrafficintheBayAreaorLAisbad,

youareusing.

AD: Wecurrentlyoperateamodel thatisverysimilartoBladeU.S.We workwithoperatorswhocommittheaircraftthattheyhaveforanumberofhours everymonth.ThesearetypicallyAirbus 125sandBell505s.Thesearefiveorsixseaters.ThechallengeinIndiaisthat thereisahugeshortageofhelicopter craft.InIndia,weonlyhave250civil registeredhelicopters.Therearelimitationsofwhatyoucangetfromoperators. Thatiswhywehavetakenadvantageof thegovernmentsettingupaleasingunit inaspecialeconomiczone.Throughthis initiative,wewouldleaseaircraftdirectly fromOriginalEquipmentManufacturers (OEMs)toaugmentthefleet.

youshouldexperienceitinBangladesh orHongKong.”Duttaunderstandsthis betterthananyoneandisfocusedonutilizingairtaxistoimprovetrafficand environmentalcongestioninIndia.The followingistheinterviewIdidwithhim. Welookforwardtoworkingwiththe VTOLmarketandwatchingitthriveand improveaviationasweknowit.

InFlightUSA: Whattrendsareyou followinginIndiathatpromptedyouto getintothisbusiness?

AmitDutta: It’snosecretthatIndia, withitscurrenteconomicgrowthrate, hasahugeproblemwithcongestion. CongestioninIndiacostsupwardsof$22 billionperyear.Justtogiveyouasense ofin-roadtraffic,wehaveabout296millionvehiclesontheroad.Alongwith India’seconomicgrowthcomestraffic congestionthatisgoingtogetmuch worse.Bycar,itwouldtaketwohoursto getfromBangaloretothecitycenter. BangaloreisliketheSiliconValleyof India.Ithasalotofinternationalvisitors. Wecandothatjourneyviaaircraftin15 minutes.Thisepitomizesthepainpoint thatwesolve.Wedoseveralroutes.One isBombaytoPune.Puneislikeour Detroit.Thereisalotofautomobilemanufacturingthere.Bombayofcourseisthe financialcapital.Thereissomuchtraffic therethatitisafive-hourjourney.Wecan makethatflightin45-50minutes.So, whatpromptedustotakethestep?This trafficcongestioninIndiaisacrossthe country.It’snotlikeintheU.S.wherethe congestionisjustonthecoasts.Withour economicprogressandthefactthatwe arepoisedtobecomethethirdlargest economyintheworld,theseproblems willonlyworsen.Beingthefirstmoverto createthismobilityplatform,wesawitas ahugeopportunity.

IFUSA: Tellmeabouttheplanes

IFUSA: Right,sothegreatthing aboutusinghelicoptersandrotorcraftis thattheydon’thavetolandonarunway, andtheydon’thavetolandinanairport. Sotellmeaboutthestationswherepeoplearetakingoffandlanding.Isitlikea busstop?Areyouputtingtheminurban areas?

AD: Thatisaverygoodpoint.In India,thereareveryfewairports,unlike intheU.S.,whereyouhaveairportsall over.Indiadoesnothavethatinfrastructure.Ittakesnearly10yearsforanairport togetconstructed.Let’staketheexample ofPune.Ifyouwanttotakeaflightfrom theretoBombay,youwoulddrivean hourandahalftotheairportandspend another45minutesgoingthroughcheckinormaybemore,andthenofcourse,the waitingtime.Whatweofferisaheliport. Wetakeheliportsonleaseinthecenterof theprimeresidentialareainPune.We landintheheartofBombay,inaplace calledMahalaxmi,wherewehavetaken alease.Theadvantagethatweoffercustomersisthatwearelandingrightinthe centerofwheretheywork.Wealsodo routeswherewegotowell-knownlocationsindifferentcities.Weareableto landathotelvenues,whichhavecreated theirownlandingsites.Thatisthebig advantage;youarenotspendingtime commutingfromanairportwhenyou stayforaholiday;youarelandingright inthecenterofwhereyouneedtobe.

IFUSA: Yes,thisisgreat,anditisa greatbusinessopportunityforlandownersaswellwhowanttoleasetheirland.

AD: AtBangaloreairport,youget outoftheairportandthenalimopicks youupinabouteightminutesandbrings youtothehelipads,andfromthehelipads,youtakeoff.Theadvantagewe haveistherentalratesforhelipadsin Indiaareveryaffordable.Atthe Bangaloreairport,wemightpayaround

AVTOLaircraftondisplayattheannualVerticalTakeoffSocietyConferenceinSan Jose,CA. (AnnamarieBuonocore)

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$4perlandingortakeoff.Nowifyou wanttolookatthelandingspots,which intheU.S.arequiteexorbitant,likeinthe Hamptonsitis$900or$1,000perlanding,wepayafractionofthatcostinIndia. Thisaffordabilityenablesustooffer lowerfaresthanothermarkets,because whatwearereallytryingtodoinIndiais appealtoabroadersectionofsocietyto usehelicoptersasanalternativetoroad travel.

IFUSA: Yes,thatisveryimportant. So,intheyearstocome,thereisgoingto bealargeenvironmentalimpact.Howdo youplantotransitiontoelectricaircraft?

AD: So,Ithinkthereishugesupport fromthegovernmentofIndiaandthe administrationofcivilaviationinmaking IndiawhatIcallthecenterofgravityof theelectricaircraftworld.Aboutayear back,aministerforcivilaviationwanted tounderstandhowelectricaviationwill revolutionizetheworld.Webroughthim overtotheNewYorkBladeofficeand wemetupwiththefounderofBeta Technologies.Hehasbeenextremely excitedaboutIndiabeingthefirstin launchingelectriccraft.InMarchof 2023,theConfederationofIndian Industry,alongwiththeMinistryofCivil Aviation,hostedthefirstopenconference onelectriccraft.Wehadmorethan350 peoplefromaroundtheworld:electric craftmanufacturers,peoplethatlookat theheliports,andme.Ichairthe CommitteeoftheConfederationof IndianIndustry,whichworkswiththe Ministryonpoliciesforshort-timemobility,sothereisalotofsupportfromthe government.Ithinktheadvantagesthat weseewithelectrichelicoptersarealot likethetechnologydisruptionsofthe telecommarket,andIndiatodayhas1.1 billionphones.Weexpectthesamewith electricaircraft,whichisexpectedto comewithmuchlowerpassengerfares andalowercarbonfootprint.Werevolutionizedshortermobility,sothelower carbonfootprintaddressespollutionlevels.Youarerightthattodayinacityyou

probablyhaveacoupleofhelicoptersflying,andwhenyouhave300or400helicoptersflying,thefactthatnoiselevels areextremelylowisahugepositive.We plantoutilizestrategicpartnershipswith leadingtechnologycompanies,furtheringourcommitmenttopioneeringthe adoptionofelectricaircraftinIndiaand usheringinaneweraofsustainableaviation.

IFUSA: Wow,yes,thatisgreat. Howmanypeoplecanflyononehelicopter?Isitjustonepersonperrideordo youfillalloftheseats?

AD: So,wearethefirstinIndiato operateaby-the-seatdigitalplatform, leveragingtechnologyfromBladeU.S., whichallowsustolaunchveryquickly. Thehelicoptersofferuptosixseats,and wehaveanappwhereyoucanbookthe flight,andwecanfilluptofiveorsix seats.Apassengercouldchoosetotake alloftheseats.Theadvantageofbooking theseatisthatyoudon’thavetopayfor theentirecraft;youmakeitmoreaffordablebyallowingpeopletobuyasingle seat.Forexample,fromtheBangalore airporttothecitycenter,wecharge around$50,soourmodelismakingit affordableforaverylargesectionofsociety.Todaywearemaybeflyingwithfive orsixseats,andtypicallyweseedemand ofcloseto80percent.Astheroutesget moreandmorepopular,wecouldflya largerhelicopterinthefuture.Asan example,onethathas12or13seats couldbeavailabledowntheroad.So,the objectiveistostartbuildingtraction,and aswepickuprevenuesandvolume,we maywanttooccupythelarger-capacity helicoptersaswell.

IFUSA: Sure,itsoundsgood.How dopeoplebookandpayforthis?Isitan Uber-likeapporisitasubscription model?Howdoesthatwork?

AD: So,Iamgoingtorequestthat myChiefCommercialOfficer,Payal Satish,speakaboutthebookingprocess.

PS: Peoplecanbookaseatonour app,andwealsohaveaveryuser-friend-

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VisitorsexplorethefutureofVTOLaircraftattheannualVerticalTakeoffSociety ConferenceinSanJose,CA. (AnnamarieBuonocore)

VTOL

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ly website. We have a call center that is open seven days per week for people to make any inquiries about the booking system. We have three different booking systems.

IFUSA: Very good! I will take a look at your website and will explore that a little further. In the flying world, we see that there are a lot of security issues post 9/11. How are you combating some of those security issues? Do you have a copy of the “no fly” list? How is that working out for you?

AD: I don’t think it’s only security that we have to be concerned about. Yes, there is heightened security at the airports, but Covid was a phenomenon that had us doing intense screening of flyers, because especially in a helicopter, you are flying in very close proximity, and there are very stringent rules that we check.

PS: When we receive a booking, we reach out to the passenger in advance, and they share their government ID before the flight because we share that through our operating partners as part of the passenger manifest. When the passenger checks in, they have to show their government ID, which must match with the name on the manifest. All of the operators that we work with are licensed, approved operators who follow the highsecurity standards of the passengers. If a passenger is flying, they have to submit a copy of their passport before the flight, so you can’t have an international passenger send their passport copy on the day of the flight. It needs to come in well in advance because we need to make sure that the required clearances are received. There is always an ID card with each name. Verification happens on the day of the flight. We have flight passengers in India (about 247 people) on the “no fly” list, and our operators have them, so it is a very small number, but if anything pops up, which we haven’t had until now, we make sure they are not on that list. That is how we follow the process to make sure we are in sync with what is required for security.

IFUSA: As you know, here in the U.S., we have a severe pilot shortage, and there is a challenge getting youth into aviation. Do you think this new wave of general and business aviation is going to inspire more youth in India to take flying lessons? What has been your experience with that?

AD: India is the third largest domestic aviation market in the world, and we expect it to grow over the next few years. There are lots of people who want to get into the aviation sector, whether it is as a pilot or a technician, and the government is helping that by opening a number of institutes. We are very fortunate that while we have limited helicopters for civilian use, our different forces have a very large fleet of helicopters, and they retire enough pilots every year. We are then able to pick up these highly trained pilots and use them for our flights. Today we have three helicopter pilots from the Indian forces on our team. Our Chief of Safety was the number two in command of the Indian Air Force. There is tremendous interest in aviation in India. The government is trying to create job opportunities to the youth, so encouraging the youth is definitely not a challenge. In fact, they would be privileged to get an opportunity to qualify as pilots or mechanics.

IFUSA: Yes, I think you are doing a great job with that. It sounds like this country is really handling it very well. Do you see unmanned aircraft coming into the fold in the near or far future?

AD: With technology, if you look at what is happening in the electric world, the ambition is to move forward to unmanned aircraft. So you’ve got companies in the U.S. looking at unmanned aircraft, which will be the personal twoseater craft, and could be the future of air travel. I believe it is a journey that will take far more time and regulation to get approved. In the near future, we anticipate a gradual transition starting with electric aircraft equipped with pilots. This phase will be informative as it relates to safety protocols and consumer acceptance of flying without a pilot in the front seat. Eventually, it will move to a more autonomic system with the highest level of safety clearance. It will also test the waters on consumer adoption on being comfortable on flying in a craft without a pilot, so that is definitely going to take time. I think the future as we see it is aircraft with a pilot. There may be different categories of pilots of electric craft, especially in a market like India where there are large segments of flyers, but this will be price sensitive. Electric aircraft would help get prices down and make this truly a more democratic flying platform than you would normally see.

By Cynthia Wheatley Glenn

Welcome, Spring!

For most of us pilots here in the United States, we button up our aircraft or forego renting for the winter because weather gets in the way of flying. Now that the rain, snow and, hopefully, winds have abated a bit, we can once again brush off the skill set and get back in the air. Like many new pilots, I started my flying adventure during the windy months in late winter and early spring. I could only fly sporadically, mostly because of the wind gusts that would have bounced a newbie like me all over the sky. This gave me quite a bit of time to visit flight schools in my area. This month’s article is for those who want to learn to fly but aren’t sure where to begin. Let me help: Let’s begin by looking at flight schools.

The first question you need to ask yourself is, how far do you want to drive to get to your home base airport? For me, living in a suburb of a large city with a plethora of choices – as well as being used to driving in traffic – I was able to extend my concentric circle of how far I was willing to travel to get to my lessons. There are other things to consider when deciding where to fly: If you happen to, say, work in sales, and you regularly make trips to a city with a really nice airport that is a pretty hefty drive but part of your regular work-a-day experience, you might be able to dovetail a trip to the airport for a flight while doing other business. Down the road once you have your private pilot certificate, you might be able to fly to the airport for your business purposes, keeping in mind no person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for com-

LOOKINGFOR FLIGHT SCHOOLS

pensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft (14 CFR 61.113). Also considering where to make your home base, you may already have friends or colleagues who are at a particular airport, and you may want to stay close to them for the help and encouragement they can provide. Another reason to choose an airport might be how great the campus restaurant is…. Really, this is a Thing. I’ll write more about the $100 hamburger in another column.

You will also want to visit schools to see how they’re run. This is incredibly important. I toured several flight schools and found a wide range of services (and attitudes) among them. When you go on these reconnaissance missions you might find, as I did, flight schools ranging from having the doors locked, to having the doors open but no one at the front desk to greet you or answer your questions, to flight school personnel who seemed too busy to even look at you, to having them be too busy to schedule even a demonstration flight (A demo flight typically includes a short basic ground lesson with about 30 minutes of flight time with you in the left seat actually doing the flying.), to having the person at the front desk know enough about aviation in general –and their school, in particular – to be able to confidently tell you what to expect, how much time and money it will probably take, and make a concerted effort to set you up with a certified flight instructor (CFI) who might be a good fit for you.

When you go into a flight school, you will want to ask for their aircraft Hobbs sheet, which is a document that outlines all the aircraft on their line, what equipment each aircraft has, how much money is required to rent the aircraft, and if they rent “wet” or “dry.” Wet means the cost of fuel is included; dry means paying for fuel is an added expense. They might also include their maintenance schedule. If they don’t, ask to see it. You will be

looking for when the 100-hour and annual inspections were last done, or when they are due. You will also be looking for squawks, items that need repair on any given aircraft. Some squawks ground an aircraft until it is repaired to FAA standards; other items are less imperative and listed more as a “head’s up” for its next scheduled maintenance visit.

Once you’ve looked over the Hobbs sheet, ask to see the aircraft they have (some call it “walking the line”). Some schools will have an employee take you on a tour; others will allow you to go out by yourself. If they do the latter, beware: It’s probably a sign that there might be a lack of attention to detail in other things they do. As you walk the line, you want to look for very specific things. First, how many aircraft do they have? How clean are they? If you see an aircraft that is covered with oil, you should wonder why. Also, if the planes are dirty, what might their maintenance practice be? Second, and this might seem like a small thing, yet it’s actually very important: Walk to the back of the aircraft and look at the underbelly, toward the front of the craft. Are there any ripples in the skin? If so, it might be the poor little airplane had one too many hard landings. You might also look at the tie-down ring at the back of the aircraft. Some mechanics (or aircraft owners) will put a dab of brightcolored fingernail polish on the bottom of the rear tie down loop so it is easy to tell if a hard landing scraped off any of the paint. Finally, look to see if there are puddles of anything beneath the aircraft, and how clean it is on the inside. It doesn’t need to be “dust buster” perfect, yet it should look like you’re not going to get covered with goop if you merely want to sit down.

Once you’ve walked the line and are back inside, ask to see the student rental contract. Even better, ask if you can take it home to read. This will give you separation from your emotions and the space to review in a neutral setting what each school has to offer. You can also have

someone else look at the contract and tell you what they think. Many times, a second pair of eyes is a very good thing. Learning to fly is incredibly fun... and outrageously expensive. It would be a shame to get halfway through training and have to stop because you ran out of money. Speaking of money, you will be expected to pay for renter’s insurance once you get to your solo flight. Happily, there are many opportunities available to pilots of all ages to secure loans and scholarships. I’ll write more on this in a few months when my column will be on building your aviation network.

There are also schools that require you to become a member of their school’s flying club in order to rent an aircraft. Some schools set up a tiered Club rate that offers discounts dependent upon how many hours a month you fly. Some schools charge a fee for the privilege of being on their list at all; others will only charge you if you fly during any given month. Some schools expect you to pay exorbitant rates to purchase their ground school package, while others don’t care. The bottom line (literally and figuratively), is to be aware that some schools might feel compelled to charge you a la carte prices for services you can get elsewhere for a reduced price, or even free.

I have found the expense, trials, and tribulations of obtaining my pilot certificate to be well worth the benefit of being able to fly. It is truly an amazing experience! Sometimes, it is so beautiful I actually cry. As a newbie student, I once had the privilege of flying at the same altitude – albeit, five miles out – as the Blue Angels. How many people get to say, “Blue Angels at nine o’clock”? I am so profoundly grateful for the ability to literally leave my cares on the ground and soar above anything that might seem more significant while I’m earth-bound. If you have questions, comments, or need encouragement, feel free to contact me at FlyGirlBayArea@gmail.com.

NBAA, CUTTER AVIATION L AUNCH ‘FUELINGTHE FUTURE’ PROGRAM IN SUPPORTOF INDUSTRY ADVOCACY

In partnership with Cutter Aviation –a fixed-based operator with six locations in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona – the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced on March 11, the launch of the Fueling the Future program, which is designed to help the association in its advocacy initiatives to foster an environment that

allows business aviation to thrive in the United States and around the world.

Starting with Cutter Aviation, the Fueling the Future program gives operators the opportunity to contribute a portion of fuel expenditures to support NBAA’s advocacy efforts. Additionally, program contributions support CLIMBING. FAST., an advocacy campaign

aimed at showcasing business aviation’s many societal benefits, from driving opportunities for today’s workforce to spearheading sustainability innovations in pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions in the industry by 2050.

“We are pleased to partner with Cutter Aviation, a valued NBAA member, to launch Fueling the Future, which will

help us fund business aviation advocacy efforts,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We appreciate Cutter’s efforts and look forward to expanding the Fueling the Future program to enable broader participation across the industry.”

“At Cutter Aviation, we understand that NBAA is an important voice speak-

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A C ANDID REFLECTIONON FAA AIRCRAFT HANGAR LEASESAND HANGAR REVERSION POLICY

By AOPA Government Affairs Staff

While the FAA offers extensive guidance for airport administration policy, particularly in terms of airport compliance, all too often there is much left to interpretation by both airport sponsors and airport users.

Frequently, members all over the country come to AOPA for our understanding of FAA guidance. One of the most contentious topic involves FAA aircraft hangar leases and hangar reversion policy. AOPA hopes to shine some factbased light on this subject to assist airport sponsors (towns/counties/ports/states that are the public airport “owners” and are accountable to the FAA) and airport users alike and is working to clarify these requirements to improve communication among all involved parties. Additionally, the FAA could and should in the future eliminate misinterpretations like these with clear and unambiguous policy guidance.

Most recently, AOPA members at Ogden-Hinkley Airport in Utah and Mahlon Sweet Field and Bend Municipal Airport in Oregon reported that airport administrators were advising hangar owners that decisions to enforce reversionary clauses in leases were due to some form of FAA “requirement.” By using their own unique interpretations of the FAA compliance manual, they justified unpopular actions that impacted airport users, hangar owners, and hangar tenants.

With respect to leases, while it is clear that the FAA intends for airports to maintain control of airport grounds and ensure that the airport is afforded the opportunity to reevaluate the highest and best use of the land at reasonable intervals, and that reversion is one acceptable way to terminate a lease, nowhere in FAA guidance is it mandated that sponsors must revert privately owned hangars to the sponsor. To the contrary, in a 2006 FAA Part 16 case (16-05-19 Clarke v. City of Alamogordo), the FAA determined that neither the existence nor the exercise of reversionary clauses is required by sponsors and as such, neither the absence of such language nor failure to exercise reversionary clauses will in and of itself constitute a violation of FAA airport compliance policy.

The AOPA position on reversion clauses in leases is that although according to the Airport Compliance Manual

(FAA Order 5190.6B) – which helps the FAA determine if airports are compliant with grant assurances – reversion is one acceptable way to terminate a lease, there are many approaches to terminating leases that offer alternatives more akin to a win-win situation while simultaneously ensuring that the airport continues to honor principles of self-sustainability. When our members are evaluating a potential hangar lease, it is critical that they thoroughly read the lease and think about their financial position if the airport chose to exercise any lease provision, to include reversion if it is written in the lease.

Some reasons why AOPA recommends against reversionary clauses include (but are not limited to) the following:

•Among other things, members often speak of the difficulty getting financing for construction of hangars if the lease had a reversionary clause, and as a result, often choose not to build at airports.

•Particularly where large investments were involved and understanding that hangar reversion is one of several acceptable forms of terminating a hangar lease, members often view exercise of a reversionary clause as “a taking” (an incorrect perception) resulting in ill will and a corresponding disincentive for private investment in general at the airport.

•Unless airports have had previous experience managing hangars as an “owner” and made significant investments in staffing and training required to take on this new line of business, hangar maintenance and management presents new and sometimes unexpected challenges for airports not completely ready to make the transition from land leases only to land and hangar leases.

•Airports that have removed reversionary clauses from their leases did so in part because of the following:

•Some hangar owners deferred maintenance to the hangars as the deadline for the ownership reversion neared, which resulted in the airport gaining responsibility for expensive maintenance items like overhead door replacement, roof repairs, or other deferred maintenance.

•The administrative burden of converting the improvement (hangar) from a non-tax-exempt asset to a public, taxexempt asset. This often takes a significant amount of staff time to complete the transition.

While airport compliance with FAA grant assurances is required to maintain

eligibility for vital FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding, most of the information found in FAA Order 5190.6B is intended as guidance for FAA compliance staff and is subject to interpretation. Where FAA Order 5190.6B addresses lease policy, there are several frequently misinterpreted subtopics that are often discussed between airport administrators and airport users that we address below.

FAA Order 5190.6B guidance does not mean:

• That separate new leases may not be issued if the cumulative total of the leases on a given hangar exceeds 50 years. What the FAA does expect is that in general, no single lease document exceeds 50 years.

• That hangar reversion is required for privately owned improvements (hangars) that exceed 50 years of age.

• That a new lease may not be issued to a private hangar owner when the asset is over 50 years of age. For example, California S.B.654, signed into law in 2023, supports this notion. AOPA published an article detailing the bill and supporting this perspective.

• That the mere existence of a reversionary clause requires an airport sponsor to exercise it.

Bottom line: The FAA accepts reversion as one way to terminate a lease, but doing so is not required.

Our members have reported that some airport administrators referred to a case where an airport was found noncompliant as evidence to support their notion that the FAA “requires” reversion. Citing a section from Airport Cooperative Research Program Report 213 (Estimating Market Value and Establishing Market Rent at Small Airports) one such example mentioned was the 2018 case where the FAA found Shreveport Downtown Airport in Louisiana noncompliant due to the airport’s failure to exercise reversion clauses in leases. Allegedly some airport administrators have used this case as an example to justify the claim that there is an FAA “requirement” to revert private hangars at their field. However, upon deeper inspection of the Shreveport case, it becomes clear that the noncompliance finding was due to a myriad of factors, the existence of nonstandard lease agreements contributing just one small part – but some airport officials have apparently singled out the statement that addressed reversion clauses to

Hangar confusion: While it is clear that the FAA intends for airports to maintain control of airport grounds and ensure that the airport is afforded the opportunity to reevaluate the highest and best use of the land at reasonable intervals, and that reversion is one acceptable way to terminate a lease, nowhere in FAA guidance is it mandated that sponsors must revert privately owned hangars to the sponsor. (Mike Fizer/Courtesy AOPA)

help justify the direction their airport appears to be heading with respect to airport lease policy.

The FAA Land Use Compliance Inspection memo from the Shreveport case states, “The failure to exercise this reversion clause or implement a suitable lease alternative seriously affects the ability of the airport to generate revenue necessary for airport needs.” Taken in context, this inspection memo plainly states that the FAA objected to the airport’s overall management of leases rather than solely singling out Shreveport’s failure to exercise reversion. This reinforces the AOPA position that FAA policy provides no specific mandate that airports must revert private hangars. The liberal invocation of phrases like “The FAA requires…” without clear citation of an actual FAA mandate, coupled with frequent use of outside legal or airport consulting firms that tend to provide opinions that support airport administrators’ desired interpretation of FAA policy, diminishes trust between the airport sponsor, the airport administration, and airport users.

Airport sponsors already have broad and far-reaching powers and should justify actions based on federal airport policy and local authority as well as standing laws rather than attempt to influence airport users, hangar tenants, and hangar owners’ perceptions by conveying that the FAA is forcing the hand of the airport sponsors. Further, airport owners should not suggest that a failure to comply with an unpopular action will jeopardize the airport’s compliance with FAA regula-

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1999

PIPER SARATOGA

Homebuilder’s Workshop

By Ed Wischmeyer

JOSH’S L AST FLIGHT

Today was Josh’s last flight as an Army helicopter pilot. Now his promotion to W5 (Warrant Officer 5, the highest Warrant Officer grade) will take him to Texas, where he and his wife have roots. But here in Savannah? Our loss.

Josh joined the church choir tenor section when he moved here, and it was nice to have him. Later, he invited me to join a Thursday night Bible study with a few other folks where we all interacted openly with the text and with each other.

He wasn’t always around, though. He deployed to Latvia, then Germany, for a few months. Included in that trip was the Paris Air Show, showing the Blackhawk. There got to fly himself around Paris (!).

But those aren’t what was special about Josh. At his promotion ceremony to W5 a few months back, the CO commented that he had never seen so many civilians at a promotion ceremony. Most of us were from church.

But that wasn’t the most inspiring, either. There were about a hundred soldiers this afternoon at his last flight. After the landing and appropriate words were spoken, presentations were made, and the obligatory baptisms, all the soldiers shook hands with Josh, usually with hugs.

The Army camaraderie, the esprit de corps, the kind of man that Josh is, standing there with his wife – all those elements, I thought, embodied all that’s right about America.

For the group picture, Josh had hung a small U.S. flag from one of the rotor blades. Apparently, he’s been doing for

15 years, after every flight. (Originally, that he did it so that his crew could find the right helicopter when there were many lined up.)

Looking at his last flight, and the reception he got, all that got me to thinking –shouldn’t we incorporate our flag into celebrations, not as an obligatory pledge before the event, but celebratory afterwards?

• • • • •

With a flare-up of arthritis in my spine and in one knee, I’ve been on a course of prednisone. Six pills the first day, then five, etc. With prednisone being a potent steroid, no short cuts – follow the plan!

I didn’t see anything anywhere on the web about not flying when on prednisone, but I was surely not feeling 100 percent. Not ill, but not 100 percent. Prescription muscle relaxant might be contributing, too. Undoubtedly, some of this was uncertainty about possible surgeries: total knee replacement that I should have time to recover from before Oshkosh, and the nuclear option, another spinal fusion that would have an expected recovery time of 12 – 15 months. No, thanks! Hopefully an epidural will obviate that.

The good folks at AOPA gave me the straight poop. The FAA doesn’t want you in the air if you’re taking more than 20 mg per day. In my case, that’s one pill. By that rule, I’ll be book legal to fly on Saturday. And this information was on

their website, if I’d thought to look there.

But there’s another interesting wrinkle. Normal prescription medicine guidance is the rule of five: if you’re taking medicine prescribed at one per day, wait five days before flying. Four hour intervals, wait 20 hours. For prednisone, however, there is no five times rule, only 20 mg.

Today is the last day, and I’m glad. The prednisone worked well on my back the first few days, but not so much these past few.

• • • • •

One of my friends is a designated airworthiness representative, working on bizjet designs. After a number of cardiac events, all resolved, and repeated frustrations of dealing with the FAA medical system, he bought an airplane – a 1959 Cessna 150A.

We discussed his plane briefly and he is knowledgeable about 150s in general. That kind of knowledge certainly adds to the ownership experience. Then he, at six-feet, two-inches tall, performed a magic trick, folding himself into the cockpit of his plane.

In my younger years, I instructed in 150s and 152s, but in the interim, they have shrunk considerably. A part of me thought it would be cool to have a Cessna 150D (manual flaps, first year with rear window, greater payload) and be able to blast off with short takeoff and landing rolls. Actually, the RV-9A might do comparably well if I flew it aggressively, but what does reality have to do with any-

thing, anyway?

In truth, later models were slightly larger, bigger doors, swept tails (boo, hiss) lots of improvements, but I’m still enamored of flaps 40. However, I remember one lesson when, on short final, the flap switch was bumped to the UP position. Low, slow, and flaps retracting was not a pleasant surprise for the CFI (me) to recover from.

The early model 150s, with the unswept rudder and no rear window, look great as taildraggers, just like a baby Cessna 180. Lots of curb appeal.

So 150s are fun to think about, even if the grass is probably browner on the other side of the fence.

•

If you are easily amused, and difficult to appall, grab some AI program on the web and specify some characteristics of a plane you’d like it to show you. Like, high wing, tailwheel, single engine, no antennas.

You’ve been warned.

AOPA CELEBRATESTHE BESTIN AVIATIONATTHE ANNUAL HOOVER AWARDS

Recognizing select individuals with a fierce commitment to general aviation, the 2024 AOPA R.A. “Bob” Hoover Trophy awards reception was held March 20 at the historic Terminal A at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Russ Meyer Jr. was presented the title award of the night.

“After every Hoover awards, we ask ourselves ‘how are we going to top that event?’” said AOPA President Mark Baker. “Once again, we have succeeded. This year’s celebration was full of energy and excitement, bringing together many of our aviation friends and celebrating special leaders who keep our GA community vibrant and strong.”

The R.A. “Bob” Hoover Trophy is

one of the most distinguished recognitions in aviation – reserved for those who inspire a love for flight through their airmanship, leadership, mentorship, and passion for aviation. Previous recipients include Sean D. Tucker, Harrison Ford, Clay Lacy, Burt Rutan, Wally Funk, and Sen. James M. Inhofe. Meyer joins these aviation legends as the 2024 recipient for his enduring commitment and impact on the general aviation industry.

Meyer started in aviation as a jet pilot with the U.S Air Force. His career has included terms as President and Chief Executive Officer of Grumman American Aviation Corporation and as CEO and Chairman Emeritus of Cessna Aircraft –where he played a significant role in cre-

ating the original Cessna Citation, as well as Cessna’s Be A Pilot program.

A commercial, instrument-rated pilot with more than 17,000 hours of flight time, Meyer is type-rated in all models of the Cessna Citation. His friendship with Bob Hoover – the inspirational U.S. Air Force veteran and airshow display pilot for who the award was named – spanned more than 50 years.

“For a long-time aviator like me, it is clearly the honor of a lifetime,” Meyer said. “I could not be more grateful and I count my blessings every single day to have devoted my career to aviation.”

There were five additional prestigious awards bestowed during the celebration.

The newly renamed Richard G. McSpadden General Aviation Safety Award was presented to John and Martha King for delivering high-quality instructional learning materials to over a million pilots in various stages of training. Over the past 50 years, the Kings have become synonymous with safety and flight training excellence.

Theresa Claiborne, the first African American female pilot in the U.S. Air Force, was honored with the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Aviation Inspiration Award. She is currently the president of “Sisters of the Skies,” a nonprofit organization which introduces aviation to women of color. The award is pre-

Continued on Page 34

Image of a plane the author asked AI to create. (AI image courtesy Ed Wischmeyer)

BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES $20 MILLIONFROM BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE L AWTO MODERNIZE 20 SMALLAND

REGIONAL AIRPORT TRAFFIC

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on March 21 it is awarding $20 million to 20 airport-owned airport traffic control towers across the country, spanning 17 states. The funding will be used to upgrade existing or build new control towers, delivering on President Biden’s Investing in America agenda that is rebuilding our infrastructure in every corner of the country.

This funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law goes to smaller and regional airports to improve safety and support critical aviation operations such as commercial passenger flights, cargo flights, emergency services, agricultural aviation, and flight training.

“Today’s announcement is another example of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to modernizing America’s aviation system and keeping it safe and efficient for generations to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “With funds from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re helping modernize air traffic control towers in smaller communities that have not always received adequate resources from Washington, D.C.”

“These investments expand the resources available to airports and help ensure airport traffic control towers across the country and the men and women who work in them are able to effectively do their jobs and communicate with pilots,” said FAA Associate Administrator for Airports, Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E. “Not only does this help improve safety at our airports, but it creates good-paying jobs and helps boost local economies.”

Airports receiving funding include:

•$2 million to Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport in Arizona: This award funds Airport Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) improvements identified in the ATCT Facility Needs Assessment that was funded by an FY2023 FAA Contract Tower grant. Improvements include fire protection, FAA communications and other equipment, security, electrical, mechanical, interior enhancements, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

•$2 million to University of Oklahoma - Max Westheimer Airport in Norman, Oklahoma: This award funds a portion of the construction of a new ATCT to replace the existing facility. The

CONTROL TOWERS ACROSSTHE U.S.

The University of Oklahoma – Max Westheimer Airport in Norman, Oklahoma will receive $2 million to fund a portion of the construction of a new ATCT to replace the existing facility. The replacement will correct line of sight and security issues, meet ADA compliance, and be fitted with energy efficient HVAC and associated systems.

(Courtesy University of Oklahoma – Max Westheimer Airport)

replacement will correct line of sight and security issues, meet ADA compliance, and be fitted with energy efficient HVAC and associated systems.

•$2 million to Valley International Airport in Harlingen, Texas: This award funds a portion of the construction of for a new replacement ATCT to correct the line of sight, ensure ADA compliance, and address structural integrity issues.

•$1.3 million to Jefferson City Memorial Airport in Missouri: This award funds a portion of the construction of an ATCT with a 435-square-foot floor inside the tower to replace the 1973 temporary tower facility.

•$1.29 million to Bend Municipal Airport in Oregon: This award funds a portion of the construction of a new ATCT.

•$1.2 million to Griffiss International Airport in Rome, New York: This award funds the rehabilitation of the existing 40year-old ATCT. The project will include replacement of the roof, lighting, flooring, window shades, and aged communication and recording equipment. The project will also renovate the restroom and break rooms, improve the electrical and security systems, and repair windows.

•$1.2 million to Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Latrobe, Pennsylvania: This award funds phase II of rehabilitating the existing 43-year-old ATCT and includes the installation of a new elevator.

•$1.1 million to Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi: This award funds the rehabilitation of the existing 20-year-old ATCT to include the elevator, roof, mechanical, lighting, windows, interior and exterior finishes, and building systems.

•$1.05 million to Mankato Regional Airport in Minnesota: This award funds the first phase for an ATCT construction to include the required National Environmental Policy Act Environmental Assessment, and architectural and engineering design.

•$1 million to Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Orlando, Florida: This award funds the design of a replacement ATCT to meet the current FAA visual performance criteria increasing the eye height from 43 feet to 85 feet.

•$1 million to Albuquerque Double Eagle II Airport in New Mexico: This award funds the rehabilitation and upgrade of the ATCT to include a new HVAC system, new roof, addition of LED lighting fixtures, replacement of elevator controls and equipment, replacement of cab solar shades, replacement of the emergency generator, and reconfiguration of controller consoles.

•$850,000 to Cheyenne Regional Airport in Wyoming: This award funds ATCT building improvements including water intrusion sealant and prevention, door and window replacement, HVAC and electrical improvements and other

general repairs.

•$750,000 to Olive Branch Airport in Mississippi: This award funds the rehabilitation and upgrade of the existing ATCT including communication equipment, roof, windows, shades, and airfield lighting control.

•$675,000 to Cobb County International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia: This award funds the replacement of equipment in the existing ATCT on the tower minimum equipment list that have reached the end of their useful lives.

•$620,628 to Victoria Regional Airport in Texas: This award funds the upgrading of critical communications and weather reporting equipment in the existing ATCT.

•$500,000 to Fullerton Municipal in California: This award funds the rehabilitation of portions of the ATCT with improvements including an ADA compliant stairway, restroom upgrade, sound insulation, IT/security, lighting, and electrical and utility upgrades.

•$500,000 to Ardmore Municipal Airport in Oklahoma: This award funds the renovation of the existing ATCT to include new windows, HVAC system, and communications equipment.

•$360,000 to Caldwell Executive Airport in Idaho: This award funds the preliminary design and environmental study for a new ATCT.

•$350,000 to Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field in Michigan: This award funds improvements to the existing ATCT to include upgrading communication equipment and installing shades for all tower cab windows.

•$254,372 to Lawrence J. Timmerman in Milwaukee, Wisconsin: This award funds improvements to the existing ATCT to include replacement windows, exterior doors, metal facade panels and insulation.

The March 21 funding is from the FAA’s Airport Infrastructure Grants Federal Contract Tower Competitive Grant program, and comes on the heels of nearly $1 billion in funding for 114 airports across the country through the Airport Terminals Program. These grants continue efforts to improve safety by upgrading and building control towers in small towns and at regional airports to sustain, construct, repair, improve, modernize, replace or relocate airport-owned towers and install communications equipment. Learn more at faa.gov/bil.

AOPA Celebrates the Best in Aviation

Continued from Page 32

sented annually to an individual who, like General McGee, persevered to overcome challenges en route to learning to fly – all while inspiring others along the way.

The Hartranft Award, given to an elected or appointed government official for significant contributions to general aviation, was presented to U.S. Rep. Sam

Graves, who currently serves as the chairman of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Throughout his career in Congress, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that general aviation continues to thrive. It marked the second time Graves has won the award, named after AOPA’s first president and former chairman of the

board “Doc” Hartranft.

The Sharples Award is given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to GA, allowing us to enjoy our shared passion. The recipient of this year’s award was John Dobson, President of the Washington Pilots Association, who also helps direct the Washington State Aviation Alliance, through which he

HMEWatch ATC Analog Flight Watch

Was

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

is fiercely advocating for general aviation and airport funding.

Lessing Stern, a longtime supporter of AOPA’s safety programs and an early advocate for the You Can Fly program, was honored with the AOPA Foundation Future of Flight Award. His passion for AOPA programs and initiatives that introduce people to flight and keep them flying safely perfectly embody the award, which celebrates outstanding dedication to strengthening aviation in all forms.

Read more about the 2024 awards and their recipients at the AOPA website, aopa.org.

FAA Aircraft Hangar Leases

Continued from Page 30

tions, thereby rendering the airport ineligible for FAA AIP funding without ample evidence that a given action will definitively result in a noncompliance finding.

AOPA regularly communicates with and advocates for our members at airports, remaining in constant contact with the FAA, state aviation divisions, airport management associations, airport administrations, and airport consultants nationwide to remain informed and involved in ongoing conversations on this issue. The FAA could (and should) provide clarification of its compliance-related expectations with respect to what is and what is not required in how hangar leases are administered.

For more information, visit the AOPA website at aopa.org or the FAA website at faa.gov.

NBAA, Cutter Aviation

Continued from Page 28

ing out for our interests,” Cutter Aviation President and CEO Will Cutter said. “That’s why we’re steadfast in our commitment to supporting NBAA and its mission to help business aviation thrive. We’re proud to be the first participant in the Fueling the Future program, and delighted to have the opportunity to help give NBAA a bigger voice than ever.”

Those who wish to contribute to Fueling the Future, but unable to do so at Cutter Aviation, may also donate to the program. Learn more about Fueling the Future at climbingfast.com or on the NBAA website, nbaa.org.

ATC3500B

ATC2200B

ATP21200B

ATC3255W

ATP1200W

ATC2250X

Was $465 - Now $119.95

The Tecnam

•

•

•

•

AMERICAN HELICOPTER MUSEUM CELEBRATES FLIGHTAND OUTER SPACETHIS SUMMER

Outer space has always fascinated humans. Ancient cultures have created architectural marvels mapping the night sky, as well as other celestial events. Modern people have accelerated space exploration since the first artificial satellite was launched in 1957.

The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center (AHMEC) is no exception. Taking its cue from the 55th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing, the museum will launch several space-oriented programs of its own throughout the year, including children’s workshops about the Saturn V rocket, life in space, and mission to Mars.

Additionally, three week-long summer programs beginning in July through August focus on topics like how big

space is, how far are the stars and planets, what are the challenges of living on Mars, and how powerful is the sun. Participants will learn about all things outer space via exciting demonstrations, science shows, and hands-on activities.

The first program is the Girls in Science & Technology Space Program for girls ages six to nine from July 15 through 19, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily. Secondly is the Girls in Science & Technology Space Program for girls ages 10 through 13 from July 22 through 26, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily. Thirdly is the AHMEC Space Program for boys and girls ages six to 12 from Aug. 5 though 9, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily. All programs offer aftercare from 3 until 5 p.m. for an extra fee, and every participant receives a free helicopter ride!

Additionally, AHMEC will host its annual Flight School summer program for boys and girls ages six to12. Participants will learn about all things flight via exciting demonstrations, science shows, and hands-on activities. The program occurs August 12 though 16, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily, and offers after care from 3 until 5 p.m. for an extra fee, as well as a free helicopter ride.

“We are very excited to bring outer space to West Chester this year,” explained Paul Kahan, AHMEC’s Executive Director. “Not only do we offer many children’s workshops and our amazing summer programs, but we will have a great exhibit entitled, ‘Rockets and Rotors,’ opening on May 24, featuring Snoopy from Charles Schulz’s ‘Peanuts’ cartoon

among other artifacts. Then, on July 20, we will celebrate the 55th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.”

Contact AHMEC at 610-436-9600 or see the website at www.helicoptermus eum.org/summer-programs for more information.

“Come and explore outer space with us and continue the adventure that our ancestors began,” Kahan added.

The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center, located at 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester, is the nation’s premier aviation museum devoted exclusively to helicopters. Established in 1996, the nonprofit organization collects, restores, and displays rotary-wing aircraft, including over 35 civilian and military helicopters, autogyros, and convertiplanes.

MOUNTAIN HIGH OXYGEN EQUIPMENT “VIRTUALLY” ATTENDS SUN ‘N FUN

While not at the Sun ‘n Fun show site this year, Mountain High Equipment and Supply Company is making sure you do not miss out on traditional “Show Specials.” Mountain High offers all the components needed to make sure your supplemental oxygen needs are met, with pressure regulators, mounting brackets, carry cases, and a wide selection of delivery systems that promote optimum use rates and comfort. With new products, like

two-stage regulators, which provide useful pressure with even a nearly empty cylinder, Mountain High continues to be the innovator of aviation oxygen technology.

Visit Mountain High at www.mh oxygen.com from April 7-14 and use discount code “sunnfun10” to knock 10 percent off the purchase price of your order of $100 or more. Not only will you find all the components needed to satisfy your oxygen needs but save money in the

process! As Sun ‘n Fun kicks off the 2024 flying season, take this chance to kick up the capabilities of your plane with a highefficiency, Pulse-demand oxygen system from Mountain High.

Mountian High offers a large variety of oxygen cylinders and everything you need to go with them. Find all their products at mhoxygen.com.

(Courtesy Mountain High)

AND AVIATION EXPANDINGTO ONE-S TOP SHOP

AND Aviation in Auburn, California, is undergoing a major expansion to become a one-stop shop for aircraft owners.

AND Aviation Services performs FAA required inspections on Single/MultiEngine Piston aircraft, Single/MultiEngine Turboprops, Jet and Rotor Aircraft, and Experimental Aircraft. Now with three hangars on the southwest side of the airport grounds, AND has expanded into a full avionics shop and a custom fabrication operation. Magneto service is coming later this summer.

In addition, AND knows that buying an aircraft is a great investment. AND Aviation Services provides pre-purchase inspection services to the prospective aircraft buyer. With extensive experience and knowledge of general aviation aircraft, they are able to examine the aircraft, evaluating the airframe structure, engine, and avionics to determine any potential damage or wear that an untrained eye may not see.

“AND Aviation Services was creat-

ed due to customer demand. Our expectation is to get you back in the air safely, quickly and on time. When you rely on AND Aviation Services for the maintenance of your aircraft, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with the most trusted and experienced professionals in the business. We pride ourselves in exceeding all FAA standards,” noted Mike Town, A&P/IA and fabrication specialist for the business.

“We have more than 30 years of experience in aviation maintenance,” added Town. (If the name Mike Town sounds familiar… think Reno Air Races!) Town has helped field several Reno Racers including Rare Bear, Precious Metal, and a few Formula 1 racers to several podium finishes. He’s excited about the expansion at AND, where he’ll put his skills to work in a large hangar space with the latest equipment. He also specializes in American Champion, Pitts, Extra, and other aerobatic/experimental aircraft.

Town added that AND is conve-

niently located near all Sacramento Area airports above the fog and below the snow and offers “valet” services if you want to be picked up and/or dropped off at your home airport!

And, if you’re wondering about the company name, well it’s personal… AND Aviation Services was created by Amy and Nick DiPeso which is where the name AND comes from. Nick DiPeso has been a pilot and mechanic for more than 20 years and has experience on a vast variety of aircraft including pistons, turbo props, jets and helicopters; so just about every kind of aircraft in the sky. Nick was in corporate aviation for 16 years when he started a family, which brought him to Auburn, where he could focus more on family life.

Nick values honesty, integrity, accountability and safety above all which means you are in excellent hands when he is servicing your aircraft. Amy has been working in the financial industry for more than 15 years. When Nick and Amy are not working, they enjoy a busy home

With more than 30 years of experience in general aviation aircraft maintenance, AND Aviation is able to guide aircraft owners through the inspection process. AND is in the process of becoming a fullservice one-stop shop in Auburn, Calif., adding a full avionics shop and custom fabrication operation, with magneto service on the horizon.

(Courtesy AND Aviation)

life with their two children.

AND Aviation is located at 12845 Bill Clark Way, hangar #51 in Auburn. Call for an appointment, 530-562-7913, or visit their website, https://andaviation services.com/, for more information.

C ASTLE & COOKE AVIATION WELCOMES NEW VNY GENERAL MANAGER

Castle & Cooke Aviation, a premier provider of full FBO services, announced on March 22, the appointment of Gregory Wain as the new general manager of its Van Nuys (KVNY) FBO.

With an illustrious career spanning over three decades in real estate property management, Wain brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.

Wain’s journey in property management began in 1984 when he acquired both a Real Estate License and a Broker’s License. Over the years, he has effectively managed a diverse portfolio of commercial and residential properties, demonstrating his proficiency in overseeing complex operations and fostering sustainable growth.

Prior to joining Castle & Cooke Aviation, Wain served as property manager

and general manager for Santa Monica Airport’s Supermarine (KSMO) –which became Atlantic Aviation in 2005 –for nearly three decades. During his tenure, he managed more than 350,000 square feet of office space and 77 hangars, overseeing iconic establishments such as The Museum of Flying, DC3 Restaurant and American Golf Company Headquarters. Under his leadership, the FBO flourished as a hub of aviation excellence and hospitality –this experience will undoubtedly translate well to his new role with Castle & Cooke Aviation.

Tony Marlow, president of aviation operations and business development at Castle & Cooke Aviation, expressed his warm welcome to Wain: “We are thrilled to have Gregory join our team as the general manager of our Van Nuys FBO. His extensive background in FBO general management and

property management, along with his dedication to exceptional customer service, align perfectly with our company’s values of nonstop excellence and nonstop elegance.”

Wain’s approach to customer service is deeply rooted in building strong relationships with tenants and employees alike. He believes in prioritizing personalized experiences, ensuring that every interaction exceeds expectations. His commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment reflects Castle & Cooke Aviation’s ethos of delivering unparalleled service to its clientele.

In his new role, Wain will lead the Van Nuys FBO team in upholding the highest standards of service excellence and operational efficiency. With his visionary leadership and proven track record, Castle & Cooke Aviation is

poised to elevate the aviation experience for all its customers.

Castle & Cooke Aviation is a part of the David H. Murdock family of companies.

Castle & Cooke, Inc. and its affiliated companies represent a diversified business portfolio that in addition to private aviation services includes the development and ownership of residential and commercial real estate.

For more information, visit www.castlecookeaviation.com and Castle and Cooke on social media platforms.

AOPA MEMBERS BRING AVIATION LICENSE PLATETO FLORIDA DRIVERS

A general aviation license plate will soon be available for purchase in Florida because of the passionate efforts of three aviators with support from the AOPA advocacy team.

Local Florida pilots Joseph Hurtuk, Dr. Ian Goldbaum, and Richard Golightly bonded over their shared interest in aviation and determination to give back to the industry. They designed a Support General Aviation specialty license plate to reflect the economic impact aviation has on the state – which is ranked third in the U.S. for the total number of pilots, aircraft, and airports.

Proceeds from the sale of the specialty plate will help fund aviation education scholarships for Floridians managed through the Aerospace Center for Excellence in Lakeland, Florida.

The three pilots worked with AOPA Southern Regional Manager Stacey Heaton to collaborate with elected officials to promote the plate. Integral to legislative efforts to pass the plate through the House and Senate were state Rep. Doug Bankson (R-District 39) and his office, and state Sen. Gayle Harrell (R-District 83) and her office. Thanks to ongoing collaboration, the plate has passed through the Florida

legislature and is headed to the governor’s desk for signature – which was anticipated by the end of March.

“Special thanks go to Representative Bankson and Senator Harrell,” said Heaton. “The representative’s own passion for aviation and the senator’s recognition of our members’ passion for aviation made this effort possible.”

Once signed, coordination with the state to get these plates to the public begins. Pre-sales for the plate are slated to begin Oct. 1 and 3,000 sales are required before a single unit can be produced. Learn more at aopa.org.

A general aviation license plate will soon be available for purchase in Florida thanks to the dedication of three local aviators. From left, Richard Golightly, Dr. Ian Goldbaum, and Joseph Hurtuk. (Eric Flaig/Ccourtesy AOPA)

ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR NATIONAL GA FLYOVER

Successful Practice Run Over Washington, D.C., Sets Stage For May Celebration

Call it a practice. Call it a dress rehearsal. Call it a complete success!

Four aircraft took off from Frederick Municipal Airport on March 24, and headed for the skies over the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on a test run for the AOPA National Celebration of General Aviation Flyover, to be held on May 11.

“We have spent many hours planning for the event, but there is nothing like flying the actual route and testing all factors,” said AOPA Vice President of Airports and State Advocacy Mike Ginter, who will also serve as the air boss for the upcoming celebration. “We learned a lot from this warm-up flight and are even more excited for the May event – it will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration for those flying and all of the aviation enthusiasts around the world tuning in to our live feed.”

AOPA President Mark Baker lifted off from Frederick at 11:46 a.m. in his

Cessna Caravan, followed by Pete Muntean in his American Champion Super Decathlon, Adam Williams in his Rockwell Commander, and Ginter in his Beechcraft Bonanza A36. The flight of four headed toward D.C., turning over the Potomac River and down Independence Avenue next to the National Mall, not far from the U.S. Capitol. The flyover route that the four pilots followed – and that many more will follow in May – passes through Washington's most sensitive airspace, prohibited area P-56, where no GA aircraft has been allowed to fly since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

“One of my favorite things about GA is always discovering something new,” Baker said after landing. “This flight gave me a view of Washington that is rarely seen, and I can’t wait for May and the real thing! Everyone associated with GA should tune in on May 11, since we are all part of this amazing story.”

Baker will lead the GA flyover in his Beechcraft Staggerwing 17, followed by a wide array of aircraft representing GA’s storied history. The more than 60 aircraft, comprising 20 different “chapters,” will tell the story of GA in the United States, from those in the Golden Age and representing GA after World War II to the GA trainer era, vertical flight, backcountry flying, seaplanes, corporate and business aviation, technically advanced aircraft, experimental homebuilts, airshow performers, and other examples of GA aircraft that support public service missions. The event will also showcase technological advancements that have greatly advanced GA’s safety record.

The flyover is being closely coordinated with 15 interagency partners including the FAA, the Transportation Security Administration, the Secret Service, and the Capitol Police, and has the support of Congress. It will be broadcast live on AOPA’s YouTube channel

with commentary from longtime AOPA Live This Week host Tom Haines and noted journalist Miles O’Brien.

The celebration will also coincide with AOPA’s 85th anniversary in May.

“The history of GA and our own AOPA story are so intertwined. We feel these celebrations are one and the same,” Baker added.

TRAVEL + LEISURE LISTS EAA AVIATION MUSEUM AMONG 10 BEST AVIATION MUSEUMSIN U.S.

The EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh has been named one of the nation’s 10 best aviation museums by Travel + Leisure in a feature published on its website on March 14.

The feature, 10 Best Aviation Museums Around the U.S., highlights the choices of the Travel + Leisure staff, as well as aviation historians and experts. The list includes museums in nine states and the District of Columbia.

“The recognition from Travel + Leisure is much appreciated, as EAA takes great pride in our facility and telling the story of personal flight from the

Wright brothers to space missions,” said Chris Henry, EAA Aviation Museum manager. “We continue to develop and enhance our exhibits to create an even better connection to the rich legacy and promising future of aviation. This recognition is a credit to our staff, volunteers, and EAA members who have made this a unique home for those who enjoy the world of flight.”

The Travel + Leisure recognition is the latest for the EAA facility, as it has been highlighted by CNN Travel as one of the 20 Best Aviation Museums Around the World and earlier this year as a top

aviation museum by Group Travel Leader.

Along with its extensive aircraft collection, the EAA museum is noted for its seasonal Pioneer Airport operation, which allows visitors to take flight in a vintage biplane and young people ages 817 to enjoy Young Eagles flights. The museum is also a center of activity during the annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh flyin, which brings more than 10,000 aircraft and an attendance surpassing 600,000 to Oshkosh each July. Learn more about the museum at https://www .eaa.org/eaa-museum.

The EAA Aviation Museum has been named one of the best 10 aviation museums in the country. (Courtesy EAA)

AOPA President Mark Baker pilots his Cessna Caravan over the National Mall during the practice run for the May 11 AOPA National Celebration of GA Flyover. (Courtesy David Tulis/AOPA)

Recognizing Excellence In Aviation

AOPA'S NATIONAL BEST CFI AND FLIGHT SCHOOL TURN S TUDENTSINTO FAMILY

By Niki Britton AOPA

Years of experience, the ability to build student confidence, and going above and beyond for students and employees were just some of the characteristics that the top instructor and flight school in the 2024 AOPA Flight Training Experience Awards shared this year.

Having a family-like dynamic, however, proved to be the most predominant trait of all. AOPA announced the national winners of best flight school and CFI at this year’s Redbird Migration held at the Lone Star Flight Museum in Houston, Texas, on March 5 and 6.

152 and Piper Archer. She takes a somewhat traditional approach to flight instructing by following a syllabus, but also pushes her students out of their comfort zones with flights to some of the California Bay Area’s busiest towered airports and even requires spin training for all her primary students, which is an unusual practice for primary students.

“Because I allow my students to go practice stalls on their own and minimum controllable airspeed, the slow flight and all that, I think it’s very important that they learn how to recognize that they are getting close to that spin and how to successfully recover from that,” Watt said.

“It is that shock and awe”

The 2024 Flight Training Experience Awards CFI said her favorite part of flight instructing is the first flight. “I love that first flight… It is that shock and awe on their face that is priceless no matter the age.”

Confidence is key

National best flight school/pacific region: Mike Smith Aviation

“It’s like a second family!”

go above and beyond to make the learning environment comfortable, fun, and safe.

(Stephen Schroeder/Courtesy AOPA)

National best CFI/Pacific region:

Margaret Watt

“Did you have fun today?…” is written on the back of CFI Margaret Watt’s business card and is the all-important question she asks of all her students after each flight –and she really means it.

Unbeknownst to her parents, Watt started her flight training at 16 years old and paid her own way through all her ratings by working as an arcade mechanic at her family’s flea market in the California Bay Area.

Following her first solo and arriving home late, Watt’s parents pressed her for answers about her whereabouts to which she replied that she had just performed her first solo flight. Her parents responded with concern about the dangers of flying but “all of sudden my dad said, ‘Let’s just let her do it, it’s a phase she’s going through…’ and here we are today.”

Now a retired corporate and airline pilot, Watt has been flight instructing since 1985. Based out of her hangar at the Hollister Municipal Airport in California, Watt offers flight training in her Cessna

Watt’s students all seem to share the same sentiment: She’s a great instructor who makes them feel safe and confident in their abilities. Not only that, but Watt’s students also enjoy a sense of belonging and camaraderie with one another and their local aviation community thanks to social events hosted by Watt at her hangar.

Set up for success

When looking for a CFI, Watt explained that it’s important to fly with an instructor at least three times to develop a rapport with that person, “if you’re not learning and not having fun, find someone else.”

For new CFIs, Watt suggests putting into practice the best parts of their own flight training experiences as well as getting advice from other instructors in their network. “I take all of the bad training that I’ve had, and I make it better here,” Watt said. Today, Watt has almost 8,800 hours of dual instruction given and 29,000 hours total time, and every so often still reaches out to her first flight instructor and others for advice.

“I practice what I preach, I’m all about safety. I want you to have fun when you’re learning to fly, I want you learn something each time, and I want you to be safe.”

The moment you step into the lobby of Mike Smith Aviation a feeling of welcome takes over. From the smiling faces at the front desk to the energetic greeting from Gipsy the flight school dog, the vibe of this flight school feels a lot like coming home. Located at the Napa County Airport in the heart of the beautiful California wine country, Mike Smith and his wife Kimberly Sanders Smith have been taking students from primary to airline transport pilot at their Napa location since 2019. The couple moved their operations to Napa from Rancho Murieta at the invitation of the local FBO and county.

Five years later, the flight school now boasts more than 50 full- and parttime flight students, a retention rate of about 80 percent, and sees nearly 15 checkrides per month with a first-time pass rate of 95 percent. In addition to Mike and Kimberly, the school employs four full-time and five part-time CFIs.

Mike and Kimberly, both experienced and passionate aviators and CFIs, were introduced by none other than John and Martha King of Kings Schools. The couple share a palpable passion for teaching and a wealth of experience that is passed down to their CFIs and students.

Not a one-size-fits-all school

Mike Smith Aviation prides itself on treating each student as an individual; taking the time to understand each person’s needs, learning style, and aspirations; and then making sure the learner has everything they need to meet those needs and expectations, giving them an enjoyable and rich learning experience.

Mike, Kimberly, and their instructors

“It’s like a second family,” said private pilot and student Jessica Arciero. “These people have grown into my closest friends, and I look forward to coming here every single day.” Arciero comes from a flying family but was nervous to begin her flight training. After a few flights at the school, the Smiths noticed that Arciero was cancelling her lessons, “I was kind of having a tough time and I was feeling a little stagnant in my training,” Arciero said. “Kim called me and said don’t worry about your training, we’re just going to go have fun.” Mike Smith took her on a flight for ice cream in Half Moon Bay. The flight reinvigorated her love for flying. “It was such a touching thing for them to do,” Arciero said.

‘We’re not here to get you started, we’re here to get you to checkride’

“We looked at what people didn’t like about flight schools, and we tried to address that when we established our business, so we thought we were good,” Smith said of being recognized in the 2024 Flight Training Experience Awards. “We’ve had different accolades over the years, but this is especially meaningful because it’s our students rating us… Our whole philosophy is about making it a great experience for our students so that they want to come here, they have an environment that easy to learn in, and that they can get through without any disruption to their training.” Smith also prides themselves in the high percentage of woman pilots that come through school; 30 percent of the schools sign-offs are women.

Full service

Mike Smith also pointed out that his school is financially successful and rewarding for himself because it’s not just a flight school, it’s also a business of renting their own aircraft and doing their own aircraft maintenance; Mike is also an experienced A&P IA. “That’s how I can pay my rent, pay my instructors, pay myself, and do all wonderful things we do for our students,” Smith said. The school is a Cessna Pilot Center and provides most of its training in the flightschool-owned Cessna 172s. The school also has a Cessna 150 for time building, a Cessna 162 Skycatcher, and Beechcraft Duchesses for multiengine training.

National flight instructor of the year Margaret Watt loves a first flight, the “shock and awe on their face that is priceless no matter the age.”

Kimberly Sanders Smith and Mike Smith (at left) with instructors, students, and the flight school dog, Gipsy. (Courtesy AOPA)

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.

AND AND

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.

MEETING YOUR SPRING NEEDSAT AIRCRAFT SPRUCE

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 –aircraftspruce.com –and in the famous Aircraft Spruce catalog, available online or for free by calling 1-877-477-7823. You can depend on Aircraft Spruce for prompt shipping and competitive pricing on all orders.

RPX Technologies Drybot Automated Engine Dehydrator Kit With Accessories

Aircraft engines usually don’t wear out, they rust out! Particularly cams and lifters in owner-flown aircraft, which may not fly at least once per week.

Cheaper than an overhaul! The DryBot engine dehydrator is totally automated and can be left unattended. It’s designed to maintain internal engine humidity below the critical relative humidity at which corrosion occurs on steel surfaces such as cams and lifters. Armed with 12 sensors, the DryBot continually monitors for system and setup faults to ensure system performance. “Green light, you’re good!” Each unit sells for $1,195.

ECT HFC-423 Hangar Floor Cleaner

neat for spot treating. ECT-Hangar Floor Cleaner can be used with all conventional cleaning methods, including, automatic floor scrubbing, mop and bucket and pressure washing.

The one-gallon size sells for $17.50, 5-gallons for $73.75 and a 55-gallon drum for $697.

Precise Flight Oxypack4 – 4 Person Flow Meter Oxygen System

This complete portable oxygen solution for four people includes the 22 cubic foot portable bottle kit and the four person Flow Meter kit.

Each kit includes:

•1-22 CU. Ft. Aluminum Oxygen Cylinder

•1-Carrying Case With Seatback Harness

•4-A-5 Oxygen Flow Meter With Tubing And CPC Connector

•4-Oxymizer Cannula For Use With Flow Meters

•4-Standard Face Mask - Certified to 25,000 Feet

•1-Four-Person Oxygen Pressure Regulator

•4-FLOWGLOW for use with A-5 Flow Meter

The kits are currently on sale from $1,629 down to $1,479.

Lift Safety Apex Gel Knee Guards

•Fully adjustable two strap design resists slipping

•Textured TPR knee cap maximizes traction and stability on all surfaces

•Ballistic nylon construction resists abrasion for increased durability

•Designed to prevent “roll-off” on hard surfaces

Each pair sells for $57.75. Lift offers a variety of kneepads and gloves. They also offer sunglasses and shoes. See their selection at aircraftspruce.com.

Aerobrew Pilot Blend Air Roasted Coffee - Medium Dark Roast

Get ready to take off with Aerobrew’s Pilot Blend! This smooth medium dark roast is perfect for coffee lovers and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Enjoy the rich, bold flavor of Pilot Blend that’s been carefully crafted to give you an unparalleled coffee experience. Whether you’re a pilot or just a fan of aviation, Pilot Blend will have you soaring high!

Made with coffee beans from Central and South America. Tasting notes are cocoa, caramel, and some vanilla tones.

The coffee is air-roasted in small batches and freshly ground so you get optimal flavor and freshness.

Designed for use with all hangar floor surfaces, the ECTHangar Floor Cleaner is a highly concentrated low foam floor cleaner, effective to remove difficult soils associated with aircraft hangars. Can also be used for all other routine cleaning.

ECT-Hangar Floor Cleaner is a cleaner-concentrate and can be diluted 1 oz. per gallon of water (1:128) for everyday cleaning. Use 4 oz. per gallon of water for heavily soiled areas (1:32) or

The Apex Gel is Lift’s flagship kneepad. It offers an innovative internal gel insert that molds and forms to the patella and kneecap, maximizing stabilization and protection. The hinged upper support strap is removable and prevents binding while the TPR cap maximizes tracking and stability on all surfaces.

•Internal gel insert forms to patella and knee cap, maximizing stabilization and protection

•Hinged upper support strap is removable and prevents binding

Purchase options include ground or whole bean in 12-ounce packages ($16.95) or five-pound packages ($79.95). Along with Aerobrew’s Pilot Blend, look for Aerobrew Warbird Blend Air-Roasted coffee (dark roast), Aerobrew Wake Turbulence Air-Roasted coffee (medium roast), Aerobrew ATC Blend Air-Roasted coffee (dark roast), Aerobrew Warbird Blend Air-Roasted coffee pods (dark roast) and Aerobrew Pilot Blend Air-Roasted coffee pods (medium-dark roast).

Maintenance Handbook For Van’s RV Aircraft

This book is a culmination of more than 45 years of experience working on and maintaining all types of Van’s RV aircraft. It should be the ultimate reference guide for you or your mechanic to inspect and maintain the aircraft throughout its life. Using the checklist and accompanying pictures

will be almost as good as having the author working over your shoulder. This book contains 151 pages and 443 pictures. It is spiral bound to enhance use in the shop. The purchaser will be able to see the issue and how to repair it. It is essential for Van’s RV and Lycoming piston engine owners who do their own maintenance.

The book sells for $69.95.

Kore Aviation KA-1 Passive Headset With Headset BagDual GA Plugs

The set features mono and stereo compatibility, passive noise reduction, noise canceling microphone, gel ear seals, adjustable headband, and headset bag.

Perfect aviation headset for all: pilots, passengers, instructors, student pilots, flight schools and more. It provides maximum comfort with ultra-soft gel ear seals, clear sound with exceptional noise reduction, durability built to last and luxury you can feel with the highest-quality materials. Until supplies last, receive a free custom carry bag with every purchase of headset.

Each set sells for $199.95.

Aircraft Spruce at Aviation Events

Find Aircraft Spruce at the following events:

Sun ‘n Fun

Date: April 9-14, 2024

City, State: Lakeland, FL

Booth: Hangar B, Booths 1-9

Great Alaska Aviation Gathering

Date: May 4-5, 2024

City, State: Palmer, AK

Booth:Booth # 174

EAA AirVenture

Date: July 22-28, 2024

City, State: Oshkosh, WI

Booths: Hangar A, Booths 1022-1029

NBAA – National Business Aviation Association

Date: Oct. 22-24, 2024

City, State: Las Vegas, NV

Booth:TBD

MCFARLANE ACQUIRES PMA PRODUCTS, INC.

McFarlane Aviation announced on March 15 the acquisition of PMA Products, Inc. For over 20 years, PMA Products and McFarlane have collaborated closely on product development, distribution, and manufacturing of critical components to support the general aviation community.

Charlie and Pam Causey built and proudly owned PMA Products, and years ago partnered with Dave McFarlane to serve the GA market, united by their shared passion for the industry. As Charlie Causey expresses, “There’s no better company to take the reins of our business going forward.”

PMA Products produces reliable and affordable FAA-PMA approved products for a wide range of aircraft models such as Piper, Beechcraft, and Cessna, as well as PT6 turboshaft engines. The company’s product line consists of hundreds of FAAPMA products, including bolts, bearings, bushings, and seals for the landing gear, caps, seals, and gaskets for fuel systems, bearings and hinges for flight control systems, engine components, and much more.

“PMA Products has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality FAA-PMA replacement parts,” said Scott Still, CEO of McFarlane. “We’re very happy that Pam and Charlie have placed their trust in McFarlane to join our family of brands. Our mission remains to keep

our customers flying.”

McFarlane currently offers more than 35,000 parts to the general aviation marketplace. They are a leading provider of high-quality aircraft parts, accessories, and innovative solutions for general aviation. McFarlane is the distinguished owner of a diverse family of brands, including CJ Aviation, Flight-Resource (MT Propellers), Airforms, and their new addition of PMA Products.

McFarlane is part of the General Aviation Group of Vance Street. Nicholas Janneck, Partner at Vance Street, added, “Vance Street is thrilled to partner with another leading FAA-PMA manufacturing group that provides products that every general aviation aircraft needs and frequently replaces.” This acquisition further solidifies Vance Street’s thesis on finding niche, highly engineered solution providers in the aerospace and defense markets. Other active investments include Jet Parts Engineering, Spectra A&D Holdings, Tempest Aero Group, and McFarlane Aviation.

For more information on PMA Products, visit the McFarlane website at https://www.mcfarlaneaviation.com/ .

HARTZELL PROPELLER ACQUIRES WHIRLWIND PROPELLERS

Hartzell Propeller (“Hartzell”), a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management, on March 13 announced the acquisition of substantially all the assets of WhirlWind Propellers Corporation (“WhirlWind Propellers” or the “Company”), expanding Hartzell’s product portfolio into light-sport aircraft.

Founded in 1995, WhirlWind Propellers manufactures composite constant-speed and ground-adjustable propellers for the light-sport, experimental and unmanned aircraft markets. The Company also designs proof of concept propellers for emerging applications. Hartzell Propeller plans to retain the WhirlWind brand and product offerings.

JJ Frigge, President of Hartzell Propeller, commented, “The acquisition allows Hartzell to further expand WhirlWind’s rapid propeller development capabilities for the design, tooling and manufacturing of advanced carbon composite propellers.”

Hartzell will retain the services of Jim Rust, former President of WhirlWind Propellers. Rust’s technological expertise with rapid prototyping composite propeller systems further enhances Hartzell’s existing capabilities.

Rust added, “I am excited to be part of the Hartzell Propeller team and eager to see the WhirlWind brand continue to thrive under Hartzell’s leadership.”

Hartzell Propeller is a global leader in advanced technology aircraft propeller design and manufacturing for business, commercial and government customers. With more than a century of experience, the company designs next-generation propellers with innovative blended airfoil technology and manufactures them with revolutionary machining centers, robotics and custom resin transfer molding curing stations. Hartzell Propeller is headquartered in Piqua, Ohio. For more information, visit https://hartzellprop.com.

Continued on Page 43

TECNAM P2012 MEDEVAC IN TAIWAN: A YEARLY REPORT

In 2020, Apex Aviation purchased a state-of-the-art multi-mission Tecnam P2012 Sentinel SMP to enhance the organization’s operational capabilities.

Upon joining the company’s fleet in 2021, the first P2012 Sentinel SMP was deployed on multiple missions, including parachute jumping and aerial tours. With Medevac operations on the horizon, Apex Aviation has introduced a second P2012 SMP to join the fleet in 2023.

It is now possible to draw a balance with some very impressive figures after a year of emergency medical operations. In 2023, Apex flew 103 missions with the P2012, totaling 333 flight hours, bringing relief and assistance to various areas in Taiwan, and in many cases saving lives. Apex’s MEDEVAC team consists of eight pilots and five mechanics for four Tecnam P2012s.

In air rescue, nobody and nothing can fail, a principle that both people and aircraft must obey.

Apex, the only professional flight training organization in Taiwan, has expanded its operations with the multimission capabilities of the P2012 Sentinel SMP performing: passenger transportation, air ambulance missions, sightseeing tours, parachute jumping, aerial photography and more.

Most operations are to/from RCBS Kinnen and RCSS Taipei Songshan Airport.

The Italian-made P2012 aircraft is capable of carrying nine passengers and two pilots. The introduction of the aircraft into the Apex fleet provides their customers with cost-effective and various configuration options, while always offering experiences that exceed passenger’s expectation, such as air-conditioning, in-seat power, widest leg-room in its class and under-seat storage space.

Cutting-edge avionics by Garmin offers pilots all the information they require for day, night, IFR and PBN operations, making operations to any airfield another key factor in the choice of aircraft.

Giovanni Pascale Langer, Managing Director Tecnam: “Apex is the perfect customer for our P2012. They can take

In 2023, Apex flew 103 missions with the P2012, totaling 333 flight hours, bringing relief and assistance to various areas in Taiwan, and in many cases saving lives. (Courtesy Tecnam)

full advantage of the multi-mission capabilities of our 11-seater. This way they can tailor different missions with the same platform”.

Wilson Chien Yu Kao, CEO Apex Aviation sa, “We believe it’s the spacious cabin and low operating costs that set the P2012 apart, while advanced avionics provide the pilot with situational awareness not found in other last-generation competitors. In Taiwan the P2012 is the best choice because of its low operating costs. However, we see many potential contracts in Taiwan that make P2012 the only choice for fixed wing operations.”

Apex is the first and only professional flight training organization in Taiwan, headquartered in the metropolitan area of Taipei and our flight training base is located in beautiful sunny Taitung Fengnian (RCFN) Airport.

Apex offers world-class training environment with focuses on safety and airlineoriented training. They aspire to become an important base for training Asian pilots, right from the heart of Asia, Taiwan. Learn more at https://www.apexflightacademy.co/.

For further details on the P2012 STOL and the P2012 Series aircraft, visit www.tecnam.com or contact Francesco Sferra, Tecnam P2012, Special Mission Platforms Sales and Business Development Manager; tel +39 345 782 7020 or email; f.sferra@tecnam.com.

P2012 sales representatives are also available locally in Argentina, Australia, UK, USA.

Hartzell Propeller

Continued from Page 42

Hartzell Aviation is a group of firewall forward companies and products. Their brands include Hartzell Propeller, Hartzell Aerospace Welding and Hartzell Engine Tech. For more information visit https://hartzellaviation.com.. Arcline Investment Management is a growth-ori-

ented private equity firm with $8.9 billion in cumulative capital commitments. Arcline seeks to invest in technology driven, meaningful to the world industrial businesses that enable a better future. For more information visit https://arcline.com.

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

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

HELICOPTORS

5 Bell 212s 1996-1991, current maintenance, one owner. Bell 412, 33017 SN, 0 engine OH. Hudson Flight Limited, (806) 662-5823, or (971) 241-8473.6/20

STOL

The STOL Super Breezy with fully covered fuselage. Yakima Aerosport, (509) 453-3412, superbreezy.com.5/23

Savannah S, premier light-sport STOL platform. Flight4U, LLC, Napa, CA, (707) 485-2644, Jeff@flight4u.biz.9/23

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, idaerospace.com.1/22

Fly for fun or career. Discovery flights, pilot training, AOPA Distinguished Flight School & Cessna Pilot Center. Smith Aviation Napa, Napa County Airport, (707) 345-6526, mikesmithaviation.com. 4/22

MAINTENANCE/INSPECTIONS

XL Aviation - Aircraft Maintenance. 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.com 9/23

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. Great service and value pricing. 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

4720:TFN

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

AIRCRAFT FINANCING

Get Top Retail Value for Your Aircraft! Sell now! Find your dream aircraft! Shop now! Become an area broker with one of the largest networks in the U.S.! Visit our USA Aircraft Brokers page on Facebook or visit usaaircraft.com. 9/23

INSURANCE

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

See what you are missing with new models from Rosen Sunvisor Systems. rosenvisor.com, (800) 284-7677.7/20

Apparel as unique as your journey

Discounts to members. AOPA Pilot Gear, aopapilotgear.com.9/21

InPhones with pilot keypad. Convenience at one low price! Only $199/year. (650) 504-8549, (408) 234-0045.10/21

Mountain Bike, Full-size, pilot-friendly, rugged. FLATBIKE, flatbike.com.10/18

AVIATION

FUEL

Fuel Cells. Repair, overhaul or new. New tanks with 10-year warranty. Hartwig

8886, www.mensrightslawyers.com. Offices of Stuart J. Faber.4/10

Aero & Marine Tax Pros

Legally avoid sales tax on your aircraft purchase. In El Grove, CA, (916) 691-9192, aeromarinetaxpros.com.18500:TFN

Left Seat Pilot Medical Solutions. A 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) 6GBL- AIR, (413) 335-7507.4/22

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

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

Lakeside, energy-efficient Oasis in Burson, CA. Visit 12615brandy.com for photos and a virtual tour.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

Avionics Checklists & Quick Reference gudes. Available in book, card & new iPad editions. qref.com.8/14

SEAK, Expert Witness Directory, by Bert Botta for aviation accidents and incidents. (415) 320-9811, bert@bertbotta. com, bertbotta.com.4/22

"Ghosts," Phil Makanna's legendary warbird calendars are back! Visit ghosts. com, (800) 331-8231.2/23

New Pocket guide to avoid pain & stiffness during travel by a leading pain expert. "Pain-Free Vacation/Travel," (980) 785-8128, goptfirst@gmail.com.2/4

PILOT POSITION WANTED

SoCal pilot desires Turbine/Jet SIC time. Comm/Instru/Multi-Eng with SIC for Gulfstream G-IV and scores of hours in the Citation V560. Many years of aircraft design/flight test/aerospace industry experience. Willing to travel as needed (and for repositioning). Contact Paul at (562) 714-6686 or ptglessner@ aol.com. 23700:TFN

HELP WANTED

IN FLIGHT USA, the leading source of general aviation news, seeks writers and photographers to cover all aspects of aviation. Send an SASE for writer’s guidelines to: In Flight USA, P.O. Box 5402, San Mateo, CA 94402.TFN

Oakland Aviation Museum recruiting volunteers.Oakland, CA, (510) 638-7100, oaklandaviationmuseum.org.12/23

MUSEUMS

Rowland Freedom Center Vacaville, CA, (707) 449-3402 rowlandfreedomcenter.org

Castle Air Museum

World's largest static display of vintage military aircraft from late 1930s. Atwater, CA, (209) 723-2178 castleairmuseum.org

Wings of History Air Museum San Martin, CA, (408) 683-2290 wingsofhistory.org

Planes of Fame Air Museum Chino, CA, (909) 597-3722 planesoffame.org

Pacific Coast Air Museum Santa Rosa, CA, (707) 575-7900 pacificcoastairmuseum.org

Oakland Aviation Museum Oakland, CA, (510) 638-7100 oaklandaviationmuseum.org

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Flabob Airport, Jurupa Valley, CA (951) 683-2309, flabob.org. A nonprofit airport fostering a passion for flying in young people. Donations welcome.

Aircraft Owners & Pilots Assn. aopa.org

DONATIONS Needed! Non-profit youth aviation program teaching High School kids to build a Zenith 750 Cruzer — then learn to fly in it! It’s 70% completed. Need a usable O-200 engine to make kids’ dreams come true! Full value tax benefit. Bill (818) 634-9762.4/23

“TURNINGTHE TIDE – 1944” 80-YEAR COMMEMORATION AT EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH 2024

EAA will pay tribute to the heroes and sacrifices made during the Normandy landings on D-Day (June 6, 1944), and throughout the year 1944, with an 80-year “Turning the Tide” commemoration at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 on July 23-24.

“As the number of veterans from WWII who are still with us are dwindling, it is important to commemorate the events of 1944, and the importance of the campaigns in both Europe and the Pacific to preserve freedom,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This year’s programming during AirVenture week will connect the human events and aviation history of that year so those of us today have a better understanding of those times.”

A collection of C-47s from the DDay Squadron will be on display as part of the commemoration. The Squadron

features a fleet of unique C-47 aircraft from throughout the United States. Many of these aircraft will be part of a commemorative mission to Europe in May and June 2024. The C-47 played a vital

role in transporting more than 13,000 paratroopers to Utah Beach for the Normandy landings. Afternoon air shows on July 23-24 will feature warbirds from both the Pacific and European theaters,

including the World War II Airborne Demonstration Team. The team will be jumping from their own C-47 using traditional round canopy parachutes, reminiscent of the paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions who risked their lives in Normandy.

The Theater in the Woods presentation on the evening of Tuesday, July 23, will focus on 1944 as well. The presentation will be split into two parts: the first will retell the story of 1944, while the second part will go into detail about the aircraft. More details about the presentation, including guests, will be announced as they are finalized.

Additional aircraft that played key roles in 1944 have also been invited to participate, and EAA and EAA Warbirds of America continue to plan activities as part of the commemoration.

Learn more about the C-47s at AirVenture on EAA’s website, eaa.org.

AERO CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARYWITH FOCUSON SUSTAINABILITY

The 30th anniversary of AERO, slated for April 17 - 20, 2024, will focus on the future of aviation. Sustainable aviation fuels, new propulsion systems, new energy sources and new aerodynamic concepts form a bundle of innovations that will lead aviation into the future. At the anniversary airshow on Saturday (April 20), aircraft with electric propulsion will also be in the air.

“We are currently experiencing more exciting innovations in aviation than we have seen for years: electric flight, flying with hydrogen and fuel cells, sustainably produced fuels, new aerodynamic concepts and major advances in lightweight design show that aviation has accepted the challenges and has solutions ready that will lead to a sustainable future. We are proud that we have been supporting this process for years with the e-Flight Expo and actively accompanying it with new formats such as the AERO Hydrogen & Battery Summit,” explained Tobias Bretzel, AERO show director at fairnamic GmbH.

The importance of AERO for sustainable aviation is underlined by leading global manufacturers who will be presenting their innovations for the future to the expert AERO audience as exhibitors. These include Safran Electrical & Power, VoltAero, Zuri, BRM, H55, Electra Solar, Aura Aero, Kas-Aero and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), one of the world’s

leading aerospace research institutions.

With the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail, the trade fair organizers are using green balloons at the stands to highlight exhibitors who are particularly dedicated to the topic of sustainable aviation. This year, there will be more stations on the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail than ever before.

The AERO Hydrogen & Battery Summit is taking place for the second time as part of AERO. After the inaugural event attracted a great deal of international attention, this year’s top-class specialist conference will be expanded to include the important topic of battery technology and will start on the afternoon of April 16.

Sustainability in aviation is holistic and not limited to pure flight operations and aircraft. Manufacturers have already developed products that enable lowemission training for pilots and technicians by using virtual reality (VR) to replace real flights and dangerous and challenging situations. Apps and flight planning software enable climate-optimized routings that make optimal use of winds and even avoid the formation of contrails in commercial aviation.

A one-hour airshow on Saturday (April 20) will also feature aircraft with electric propulsion. At AERO, the trade fair organizers will also offer a look back with the anniversary exhibition “30th

AERO,” in which photos and documents show the long and successful history of the trade fair in Friedrichshafen.

“Aviation has a long tradition, but also a great future, and this future is sustainable,” Bretzel is convinced. At the anniversary AERO 2024, visitors will be able to see this for themselves. “Aviation has a long tradition, but also a great future, and this future is sustainable,” added Bretzel. Visitors can see this for themselves at the anniversary AERO 2024.

Find further information at https://www.aero-expo.com/ and https:// www.linkedin.com/showcase/aeroshow

About AERO: AERO 2024 will take place from April 17 - 20, 2024 at the Messe Friedrichshafen exhibition center. AERO is a leading international tradeshow for general aviation, business aviation and air sports. Aircraft ranging from civilian drones to gliders, ultralights and gyrocopters, helicopters, touring and training aircraft powered by piston engines or turboprops, and business jets will be on display. New propulsion systems, electric flight, state-of-the-art avionics, services and accessories for pilots are further focal points. These topics are also reflected in the AERO Conferences, making Europe’s largest general aviation event also an important platform for knowledge exchange and continuing education. In the

At AERO on April 17-20 at Messe Friedrichshafen, on the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail, the trade fair organizers are using green balloons at the stands to highlight exhibitors who are particularly dedicated to the topic of sustainable aviation. (Courtesy AERO)

run-up to AERO 2024, the AERO Media Awards will be presented for the first time.

About fairnamic GmbH: With the founding of fairnamic GmbH, the Frankfurt and Friedrichshafen trade fair companies have sealed a partnership with a focus on innovative mobility. Combined expertise as well as market knowledge, global positioning, brand strength and speed will strengthen the market position in the future markets of General Aviation, micromobility, e-bikes and bicycles. The AERO and Eurobike brands and their satellites form the focus of the joint venture. The aim is to expand and further develop the two leading trade shows.

A collection of C-47s from the D-Day Squadron will be on display as part of the Normandy landings on D-Day commemoration taking place at AirVenture this summer. (Courtesy EAA)

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