Airplane News Update (Pilot Institute)

This week in airplane news: A student pilot has been charged with DWI among other things after landing on a road, London temperatures got hot enough to melt portions of the runway, a mid-air collision with no survivors, and the military is exploring single pilot operations.

An airplane crash-landed in Kansas City this week, and the pilot was charged with DWI.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/student-pilot-charged-with-dwi-after-interstate-landing

London Luton airport was temporarily closed due to the heat wave in the UK.

The heat (100F) caused surface defects and melted portions of the runway.

Repairs were made to the runway and the airport opened a number of hours later.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11025115/UK-heatwave-London-Luton-Airport-SHUT-record-heat-runway-melts.html

A mid-air collision occurred at the North Las Vegas Airport this week

Both aircraft, A piper PA-46 and a Cessna 172, were preparing to land at the airport

There were no survivors of the crash.

https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/plane-crashes-at-north-las-vegas-airport/

The US Air Force is exploring the potential of allowing a single pilot for KC-46 tankers.

This would reduce the crew to just the boom operator and the pilot.

This release has triggered an intense discussion of safety and pilot workload.

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/single-pilot-kc-46-tanker-operations-eyed-by-air-force-for-major-conflicts

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have four stories for you this week, Cirrus grounding/Continental Engine issues, A bus collided with an aircraft at LAX, the NTSB has subpoenaed the crew from the JFK incursion, and Buttigieg has called for updates to the FAA’s computer system.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you; Boom Supersonic gets permission to test fly, Mig Airshow Crash Prelim out, and the FAA is probing 5000 pilots who may have withheld info from medicals, lets get to it!

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have four stories for you; The FAA enters the 21st century with online aircraft registrations, B17 AD is released, Republic wants pilots to pay $100,000 if they switch jobs within three years and an FAA NPRM designed to overhaul the Flight Instructor certificates.

This week in airplane news: Pilatus acquires Skytech which will allow them to expand in the US market, Technam releases a new STOL version of their P2012 aircraft, Wisk unveils their 6th Gen Air Taxi.   

This week in airplane news: JetBlue and Spirit merger exemption denied, the FAA prospective admin withdraws, a Southwest Captain was Incapacitated and the flight landed safely thanks to a fellow pilot.

In this weeks airplane news, the NTSB has released that the plane in the CO midair last week was not transmitting ADS-B, a Nall Report says that accidents have decreased this past year, a man attacks a crew while on mushrooms, the EPA is thinking about designating AVGas a public danger, and a Dreamlifter loses a wheel on takeoff.

This week in Airplane News: The EPA is looking to investigate leaded fuel to determine if it poses a hazard to air quality, Zeva e-VTOL completes its first untethered flight, the StratoLaunch has completed its third flight, and more info on the 5G mess!

The Zeva eVTOL called the “Zero” has taken its first untethered flight! These first untethered flights were unmanned, and the aircraft completed a series of maneuvers including  Hover Simulated taxi Vertical climbs Zeva says the aircraft has completed more than 50 tethered flights. The Zero will have a 50-mile range and cruise at up to 160 MPH. https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/evtols-urban-mobility/zeva-evtol-completes-first-untethered-flight/

The stratolaunch “Roc” completed its third test flight reaching an altitude of 23,500’ and an airspeed of 180kts during its 4-hour flight This aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 1.3 million pounds and a capacity of over 500,000lbs. “Roc” will be used to launch hypersonic and Aerospace vehicles, such as the StratoLaunch Talon-A. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/stratolaunch-completes-third-flight-test/

AT&T and Verizon have delayed rollouts once again stating: “At our sole discretion, we have voluntarily agreed to temporarily defer turning on a limited number of towers around certain airport runways as we continue to work with the aviation industry and the FAA to provide further information about our 5G deployment since they have not utilized the two years they’ve had to responsibly plan for this deployment.” We’ll continue to keep you updated on 5G and how it may affect travel in and around major cities! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/another-tuesday-another-5g-c-band-debacle-delayed/

This week in airplane news: The NTSB will audit Boeing's production of the 737 Max series of aircraft, United pilots are getting a 14% raise, An ITA A330 hit a B777 at JFK and continued take-off and its trip to Rome, and passengers evacuate after smoke fills the cabin of an American Airlines flight.

According to ABC, the US government will announce a new audit examining Boeing’s production and oversight of the 737 Max

"The DOT Inspector-General's office [has] confirmed … that Congress requested an audit of Boeing's production oversight and that the review of the production of the 737 MAX will be a part of this audit," the NTSB email said.

This comes due to 60+ reports of mid-flight issues with 737 Max aircraft including loss of control surfaces and loss of the APU. 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-27/boeing-737-max-in-mid-air-emergencies-as-us-set-to-launch-probe/101175214

Pilots at United will get a 14.5% raise and 8 weeks of paid maternity leave in the new deal that has been sent to pilots for ratification.

Pilots at the airline have until July 15th to vote, but it is expected that the deal will be ratified.

This will be the first major airline to settle with their pilots as the ongoing pilot shortage results in cancellations and delays.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/united-pilots-offered-14-5-percent-raise

An ITA A330 hit an Air France B777 in JFK earlier this month

The B777 pilot notified ATC

“There was an Alitalia (the ITA plane was still in its old livery) passing behind us that hit our aircraft,” an Air France pilot said. “It’s so you can tell them not to take off.”

By the time controllers got ahold of the A330, they were already climbing out. The Italian pilots stated they hadn’t had any damage to their aircraft.

Upon arriving in Rome, damage to the A330 was spotted and the plane was removed from service. The B777 remains at JFK.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ita-a330-keeps-going-after-hitting-air-france-777

American Airlines passengers were evacuated after a ground emergency at Charlotte Douglas Airport.

The flight, to Melbourne Florida, was 3/4 of the way down the runway when smoke began to fill the cabin

The pilots called for an evacuation, and people evacuated the airplane

https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/chopper-9-overhead-emergency-response-charlotte-douglas/UTV7A5H77VDNZMVIESJPP3Y73E/

First up this week is the EAA who says amateur-built fatal accidents are down 28% this year when compared to pervious years. This is down from 39 fatal accidents between Sept. 30th 2021 andSept. 30th 2022 to 28 between Sept. 30th 2022 and Sept. 30th, 2023. EAA Vice President of Advocacy and Safety Sean Elliot said “The activity data is necessary to paint the full picture, but the initial indications are very positive indeed. It shows a continuing trend toward safer operations, even as total hours flown increase. It reminds us that safety is an ongoing journey that always needs the highest attention of our flying community.” Keep being safe out there! Next up this week is a fiery gas balloon crash in Dallas. Two pilots in a gas balloon were competing in the Gordon Bennet Cup, a long distance race from Albuquerque and the goal is to fly the furthest. According to race organizers, the Poland 1 Team was over Dallas when the pilot reported he heard “What sounded like automatic gunfire” and began an emergency descent to avoid getting shot. During the emergency descent, the balloon hit a high-voltage power line causing an explosion. Both pilots were transported to the hospital with no word on their current conditions. According to officials at the Balloon Fiesta, “Both are experienced gas balloon pilots who have logged significant time in gas balloons. Our thoughts are with the gentlemen, their families and friends for a full and complete recovery.” We’ll keep you updated if we see more. Next up this week is Michael Whitaker, the FAA Admin Nominee. Support from he Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation unanimously agreed that he’s the right man for the job. While we don’t normally like to talk politics, both major parties had good things to say about Whitaker, suggesting that a confirmation hearing may go more smoothly than the last. Whitaker said, “I would view my role as administrator, as chief recruitment officer, certainly for FAA, but also for the industry.” It’s been over a year and a half since we had a senate confirmed administrator, we’ll keep you updated if we see anything more! Last up this week is a big one, the EPA has released its findings on 100LL. We’ve seen a large push over the last year for the elimination of 100LL, with certain airports and states banning or attempting to ban its use. The EPA report reinforced this sentiment with the report stating “The science is clear: exposure to lead can cause irreversible and life-long health effects in children,” The EAGLE (Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions) group said during a briefing following the findings that they and the FAA are committed to ensuring the availability of 100LL until a safe and suitable replacement has been found. The FAA stated “The EPA can find that a component causes harm. The FAA will define the standards.” And described the timeline going forwards as a cooperative effort between the EPA and FAA. We’ll continue to follow this story and update you if anything changes! That’s it, have a great weekend, and we’ll see you next week! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/homebuilt-fatal-accident-rate-drops-28-percent https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/gunfire-preceded-gas-balloon-crash https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/biden-nominee-for-faa-administrator-notches-bipartisan-senate-support/ https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-determines-lead-emissions-aircraft-engines-cause-or-contribute-air-pollution https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/epa-releases-endangerment-finding-on-100ll-eagle-responds

This week in airplane news, a fundraiser has been started to rebuild the AN225, East Hampton Airport becomes private, Interim FAA Admin has been announced, and an update on the 737 crash in China.

Antonov calls on AN225 Fans to rebuild the aircraft

The goal is to raise $3b 

The AN225 was more of less destroyed during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

It is the only aircraft that can carry certain pieces of heavy equipment into emergencies and national disasters. 

https://simpleflying.com/antonov-an-225-rebuild-fundraiser/

The FAA has approved a plan for the East Hampton airport to become private.

The town of East Hampton will close the airport on May 17th as a public airport and reopen it on May 19th as private.

After re-opening, pilots wishing to use the airport will need to apply for permission.

https://www.flyingmag.com/faa-approves-plan-to-switch-east-hampton-airport-to-private-use/

The FAA’s top safety official will become the interim administrator when Steve Dickson officially steps down.

Billy Nolen is the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety

Billy Nolen has only been on the job for three months, he comes from West Jet where he was the VP for Safety, Security, and Quality.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/safety-chief-becomes-interim-faa-administrator/

China Eastern appears to be the result of an inflight break-up.

Lab tests taken from the China Eastern 737 crash show no signs of an inflight explosion.

Searchers have found a transmitter associated with the flight data recorder, but not the actual flight data recorder.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/explosives-ruled-out-in-china-eastern-crash/

First up this week is the proposed Piper AD. If you’re unfamiliar with the proposed AD, there were two incidents in Alaska where the rudder on Piper aircraft failed and bent into a 90 degree angle. Both aircraft landed safely and there were in injuries. The FAA responded with a proposed AD the covers nearly all cubs and cub variants made before 1974, which is about 31,000 aircraft. The Short Wing Piper Club says that this is a huge over-reach and the process itself is flawed. According to the club’s statement, both incident aircraft were modified with larger engines, larger props and aftermarket beacons. The Piper Club had much more to say with specifics on aircraft, types, regions, and aircraft storage, so we’ll leave a link below if you’d like to check it out! Next up this week is a follow up to GPS signal spoofing, which we covered a few months ago. If you haven’t heard about this, aircraft in the Middle East were experiencing false position reports with variations of up to 120NM. Reports started in September, with some commercial crews requesting vectors to remain on course. A University of Texas student has traced the source of the spoofing signals to the eastern side of Tehran. The spoofing appears to be aimed at jamming and denial of service according to UT. We’ll keep you up to date if we see anything more about the GPS spoofing. Last up this week is a fun one, a passenger experiencing a “mental health emergency” opened an overwing exit on a SWA 737 in New Orleans and exited the airplane onto the ramp. The incident occurred after the boarding process had completed for a flight from New Orleans to Atlanta and on to Baltimore but before taxiing. The police were called and the passenger was detained with no injuries to anyone in the aircraft or on the ramp. Police said the man was incoherent and was not fully aware of his surroundings. Alright, that’s it! No live next week, I’ll be on vacation, so we’ll pick back up with the Live events in January! Have a great weekend, and we’ll see you next week! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/passenger-jumps-from-737-at-new-orleans/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/piper-club-says-rudder-ad-needs-work https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/gps-spoofing-signals-traced-to-tehran/

In this week's airplane news we have a new HondaJet Elite II which will cost around $7 million, the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act has been signed into law this week (SB516), and the FAA is fielding comments on the construction of airline seats for safety, not comfortability, sadly; lastly, Elon Musk's StarLink Aviation has been launched at 350MB/s download and 20ms latency.

This week in airplane news; the AN225 Mryia has possibly been destroyed, PG&E has been cited for use of a heli-saw, the FAA is seeking an end to leaded GA emissions, and a 9-year-old snuck onto a 1500 mile flight.

Have you experienced PSI testing troubles? If so:

This is not acceptable. I need you to do 3 things:

- Email PSI to let them know your experience: https://www.psionline.com/contact/form?tab=support

- Email the FAA Testing Branch to let them know about your experience as well at afs630comments@faa.gov so they can follow up.

- Email me at greg@pilotinstitute.com so I can compile the data and email both of these entities.

There are reports that the AN225 Mriya was destroyed in a fire due to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.

There are pictures from what is reported to be military unmanned aircraft showing a possible fire in the hangar.

There are also satellite images that show the tail of the aircraft still intact.

We’re hoping this is not the sad end to the world's largest plane by weight.

avweb.com/aviation-news/an-225-destroyed-in-Ukraine-battle/

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/satellite-photos-give-hope-an-225-might-have-survived/

PG&E in California has been cited by CalFire for deploying a heli-saw over a park.

A Heli-saw uses 30-inch blades to trim back branches in and around power lines, preventing wildfires.

This trimming luckily resulted in no injuries, but CalFire estimates that branches up to 8 inches in diameter fell from altitudes as high as 150 feet.

https://www.nbcbayarea.com/investigations/pge-cited-after-deploying-heli-saw-in-san-mateo-county-park/2824027/

The FAA has announced the launch of a new initiative to eliminate leaded fuel.

The initiative, dubbed “EAGLE” ( - Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions), includes development of Unleaded fuel infrastructure, Commercial viability, Research, and Policy creation.

A 9 year old boy from Brazil was reported missing on Saturday morning by his mother.

Searching revealed the boy had snuck out and traveled to a nearby airport, where he boarded a plane without a ticket.

The boy traveled from Manau to Guarulhos, approximately 1677 miles.

The boy reportedly decided to travel and see family located in the other city.

https://nypost.com/2022/03/01/boy-9-sneaks-onto-plane-and-travels-almost-2000-miles/

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you this week, A near miss at JFK, A Nepal Yeti Airlines crash, and a Qantas Flight lands safely after losing engine over the Pacific.

This week in Airplane news; China Eastern resumes 737 operations, a new medical application tracking app, Iris Automation & TruWeather Solutions partner to provide weather for GA, the FAA rescinds a proposed AD for Grumman aircraft.

China Eastern has returned its fleet of 737-800s to service

There is still no word on the cause of the China Eastern crash on March 21st. 

The airline says they have checked their 737s for structural integrity, system checks, and test flights, with a special interest in the aircraft with similar serial numbers to the accident aircraft.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/china-eastern-resumes-737-800-flights

The FAA has added a new feature to MedXPress that allows pilots to track the status of their application

This online portal means you no longer need to call the Office of Aerospace Medicine to determine where your application is.

This does NOT change the certification process but does allow for an easier time checking on your cert.

https://generalaviationnews.com/2022/04/20/pilots-now-able-to-track-medical-applications-in-real-time/

Iris Automation has announced a partnership with TruWeather Solutions that seeks to bridge the gap in low altitude weather forecasting

This is particularly important for Agricultural operators, balloon operators, and even UAS.

This system will include weather stations, airspace awareness, and other new sensors.

This will pave the way for UAM, BVLOS sUAS operations, and general aviation safety. 

https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2022/april/20/iris-automation-pairs-up-with-truweather-solutions

The FAA has rescinded the AD introduced in December for Grumman Cheetah and Tiger aircraft for delimitation of the stabilizer.

The AD was challenged by 41 commenters, including AOPA.

In rescinding the FAA said “[T]he instructions in the airplane maintenance manual are sufficient to detect the type of damage that is believed to have led to the originating accident, as well as similar damage on the rest of the airplane. The FAA further agrees that the original findings were not indicative of an unsafe condition, but instead indicative of incorrectly followed maintenance procedures. Based on this assessment, the proposed inspection in the NPRM would exceed what is sufficient to detect the main issue of bonding delamination.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-rescinds-labor-intensive-grumman-cheetah-tiger-delamination-ad

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; proposed tax hike for business jets, 787 troubles, and United loses tire after take off.

First this week is a proposed tax increase for business jet operators. The tax increase would be implemented by raising the federal tax on Jet Fuel fivefold over the next 5 years. Estimated revenue to be generated would total 1.1 billion which would be funneled into the FAA to increase the number of air traffic controllers by 2000. The proposal has gotten push back from several aviation groups including the NBAA, who said “The Biden administration’s sweeping plan would hurt business aviation and the jobs and communities that depend on it, and make it harder for U.S. companies to compete in a global economy,” It doesn’t appear this proposal has any bills associated with it, so we’ll have to wait and see if this is just talk. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/biden-administration-proposes-five-fold-jet-fuel-tax-hike-for-bizjets/ Next up is another fire for Boeing, a LATAM Airlines 787-9 experienced a technical issue which resulted a sudden drop injuring between 30 and 50 passengers. The Dreamliner was cruising at 41,000 feet and was two hours into the flight. A passenger said the captain told him the “Gauges went blank” and he was unable to control the airplane during the incident. Pretty scary stuff, we’ll be following this one for sure. https://www.avweb.com/flight-safety/technical-event-cited-in-787-sudden-loss-of-altitude/ Last up, A United Airlines 777 taking off from San Francisco lost a tire. The flight was initially scheduled from San Francisco to Osaka, Japan but diverted and landed at LAX. The tire fell off destroying and damaging a number of cars in a parking lot near SFO. No one was injured by the rogue tire. It’s likely this was a maintenance issue and yet another issue plaguing Boeing. https://abc7news.com/flight-emergency-sfo-tire-falls-from-united-airlines-to-osaka-35/14500843/ Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you; The acting FAA Administrator is likely headed to Archer Evtol, DeltaHawk DHK180 receivers FAA certification, and Garmin has announced an STC for GFC600s in Piper Navajo Chieftains.

First up this week in your “Don’t be that guy” news update is a first officer for an airline who threatened to shoot the captain over a diversion. Jonathan J Dunn is an airline pilot an unspecified airline, who is a member of the Federal Flight Deck Officer program, this means he received training to carry a loaded pistol on the flight deck. He has been charged with interference with the flight crew for an incident that occurred in August of 2022, where Dunn and the captain (unnamed) had a disagreement about a potential diversion due to a passenger’s medical event. According to the inspector general’s office “Dunn told the Captain they would be shot multiple times if the Captain diverted the flight,” Dunn will be arranged in Utah on November 16th, 2023. We’ll keep you updated when we see more. Next up this week is another case of “don’t be that guy” with a student in Stuart, Florida who damaged 10 airplanes after being denied solo flights. 23 Year Old Sumebh Singh was arrested on felony criminal mischief after damaging throttles on 10 of the school’s aircraft. Singh had allegedly paid $50,000 to Treasure Coast Flight Training and became angry after instructors told him he wasn’t ready to solo. Reports say his goal was to cause $50,000 in damage to aircraft. The school said all flight school aircraft have been grounded until mechanics can evaluate the extent of the damage. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has also been notified according to Avweb. Last up this week is a city council in California who is trying to ban touch and gos. Zamperini field is an airport in Torrance, CA who hosts 10 flight school and a factory for Robinson Helicopters. Council member Asam Sheikh is quoted as saying “I believe we are here for the constituents, we represent them,” “We don’t have to be expert on anything when we make decisions. We have to represent the community and that’s the only thing we should be expert on.” The FAA however disagrees however saying the council there are ways they can minimize airport noice but their authority “does not extend to many aspects of aircraft operations, including route, altitude, time of operation and frequency.”. The FAA is reportedly working on a formal response, however Torrance has not received federal funds or airport grants. The council is also attempting to ban the use of 100LL, imposing landing fees, and capping the number of flight schools at the airport. Another one that we’ll keep you updated about if we see more! That’s it for this week, we hope it goes without saying but don’t be that guy. Have a great weekend, and we’ll see you next week on Monday for our live Q&A! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/indictment-alleged-fo-threatened-to-shoot-his-captain-over-flight-diversion/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/aircraft-damage-after-student-denied-solo/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/torrance-council-trying-to-ban-touch-and-goes/

This week in airplane news: Trent Palmer's license has been suspended, a pilot claimed responsibility for the RedBull stunt, Spirit rejects Jetblue offer, Cape Air orders 75 Eviation Alice Aircraft.

Pilot and YouTuber Trent Palmer announced on Thursday that the FAA suspended his certificate for 60 days

The FAA accuses Palmer of violating 14 CFR 91.13: careless and reckless operation of an aircraft

14 CFR 91.119(a) and (c), which cover minimum safe altitudes, including allowing for an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property if a power unit fails and not operating an aircraft closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure except when necessary for takeoff or landing.

“The problem here is the precedents or the case law that is established by the decision. The problem with that is that by the judge or ALJ stating that because I didn’t land it wasn’t a necessary landing procedure, now that would basically mean that any time we want to land in a new place that would require inspection passes to assess the feasibility of that spot, if there were any chance that you were within 500 feet of a vehicle, vessel, person, or structure—knowingly or unknowingly—you would need to go land there for it to not be a violation, meaning there would be external pressures making us change our aeronautical decision making.”

https://www.avweb.com/flight-safety/faa-regs/youtuber-trent-palmers-license-suspended/

Pilot and Skydiver Luke Aikins claimed responsibility for continuing red bull’s plane swap stunt without a waiver

“As Project Lead and Chief Pilot, it was entirely my responsibility to operate within the regulatory framework to ensure a successful outcome” 

The FAA is investigating, and we’ll see if they decide to give these pilots the same thing they did for Trevor Jacobs.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilot-claims-responsibility-for-attempting-plane-swap-without-faa-exemption/

Spirit Airlines rejected a purchase offer from JetBlue, citing a low probability of obtaining antitrust clearance.

JetBlue launched this bid to compete with the merger between Spirit and Frontier

JetBlue offered MORE than Frontier, but the board of directors found that the risk assigned to stockholders was not worth the additional money in the offer.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/spirit-rejects-jetblue-bid

Cape Air has signed a Letter of Intent with Eviation to purchase 75 Alice aircraft.

According to the Eviation, Alice will have a top cruise speed of 250kts, a maximum payload of 2500lbs, and a range of 440NM. 

The aircraft will seat 9 passengers and two crew.

Eviation expects the Alice to fly “In the upcoming weeks”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/cape-air-signs-deal-for-75-electric-alice-commuter-aircraft

This week in airplane news: American Airlines invests in ZeroAvia for hydrogen electric powerplants, NTSB issues prelim report for Las Vegas mid-air, SWA had a hard landing that fractured a flight attendant's vertebrae, and Boeing Dreamliner will soon resume deliveries. 

Checkride Made Easy: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/checkride-made-easy/

American Airlines is investing in ZeroAvia, which develops hydrogen-electric propulsion.

American will have the option to order 100 propulsion systems from the company.

According to American, the power plans will reduce or eliminate emissions from regional jets.

ZeroAvia says it’s AZ2000-RJ will power a 40-80 seat aircraft with a 1000NM range. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/american-airlines-invests-in-hydrogen-electric-propulsion-developer

The NTSB has issued the prelim report on the fatal mid-air over Vegas.

The mid-air between the Piper Malibu Mirage and C172 was fatal for all 4 occupants.

From the report, it appears the aircraft were given instructions to land on parallel runways (30L and 30R), but both lined up for runway 30R. 

The impact point was about a quarter mile from the approach end of 30R.

https://www.avweb.com/flight-safety/accidents-ntsb/ntsb-issues-preliminary-report-on-fatal-nevada-midair

A SWA flight on July 1st landed in Santa Ana, CA so hard that it fractured the spine of a flight attendant.

After landing the FA felt a pain in her back and neck and was unable to move.

She was taken to the hospital by EMS where it was found she’d suffered a compression fracture to her T3 vertebra. 

https://simpleflying.com/southwest-airlines-hard-landing-breaks-flight-attendant-spine

The FAA said this week that Boeing will resume deliveries of its 787 Dreamliners soon.

Following manufacturing flaws, deliveries have been suspended until issues were fixed.

American Airlines said they expect to receive aircraft as soon as Wednesday.

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/08/08/boeing-dreamliner-deliveries-to-resume-in-the-coming-days-faa-says.html

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 4 stories for you; More California Airports try to ditch leaded fuel, NTSB final for Jet Blue A320 Tail Strike, EAA Announces Jet Demo Teams for 2024, and a Pilot Institute Update!

This week in airplane news, A gear collapse at Miami leads to a fire on the runway, the FAA has issued a new Advisory Circular for NOTAMs, the FAA and telecom companies reach another deal for 5G, and the successful test flight of the Airbus A321XLR

A Red Air flight from the Dominican Republic to Miami Airport experienced a gear collapse and a subsequent fire

The MD82’s landing gear collapsed during landing, and the plane appeared to skid off the runway, catching fire. 

Three people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries

See video

We assume the FAA and NTSB will be investigating. 

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/miami-airport-airplane-fire-landing-gear-collapse-faa/

The FAA issued a new Advisory Circular (AC-150/5200-28G) to clarify the use of NOTAMS

“This AC provides guidance on using the NOTAM system for airport condition reporting and procedures used to describe, format, and disseminate information on unanticipated or temporary changes to components of, or hazards in, the National Airspace System (NAS),” the AC says.

The AC also says that NOTAMs are for “providing timely information on unanticipated or temporary changes to components of, or hazards in, the National Airspace System (NAS).”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-clarifies-function-purpose-of-notams

The FAA, Verizon and AT&T have reached another deal to prevent disruptions

The deal extends the reduced power in certain cities another year, after which “the wireless companies expect to operate their networks in urban areas with minimal restrictions”

It appears the FAA will be pushing carriers to replace the altimeters that may experience interruptions or install filters that reduce the risk of interference. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/telecoms-faa-reach-another-5g-deal

Airbus announced this week they’d flown the “Extra Long Range” A321XLR single-aisle jet for the first time.

“This is a major milestone for the A320 Family and its customers worldwide,” said Philippe Mhun, Airbus executive vice president for programs and services. “With the A321XLR coming into service, airlines will be able to offer long-haul comfort on a single aisle aircraft, thanks to its unique Airspace cabin. The A321XLR will open new routes with unbeatable economics and environmental performance.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/airbus-a321xlr-completes-first-flight

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you; multiple injuries caused by turbulence, an alert for possible runaway trim, and an update to the story of the plane crash involving 53 dogs.

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have four stories for you this week, A new app, the FAA is looking into extending cockpit voice recordings, Helicopter heist results in crash, GA Advocates fight 100LL ban in WA, and a bonus story with Sun N Fun!

This week in airplane news: A charter company has ordered 200 eVTOLs, an emergency landing due to a shattered windshield, pilot exodus blamed for Alaska Airlines cancellations, and Textron announces updates for Piston planes. 

Embraer has gotten another order for their Eve eVTOLs, bringing the total order count to 1785 aircraft.

The company said they will deliver these aircraft in 2026 - just four years away.

However, Embraer has yet to fly a full-scale prototype

The Eve will be autonomous with the option for an onboard pilot.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/charter-company-orders-200-eve-evtols

A Delta Airlines 757 flight from Salt Lake City to Washington DC was forced to divert due to the windshield shattering during the cruise phase of the flight.

This occurred nearly 90 minutes after take-off

The flight landed safely in Denver and there were no injuries.

https://www.kiro7.com/news/trending/pilots-land-delta-flight-safely-after-cockpit-windshield-cracks/O4QFY6ZEJRH6JP3YJORVGB4QJU/

Alaska Airlines blamed over 200 cancellations on the loss of pilots.

It is estimated over 35000 passengers were affected across the US, and Alaska Airlines had more than a 10-hour phone wait

Capt. John Ladner, the airline’s VP of flight operations, said pilots heading for the door caused the weekend issues. “The primary driver for our performance right now is the shortage of pilots we have available to fly versus what was planned when we built our April schedule in January,”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilot-exodus-blamed-for-alaska-cancellations

Textron announced at Sun ’n Fun that the Beechcraft Bonanza Piston single, Baron twin, and Cessna line of Piston Singles will receive “A range of enhancements”

The Bonanza will get a maximum take-off weight increase of 155lbs

The Baron and Bonanza will be upgraded to the Garmin GI 275 Electronic standby instrument, along with the Garmin Avionics system, USB ports, and updated exterior lighting

Cessna Piston Models are getting the Garmin GI 275, and USB ports, along with a retro paint scheme on the 182 Skyline.

https://www.avweb.com/air-shows-events/sun-n-fun/textron-updates-and-upgrades-beechcraft-and-cessna-piston-models/

This week in airplane news, a 737 has crashed claiming the lives of 132 people, RedBull pilots to attempt a mid-air plane swap, Embraer has announced a training program, and Textron will be purchasing Pipistrel.

A 737-800 operated by China Eastern crashed on Monday.

The aircraft was carrying 132 people. Currently, there are no survivors.

ADS-B tracks of the 737 show that the airplane was in the cruise phase of flight and lost nearly 30,000’ of altitude in 3 minutes. 

The aircraft was delivered to China Eastern by Boeing in 2015.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/china-plane-crash-eastern-airlines-boeing-737-guangxi-wuzhou-guangzhou/

Two red bull pilots will attempt to jump out of their planes and into the others where they will regain control and fly the other’s plane

This stunt is sponsored by Redbull and will use a pair of C182s with custom air breaks. 

The airplanes will dive from 14,000 feet and the event will air live on Hulu on April 24th. 

https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/plane-swap#:~:text=Skydivers%20Luke%20Aikins%20and%20Andy,and%20attempt%20to%20switch%20planes.

Embraer has launched a new program that will offer grants, internships, and scholarships.

Embraer will be choosing six aviation training programs to partner with in order to train their students.

As part of EPP, Embraer will send representatives to each school to assist with academic support and advise on curriculum.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/embraer-launches-educational-partnership-program

Purchase Agreement to acquire Pipistrel in Q2 of this year, developer of the Velis Electro aircraft 

This will lead to the creation of Textron eAviation. 

This will allow Textron to start developing urban air mobility aircraft, GA and cargo aircraft. 

Hopefully, this doesn’t mean the death of the Velis since Textron has a history of canceling GA programs like the Skycatcher or the Corvalis.

https://www.flyingmag.com/textron-to-acquire-pipistrel-in-bid-to-position-in-electric-airplane-market/

This week in airplane news: The drama over leaded avgas continues with GAMI and Swift saying they have solutions, the DOT has found a lax oversight of Southwest Airlines by the FAA, a strange story of a co-pilot who somehow exited an airplane during flight, and the EAA has announced record crowds at Airventure! 

The Co-founder and GAMI and the CEO of Swift Fuels both testified before congress this week on the topic of leaded aviation fuels.

GAMI and Swift have solutions for replacing 100LL with lead-free substitutes.

The hang up on implementing these new fuels seems to be regulatory oversight.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/congressional-subcommittee-meets-in-outrage-over-leaded-avgas

The DOT has validated allegations of whistleblower complaints that the FAA mismanaged oversight of Southwest Airlines.

Among the validated allegations, the airline failed to properly certify 88 B737s that were brought overseas. 

The report says the airline’s upper management was cozy with an unnamed former acting FAA Admin, who was previously the Deputy FAA admin. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-admits-lax-oversight-of-southwest-airlines

After an emergency landing in Raleigh airport, the co-pilot of the plane was found 30 miles south of the airport, having somehow fallen out of the plane.

The co-pilot did not survive. 

The plane landed due to the right main gear having fallen off. 

How the co-pilot ended up in a suburban backyard is unclear at this time.

https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/southeast/co-pilot-falls-from-plane-north-carolina/

The EAA says that nearly 650,000 people attended Airventure this year, setting a new record!

“We introduced a tagline of ‘Unlike Anything Else’ for this year’s AirVenture event and 2022’s fly-in proved to truly be unlike anything else,” said EAA CEO and Chairman Jack Pelton. “We had seven days of nearly perfect weather, along with this year’s programs and activities, which brought out people and airplanes in numbers that we haven’t seen before.”

https://www.avweb.com/air-shows-events/airventure/eaa-reports-record-crowds-at-airventure-2022

This week in airplane news: Boeing has invested another half a billion dollars into eVTOLs, a taxiing China air ran into some parked baggage carts, the FAA is looking to curb illegal charters and part 135 operations, and a new app that shows PIREPs.

Boeing has invested 495 million into Wisk Aero Wisk is a collaboration of Boeing and Kitty Hawk.  The Cora electric aircraft is in its 6th iteration and is flying regularly. The Cora has flown 1500 times. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/boeing-invests-another-495-million-in-evtol/ 

A China Airlines 747 hit parked baggage carts while taxiing at Chicago O’Hare. There were no injuries reported. https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/taxiing-airplane-crashes-into-baggage-cart-at-ohare 

The FAA is facing an increase in illegal flights that involve compensation for the transport of passengers. Unauthorized part 135 operations are “putting the flying public in danger, diluting safety in the national airspace system, and undercutting the business of legitimate operators.” Sharing of expenses clarification.  Only if the purpose of the flight is “common purpose”.  Also, remember that CPL certificate is not the same as Part 119 or part 135  certificate.   

An app called Virga is looking to simplify PIREPs. Virga allows a pilot to open and view PIREPs, including pictures. Virga also allows pilots to file PIREPs and include a picture. Alerts can be created to notify the user about changes in weather at a certain area.  https://generalaviationnews.com/2022/01/31/what-if-filing-pireps-were-easy/ 

An app called Virga is looking to simplify PIREPs. Virga allows a pilot to open and view PIREPs, including pictures. Virga also allows pilots to file PIREPs and include a picture. Alerts can be created to notify the user about changes in weather at a certain area.  https://generalaviationnews.com/2022/01/31/what-if-filing-pireps-were-easy/

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you, PSI is reducing payouts to testing providers and AOPA is worried, French investigators join the NTSB in criticizing the Ethiopian 737 Max report, and a test flight with an 11-bladed propeller.

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, this week we’ll talk about another NPRM by the FAA, The Dallas Mid-air Prelim has been released, and we’ll talk about the Mooney that crashed into power lines in Maryland.

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have four stories for you this week, Sonex “Sierra Hotel” Highwing, Nepal Crash Update, pilots escape firebomber crash unscathed, FAA proposes 1.1 Million dollar fine against United Airlines.

This week in airplane news: Pilots on an Air France got into a fistfight during a flight, Piedmont Airlines is offering jobs to ExpressJet pilots without an interview, A SWA pilot threatened to turn the plane around due to passengers airdropping naked pictures, and a flight from Mexico to LA turned back after engine troubles. 

Two pilots are in “time out” after they came to blows in the cockpit.

The incident happened in June and details are scarce. 

The fight happened during the trip from Geneva to Paris.

Members of the cabin crew broke up the flight and one chaperoned the pilots during the remainder of the flight.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilots-duke-it-out-on-air-france-flight/

Piedmont Airlines is offering jobs to pilots laid off by ExpressJet - without an interview.

“No one wants to see an airline fail, ever. We know that ExpressJet pilots are well-trained aviators who know the Embraer 145, and we are very pleased to make this transition as easy as possible for them.”

Piedmont is using the “distressed carrier” provision in its ALPA contract to allow them to offer a “Safe haven” for pilots left jobless due to business failure.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/piedmont-offering-laid-off-pilots-jobs-without-interviews

A Southwest flight headed to Cabo threatened to turn the plane around while still on the ground.

This was due to a passenger airdropping nude images to others during the flight.

"So here's the deal, if this continues while we're on the ground, I'm going to have to pull back to the gate, everybody is going to have to get off, we're going to have to get security involved, and vacation is going to be ruined. So you folks, whatever that airdrop thing is, quit sending naked pictures, and let's get yourselves to Cabo.”

https://www.indy100.com/viral/southwest-airlines-passenger-airdrop-nudes

A flight from Guadalajara to Las Vegas was forced to turn back after an engine failed during the climb out.

The airline said the fire was caused by “friction of metals” in the engine.

TheA320 turned around and landed safely in Guadalajara.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/mexico-los-angeles-airplane-engine-burst-flames

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you, the NTSB issued a statement challenging the findings of the Ethiopian B737 Max crash, SWA cancels more than 2400 flights, the FAA is proposing $134K in fines for an Puerto Rican airline, and the FAA has invalidated 140 checkrides in Alaska.

This week in airplane news: Regional Carrier Piedmont pilots get a big raise, double-decker airline seats still in development, Foreflight sentry plus, and a mystery aircraft that violated 7 airspaces in Europe

Piedmont Airlines has reached a deal to give pilots raises.

A one-year First Officer will have a base salary of $60 an hour with a total bonus rate of $90/hour

A four-year captain will go from $157 an hour to $161 an hour

Piedmont hopes to retain pilots with this massive raise plan.

“With the supportability premium, our pilot wages will be 50-70% higher (57% on average) than the next highest-paid regional carrier, Endeavor,” a joint letter from the company and ALPA to the 700 pilots said. “Including all bonuses, a new hire pilot should expect to make 31% more than pilots at Endeavor and 10% more than pilots at leading ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) over the first five years.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/piedmont-pilots-get-hefty-raise

A design we talked about last year is making a comeback - the double-decker airline seats

This design removes overhead bins and staggers passengers to fit more inside of the airplane

The creator, Alejandro Núñez Vicente, has put his degree on hold while he pursues the creation of the seats. 

https://www.ctvnews.ca/lifestyle/here-s-what-it-might-be-like-to-travel-on-a-double-decker-airplane-seat-1.5945854

Foreflight has released the Sentry Plus, an ADS-B IN receiver 

This is a flight data recorder with a g-load, automatic power settings, an 18 hour battery life, carbon monoxide detector, and FLARM (European ADSB)

The Sentry will retail for $799 and was developed in collaboration with uAvionix.

https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2022-06-13/foreflight-releases-sentry-plus-ads-b-receiver

A mystery aircraft flew over several European countries. 

Taking off from Lithuania, The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec flew south, through Poland, Slovakia, and into Hungary where the plane landed for fuel

After landing without permission, people in the airplane got into an argument with airport workers, who called the police

When police were seen approaching, the people got back into the airplane and took off, resulting in the scrambling of two SAAB Gripen fighter jets

The pair of Gripen then intercepted the Piper, but the piper kept going, ignoring the fighters

The aircraft continued south, into Romanian Airspace. Due to defense treaties, the Hungarian Gripen were allowed to continue following the rogue piper

Eventually, two US F-16s took over monitoring the aircraft until it crossed into Serbia. 

Overflight of Serbia lasted only a few minutes and the aircraft crossed back into Romania, before entering Bulgaria.

The mystery aircraft landed in Bulgaria, covered the airplane, and left it. Bulgarian Authorities found the aircraft while the engines were still warm.

https://mentourpilot.com/mystery-aircraft-flies-illegally-over-seven-countries/

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; Japan Airlines A350 crashes into Dash-8 at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, Robinson R44 hits drone, and a man in Utah dies after crawling into an A220s engine nacelle. Not sure where to start for your Pilot's license? Check out our FREE guide: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/ultimate-pilot-guide/ Get your Private Pilot's License today: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/part-61-private-pilot/ Already got your PPL? Go for Instrument: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/instrument-rating-made-easy/ Check out our list of pilot must-haves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/pilotinstitute/list/1W36BGF4CLADJ Build your own sim: https://www.amazon.com/shop/pilotinstitute/list/1G82XLJTTIY0M First up this week is a scary one, an A350 landing in Tokyo hit a Dash-8, resulting in a post crash fire. 5 of the 6 passengers aboard the Dash-8 were killed, with no fatalities on the A550. Japan Airlines is being praised for a flawless evacuation, with all 379 passengers being evacuated. The cause of the crash is unclear and the Coast Guard says an investigation is underway. We’ll keep you updated when we see more. Next up this week is a Robinson R44 Helicopter, operated by Leading Edge Helicopter Tours hit a drone at approximately 180 feet near KDAB. It’s unclear what phase of flight the helicopter was in, but it was able to land without any injuries. The incident occurred above the Daytona Beach Flea Market, in Daytona Beach, Florida while the UAS operator was flying a mission for a construction company. All current information points to the UAS operator having the valid permissions to operate at that altitude in that area. The replacement of the R44’s rotor blade is estimated to cost approximately $60,000. Both the NTSB and FAA were notified and we’re going to hold off on assumptions at this time, we’ll wait for the NTSB report to be released. Last up this week is a weird one, a 30 year old man died after crawling into the nacelle of a Delta Airlines A220 engine, while it was rotating. The specific stage of engine operation was unknown but is being investigated. The individual exited the airport after an altercation with a store employee on the secure side of the airport, running down the ramp and crawling into the engine. On the way to the aircraft, they also removed their clothes. Police were able to get the tower to have the Delta aircraft shut down their engines, where CPR was performed and an anti-overdose drug was administered unsuccessfully. We’ll keep you updated if we see anything else about this. Alright, that’s it! Happy new year and we’ll see you next week! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/man-dies-in-a220-nacelle/ https://dronexl.co/2023/12/31/florida-drone-helicopter-collision/ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-67862011

This week in airplane news: A heartbreaking mid air at the CAF Dallas Airshow, Parts of the Challenger Space Shuttle found, Airlines fined for cancellations, and a plane crash onto a golf course.

This week in airplane news; Antonov is rebuilding the AN-225, the Honda Jet Elite II got approved by the FAA, a gun was found inside a raw chicken, the FAA has set airworthiness criteria for Joby, and lastly we have released our Commercial Pilot Made Easy Course, check it out, it is on sale for a limited time.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; Mental Health Committee issues recommendations, NTSB Warns of Dust devils, Controllers credited with Hypoxia Save.

First up, the Mental health ARC has issued a recommendation that pilots are allowed to get “Talk Therapy” from professionals without needing to disclose it on their medicals.

The ARC report also discussed the current culture within the aviation industry that contributes to medical disorders not being disclosed including fear of job/income loss, reputation loss, and potential prosecution.

Along with culture, the report discusses trust levels between pilots/controllers, the FAA, and AMEs.

In total, the report is 164 pages long, including figures, and has 24 total recommendations for the FAA.

The FAA has received the report and is in the process of reviewing it.

We’ll keep you updated if we see more.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mental-health-committee-says-pilots-shouldnt-have-to-report-talk-therapy-sessions/

Next up, the NTSB has issued a safety alert for Dust Devils.

Dust devils have been present in 170 aviation accidents since 1982, and can pose a serious risk to small aircraft.

The small, swirling vortex of air are typically 100 to 300 feet wide, and about 1000 feet tall.

Wind speeds can exceed 60mph and are most commonly found in the South West of the United States.

The NTSB says that dust devils are commonly invisible and can result in uncommanded roll or yaw inputs along with loss of lift.

Should you encounter a dust devil, promptly report it to ATC.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ntsb-warns-pilots-of-dust-devil-dangers/

Finally, two controllers out of Boston are being credited with a Hypoxia save.

Rosella Owen and Scott Elms were controlling a Cessna 310 on a photo mission at 13,500 when they noted the pilot wasn’t as responsive as most pilots in the congested airspace.

Owen asked if the pilot was okay and was on oxygen, to which he replied he was.

The controller determined his performance didn’t match the level of experience he had as a pilot and directed him to descend to 9000 feet.

Upon descending, radio calls were “getting clearer and sharper every time,”.

The pilot later found a kink in the oxygen line.

Great job to these controllers out of Boston!

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/controllers-credited-with-hypoxia-save/

Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

This week in airplane news, Joby Evtol has experienced a mishap during flight testing, The FAA will certify every 787 off the line, 3 helicopter crashes caught on camera this week, and finally a successful flight test by the Autoflight Prosperity.

A Joby prototype aircraft was involved in an accident during flight testing last Wednesday.  The aircraft was being remotely piloted, and there were no injuries. “Safety is a core value for Joby, which is why we have been expanding our flight envelope with a remote pilot and in an uninhabited area, especially as we operate outside expected operating conditions. Experimental flight test programs are intentionally designed to determine the limits of aircraft performance, and accidents are unfortunately a possibility. We will be supporting the relevant authorities in investigating the accident thoroughly.” https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/evtols-urban-mobility/joby-evtol-involved-in-testing-accident/ 

The FAA administrator said that Boeing needs “a systemic fix to their production processes” and until this fix is implemented, FAA inspectors will sign off on each aircraft. The administrator also said that quality control issues that stopped Boeing deliveries are up to being to fix and that by fixing these QC issues, Boeing will “increase the confidence we have in the stability of their processes, because we will actually be there looking at the results of each airplane as it comes off the line.” https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-inspectors-to-certify-each-787/ 

There have been 3 helicopter crashes this week caught on camera. 

Florida - the helicopter crashed into the surf near swimmers.  Both passengers were transported to the hospital with broken backs 

California - This crash appeared to be mechanical issues, crashing into a marina area. One passenger was killed and the other seriously injured. 

Utah - This crash was two national guard BlackHawks attempting to land in the snow.  No injuries. Portions of the rotor from the first helicopter struck the second causing both to go down.  

The Autoflight Prosperity has completed a proof of concept test flight. This flight involved the transition from vertical flight to horizontal flight and back. The company hopes to have this aircraft certified in Europe by 2025. https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/evtols-urban-mobility/autoflight-evtol-completes-transition-test-flight/

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; 737 Max 9 loses plug door in flight, NASA to release X59 this week, and the new Cirrus G7 Series. 00:00 Introduction 00:15 Boeing 737 Loses Door 02:06 NASA Releasing X59 03:06 New Cirrus G7 Series

First up this week is an Alaskan Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9, which lost a plug door while climbing out of Portland, OR. The door was blown off in an explosive decompression that left a hole in the airplane and even reportedly tore the shirt off of a teenager sitting nearby. The decompression occurred at nearly 16,000 feet. No one was occupying the seat directly next to where the decompression occurred and thankfully injuries were limited to scratches. The aircraft landed without incident back in Portland where an investigation was promptly initiated. So far, the FAA has issued an emergency Airworthiness Directive to carriers operating the 737 Max 9 requiring inspection of the door plugs. These plugs exist because some carriers use more seats in the aircraft and thus require additional emergency exits. On United and Alaska Airlines planes, the number of seats is reduced, so the doors are fitted with a permanent plug. It’s unclear how this plug failed and became loose enough to be blown off, but loose screws and bolts were found on other 737 Max 9s in United’s fleet after the Airworthiness Directive. And this folks, is why you wear your seatbelt… Maybe Trevor Jacobs was onto something?? Next up this week is NASA, who has announced that they will unveil the X59 supersonic demonstrator. NASA, in partnership with Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, has been developing the X59 since 2018 when Skunk Works was selected to design, build and fly the demonstrator. The primary goal of the X59 is to prove that quiet supersonic flight can be achieved. The X59 will cruise at 55,000 feet, mach 1.4, and will be about 75dB. The aircraft will fly over selected US cities later this year as part of NASA’s research to hopefully bring back supersonic air travel! We’ll keep you updated with what we see out of the X59! Third up is the new Cirrus SR Series G7! The G7 is an update to the SR20, SR22, and SR22T with updates including 12-inch and 14-inch touchscreen displays, similar to those in the Vision Jet. Engine start is now a push-button start, again mimicking the Vision Jet. Cirrus has also added improved flight controls, incorporating a stick shaker on both left and right controls, an automatic fuel selector that switches tanks every 5 gallons, and flap protection to protect the pilot from accidentally deploying or retracting flaps. Interior additions include the 12 or 14-inch Garmin displays, dimmable task lights, accent lighting, two center console compartments, powered headset jacks, and USB-C chargers. Pretty cool updates from Cirrus affecting the new 2024 model SR aircraft! Alright, that’s it! Happy new year and we’ll see you next week! https://www.flyingmag.com/the-big-reveal-cirrus-shows-off-the-sr-g7/ https://www.nasa.gov/mission/quesst/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/alaska-airlines-flight-door-plug-jack-teenager-shirt-passenger-kelly-bartlett/

This week in aviation, GlobalX orders 50 electric aircraft from Eviation, that same aircraft completed its high speed taxiing test, the FAA denied Republic Airways exemption for ATP training, and there was yet another mid-air collision in VFR.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 4 stories for you; Pilot Institute Community, Max 9 flies again, Mark Baker steps down from AOPA, and Robotics Firm claims to have found Amelia Earhart’s plane!

First up this week is our release of our exclusive Pilot Institute Community, or PIC for short. https://community.pilotinstitute.com We created the Community as a place for all our students to interact and learn from each other. Here, you will be able to find answers to any aviation questions you have, organized more logically than Facebook. You will get answers from our Subject Matter experts, Guest Instructors, and experienced Pilot Institute graduates. You will also be able to connect with others who are studying at the same time, on the same topic. You can even do chat live with other students directly into the course. The best part is, it’s free and available with your current course login, no need to create a new account. Head over to community.pilotinstitute.com to get started! We’ll also have an exclusive live event today at 4PM, and every day next week for our community kickoff event! Next up is the 737 Max 9, which has been approved to return to service after required inspections. The approval comes nearly three weeks after a door plug was blown out of an Alaska Airlines Max 9 climbing through 16,000 feet. FAA Administrator Whitaker issued a statement saying “The January 5 Boeing 737 MAX incident must never happen again. Let me be clear: This won’t be back to business as usual for Boeing. We will not agree to any request from Boeing for an expansion in production or approve additional production lines for the 737-9 MAX until we are satisfied that the quality control issues uncovered during this process are resolved.” Hopefully this is the last we hear from Boeing with maintenance issues! Next up this week is AOPA’s Mark Baker, who will step down when a suitable replacement has been found. Baker says he will stay for up to two additional years to ensure a smooth transition and that he will continue to run AOPA as normal until the transition occurs. There’s no word on where MZark Baker will go or if he will retire after he is done at AOPA. We’ll keep you updated if we see more. Last up this week, a Robotics Firm out of South Carolina claims to have possibly found Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Electra. The company used side-scan sonar to search a 5200 square mile area in the pacific. The Sonar return was found in the area working off of a 14 year old theory that Earhart’s Navigator, Fred Noonan, may have failed to take into account crossing the international date line in his navigation calculation. This would have put Earhart and Noonan 60 miles west of their intended destination. The company was not able to dive on the return, so the claim is just that for now. We’ll have to see if anyone can get back to that location to dive on the possible wreck. Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week. https://community.pilotinstitute.com https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mark-baker-stepping-down-as-aopa-president/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/robotics-firm-confident-amelia-earharts-plane-found/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/alaska-says-max-9-grounding-cost-150-million-expects-boeing-to-pay/

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you; Cirrus SR10, A Mid-air at the Reno Air Races, and Joey, who has announced the location of their new plant!

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; FAA recruiting pilots for Sun N Fun Study, new aircraft designed to carry wind turbine blades, and a Boeing has issued a safety advisory for the 787.

First up, the FAA is asking pilots who hold a current medical certificate and have flown in the last 6 months to be part of a study at Sun N Fun. 

The study session will pay $300-$500 depending on the class of medical certificate, and the study session takes about 4 hours. 

The purpose of the study is to obtain data for computerized tests. 

These tests are used to recertify pilots following a medical event like a head injury or stroke.

We’ll leave a link below to sign up if you’re interested! 

https://generalaviationnews.com/2024/03/18/faa-recruiting-pilots-attending-sun-n-fun-for-research-study/

Next up this week is a new design for an airplane that would be long enough to carry wind turbine blades.

The company, Radia, out of Colorado hopes to build the 356 foot long jet to deliver turbine blades to remote land-based wind farms.

The aircraft, a 4 engined jet called the WindRunner, will carry two turbine blades per flight to remote unimproved airstrips near the wind turbine fields.

Delivery of the blades will allow wind turbines with blade lengths up to 320 feet, 100 feet longer than currently used. 

To put the cargo volume in perspective, WindRunner will have 7 times the cargo capacity of a C5 Galaxy along with a range of 1200 miles.

We’ll keep you up to date with more news about the WindRunner.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/massive-aircraft-designed-to-carry-wine-turbine-blades/

Last up this week is Boeing’s Response to the LATAM 787 issue we discussed last week.

If you’re unfamiliar, there was an issue in a LATAM 787 that resulted in a hard pitch down injuring 50+ people. 

Previously the cause was unknown, now it’s speculated the seat switch on the Dreamliner may be to blame.

Boeing has issued a safety advisory asking airlines to inspect the switches on their 787s as a precautionary measure, noting that in certain circumstances the safety cap can jam the button resulting in unintended seat movement. 

According to a Wall Street Journal report on the LATAM flight, a flight attendant serving a mean inadvertently hit a switch on the back of the seat pushing the pilot into the controls of the 787.

Currently, no official report from New Zealand has been released.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/boeing-issues-safety-advisory-after-latam-airlines-incident/

Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

Join Greg and the Pilot Institute team as we bring you this week's airplane news. A company, previously based in Prescott, Eviation has taken their maiden voyage in their Alice, a fully electric passenger aircraft. The FAA has released design specifications for vertiports. The FAA chair nominee is under investigation for criminal corruption. Kittyhawk has halted operations.

This week in airplane news: A collision between an A320neo and an airport firetruck in Peru, The FAA is extending aircraft registration from 3 years to 7, eVTOL manufacturer Lilium hopes to raise 119 million, and finally the Hybrid Electric Eco Caravan's first flight.

 Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, this week we have five stories for you, An unfortunate collision between an A320neo and an airport firetruck, the FAA extending aircraft registration to seven years, eVTOL manufacturer Lillium hopes to raise millions from investors, and the hybrid electric Eco Caravan made its first flight.

Your first story this week is the collision of an A320 and an airport fire truck in Peru. 

The A320NEO was nearing V1 (Traveling at 127 mph) when the truck entered the runway, and was unable to avoid the truck. 

Unfortunately two firefighters were killed and one was injured. There were no serious injuries among those on the plane.

It appears that the fire trucks were on a drill to determine driving time to one of the new runways at the airport. 

The second story this week is the FAA extending registrations to last for 7 years rather than three. 

In a statement the FAA said “The new rule applies to new registrations and extends the duration of current certificates. It covers all traditional aircraft and larger drones.”

The extension in registration comes after some folks submitted applications for re-registration 5+ months in advance only for FAA back log to result in the registration expiring. 

This will apply to all Commercial and GA aircraft along with large drones. 

Your third story this week is the eVTOL Lilium aims to raise 119 million dollars.

Lilium has partnered with a number of other companies such as Honeywell and Aciturri for funding in an effort to certify the Lilium Jet. 

For this, Lilium will need to complete its third demonstrator aircraft that will be used for testing.

The fourth story this week is a hybrid electric Eco Caravan, which made its first flight.

The aircraft flew near LA for 33 minutes and reached a maximum altitude of 3500 feet. 

The Eco Caravan is powered by an A03 Compression Ignition Engine rated at 410 kW and is integrated with a 160kW motor and battery packs. 

According to a company statement at EAA Airventure, the engine will deliver twice the thermodynamic efficiency of a comparable turbo prop engine.

Testing during the first flight was primarily power testing and the pilot said “The Eco Caravan propulsion system performed just as expected,”.

Finally, your last story this week is our Black Friday sale is going on right now. 

Our Private, Instrument, Commercial ground schools are $175 each, and check ride course is $49! Head over to pilotinstitute.com to sign up. 

That’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you again next Friday!

This week in airplane news, a U2 pilot helped with a general aviation emergency, the Tecnam hybrid completed its first flight, Jeppesen has added backcountry airstrips, the Cessna Turbo 182 returns to the market, and the FAA administrator has announced he will be resigning.

A U2 pilot assisted in an emergency in Feb. 8th, 2022. A civilian aircraft experienced an engine failure over Lake Berryessa and was looking for a place to land The U2 pilot relayed the mayday call to Oakland ATC, who alerted local authorities. Due to terrain, the civilian airplane was not able to be seen on radar. About 30 minutes after the mayday, the airplane was found by CHP, having safely landed in a field.  https://theaviationgeekclub.com/u-2-dragon-lady-pilot-relays-radio-messages-to-civilian-pilot-in-distress-helping-him-to-find-a-safe-spot-for-emergency-landing-near-lake-berryessa/ 

The P2010 H3PS Hybrid aircraft made its first flight late December 2021.  It is powered by a 135HP Rotor 915 coupled with a 30kW Rolls-Royce electric motor.  The test was designed to show that this hybrid configuration can bear the same useful load as a 180HP combustion engine.  The electric motor is used for additional torque for TO/climb and the small battery can be charged in between.   

Collaboration between Avidyne, Jeppesen, and the Recreational Aviation Foundation will allow for many backcountry airstrips being added to the Jeppesen Nav databases These include private use strips, unimproved airstrips, and backcountry strips “Our goal is to promote backcountry flying and to encourage more pilots to join us in the adventure of flight, and the aviation community is fortunate to have a friend like Avidyne who recognizes the value of these off-the-beaten-path aviation destinations,” said RAF Chairman, John McKenna.  https://generalaviationnews.com/2022/02/12/backcountry-airstrips-added-to-jeppesen-nav-databases/ 

Textron is returning the Cessna T182 Turbo to its piston lineup Orders are currently open and deliveries will begin in 2023. The Skyline has a base price of $653,000 and will feature a G1000 avionics suite with a GI-275 electric standby, a constant speed three bladed, electric de-ice propeller and an in-cabin oxygen system The turbocharged Lycoming TIO-540 allows the 182T to cruise at up to FL 200, at a top speed of 165kts with a range of 971-NM and a useful load of 998lbs. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/turbo-skylane-returns-to-textron-lineup/ 

The FAA administration released a memo stating: “Over the past several years, my family has been a source of tremendous encouragement, strength and support. Nevertheless, after sometimes long and unavoidable periods of separation from my loved ones during the pandemic, it is time to devote my full time and attention to them. As I wrote in my letter to President Biden, it is time to go home.” Administrator Dickson said he made the decision in light of growing extended family and time away from his family. It’s expected Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims will take over Dickson’s duties. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-administrator-to-resign/

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 4 stories for you; Phillips 66 pauses unleaded testing, Ural Airlines won’t fly A320 from field, JetBlue & Spirit merger blocked, and a Balloon Crash in AZ.
First up this week is Phillips 66, who has been working to create an unleaded Avgas Alternative. According to Avweb, a “major test failure” occurred and resulted in Phillips pausing the initiative. Details about the issues were not publicized by Phillips, but other sources with knowledge of the issue said the test fuel was powering a Lycoming Engine in a test cell. Sources said the engine failed due to a buildup of Manganese deposits that fouled the spark plugs and/or caused pre-ignition. We’ll keep you updated if we see anything else! Next up this week is Ural Airline, who won’t be flying the A320 out of that field after all. Instead Ural will scrap the A320 for parts starting next summer due to the unavailability of parts. If you’re unfamiliar with this story, Ural intended to refuel the airplane and fly it out of the field where it crash landed due to fuel starvation in September of 2023. Probably for the better that the airplane is scrapped rather than risk flying out of a farm field. Third up this week is Jet Blue and Spirit Airlines. If you hadn’t heard… About the bird-kidding, Jet blue was looking to purchase and basically absorb Spirit Airlines. A federal judge has blocked the 3.8 Billion take over saying it would reduce airline competition and increase fare prices. The judge said “Spirit is a small airline, But there are those who love it. To those dedicated customers of Spirit, this one’s for you.” We’ll keep you updated with what we see next from Spirit. Last up this week is a sad one, a hot air balloon crash in Eloy, AZ killed 4 people this week. The balloon, a Czech Republic BB 85, was initially carrying 13, however 8 folks were skydivers who exited the balloon prior to the crash. According to Police, the skydivers departure was planned and was not in response to any balloon problems. Witnesses said the copy was deflated and the balloon’s basket hit hard in the desert. It’s unclear what may have caused the crash but we’ll keep you updated if we see anything else. Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/290142/ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/phillips-66-suspends-unleaded-avgas-testing https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ural-airlines-scraps-plan-to-fly-a320-from-field https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/judge-blocks-jetblues-takeover-of-spirit

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stores for you; record numbers at EAA AirVenture, the FAA is tightening certification oversight, and a company planning on building new PBYs.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; FAA Reauthorization appears close, Vitol disputes NATA Claim, and a class action lawsuit against the FAA.

First up, congress appeared this week to agree on language for a long term FAA authorization. The reauthorization is over 1,000 pages, with topics including fine increases for consumer violations, legislation over near collisions, quality control for large aircraft manufacturers, and FAA staffing. Congress now will need to vote in favor of the bill before it heads to the President’s desk. We’ll keep you updated when we see more. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/bipartisan-congressional-approval-for-long-term-faa-reauthorization/ Next up is Vitol aviation and GAMI G100UL. Vitol Aviation has more than 1,000,000 gallons of GAMI G100UL for sale that the National Air Transportation Association says is not ready for sale. NATA says that without a fuel specification from ASTM International, furl suppliers and retailers “lack assurances that the unleaded fuel they are selling will not expose them to liability” and therefore cannot be commercially available. Vitol says it has had no issue getting insurance for the GAMI G100UL and that the fuel has an FAA approved specification. We’ll have to see if NATA’s claim hinders Vitol’s ability to bring the G100UL to market. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/g100ul-maker-refutes-nata-claim-that-its-not-ready-to-sell/ Last up, the FAA is getting sued! A class action lawsuit filed this week states the FAA turned away more than 1000 qualified air traffic controller applicants due to discrimination. The lawsuit doesn’t state that incompetent controllers were hired, but rather that particular demographics of controllers were never given a chance to demonstrate their competency. The suit continues, stating that certain minority candidates were given “Buzz words” to bring their resumes to the top. Questions were also alleged to have been placed in the biographical questionnaire that were weighted to give certain candidates advantages, such as playing more than 4 sports in high school giving a candidate 5 points, while an applicant holding a pilot certificate only gave them 2 points. The questionnaire also omitted relevant experience as a military air traffic controller. We’ll keep you up to date with what we see from this lawsuit. https://simpleflying.com/faa-air-traffic-controller-applicants-lawsuit/ Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

First up this week is FedEx and UPS, who both seem to have too many pilots. 

FedEx and UPS have advised pilots to take severance offers and move to American Airlines subsidiary PSA. 

PSA is offering existing FedEx and USP pilots a $250,000 bonus and a left seat job in Embraer and CRJ regional jets. 

While $250,000 sounds like a ton of money, it’s less than a year’s pay for senior captains at UPS and FedEx.

FedEx went as far as saying they don’t have enough business to keep all their pilots fully employed. 

Fedex VP of flight operations said 

“While I understand this is not something that will appeal to every pilot, for those of you who are frustrated with current flight hours, career progression, or have just been on the fence about available options, you may consider this unique opportunity enough of an incentive to make a move,”

Some speculations say FedEx may have 700 extra pilots or more as shipping volumes have turned down. 

We’ll keep you updated if we see anything else about this! 

Next up this week is a man in Omaha who pointed a green laser at a helicopter. 

34 Year Old Richard Detty was on a smoke break when he shined the laser at buildings to see how far it would go before turning the laser on a helicopter.

The helicopter turned out to be a police helicopter who found the location of the laser using a camera array.

Getty was arrested and pled guilty stating “I was not aware it was a crime,” and “I regret my actions.”.

Getty was sentenced to 15 months in prison and two years of supervised release.

Don’t point lasers at aircraft. 

The third story this week is a scale B29, which collided with a golf cart injuring a bystander.

The incident occurred at Glendale Airport near Kokomo, Indiana. 

The replica B29 has a 50 foot wingspan, is 35 feet long, and is driven by four Honda Fit car engines. 

The 35% replica of the B29 Superfortress was on landing when it drifted and struck a golf card causing the cart to rollover and knock a women filming the landing unconscious. 

The pilot of the scale replica was apparently uninjured.

Crazy story! 

Last up this week is a lucky pilot in Florida who survived a night time crash in the Everglades.

A pilot in a C172 crashed into alligator infested waters around 4AM from an altitude of 2000 feet. 

The aircraft, owned by a flight school wasn’t reported missing until 10:30 the following morning. 

Miami-Dade fire Rescue located the down Skyhawk with the Pilot sitting on the wing of the sunken airplane. 

The pilot of the 172 was then winched into the Fire Rescue helicopter with a non-life threatening leg injury. 

Another crazy story with a happy outcome!

Alright, that’s it! 

Have a great weekend, and we’ll see you next week! 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/florida-pilot-survives-crash-landing-and-several-hours-in-the-everglades/

https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/omaha-man-gets-15-months-in-prison-for-aiming-laser-pointer-at-police-helicopter/

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/fedex-pilots-advised-to-work-for-regional-airline/

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/193-ups-pilots-take-buyouts-regional-offers-soft-landing

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/woman-hurt-in-collision-with-scaled-piloted-b-29-replica/

This week in airplane news; a DHL 757 has been substantially damaged due to an emergency landing that resulted in a runway departure, TurbAero has introduced a new turboprop for aircraft that require 200hp, the FAA has fined two unruly passengers over 150k, and the Air Force has awarded a contract to Lift Aero for their eVTOL.

The two pilots of a DJI 757 were uninjured in an emergency landing where the aircraft departed the runway and broke the rear fuselage. 

Shortly after take off the pilots reported hydraulics problems

The pilots flew holding patterns for about and hour before attempting landing. 

Upon landing the aircraft veered off the runway and into a ditch, resulting in severe damage to the aircraft. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilots-safe-in-757-runway-excursion

Australian company TurbAero has shown off a new mock-up of a light turboprop

This light turboprop engine will produce about 200HP

Using Recuperative heating, TurbAero hopes to position their efficiency between a Piston and traditional turboprop aircraft.

https://www.avweb.com/multimedia/turbaero-aims-for-a-new-turboprop-engine-for-small-airplanes

Two passengers have been fined a total of over 150k 

The first of these passengers is looking at $81,950 and the second is looking at $77,272.

These two people assaulted the flight crew and passengers, requiring them to be restrained.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/nasty-passengers-face-80000-fines

Lift eVTOLs has secured a new contract to continue its development of a single seat eVTOL.

The Lift Hexa, has been in prototyping since 2018

Due to its weight, the Hexa does not require any pilot certificate and operates under part 103.

Lift says the aircraft is developed for both civil, military, and public safety operations.

https://www.flyingmag.com/usaf-accelerates-flight-testing-of-unique-single-seat-hexa-evtol/

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 4 stories for you; FAA authorization extended again, Residents Defend Boulder Municipal airport, three finalists selected for the Air Races, and American Airlines buys 260 new jets!

This week in airplane news, the AOPA files a part 16 complaint against the FAA having to do with the 100LL ban in Santa Clara, CA; the owner and family of Gold's Gym perished this week after their Piaggio Avanti crashed near Costa Rica; a Cuban defector flew a plane into Florida and was able to land with 3 minutes of fuel left; the NTSB has found the safety concern that caused the recent float plane crash in Washington State.

In this week’s airplane news: Archer released an eVTOL called the Midnight, the FAA is adding medical requirements for balloon pilots, there was a CAPS pull on a Cirrus SF50 Jet which saved pilot from injury, and the FAA published a new Notice of Proposed Rule Making. Let’s get to it!

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you this week, FAA NOTAMs go down causing nationwide ground stop, Alabama airport worker killed after being sucked into engine, and a delta flight that caught fire just before take-off.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 4 stories for you; Atlas 747 Engine Fire, Zenith Aircraft Workshops, Comments on MOSAIC, and Three Years of Airplane News! https://youtu.be/RNItNKbjwBs https://youtu.be/UKHXfoKZxE4 00:00 Introduction 00:16 Atlas 747 Engine Fire 00:55 Zenith Aircraft Workshops 01:40 Comments on MOSAIC 02:18 Three Years of Airplane News Not sure where to start for your Pilot's license? Check out our FREE guide: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/ultimate-pilot-guide/ Get your Private Pilot's License today: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/part-61-private-pilot/ Already got your PPL? Go for Instrument: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/instrument-rating-made-easy/ First up this week is a crazy one, an Atlas Air 747 had an engine failure after taking off from Miami. Video shows the airplane’s engine throwing sparks in bursts out of the back of the engine. It isn’t immediately clear what caused the incident, but the FAA said the aircraft had a “Softball sized hole” above the incident engine. The crew returned to Miami and landed without injuries. We’ll let you know if we see more. New up this week is Zenith Aircraft, who will be hosting a hands-on workshop for kit aircraft! The event will be February 23 and 24th at Boerne Stage Airfield (5C1), north of San Antonio, Texas. Participants will learn to read blueprints, drilling, blind riveting, will learn the process for assembling an aircraft, and will leave with an assembled rudder kit for a Zenith Aircraft. Fees for the event are $375 for a Zenith rudder kit, and 425 for a CH 750 model kit. If you’re in the area, this seems to be a pretty cool workshop opportunity. Third this week is MOSAIC, which closed comments after a number of major aviation groups asked for tweaks. The primary requested changes include increasing the maximum clean stall speed to 57kts and increasing the number of passengers from one to three, allowing sport pilots the ability to fly more aircraft. As of Monday, the NPRM had more than 1200 comments. We’ll keep you updated when we see a final rule from the FAA. Last up this week a big one for Pilot Institute, Three years of Airplane news as of this week! Thank you for watching, this channel is now at 13,000 subscribers and we’re going to continue to release videos like our Fronts and Trim videos, If you haven’t had a chance to check those out, be sure to! We also are continuing to expand our catalog of airplane courses adding more free deep dive courses and more courses to help you become a better, safer pilot. Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/atlas-747-engine-failureZ https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/aviation-groups-post-joint-mosaic-comments https://generalaviationnews.com/2024/01/23/zenith-aircraft-returns-to-texas-in-february/

Join Greg as we look at this weeks airplane news. We will cover four stories. The RedBull Plane Swap pilots have had their certifications revoked, very interesting. We finally have an update on the China Eastern crash that happened a few weeks ago. A Cessna crashed on a bridge in Miami, FL where bystanders can be seen helping pilot and passengers out of the wreck (drone footage). Finally, Joby has met the noise requirement for their eVTOL.

The FAA has revoked the pilot certificates of both red bull pilots due to their attempted plane swap

The pilots were also fined $4932

“The FAA revoked the pilot certificates of the two pilots involved in the unauthorized Red Bull plane swap stunt on April 24, 2022, in Arizona,” the agency said in a statement. “The attempted stunt resulted in the crash of one of the two single-engine Cessna 182 aircraft. The lead pilot requested an exemption for the stunt from the FAA, which the agency denied.”

https://www.avweb.com/flight-safety/faa-regs/faa-revokes-pilot-certificates-for-red-bull-plane-swap-stunt

Reports state that preliminary data of the 737-800 crash in China was an intentional act by someone at the controls of the aircraft.

China Eastern stated that the pilot’s health, family conditions, and financial situations were good and that a cockpit intrusion wasn’t possible.

China Civil Aviation officials have yet to state a cause, but U.S.-based investigators state that data from the blackbox suggest the plane responded to control inputs from the flight deck.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/data-points-to-intentional-crash-of-china-eastern-boeing-737-800

A small plane crashed onto the Hauler Inlet Bridge in Miami-Dade county Florida, killing one person.

The plane, carrying a pilot and two passengers, struck an SUV on the bridge, causing substantial damage to both vehicles.

The pilot and one passenger were able to escape the plane but one person was not.

The mother and two toddlers in the SUV were transported to the hospital for evaluation.

https://tampa.cbslocal.com/2022/05/15/small-plane-crashes-into-florida-bridge-killing-one-person-and-injuring-five/

Joby Announced this week the their eVTOL has met the company’s noise goals

Testing was completed in California in September of last year in partnership with NASA.

Results showed that Joby’s aircraft register 45.2 dBA from an altitude of 500m at 100kts.

“We will use this data to help us understand the vehicle’s performance characteristics, the acoustics profiles, as well as information that will help us develop modeling scenarios… …Not just one or two flights per day, but at the scale that we predict these vehicles will begin flying when used by the public.” - said Shivanjli Sharma, acting lead for NASA AAM. 

https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/evtols-urban-mobility/joby-evtol-meets-noise-targets

This week in airplane news, Lilium has partnered with Livent for battery tech, craig field will get a virtual ATC system, and Jetblue continues to try to purchase Spirit Airlines.

Lilium,  an eVTOL manufacturer has announced an R&D partnership with Livent corporation.

This partnership is to create high-performance lithium battery cells, specifically for aviation

Lilium announced several other partnerships, including one with Honeywell.

Lilium says its 6-passenger eVTOL is aiming for speeds of up to 162 mph and a range of 270NM. 

https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/evtols-urban-mobility/lilium-livent-partner-on-lithium-battery-research

Selma Alabama’s Craig Field will be getting a remote ATC tower

This project will be lead by Advanced ATC and Indra Corp

The operation is the first of its kind and will allow controllers to ““perform all the functions of a traditional control tower from a different location through the extensive use of cameras, real-time video and other advances.”

“Remote towers represent an important and innovative step in airspace modernization efforts in the U.S., and I’m excited to see Advanced ATC establish its pioneering operation at Craig Field,” said Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce Greg Canfield. “This virtual tower center represents another example of how our state is at the leading edge of trends shaping the future of aviation and aerospace for the U.S.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/craig-field-to-get-u-s-s-first-remote-tower-atc-center

Jet Blue has offered 350 million in reverse break-up fees if a merger between Spirit and Jet Blue fails

This is over 100 million more than Frontier has offered

Robin Hayes, Chief Executive Officer of JetBlue said “Combining JetBlue and Spirit would create a true national competitor to the dominant legacy carriers, delivering low fares and a great experience for more customers, more opportunities and good paying jobs for crew members, and more value for stockholders. The key features of our Improved Proposal – the up-front cash payment and increased reverse break-up fee – reflect the seriousness of our commitment and underscore our confidence in completing this transaction.”

It’s interesting to see the saga between these three carriers continue and we’ll keep you up to date on what happens next!

https://simpleflying.com/jetblue-enhanced-spirit-breakup-offer/

This week in airplane news: ICAO has told Russia to stop registering foreign-owned Airliners, Emirates A380 Completes flight with hole in the plane, Jet truck explodes killing one, and the nomination for the new FAA admin is in! 

To combat sanctions, Russia has been registering foreign owned aircraft.

ICAO records show 450 aircraft owned by foreign lessors that have been put on the Russian register. Most are registered in Bermuda

Russia demanded that Bermuda de-register these aircraft. 

Bermuda refused stating “Our response is consistent in that we will deregister aircraft on request from the owner, in accordance with the relevant Bermuda legislation and procedures,” Bermuda said in a statement.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/icao-tells-russia-to-stop-registering-foreign-owned-airliners

An Emirates A380 landed in Australia after making a 13 hour flight from Dubai with a hole in the wing root fairing

It is unsure what caused the hole, however there was additional damage to a main gear tire

A passenger said the heard a loud “Bang” during the flight, and the A380’s sensors told the crew they’d be landing with a blown tire.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/emirates-a380-completes-flight-with-hole-in-wing-root-fairing/

One person was killed this week when the Jet-truck exploded at the Field of Flight Airshow.

“Shockwave” was a semi truck with 3 Pratt & Whitney J-34-38 jet engines capable of producing 21,000lbs of trust and capable of 350 mph.

News sources are saying that during the accident the truck was traveling at ~300 mph.

The airshow was suspended after the accident.

https://www.avweb.com/air-shows-events/driver-killed-in-shockwave-jet-truck-explosion

As expected, the President has nominated Phillip A Washington as his new FAA Administrator.

Washington’s only aviation job is his current position as the CEO of Denver International Airport.

Kevin M. Burke, CEO of Airports Council International, said in a statement that Washington is a “real innovator and problem solver” and that “his knowledge and experience are exactly what we need in an FAA administrator.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/biden-nominates-phillip-washington-for-faa-administrato

This week in airplane news: Another midair collision has occurred this time in California, The last Boeing 747 is in production and is expected to be delivered later this year, the US DOT has issued an ultimatum to airlines regarding delays, cancellations, and refunds, and an Ethiopian Airlines flight missed the airport because the pilots had fallen asleep. 

A Mid-Air occurred this week in Santa Cruz County, CA between a Cessna 152 and a Cessna 340

All three people were killed.

Sad listening to the radio, one person sounded like they understood was was happening and attempted to avoid the mid-air stating that he was going around because the other pilot was approaching him too quickly. 

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-08-22/3-victims-identified-in-crash-involving-two-planes-at-watsonville-airport

The Last B747 is in production currently and will soon roll off the line.

The aircraft will be delivered to Atlas Air, and will be the final delivery of a 747 by Boeing.

It’s the end of an era in terms of production for these large aircraft, which are still primarily operated by UPS and Atlas Air. 

https://simpleflying.com/boeing-building-last-747/

The DOT has issued an ultimatum to airlines, telling them they need to improve customer service or the agency will proceed with a rule change.

The DOT also is creating a website that it hopes will easily show airline’s policies for delays and cancellations.

“The message to the airlines is that you’ve got to make it easier for passengers to understand their rights. And you’ve got to support passengers when they experience delays or cancellations,”

In the first 6 months of the year, 24% of flights have been delayed, and 3.2% have been cancelled.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/summer-flight-delays-cancellations-dot-plans-website-passenger-rights-rcna43860

Ethiopian Airlines pilots missed their stop because they’d fallen asleep this week.

The 737 followed the approach path, but failed to descend. This resulting in the aircraft flying over the runway at FL370.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ethiopian-airlines-pilots-suspended-falling-103736649.html

This week in airplane news: The NTSB has issued a surprisingly short final report for the redbull plane swap, the prelim report is out for the CASA Skydiving accident, airplane parts fall from the sky, and another highway landing. 

The NTSB has issued a remarkably short analysis and probable cause of the Redbull plane crash

Probable Cause:

“The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The unoccupied airplanes exceedance of the critical angle of attack which resulted in a stall, subsequent inverted spin, and impact with terrain.”

WPR22LA165

https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search

The NTSB Prelim report has come out for the strange occurrence of the co-pilot falling out of the plane

The report states the copilot may have gotten sick, was visible upset, and lowered the rear ramp of the aircraft

The PIC then stated the SIC removed his headset, apologized, and departed the aircraft via the aft ramp door - without a parachute.

 ERA22LA348

https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search

According to the department of public safety in Maine, a 6-7lb metal sleeve-like object landed near a Capitol Police Officer.

No one was injured and multiple people saw it happen

The FAA believes the part came from a wing flap of a large passenger jet.

Nearby aircraft were notified and all landed safely. 

https://abcnews.go.com/Weird/wireStory/airplane-part-falls-sky-hits-man-maine-88415457

Another highway landing has occurred and luckily all 5 people involved were uninjured.

A Piper PA-32 landed on Route 91 in California, striking a Toyota pickup truck.

The two people in the plane were able to get out prior to a post-crash fire and there were no injuries in the pickup truck. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/yet-another-highway-landing-this-time-alls-well-that-ends-well

Join Greg as we look at this week's airplane news. A dramatic video shows a pilot and passenger making an emergency landing on a busy highway, thankfully no one was harmed. New footage was released of the baggage officer at SEATAC that stole an airliner back in 2018, the footage is very surprising. Van, a popular airplane kit company has announced their newest model the RV15, it is a high-wing tail dragger sure to make bush pilots happy. Finally, we take a look into the accomplishments of Pilot Institute on our 3 year anniversary. 

The pilot of an Aero Commander 100 landed on Highway 74 near Sandlin Bridge, NC. 

In the video, you can see the aircraft descending quickly and getting over cars before approaching a turn on the highway. 

The pilot did a great job at landing this thing and getting it off to turf on the side of the road. 

The passenger and pilot both made it out uninjured. 

ttps://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/wing-camera-catches-complex-highway-landing/

Newly released video footage shows how a Horizon baggage handler stole a Q400 aircraft in Seattle back in 2018. 

The video footage obtained by KOIN shows the employee checking in for what looks like a normal day. He later is caught by a security camera on a tug trying to push the aircraft back, something he attempts 3 times. 

On 3rd attempt, he returns, gets in the plane, and appears to complete the engine start procedure on both engines. 

He then heads out of the airplane while the propellers are spinning, pushes the aircraft, removes the tug, and is seen getting back on the plane as it’s moving forward on its own. 

He then lines up on the taxiway behind 2 aircraft and takes off while a confused tower tries to figure out who it is. 

Tower scrambles F15 s…  

Flew for 73 minutes before crashing on a small island. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IY0EUs_8Ubo

Van created a bit of a buzz with the unveiling of its first high wing tailwheel prototype called RV 15 with a YouTube video this week. 

The aircraft will be unveiled at AirVenture in Oshkosh on July 26. 

In a subsequent video, we can see the aircraft sporting larger wheels 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/vans-unveils-rv-15-high-wing-prototype-in-youtube-video/

Check out the tour of our facility! 

Let’s take a look at some numbers for the past 3 years! 

167k students, 252k course enrollments

13k Private and Instrument trained. 92% average on exam, 99.996% pass rate

9.3m lectures completed, that’s almost 6 lectures per minute. 

29 courses in our catalog with 3 more soon. 

894 Continuing education credits issued in the last 12 months

58,000 subs on YouTube and over 8.5m combined views (over 3 channels)

15k reviews with an average of 4.9/5

This week in airplane news, an Embraer 175 lost a winglet in turbulence, the FAA revises eVTOL certification process, NTSB recommends SMS for AirTaxi, and a passenger lands a plane!

An Embraer E175 lost its right winglet in Turbulence on Tuesday

The American Airlines flight from Charleston (CHS) to Dallas (DFW) was forced to divert to Birmingham (BHM)

No word on what intensity of turbulence was encountered or other meteorological conditions

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/e175-loses-winglet-in-turbulence/

The FAA is revising its eVTOL certification criteria

Rather than be evaluated as small-aircraft under part 23, evtols will be evaluated as “Powered Lift” aircraft

This is the same category as tilt-rotor aircraft, such as the Leonardo AW609.

The FAA states this will NOT affect certification timelines… but… 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/after-dot-audit-faa-reverses-on-evtol-certification-criteria

The NTSB has placed substantial blame on the FAA for a fatal 2019 helicopter crash in Hawaii

In a statement released on Tuesday, the NTSB says ““The NTSB previously made 11 recommendations to the FAA to prevent accidents like this one, but our recommendations only work when they are implemented. It’s time for the FAA to act.” ““When the NTSB issues safety recommendations, they are data-driven, supported by factual evidence developed from investigations, and are carefully crafted to prevent accidents.”

The accident occurred after the chief pilot and check airman flew the helicopter with 6 passengers onboard into a mountainous region surrounded by log fog.

The NTSB expressed frustration with the FAA for not mandating Safety Management Systems (SMS) in air taxi and air tour operations.

 “The NTSB initially recommended the FAA require air taxi and air tour operators to have safety management systems in 2016. Since the FAA refused to take such action, the board reiterated the recommendation for the sixth time.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ntsb-lays-into-faa-for-inaction-on-safety-management-system-mandate

A passenger on a Cessna Caravan with no flying experience successfully landed at Palm Beach after the pilot suffered a medical emergency.

Nice job to the controller and to the passenger!

Listen to the audio: youtube.com/watch?v=8MDwzNtDMlA

https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/passenger-with-no-flying-experience-lands-plane-in-florida-after-pilot-becomes-incoherent/

This week in airplane news: A bill has been introduced in Congress to raise the retirement age of pilots, a congressional committee will hold a hearing on 100LL avgas, a plane crash near lifeguard training, CAE & Piper have partnered to develop an Archer electric conversion kit, and JetBlue will be buying Spirit airlines after a months-long battle with Frontier.

Two bills introduced in congress would raise the airline retirement age from 65 to 67.

These bills seek to reduce the pilot shortage, and this would be another increase in pilot retirement age since it was changed in 2007.

ALPA said, “This discussion is yet another attempt to distract the conversation from the real issue which is the failure of airlines to deliver on a key goal of the multibillion-dollar relief plan Congress provided them during the pandemic which was to effectively manage air-service operations as travel resumes. ALPA strongly opposes this proposed legislation as there is no reason to change the retirement age today and doing so would only increase costs for airlines as well as introduce unnecessary risks to passengers and crew alike.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/congressional-bills-would-raise-airline-retirement-age-to-67

Congressional Committee is going to hold a hearing called “Toxic Air: How Leaded Aviation Fuel is Poisoning America’s Children”

This committee is looking to ban 100LL

It is expected that the EPA will issue a finding on leaded avgas next year

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/congressional-committee-looking-at-national-100ll-ban

An airplane crashed in Huntington Beach California this week during a lifeguard competition

This competition quickly turned into a real rescue.

The crash happened in between events and the veteran lifeguards quickly swarmed the wreck.

The pilot was taken to the hospital with bruises but was otherwise unharmed. 

https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/plane-crashes-lifeguarding-competition-pilot-rescued-87269378

CAE announced that they are working with Piper Aircraft to develop an Electric Propulsion Conversion Kit for the Piper PA-28-181 Archer.

The development of this technology is a first for CAE,” said CAE President and CEO Marc Parent. “As an engineering powerhouse and one of the largest Piper Archer operators, CAE is uniquely positioned to make the electric-powered flight a reality at our flight schools and beyond. CAE’s partnership with the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec for investment into R&D has enabled us to boldly look to the future and prepare our electric aircraft for take-off.”

https://www.avweb.com/air-shows-events/farnborough/cae-piper-to-develop-archer-electric-conversion-kit/

JetBlue will buy Spirit for 3.8 billion after a months-long battle between JetBlue and Frontier. 

This merger will create the 5th largest airline in the country

The deal must be approved by regulators and will be the largest deal since Alaska Airlines beat out JetBlue for Virgin America.

“We have two priorities: one is to get this deal closed and get the airline integrated and build a bigger JetBlue,” JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said in an interview Thursday. “Secondly to run a reliable operation in the meantime.”

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/07/28/jetblue-airways-reaches-deal-to-buy-spirit-airlines.html

This week in Airplane News: The AirCar has been issued an Airworthiness Certificate, Enstrom Helicopters goes bankrupt, Stowaway survives an 11-hour flight and the final update on FlyZolo.

The AirCar has been issued a certificate of airworthiness by the Slovak Transport Authority. This certification included more than 70 hours of flight testing and 200 take-offs and landings. The AirCar’s newest model is expected to reach speeds of 185 mph with a range of 620 miles.  https://generalaviationnews.com/2022/01/25/flying-car-certified-to-fly/

Enstrom Helicopters in Michigan has filed for chapter 7 liquidation bankruptcy. Enstrom was started in the 1950s by a mining engineer who built prototypes in his garage. In the last few years, Enstrom struggled to deliver aircraft, with only two in 2021 and five in 2020.  https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2022-01-20/enstrom-helicopters-shutters-files-bankruptcy

A stowaway survived an 11-hour flight from Johannesburg to Amsterdam. The man was found in the nose wheel section of the plane and was able to answer basic questions once conscious.  He was then transported to the hospital in stable condition. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-60104010

At 19 years old, Zara Rutherford has become the youngest woman to circumnavigate the globe in an ultralight aircraft. After 155 days of VFR flying, Zara has completed her world solo. She will now be going to college and going for her commercial pilot certificate, with another goal of becoming an astronaut. https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2022/january/25/zara-rutherford-completes-solo-earthrounding-flight

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you; New FAA Guidance for those with ADHD Medications, Light Sport Helicopter released, and a microburst which has damaged a number of aircraft at Mesa’s Falcon Field.

First up this week is new FAA Guidance for those on ADHD medications. The guidance is for Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs), that gives a criteria to bypass the lengthy review process. The criteria for waiving the review process is "no treatment or use of ADHD meds for any reason in the past four years; no symptoms in the past four years; detailed records showing no instability in academic, occupational, or social functioning within the past four years; and no other psychiatric conditions or diagnosis.” Those who don’t qualify for the new guidance can still go through the existing review process, though it will take longer. We’re glad to see the FAA created a fast track so to speak! Next up is a light sport helicopter that will only require a Driver’s License to operate, once MOSAIC goes into affect! The ATRX-700 is a fly-by-wire helicopter that comes in at only $188,000. The helicopter is two seat with a 650lb payload, 300 mile range, and 100mph cruise speed. The 1,700lb helicopter will factory built and will require 30 hours of training at RotorX in Torrance, California. Would you get a little helicopter like this? Let us know in the Zcomments! Last up, A Microburst hit Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona this week, damaging a number of hangers and aircraft. From pictures we can see that damaged aircraft included training planes, private jets, and even historic aircraft. Hanger roofs were ripped off and some planes that were tied down broke chains. Winds were reported to be between 60 and 90 mph. So far, there’s no reports of any injuries but we are sad to see all the damage to the airport. That’s it, have a great weekend, and we’ll see you next week!

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, this week we’ll talk about a potential end to the LODA requirement, United Airlines purchasing over 200 new jets, and a new piece of MH370 flight was found this week.

Welcome to your weekly aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you this week, NTSB denies Trent Palmer appeal, SWA Ground Stop Again, Coming AD to ground B17s.

Join Greg in discussing the new flight academy brought to us by Alaska Airlines,  the updated FAA legal interpretations, the NTSB's conclusions on the Joby crash, and the FAA's decision to release the grounding of the 777.  

Alaska Airlines and its regional airline, Horizon Air, have launched a flight academy  The school is partnered with Hillsboro Aero Academy in Oregon. Students will earn private through commercial, and a contingent job offer to become a first officer at Horizon Air. Horizon operates the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 and the Embraer 175. https://thepointsguy.com/news/alaska-airlines-horizon-air-ascend-pilot-academy/ 

Joby’s eVTOL crash was due to a component failure says the NTSB. The aircraft did not have anyone in it, and was involved in a post-crash fire. ADS-B data shows that the aircraft hit 275MPH during testing prior to the crash, and was traveling at 114kts at the time of the crash.  https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ntsb-says-component-failure-caused-joby-crash/ 

The FAA is finalizing its airworthiness directive that will lift the grounding of 777s with Pratt and Whitney PW4000s This engine type was the one that experienced an unconfined failure over Colorado in February of 2021. United is the only carrier with 777 and the PW4000 in the US. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-to-lift-grounding-of-united-777s

This week in airplane news: Frontier and Spirit Airlines are merging, a new leaked video of the F35 crash, the FAA and the NTSB are at odds over space and an Airworthiness Directive for C120 and 140s.

Frontier and Spirit have announced a merger on Monday. The transaction, worth 6.6 billion, is expected to close in Q2 of this year. The goal is to expand the low-cost reach of both airlines.  The airlines stated they hoped to directly add over 10,000 jobs by 2026. https://www.npr.org/2022/02/07/1078842162/spirit-frontier-spirit-airlines-merger A

 leaked video shows the F35 crash on the USS Carl Vinson last month. It appears the aircraft was told to go around too late. In the second part of the video, you can see the pilot eject 7 injured, the pilot was picked up by a helicopter shortly after ejecting. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/video-appears-to-show-f-35c-carrier-crash/ 

The FAA administrator, Steve Dickson has released a statement stating the FAA “has statutory authority over all aspects of commercial space launch activities” and its authority to “investigate commercial space launch mishaps is well established and codified.” He asked NTSB Admin Jennifer Homendy to pull the NPRM and “refocus on its current successful working relationship with the FAA.” This comes after the NTSB’s NPRM for investigating commercial space flight accidents.  https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-tells-ntsb-to-stay-out-of-space-crash-investigations/ 

The FAA has proposed a new airworthiness directive that will affect Cessna 120 and 140s. The FAA estimates 2033 aircraft will be affected with an estimated cost of $142.75 per airplane to fix. The problem is the weakened aluminum seatbelt bracket. This stems from a fatal 2014 accident when an aircraft nosed over and the pilot was killed.  https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2022/january/27/new-ad-proposed-for-certain-textron-120-and-140-models

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, we have 3 stories for you; passenger crash lands plane after pilot incapacitated, United 767 loses slide in flight, EAA AirVenture is next week!

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 5 stories for you; small airplane crash, New Piper M700 Fury, FAA tells congress not to increase pilot retirement age, FAA advises to use analog NAVAIDs, and comments close for the 25 hour CVR rule.

First up this week is a crash of a Grumman GA-7 Cougar. While we don’t normally talk about small aircraft accidents, this one was recently rebuild by a popular YouTube channel called Rebuild Rescue. The aircraft departed Coatesville-Chester County Carlson Airport in Pennsylvania and crashed shortly after takeoff. Based on a map provided from Aviation Safety Network, the crash appears to have occurred less than 2 miles from the airport. The pilot and only occupant of the Cougar was killed in the crash. As usual, we’re not going to speculate on the cause of the accident. We’ll wait until the NTSB report is released, which may take a few years. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/351359 https://www.fox29.com/news/coatesville-plane-crash-chester-county-school-board-president-killed-in-small-plane-crash Second up this week is the new Piper M700 Fury! Piper has unveiled their new M700 Fury, a single engine turboprop with a 301kts max cruise speed, 3400 foot per minute rate of climb, and take off and landing distances under 2000’. The M700 Fury comes with a Pratt and Whitney PT6A-52 Engine, Garmin G3000 Avionics Suite with HALO Safety System, Garmin PlaneSync, and Garmin Auto land. The Fury has a useful load of 2,220lbs, a maximum rage of 1852NM, and a maximum approved altitude of 30,000’. At 4.1 million, I’m not sure your flight school is going to be picking one up but for those who can afford it, the M700 is a cool new turboprop airplane! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/290413/ https://www.piper.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024_M700_SpecSheet.pdf Next up this week is the FAA and Congress discussing the potential of raising pilot retirement age to 67. The new FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker has asked congress to leave the current mandatory retirement age in place until the agency has had more time to study the increase. The pilot retirement age is now part of negotiations towards a 5 year FAA reauthorization act. Without another extension or a reauthorization act, the FAA’s reauthorization will expire on March 8th, 2024 . We’ll keep you up to date if we see any reauthorization updates or changes to pilot retirement ages. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/age-67-pilot-retirement-back-in-legislative-spotlight/ Third up this week is guidance for anyone experiencing GPS spoofing or other anomalies. The FAA is advising that pilot use analog NAVAIDs such as VOR or NDB if pilot notice issues such as: Report Link: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/nas/gps_reports SAFO: https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo/all_safos/SAFO24002.pdf Last up this week is that comments have closed of the 25 Cockpit Voice Recorder rule. If you’re unfamiliar, the NPRM aims to increase Cockpit Voice Recorders from 2 hours of recording to 25 hours. This would allow the FAA and NTSB to better investigate incidents. Reactions to the NPRM have been mixed, with a number of comments expressing concern that the 25 hours of CVR will be used to listen in on pilot conversations or used to punish pilots with certain viewpoints. ALPA addressed this in their comments, suggesting that there should be restrictions on the use of recording or transcripts for administrative or disciplinary proceedings including by both Federal Agencies and by a pilot’s employer. We’ll keep you updated when we see the final rule. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mixed-reaction-to-25-hour-cvr-rule/ https://www.regulations.gov/document/FAA-2023-2270-0001/comment Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

This week in airplane news: Spirit tells shareholders to reject JetBlue offer, New Bombardier Global 8000, ALPA rejects retirement age change, and Republic has requested an exemption to the 1500 hour rule.

Spirit called for another shareholder rejection of Jetblue’s offer to purchase all shares

This came in response to Jetblue launching a website and offering 60% higher for each share of Spirit.

Spirit airlines is attempting to merge with Frontier.

“JetBlue’s tender offer has not addressed the core issue of the significant completion risk and insufficient protections for Spirit stockholders,” said Mac Gardner, chairman of the board of directors for Spirit Airlines.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/spirit-calls-for-stockholders-to-reject-jetblue-offer

Bombardier has released the Global 8000, with a range of 8000 NM and a top speed of Mach .94

The Global 8000 is the “fastest and longest-range purpose-built business jet”

“Today, Bombardier solidifies once more its position as the leader in business aviation with the newest member of the industry-leading Global family,” said Bombardier President and Chief Executive Officer Éric Martel. “The Global 8000 aircraft leverages the outstanding attributes of the Global 7500 aircraft, providing our customers with a flagship aircraft of a new era. We remain unmatched, which for an innovation-focused team like us, is great.”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/business-aviation-news/bombardier-introduces-global-8000

The Air Line Pilot Association says that raising the retirement age for pilots will not have an effect on the current pilot shortage

ALPA released this statement after rumors of legislative action to increase the pilot retirement age from 65 to 67 or 68.

ALPA says these rumors are an attempt “to divert attention away from their mismanagement of the pandemic relief while attempting to weaken aviation safety.” 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/alpa-rejects-boost-in-retirement-age

Due to the ongoing pilot shortage, Republic wants to put captains into their airplanes at 750 hours.

Currently, the only exemption to the 1500-hour rile allows military pilots to get their ATP at 750 hours.

Republic is claiming that their company-owned Lift Flight Academy matches or exceeds the standards for military pilots and is tailored for the airline

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/republic-seeks-1500-hour-rule-exemption

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; Boom Supersonic XB-1 First Flight, Boeing Upper Management Changes, and United Airlines under FAA Scrutiny.

First up, Boom Supersonic test flew the XB-1 this week. The XB-1 took off from the Mojave Air and Space Port and flew for 12 minutes. The aircraft successfully completed all its testing objectives, though specifics were not announced. The XB-1 reached a maximum altitude of 7120 feet and got up to 238 kts. Do you think that quiet supersonic travel is possible? Let us know in the comments! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/boom-supersonics-xb-1-takes-historic-first-flight-paving-the-way-for-overture/ Next up this week, the Boeing saga continues. If you’re unaware, Boeing is attempting to recover after the 737 Max 7/8 issues and after a Door plug blew out of a 737 Max 9. Boeing has lost several upper management including the CEO of commercial airplanes, the CEO of Boeing as a whole has resigned effective at the end of the year, and the chairman of the board will not seek reelection. Hunt for the new CEO will occur later this year after a yearly meeting with shareholders. We’ll keep you updated if we see more from Boeing. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/boeing-top-management-purged Last up, United Airlines is getting some extra FAA Scrutiny after several incidents. Incidents have not resulted in any injuries, but include a taxi-way diversion, a lost wheel, an engine fire, the loss of a piece of the fuselage fairing on an aircraft, and other hydraulics related issues. Issues included both Boeing and Airbus aircraft with United admitting the issues and stating in an internal memo "we need to take an even closer look at multiple areas of our operation to ensure we are doing all we can to promote and drive safety compliance”. We’ll keep you updated if we see anything else from United. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/291018/ Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

We have 3 stories for you in this week’s Drone News update! The FAA Acting Administrator is out, the Mavic 3 Pro was released, and Sony announces upgrades to its AirPeak.

This week in airplane news: Netjets to buy 150 Lilium eVTOLs, Ukraine has vowed to rebuild the AN225 after it was destroyed, a drunk pilot was removed from a JetBlue flight, and PSI troubles.

NetJets said last week they will be purchasing 150 Lilim eVTOLs

The aircraft will be operated as part 135 charter aircraft

NetJets will base the aircraft in Florida and create a network for serving the state

They will also create “Vertiport” facilities to serve new nonairport locations

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/netjets-to-buy-150-lilium-evtols 

Ukraine says they will rebuild the AN225 after it was confirmed destroyed during the ongoing conflict.

Images surfaced last Friday of the aircraft within its hanger, burned and destroyed.

See images of destroyed aircraft

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/ukraine-vows-to-rebuild-an-225-and-send-putin-the-bill

A pilot was removed from the cockpit of a JetBlue Airbus A320 at Buffalo Niagara International Airport Last week

The 52-year-old pilot blew a .17 on a breathalyzer test administered by TSA. 

JetBlue has since removed the pilot from his duties.

The FAA is investigating.

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/airline-pilot-removed-from-cockpit-on-suspicion-of-being-drunk/

We have 3 stories for you in this week’s General Aviation News update! The FAA Acting Administrator is out, a leaky faucet almost took down a Boeing 767, and a gustnado destroys most of a flight schools fleet.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; FAA Reauthorization Act progresses, Challenger crash landing on FL Freeway, and Joby gets a Part 145 Maintenance Cert.

First up this week is the FAA reauthorization act, which has progressed through the Senate committee. The committee voted against raising the mandatory retirement age from 65 to 67, with at 14-13 vote. Other changes included increasing CVR recording times to 25 hours, increasing the number of people in certification/enforcement, increasing air traffic controllers, adding additional runway surveillance at airports, and boosting civil penalties for airline violations from $25,000 to $75,000. We’ll keep you updated when we see more about the FAA Reauthorization. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/senate-committee-rejects-pilot-retirement-age-boost/ Next up this week is a sad one, a Challenger 604 owned by Hop-A-Jet made a crash landing on highway I75 in Naples, FL. The crash was recorded by a number of cellphones and dash-cams and video has been posted all over social media. The jet was in the final phases of flight having flown from Columbus, OH with an intended destination in Naples. Unfortunately, both pilots were killed in the accident. The flight attendant and two passengers were able to escape the jet before a fire consumed the aircraft. We’ll keep you updated when we see more about this accident. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/at-least-two-dead-in-challenger-freeway-crash/ Last up this week is Joby, who has received its Part 145 Repair Station Certificate from the FAA. The Part 145 certificate allows Joby to perform maintenance and repairs on its aircraft. With the new maintenance certificate, Joby will also be offering paid on-the-job training for those interested in working as eVTOL technicians. If you haven’t heard of Joby, the company is an air taxi manufacturer who received an FAA Part 135 in 2022, began production in 2023, and has already delivered aircraft to the Air Force. Joby will also be operating their air taxis in the UAE starting in 2026. Lots of innovation happening in the realm of eVTOLs! https://aviationsourcenews.com/general-aviation/joby-aviation-gains-faa-part-145-maintenance-certification/ https://airwaysmag.com/joby-evtol-air-taxi-services-uae/ Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have four stories for you this week, An unfortunate mid-air in Florida, FAA Admin nominee gets grilled, Passenger tries to conceal explosives in baggage, and Sun ’n Fun!

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have three stories for you this week, Garmin autopilots certified for C172s, IACRA glitch means anyone who applied for certs needs to re-apply, A Jet blue flight had to take evasive action to avoid a lear jet, and an unfortunate story about an air ambulance that broke apart during flight, killing 5.

This week in airplane news, Trevor Jacobs cert has been revoked, RedBull's failed plane swap, FAA takes the blame for the capitol evacuations, Summoned Tesla hits jet, and a pilot shot at during landing.

Trevor Jacobs has lost his cert for the stunt where he parachuted out of his plane resulting in it crashing into national forest land.

He was NOT fined

He only lost his cert for 10 months

Redbull attempted their plane swap - against the wishes of the FAA.

They’d apparently requested authorization and were denied.

The plane swap did not go as planned, and one of the C182s crashed into the AZ desert. 

There were no injuries. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/plane-swap-stunt-fails-no-injuries-repoted/

The FAA has apologized for causing mayhem at the capitol by not notifying Washington DC authorities about a golden knights parachute event

The appearance of these aircraft within the DC TFR promoted evacuations of government buildings.

“The FAA’s initial review of the circumstances surrounding Wednesday night’s parachute demonstration by the U.S. Army Golden Knights at Nationals Park showed that we did not provide advance notification of this event to the U.S. Capitol Police,”

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/plane-swap-stunt-fails-no-injuries-repoted/

A driverless Tesla hit the tail of a Cirrus VisionJet in Washington State

The car appeared to be in summon mode, where it drives autonomously to the owner

From the video, we can see the collision, but not if/how much damage was done to the airplane. 

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/summoned-tesla-hits-visionjet

A student pilot on landing at Gardner Municipal Airport was shot at on Monday

The FAA said the pilot of the 172 reported a bullet hole in the gas tank of the airplane

The pilot said he was about 700 feet off the ground and two minutes from landing

The pilot and instructor heard a pop and smelled fuel - luckily there was no fire.

https://news.yahoo.com/bullet-hole-found-plane-landed-205759951.html

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation news update, and this week we have 3 stories for you; First hydrogen electric fuel cell airplane in France, Textron pauses orders for Bonanzas and Barons, and the EAA wants the piper AD rescinded.

First up this week is a light sport demonstrator aircraft that uses a Hydrogen Electric propulsion system. Beyond Aero announced this week that they flew their demonstrator, called “Bleriot”, in early January. The Bleriot completed 10 takeoffs and landings over six weeks to validate the 85 kW propulsion system. The electric motor was powered using 1/3 battery power and 2/3 gaseous hydrogen, compressed in three tanks to nearly 5000 PSI. Beyond Aero hops to create electric business aircraft with hydrogen propulsion systems with in the decade. We’ll keep you updated when we see more. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/france-marks-first-crewed-hydrogen-electric-flight/?MailingID=%CAMPAIGNID%&utm_campaign=avwebflash&utm_medium=newsletter Next up this week is Textron, who confirmed they are not currently taking orders for new Beech Bonanzas or Barons. Textron hasn’t detailed why there is a pause in orders nor when they may resume accepting them. The company said in a statement ““To ensure the best experience for our customers throughout every stage of their ownership journey, Textron Aviation has temporarily suspended additions to the order book for the Beechcraft Bonanza,” We’ll keep you updated when we see more about these aircraft. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/textron-pauses-orders-for-bonanzas-barons/ Last up this week is the EAA, who is pushing back on the Airworthiness directive for 31,000 high-wing pipers. The AD was implemented due to incidents on a PA-12 and a PA-14 which resulted in deformed rudders. Both incident aircraft had been modified with after market engines and aftermarket tail beacons. The EAA says the AD is “flawed in regulatory process, scope, and requirements” and continues to say later that at current production and supply rates, retrofitting all 31,000 aircraft would take 75 years. We’ll keep you updated if we see anything else about this! https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/eaa-wants-piper-rudder-ad-rescinded/ Alright, that’s it! Have a great week and we’ll see you next week.

Welcome to your weekly General Aviation News update, we have three stories for you this week, the Aviation Workforce Development Act, Tecnam lands two training fleet orders, and Cub Crafters unveiled a new carbon cub at Sun 'n Fun.

This week in airplane news, a fully electric R44 has been flown from Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport (TRM) to Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). The USAF has flown two single pilot missions in order to test for wartime emergencies. The NTSB has issued an urgent safety recommendations for an inspection of the Otter aircraft. Delta Airlines settled out of court following being sued by a pilot.

Welcome to your weekly Airplane News update, we have four stories for you this week, a near miss at Austin Airport, Gami G100UL begins sales, Bonanza crash, and approval for the Aspen Pro MAX Garmin GFC 600 integration software.