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Archive - Fun Places to Fly - News and Pilot Updates
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3/9/2010 Ultralight Helmet with removable Aviation Headset Acousticom Corporation introduced their Aero Flyte Ultralight Helmet 2 years ago at AirVenture 2008. The overwhelming success of the helmet is attributed to its design. The ability to remove the headset from the helmet and use it in your general aviation aircraft gives it more purpose then just a helmet for your Ultralight.
EAA's Online Store - Aeronautica The Official Merchandise of EAA. EAA's online shopping store has a full line of aviation apparel and gifts for pilots and for those who love airplanes. New Zealand’s Martin Aircraft Company to start selling jetpacks If you ever get a look at movies and televisions shows from the 50's and 60's, they predicted the skies would be filled with flying cars and personal. Check out the Video EAA - Vintage Aircraft Association is on Facebook Sign up for Facebook to connect with EAA - Vintage Aircraft Association. This is the official page of EAA's Vintage Aircraft Association, bringing people together from around the world who share an interest in the aircraft of yesterday. Renewable Fuels for Piston Aircraft Fighter planes of WWII hit faster speeds thanks to lead additives in their fuel and leaded "avgas" still remains the fuel of choice for top-selling piston aircraft. Automotive use of this toxic, high-octane blend was banned in the U.S. in 1996 after first being restricted in 1973, and now a lawsuit is forcing the EPA to end airplane use as well. 3/8/2010 Fun Place to Fly Update - Enrique's, Ponca City, OK "My family has flown to KPNC from our home base O38, several times to enjoy the food at Engique's. Their home made chips and salsa are delicious as is everyting else we have eaten there. This really is a must try. Prices are reasonable, too! They are open week days and Saturday." - Submitted by Gib. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - London-Corbin Airport Hangar Restaurant, London, KY "Flew to LOZ from Smyrna, TN MQY last evening. Great place right on the airfield, food was good and reasonably priced." - Submitted by Paul L. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "This place had excellent food and service!!" - Submitted by Uday. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 3/5/2010 Oshkosh DC-3 Formation At 40 Organizers of a mass arrival of DC-3s and C-47s at AirVenture Oshkosh this year now expect 40 aircraft to take part. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! We don’t need no Stinkin’ Knowledge Test.. Now – Do we need a knowledge test? There has been discussion in various groups about what purpose the FAA’s knowledge test serves. That conversation has been running longer than MASH or Seinfeld reruns combined. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Fun Place to Fly Update - Blue Hangar Cafe, Roanoke, TX "I just had breakfast at the Blue Hangar and ordered the pancakes. I fell in love at first bite!" - Submitted by Steve Z. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Hard Eight BBQ, Stephenville, TX "I love The Hard Eight and fly there several times a year if not more. Even if the golf carts are not at the FBO just call and, unlike Cooper's in Llano, they will send someone to get you! Great food and people!!!" - Submitted by James Cox. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 3/4/2010 Sully Retires: No More Miracles on the Hudson Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the US Airways pilot who made an amazing emergency landing in the Hudson River last year is retiring.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! New Photo Added - Ocean Inn Manzanita, Manzanita, OR The Oregon Coast at Nehalam Bay. 2/28/2010 EAA's AirVenture Oshkosh and Embry-Riddle Check out the presence that Embry-Riddle has at EAA's AirVenture Oshkosh. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Chicago to play at AirVenture 2010 in Oshkosh EAA first made news of the concert known through its Twitter account on Wednesday. The official announcement to the press came on Friday.
Chicago is known for such hits as "25 or 6 to 4," "Saturday in the Park," "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," and "You're the Inspiration," among others.
EAA officials say the band will take the stage on July 26 courtesy of sponsor Ford Motor Co. The concert will be held at AeroShell square following a full day of flying on the festival grounds. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum!2/27/2010 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Mojave Airport/Spaceport, Mojave, CA "First Inland Spaceport! Mojave Airport/Spaceport is home to Scaled Composites; BAE Systems; Calspan Bicycle Works; XCOR Aerospace; and Masten Space Systems. Described in the latest issue of Popular Science as the New Area 51. Mojave Air Spaceport - world renowned flight research center hosting the latest and most advanced aeronautical designs. You can visit Legacy Park where the Rotary Rocket Roton sits on display and every third Saturday the Mojave Transportation Museum, Foundation hosts Plane Crazy Saturday! Many aircraft types, including a rocket plane, are on display from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Friendly people and a great restaurant - Voyager Restaurant, named by Dick Rutan, who flew around the world in 1986, non-stop and unrefueled in the Voyager Aircraft that was designed by his brother, Burt Rutan. Sit and have breakfast or lunch and watch the airplanes at your table with a view! Voyager now hangs in the Smithsonian Air Space Museum in Washington D.C.! Mojave Air Spaceport - where SPACE IS AVAILABLE!
" - Submitted by Cathy Hansen. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "I spent my birthday there on November 28, 2009 with my husband and two friends from out of town. It was one of the best birthdays that I have ever had. The food was wonderful and the service was fantastic. My friends want to eat there again with us. We all agreed that sometimes, you just want to get away from the chain resturants and Kacy J's is the place to do just that!" - Submitted by Cheryl McGairk. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 12/16/2009 New Photo Added! -Thompson Falls Airport, Thompson Falls, MT Submitted by RustedGranny. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - MaliBooz Bar and Grill, Reading , PA "My friends and I go there all the time from Lancaster LNS..the food portions are big and the prices are excellent. The tower staff are very friendly and laid back, makes for an excellent NFL sunday with their big screen TV's. The hot wings and mile high nachos are good as well. 4 out of 5..definately worth the flight." - Submitted by James Cox. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Dare County Regional Airport, Manteo, NC "Dropped into MQI in mid-December. MQI is a quaint airport w/ a nice lobby. Lots of model airplanes hanging from the ceiling. John behind the desk suggested eating at Stripers on the waterfront gave us the keys to an old but free minivan. Stripers had good food a great view of the bay and was only a 5 min drive from the airport. Dropped by the aquarium on the way back. The aquarium was small but a nice stop and it kept the kids busy. The aquarium is just a short walk par 4 to the flight line. Overall good experience, I will be back during the tourist season. BW." - Submitted by Nvypilot. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Libby's Cafe, Goldsby, OK "A great little country cafe with a big menu. Relatively inexpensive but good food. Live music on weekends, usually in the evening. Just a short walk across the interstate overpass from the airport...you can see the sign for Libbys, just look west. Libbys will usually come pick you up if you need a ride. Hours: TUESDAY through THURSDAY, 6AM to 12AM, FRIDAY and SATURDAY, 7AM to 2AM, SUNDAY, 9AM to 3PM. CAFE CLOSED MONDAY. Map:
http://www.libbyscafe.com/images/map2.jpg" - Submitted by Steve Ruse. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 12/11/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Wm 'Tiny' Zehnder Field Airport, Frankenmuth, MI "I wanted to chime in here on this one and agree with the previous writer. We flew in to Zehnder Field on a beautiful fall day and very much enjoyed ourselves. I would encourage you to allow a full day to see the town and enjoy one of the famous Frankenmuth dinners. Served family style, they specialize in both chicken our choice on this trip and German dinners next time. The terminal building was immaculate and the shower equipped bathroom would make a camping stay very comfortable. For non-campers, or those who, like me, visit the brewery downtown, a wide range of accommodations are available including very large and comfortable “whirlpool rooms” at the Bavarian. We will definitely visit again! There is no fuel at Frankenmuth but, Marlette 77G 27 nautical miles east, has some of the best priced self-serve in the area and also a beautiful, very clean terminal building and restrooms. Just beware, Sundays often have glider operations in progress and the winch operator does not use his radio often!" - Submitted by George. Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Long-term FAA bill likely deferred to 2010 The House on Dec. 8 passed another three-month funding extension for the FAA. The FAA has been operating under temporary extensions since its last long-term authorization expired in 2007. The current extension is due to expire Dec. 31, when Congress will be out of session. The House passed a three-year reauthorization in May, but the Senate has yet to pass a long-term bill.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! 83-year-old student pilot solos Anne Osmer had never thought of learning to fly until just a few years ago. A friend took her up in his ultralight and later in a Cessna. With time on her hands and a desire not to go meekly into her twilight years, the retired videographer began taking lessons at Hendersonville Airport in North Carolina.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! 'Oshkosh Express' 747 Returning to Oshkosh Charter flight from "Down Under" making first trip in 12 years. Hundreds of aviation enthusiasts from Australia and New Zealand will be making a joint pilgrimage next July as the group will land in a 747 jetliner at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010 in a group trip dubbed the "Oshkosh Express." Such charter flights from "Down Under" first took place more than 20 years ago, but the 2010 Oshkosh Express charter is the first in a 747 since 1998. Several hundred EAA members from that region of the globe are making the long journey from their home countries to participate in what is commonly known as "aviation's family reunion."
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum!12/10/2009 Harrison Ford Interview at Airventure Part of an interview with Harrison Ford, before the Fly-In Theater Movie, while at AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Interview by another Mr. Ford...! *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! The Impossible Turn? Last week ASF posted a new Real Pilot Story, The Impossible Turn. Most will know this as an attempt to return to the airport during an engine failure right after takeoff. The conventional wisdom is to look for something soft and cheap to hit out ahead of the aircraft that involves minimal maneuvering to lessen the chance of a fatal stall.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Choosing a Flight School How to choose a flight school seems to be a popular question among upcoming student pilots. More specifically questions like: What's the difference between Part 61 and Part 141? or How much does learning to fly cost? When choosing your flight school it's important to know what to look for and have the proper questions ready to be asked and answered. Be sure to ask about ground school, look at their training aircraft, ask about cost, and take a tour.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum!12/9/2009 New Photo Added! - Benton Airport, Benton, KS "June 09, Flyin, P51 in formation with 3 T6s." - Submitted by Dwayne Clemens. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 12/7/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "Stumbled on Kacy J's today while in Muncie visiting family. People couldn't have been nicer. Even lent us a handheld so people on the ground could listen while I took other up on flightseeing trips." - Submitted by RW2. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Barnstormer Grill, Williamson, GA "Watch the bi-planes take off and land while having a great lunch or dinner. Visit the Free Candler Field Museum." - Submitted by Lara Kaufmann. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Thompson Falls Airport, Thompson Falls, MT "This little jewel of a town is just a few miles north of the airport, which is easy in and out. Be sure to fly over the town and get a view of the falls! If your coming or going to the southeast, the flight through the valley is wonderful. There is fuel, courtesy car and camping is probably okay, but no specific facilities except a very basic pilot lounge. Take the car and go into town for some food and a visit to the falls. Beautiful spot and worth the time. A short drive down the valley to SE takes you to a spot where mountain sheep can often be spotted, and a view of a settlers trail that will amaze. How did they do that?" - Submitted by J. Rust. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
From the Forum: How to remove scratches from Plexiglass My windshield looks like I'm looking through a spiders web. Any ideas for removing scratches from plexiglass? 12/1/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Shannon's Landing, Lansing, IL "Great food! I've been to many funplacestofly.com locations in my area OH, IN, MI, IL IGQ tops them all by far!" - Submitted by Henry Miller. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "Just ate there with my wife today. Excellent food and service. It is obvious they love to see us fly in. One of the owners stopped by our table. Hours as of this November 2009 writing are 11 AM through 10 or 11 PM depending on day of week every day except Monday when they are closed all day. I asked for 6 or 7 take away menus at returned them to my Hometown airport. On Kacy J's first day open, I think they had 11 planes come in." - Submitted by Russ Kaspar.
"KACY J's is so delicious it made me want to be a better man. I quit smoking and stopped beating my wife. I also now bother to check if I have any fuel before I take off." - Submitted by Jack Arnold.
Got Comments? - Got Photos? Full gas tanks could stop many small plane crashes Cheryl Allegretti's husband was a meticulous pilot with more than 20 years experience when the plane he was piloting crashed in a northwest Iowa cornfield, killing him and two passengers, apparently because it ran out of gas. "It's still hard for me to believe it at all," said Allegretti, of Cambridge, Wis. "Like everybody has told me, he was the most cautious, safety pilot that they ever knew."
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! In North Kitsap, Turning Old Cars Into New Planes Brady McCormick has his eyes on the skies. The machine shop owner sees an opportunity looming in building experimental aircraft power plants out of 40-year-old Corvair automobile engines. McCormick, 42, said the recent announcement that Seattle-based Boeing Co. is opening a plant in South Carolina instead of Puget Sound “creates a vacuum’’ for aircraft manufacturing locally.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Port Clinton group works to get another Tin Goose flying The old "Tin Goose" airplanes, first built in 1929 by Ford Motor Co., were a staple of island life in the mid-20th century.That rich and quirky history is part of why the local Experimental Aircraft Association "Tin Goose" Chapter 1247 has adopted a project to reconstruct a Tri-Motor. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Fun Place to Fly Update - Salem Airpark, Salem, OH "Flew in for a late Saturday breakfast. The food was great and it is truly a family affair. I talked to one of the local residence who owns and runs a local convenience store that is a frequent patron of the restaurant. After the meal him and his wife came out and looked at our plane and wished us well on our flight. This is a good stop for some local friendly service with great food to boot." - Submitted by David Dunn.
"One of the best places to eat! Fuel is usualy the cheapest around. Busy place!!!!" - Submitted by Dan W.
Got Comments? - Got Photos? 11/26/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "I have been to Kacy J's twice since it has opened and the food is great! The owners are father and son and both are pilots so they know what pilots like." - Submitted by John Gardner. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Mile High Cafe, Hesperia, CA "Good food, fun place to land, watch out for wind in the afternoon!!! Would recomend landing here in the morning, before the afternoon winds." - Submitted by Jon. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Hey, Women — Where Are You? - AVweb Here's an amazing statistic -- it's well known that today, women make up only about 6 percent of the total U.S. pilot population, but the amazing part is that back in 1935, there were about 800 women flying, and that was also about 6 percent of all pilots. At least that is what I've heard -- I couldn't find sources to verify that percentage, but it seems likely in the ball park. (For those who are interested, click here for the FAA's data, which goes back to 1999.)
FunPlacesToFly.com now has a New Forum! Yep, we did it! FunPlacesToFly.com now has a New Forum! Share your flying adventures. Get information. Make new friends! Help us get the ball rolling! Register today! 11/25/2009 New Photos Added! - Barnstormer Grill, Williamson, GA "See the planes take off and land, have a great meal and visit the FREE Candler Field Museum. Great Food! Nice place!" - Submitted by Lara Kaufmann. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Latest Crash Prompts Rules For Zodiacs - FAA requires model to have modifications to fly New owners of a light sport aircraft that has a history of breaking apart in flight will be required to make modifications to the plane to receive a flight permit, a Federal Aviation Administration official said. Weights need to be added to the cables of the Zodiac CH-601XL and CH-650, which will curb flutter. In addition, owners must inspect all control cables of the plane so they are within prescribed parameters.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Senior Pilots Drawn to Light Sport Aircraft A good friend returned from EAA’s 2007 Airventure Oshkosh Airshow holding delivery position #426 on a new Cessna Model 162 Skycatcher. I’d been trying to track down a C162 buyer for a while, so this is great timing as I want to find out what is drawing current, licensed private pilots to the Skycatcher. What I found did not really surprise me. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Hunt for new EAA president restarts The search for the third — and the first not named Poberezny — has lasted nine months and is back to square one. The first search unraveled this summer when the board of directors fell short of a unanimous choice, the front-runner removed his name from consideration, and one board member resigned his post over the direction the search process was headed.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! New Fun Place to Fly Added - Kacy J's, Muncie, IN "A new place to eat. If you liked the old Vinces Restraunt at MIE, you will like the Kacy J's. It just opened the first weeks of November, we went their last Sunday for an evening meal. Just as good as Vince's was in the past. Open for lunch and dinner all days except Monday's. It is located on the field just off of the ramp. The management, a father and son combo, told me that they are there to last." - Submitted by Frank. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 11/23/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Petit Jean Park Airport, Morrilton, AR "Great place to fly in and camp. Call ahead to make a reservation and make sure someone can ferry you from the airport to the Mathers Lodge for the hikes and restaurant. It's too far to walk." - Submitted by Howard Benz. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Lightning Strike in Texas EAAer designs, builds his own two-thirds scale P-38. When a new homebuilt appears on the scene, it usually creates a buzz in the aviation community. And then along comes someone like Jim O’Hara, 81, EAA 464767, of San Angelo, Texas. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Wacos to Brodhead Video Steve and Tina Thomas in their Waco SRE filmed from Bob Grist's Waco 1936 EQC-6 enroute to Brodhead from Poplar Grove Field for the 2009 Grassroots Fly-In. Video courtesy Jay Olburg. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum!11/19/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Noble County Airport Wolf Run State Park, Caldwell, OH "We have been going to this fly-in campground for several years and always have so much fun. The main campground including bathroom and shower facilities is on the other side of the lake so it is not very easily accessible although an inflatable boat makes it easy to get across the lake. It is awesome on the fly-in side because it's like having your own private campground. I highly recommend Wolf Run for fly-in camping!" - Submitted by Stephanie. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Hunt for new EAA president restarts The search for the third — and the first not named Poberezny — has lasted nine months and is back to square one. The first search unraveled this summer when the board of directors fell short of a unanimous choice, the front-runner removed his name from consideration, and one board member resigned his post over the direction the search process was headed. High-Level Committee Addresses Future of Aviation U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood last week hosted the first meeting of a new advisory committee on the future of the country's aviation industry. "This is not going to be just another advisory committee," LaHood said in his blog post. "I am not commissioning some report to fill space on my bookshelf. This committee will make a difference." 11/18/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - The Spitfire Deli, Winder, GA "A very good place. Call ahead or check website for hours. The P-51 Cheeseburger is a Hall of Fame $100 dollar burger. Fish and chips are not bad either." - Submitted by PTC. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Burrows Aviation, Sheboygan Falls, WI "I had the most wonderful brunch at the restaurant attached to Burrows Aviation last Sunday. The brunch was fantastic and the service was just wonderful. Everyone was very friendly and helpful and the gentleman at the FBO offered to take care of anything I needed. What a delightful visit. I'll be back again!!!" - Submitted by Bob. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Ravenwood Castle, New Plymouth, OH "My wife and I stayed at Ravenwood Castle this past weekend 11/14 11/15/2009. When I made my reservation I let them know I was a pilot and they were happy to come pick my wife and I up from Vinton Co Airport. Once we landed, we gave them a call and one of the owners arrived at the airport within 5 minutes. Later that evening we realized we forgot a bag in the airplane and they were happy to give us a ride back over to the airport. The stay was great, the food was great and the hosts were great. When it came time to leave, they again gave us a ride. I tried to tip them for their help with transportation but they wouldn't hear of it. We will be going back, maybe next time with our children." - Submitted by Jeremy. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Hangar Hotel and Airport Diner, Fredericksburg, TX "My wife and I flew with two other couples to the Hangar Hotel and diner a few weekends ago and stayed for 2 nights. Great trip! Can't wait to go back again. There is a nice restaruant about a mile walk down the road that is great too. Sitting outside on the upstairs deck and sipping a drink while looking out over the parking apron and listening to the 40's music they have piped all through the property makes for a relaxing weekend. We also really enjoyed the Officer's Club with the one man piano or guitar entertainment. Next time though, I think one night will be enough." - Submitted by Brad Rose. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Hangar Hotel and Airport Diner, Fredericksburg, TX "The Hangar Hotel and next door 50's Diner is one of my favorite stops. Beautiful WWII Hut Hotel, great 50's Diner, the friendliest people to boot. And as a bonus, it's located in Fredericksburg, Texas which has held it's small town country setting downtown on main street with wonderful shopping. Great place to fly in and spend some time in town. Then come back and enjoy the 50's diner before you depart home." - Submitted by Henry. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Huntington and Roush Lake, Huntington, IN Land at Huntington Municipal Airport 9-27 runway with taxiway and you will be within a 10 minute walk of Roush Lake to the south. Several overlooks will give a great view to enjoy the Lake or check out a good restaurant, Huntington University Campus or the Dan Quail Museum. This is one of the few airports in Indiana adjacent to a Lake. A friendly and modern airport office with courtesy car will top off the experience for you. Submitted by Russell Kaspar. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
New Fun Place to Fly Added - Noble County Airport Wolf Run State Park, Caldwell, OH Noble County Airport is surrounded and part of Wolf Run State Park. They have a pilots camping area off the south west side of the runway. The camping area has picnic tables, typical park outhouses and fire rings. Around the park there are hiking trails. The main feature of the park is the lake that it encompasses. Noble County Airport is an underused airport and could really use some activity to let the park system know we appriciate the fly-in camp ground! Submitted by Jeremy. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 11/17/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Cafes in Okemah, Okemah, OK Okemah has a transit system which will take you to a restaurant and deliver you back to your plane, for $1 each way. KATS Public Transportation 918-623-1992. The breakfast destination is K-Bar Restaurant, with lunch destinations including Brick Street Cafe, Hen House Cafe, Sofia's Mexican Restaurant, Monterrey's Mexican Restaurant, T C'S Smokehouse Grill, Burger Paradise/ Burger Shack, and the K-Bar Restaurant. Nice N/S 2585 x 100 ft. turf strip. Transit operates M-F, but special arrangements may be made for groups on weekends. Great people, friendly and hospitable. Woody Guthrie's birthplace. Submitted by Brent Butler. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Hangar Hotel and Airport Diner, Fredericksburg, TX "Our first trip here. Flew in on Friday evening 11/6/09 and everyone was friendly as can be. We were planning on leaving Sat but had so much fun, we stayed another night. Look forward to returning again soon. The bar service and food in the diner was great." - Submitted by Rich Kimberly. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Gary Sinise's Lt. Dan Band Returns to EAA AirVenture in 2010 EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wis. - (Nov. 11, 2009) - A weeklong salute to veterans during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010 will be highlighted by the return of actor Gary Sinise and his "Lt. Dan Band" at AirVenture's Theater in the Woods. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum! High-Flying Fun at the Oswego County Airport FULTON – The Experimental Aircraft Association is hosting a free aerospace workshop on Sunday, November 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The day-long event takes place at the Oswego County Airport, 2326 county Route 176, Fulton.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! EAAer Uses 3D Animation to Reconstruct Hudson River Landing The landing of US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson has been dissected from many angles and now one EAA member has created what is likely the most complete and visually impactful animated reconstruction of the event to date. *Discuss this News Item in the Forum!11/13/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - 747 Bistro - Sams Joint - Fly Inn, Plainwell, MI "When you stop in to the 747 Bistro be sure and try the peanut butter pie. It's out of this world." - Submitted by Brad. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Lost Sea, Sweetwater, TN "On Nov 7th 2009 I flew my 14 year old daughter in my RV6A to Monroe Co. TN to have an opportunity to visit the Lost Sea. Every bit of the day was fantastic and perfect. Perfect weather, leaves falling from the trees etc. Just after I tied down I made a call over to the Lost Sea where Linda politely answered the phone. I told her that I had just landed with my daughter and was wondering if someone could shuttle us over to the park the airport is about 5 miles from the park. Linda immediately said that she would come over right now to get us. She not only picked us up and provided great information about the park on our drive over, but when we got there she said to just let her know when we were ready to head back to the airport and she would take us back. The tour of the caves and lake were just amazing - I have been to Cave City and thought this tour was much more impressive. Will the tour guide had lots of 1 liners while providing the caves history which were actually rather clever. I can simply say this is a must trip - my daughter and I simply had one of those fantastic times that we will remember always." - Submitted by Kye Wehrell. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Commemorative Air Force loses court case The Commemorative Air Force has lost its appeal of a court decision that returns its rare North American P–82 Twin Mustang to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The Midland, Texas-based group announced the decision Nov. 11. In a judgment filed Nov. 2, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruled in favor of the U.S. Air Force. CAF officials are disappointed by the outcome.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum! Garmin rebates set to expire Pilots, here’s your chance to help Santa Claus with his financial doldrums: Ask for that Garmin GNS 430 or 530 this year rather than next. The GPS giant has been offering $500 rebates for GNS 430s and $1,000 rebates for 530s for some time, and those rebates expire at the end of the year. While Garmin has not announced 2010 pricing yet, word on the street is that there may be a price increase in the popular navigators in addition to the expiration of the rebates, meaning a potentially significant increase in costs after the first of the year.
*Discuss this News Item in the Forum!11/11/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Paoli Airport, Paoli, IN "Area Attractions: French Lick Casino, golfing, indoor water park just 10 miles away. Avgas100LL availiable hrs 8am to 5pm or call for after hours, Cash or Check only. Tie downs or overnight hanger availiable. Courtesy van available. 2800 ft paved runway with papi lights. Lounge area with kitchen and showers. Airport Email is paoliairport@yahoo.com. Close to Casino, Walmart, Skiing, Lodging, Restaurants,Parks, Lakes." - Submitted by John Deringer Airport Manager. Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Zodiac Manufacturer AMD Issues Safety Alert for CH 601 XL and CH 650 Models EAA urges owners not to fly those aircraft until maintenance completed. AMD, manufacturer of the Zodiac CH 601 XL S-LSA (factory-built aircraft), has issued a Safety Alert (November 7, 2009), outlining the procedures required to resume normal operations in the aircraft (prior to the July 7, 2009 letter from Chris Heintz limitations). The Alert includes upgrades outlined on Drawings 6-ZU-1, 6-ZU-2, and 6-ZU-3.
New Fun Place to Fly Added - CrossWinds Golf Club, Greenville, SC THERE'S ONLY ONE GOLF COURSE IN THE WORLD that has each hole conceived by a different designer. It's Crosswinds Golf Club in Greenville, South Carolina and the reason you've never heard of it is because it's an 18-hole par-3 course. Yes, it's a gimmick, but it's a gimmick that works. What otherwise might have been just another fun-to-play but quickly forgetable par-3 layout is instead both fun-to-play and rather memorable. The holes stick in your brain long after you leave. You can instantly remember the Dye hole, or the Jones one or the Cupp one, and while you might have to think a minute about who designed some of the other holes using the scorecard as a cheat sheet, you certainly can recall the salient features of each hole, because each is distictive and different. A Really fun par-3 course with enough variety to hold everyone's interest. -Ron Whittan, Architectural Editor, Golf Digest. To see the entire article go to http://www.crosswinds-golf.com/GolfDigest.pdf. For more information about the local airport, go to http://www.greenvilledowntownairport.com/. Submitted by Lara Kaufmann. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Ocean Inn Manzanita, Manzanita, OR Nehalem Bay State Airport Manzanita is right on the coast. Watch out for cross winds/windsgear when onshore is blowing when you go below tree level. Call Ocean Inn for for pick-up at the airport and beachfront Lodging. Highly recommended and very reasonable price. below are the details of the lodging from their website. The units are very good condition.... Bob Madge N1160T V35B. Cozy units look out at the Pacific from their ocean side location in Manzanita, a charming, quiet and serene village on one of Oregon's finest beaches. Five miles of sand stretch from the Nehalem River mouth to majestic Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain. Ten beautifully appointed units are available to provide you with an unforgettable experience, newly remodeled in February of 2009. You will want to return again and again. In the front building there are four units, two oceanfront one bedroom, full kitchen units, and two ocean view one bedroom, full kitchen units. There are six units on the adjoining property. All are one bedroom. There are four units with full kitchens and ocean views. There is one unit that has a kitchenette, and an ocean view, and one that has no ocean view but is ADA compliant. Look for newly designed website with updated pictures in Summer of 2009. Submitted by Bob Madge. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 11/5/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Red Oak Municipal Airport, Red Oak, IA "Great GA airport with SS fuel pump, nice courtesy car and friendly FBO. Should also mention Burlington Northern Railroad Depot WWII Memorial Museum among points of interests in Red Oak. Sons of Red Oak made huge contribution to WWII effort, particularly in North Africa. Excellent restaurant at old firestation. Worth the stop." - Submitted by Sam Taylor. Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Production Skycatcher Debuts at AOPA Summit; AVweb Flies It Cessna moves ever closer to opening the spigot on LSA production. The company arrived at AOPA Summit with a confirming version of the 162 Skycatcher, and AVweb took a spin. Come to the First-Ever AOPA Aviation Summit! Something for Everyone: Pilots, Students, Aviation Enthusiasts, and Fun for the Entire Family. AOPA’s annual convention has undergone an exciting transformation to the all-new AOPA Aviation Summit. The Summit will feature new experiences, events, education, and opportunities to touch, test, and interact with the people and technology that’s relevant to the way you fly or to help you realize your dream of learning to fly.
Continental Motors Announces Limited Time Engine Sale Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM) announced today a limited time special offer on engines purchased during the week of the 2009 AOPA Aviation Summit in Tampa, Florida. While the order period is brief, anyone in the market for a factory-new or factory-rebuilt TCM engine can take advantage of the special offer regardless of his or her attendance at the Summit. An Electra goes to the movies When Joe Shepherd of Fayetteville, Ga., traded a Cessna 195 for a Lockheed 12A Electra Junior in 1988, he never thought that he’d spend 18 years restoring the airplane. And he certainly never expected to find himself sweating in its cockpit on a hot summer day, wearing a wig and scarf intended to make him look—from a distance—like Amelia Earhart.
Pilot builds plane before he earns his wings in Jefferson County Steve Craig learned to build his first airplane from nose to tail before he earned his pilot's license. 11/4/2009 The Aviators Series Preview Released, Production Accelerated The producers of The Aviators, the new television series that has been creating a buzz in North American aviation, have officially released the first preview of the show on their website at www.TheAviators.TV. The preview features footage obtained at EAA’s AirVenture including the A380 as well as a segment on Icon Aircraft’s A5. “We get emails every single day from members of the aviation community thanking us for putting The Aviators together,” said the show’s Executive Producer Anthony Nalli, “and that doesn’t count the flood of emails and calls we’ve received from people interested in telling their story or showcasing their products, services, or destinations.” (The Aviators) Policy Discount Offered for General Aviation Aircraft with Seatbelt Airbags Irving, Texas-based Aggressive Insurance announced it will offer a premium discount to the owners and pilots of general aviation aircraft with seatbelt airbags on board. A new participant in the aviation insurance business, Aggressive wants to attract pilots and plane owners who show concern for both flying safety and airplane maintenance by adopting new safety techniques and equipment. (Insurance Journal)
Shared Ownership Sharing airplanes remains a bright spot in economic slowdown. While the economic downturn was devastating to aircraft manufacturers and their suppliers, there was one segment of the industry, shared ownership, that saw its business hold the line and even, in some cases, expand. (Flying Magazine) Small airports land big money Nearly half of the $55.6 billion that has gone to airports in the 28-year-old Airport Improvement Program has gone to airports used exclusively or mostly by private planes. That includes $1.5 billion since 2001 for specific projects, known as earmarks, requested by members of Congress. Most of the earmarks -- $1.1 billion -- went to small airports. (USAToday.com) A Pilot's Dream Trailer
Aircraft Spruce now carries the 3M™ Paint Restoration Kit for airplanes This all inclusive kit for aircraft detailing. This is not a polish or wax which only fill scratches, 3M's Paint Restoration Kit actually, removes oxidation, refines scratches, and achieves a professional finish. Designed for airplanes: non-corrosive, silicone free, commercial aircraft manufacturer tested and approved. The 3M Paint Restoration Kit includes all of the following 3M components:
$10.00 Lowe's gift card at AeroInStock.com Get a $10.00 Lowe's gift card with every $300.00 worth of accessories that you purchase from A.E.R.O. between November 1 and December 31, 2009! Passenger accidentally ejects from plane A passenger accidentally activated the ejector seat of a plane while reaching for something to steady himself during a mid-air manoeuvre.
Study Unable to Gauge Effect of Pilot Retirement-Age Rise A federal study of the increase in the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots to 65 has concluded there is too little information to determine the safety impact of that decision.
At 35,000 feet, pilots' main job is fighting fatigue Flying an airliner can be downright boring these days. Once it hits cruising altitude and weather or other problems don't arise, pilots often become more of a systems monitor until descent, because planes have become so highly automated.
AOPA: Tennessee aviation legend turns 100 Wednesday, Nov. 4, will get off to a special start for Evelyn Bryan Johnson, the legendary Tennessee flight instructor and designated pilot examiner who is better known to her many students over the years as “Mama Bird.”
AOPA: Fuller lauds benefits for GA in NextGen plan The FAA must take advantage of existing technologies, continue to work with stakeholders, and act quickly to establish the equipment and procedures necessary to modernize the air transportation system, AOPA President Craig Fuller said in submitted testimony to the House aviation subcommittee Oct. 28.
High-end Christmas catalog stars sporty aircraft under development in Tehachapi Y’know that someone on your Christmas list who has everything? Well, Tehachapi has something that Neiman Marcus has found for you. And you can be certain that someone doesn’t have this. EAA: Savoring a New Design Savor Debuts at Copperstate. A very short span cantilevered high wing, extra-wide cabin with tandem seating, welded steel tube fuselage inside a fiberglass faring with a metal wing filled as smooth as any composite wing—appearing like so many tricycle-geared European S-LSA entrants—until you look in the cooling inlets and see an 0-320! RV-9A from Van's Aircraft - A Builders Blog. Update for 10/30/2009 The center cabin cover is finished and trial fitted to the front floor of the fuselage. All of these parts are removeable for access later, after the aircraft is finished. Now that I have them in, it's time to take the out AGAIN. I have to run the fuel lines pretty soon. The center cover plate protects these fuel lines. EAA: Pilot Overcome By Hypoxia, Daughter Takes Over With Controller and Nearby Pilot Assist A father-daughter flight earlier this month turned harrowing as the woman, a non-rated passenger, had to take over flying duties when her father succumbed to hypoxia while cruising at 23,000 feet. 10/29/2009 Featured Fun Place to Fly - Cavanaugh Flight Museum, Addison, TX The Cavanaugh Flight Museum allows the visitor to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of aviation history. Located at Addison Airport. Got Comments? - Got Photos? AOPA: Flying the Polar Express The crew had already turned back once. An oil leak had forced the Antonov AN-2 to stop at the eighty-fourth parallel and return to Prince Patrick Island without reaching the North Pole the previous year. But Donald Olson joined the crew again for another attempt in the spring of 1998.
Aircraft Partnerships - How to own your own airplane in todays economy Why consider aircraft co-ownership? There are two primary reasons that make forming or joining an aircraft partnership an excellent idea. First, Safety: Many GA aircraft fly so few hours per year that safety may be compromised. Partnerships increase the hours flown and the number of pilots examining the aircraft; a key factor in enhancing safety. Second, Cost: Common sense dictates that a group of people pooling their assets will be able to purchase more aircraft at a lower cost per individual. After all, even one partner cuts your ownership costs in half! New Photo Added! - Catalina's famous Airport-in-the-Sky, Catalina, CA "My wife and I getting ready to leave after a trip for her birthday. Thanks to the great pilot and friend who flew us over there. A trip we will never forget!!" - Submitted by J.R. Riggs. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 10/28/2009 RV-9A from Van's Aircraft - A Builders Blog. Update for 10/28/2009 More work on the forward covers. Here I've put 2 nutplates on the F-983A Fuel Valve Plate. I had to countersink the plate to make the rivets flush with the surface. New Fun Place to Fly Added - Grissom Air Reserve Base, Peru, IN "Air Museum with in walking distance of GA ramp. Rare B-58 Hustler supersonic bomber as well as about 30 other A/C. Indoor exhibits and movie theather. Grissom is open to General Aviation, tell tower you are going to civilian ramp. Private use. Permission required prior to landing." - Submitted by Pete Speth. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? Congress calls for study of GPS backup As VORs are being decommissioned and with loran-C on the chopping block, pilots are relying more on satellite-based technology for navigation—but what will happen if there is a GPS outage? The House of Representatives is calling for the Coast Guard and Department of Transportation to study whether there is a continued need for a backup navigation system to GPS. The 2009/2010 Aircraft Spruce Catalog Is Now Available! Order yours free or download the 800+ page PDF file to your computer. New Fun Place to Fly Added - Greenville, South Carolina "Greenville has my favorite downtown of any city in the world. I haven’t been everywhere, but I have been traveling for years. If you don’t mind walking, start near Main St, and stroll up and down the street, it’s beautiful, clean, thriving with people of all ages, some local and some from other countries. Greenville has several companies that pull talent from overseas. Main Street will also take you to the beautiful Falls Park on the Reedy River. Over the river is a unique curved pedestrian suspension bridge. Spend the afternoon walking through the park, shopping and dining downtown." - Submitted by Lara Kaufmann. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 1st SkyCatcher now at Cessna Cessna Aircraft's first production 162 SkyCatcher has arrived in Wichita from Shenyang Aircraft Industry in China. 10/27/2009 Boy's TV interfered with aircraft A signal booster on the television set of a Bedfordshire boy has been found to be interfering with aircraft.
GA at the movies Aerobatic champions, record-setters, celebrity pilots, legends, and grandchildren of legends: Their inspiring stories have been captured on film in A Pilot’s Story and Amelia. Join AOPA President Craig Fuller on Friday, Nov. 6, at AOPA Aviation Summit for a talk with those who have helped make the movies happen.
Close call with terrain From a YouTube.com entry: "On June 10th, 2009 I went for a plane ride on a Beechcraft Bonanza with some friends to videotape another friend flying in an L-39. Long story short- we came very very very (that's 3 very's) close to dying and WE CAUGHT IT ON VIDEO. Enjoy!"
RV-9A from Van's Aircraft - A Builders Blog. Update for 10/27/2009 Work on the Center Cabin Cover in the forward fuselage. 10/26/2009 AOPA Weather makes planning a breeze AOPA’s revamped online weather section is already a valuable part of many members’ preflight planning, and the association is working to make it even better. Fun Place to Fly Update - Los Baños Municipal Airport, Los Baños, CA "Many New Stores close by - Lowes, Target, TSC, Wal Martfurthest, some new eats..." - Submitted by Jeff Shafer. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Red Oak Municipal Airport, Red Oak, IA "Located in SW Iowa and just 1/2 mile west of beautiful Red Oak, IA. Come and enjoy our historical homes, visit our new Performing Arts Center; a beautiful new History Center that showcases very interesting historical displays about SW Iowa. Red Oak is the County Seat and has a unique and beautiful courthouse worth stopping to see and photograph; a large variety of places to dine and shop, both on the townsquare and at the plaza; a new hotel, plus several other hotels/bed breakfasts for a comfortable nights stay. Our airport offers a very comfortable pilot's lounge, flight planning/weather room, free overnight ramp tie-down areas or inside hangar space available for a small fee, and a courtesy car for pilots to use during your visit. You don't want to miss this destination spot so plan to fly here and visit us soon!" - Submitted by Gail. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
New Photos Added! - Wendover Airport, Wendover, UT "Fly-in event at Wendover." - Submitted by Wendover2001. Got Comments? - Got Photos? EAA In No Hurry To Pick President The current president of the Experimental Aircraft Association says the process to pick his successor is progressing and no time line has been set for the recruitment. 10/23/2009 EAA at Show Center for Business-Aviation's Premier Gathering The leader in sport aviation is center stage at the world's premier business aviation convention, and delegates are being drawn to the exhibit by the prospects of flying away in a prize like no other.
A Brand New Aviat Husky Could Be Yours The 2010 EAA 'Share the Spirit Sweepstakes' website is now live, and with it, your chance to fly away in the grand prize-a brand new, fully equipped Aviat Husky A-1C. UNT to become first Texas public university to offer a four-year aviation program DENTON (University of North Texas), Texas – Beginning next fall Texas students interested in a career in aviation will no longer have to look out of state for an affordable four-year degree. In 2010 the University of North Texas will become the first Texas public college or university to offer a bachelor of science in aviation logistics. 10/21/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - 747 Bistro - Sams Joint - Fly Inn, Plainwell, MI "The 747 Bistro, right across the road from the airport, is a friendly place with wonderful food. When you stop in be sure to say hi to the owner, a retired 747 pilot." - Submitted by Brad. Got Comments? - Got Photos? User Fee Debate Simmers While the difficult economic and perception problems plaguing the business aviation industry have center stage at the National Business Aviation Association convention this week in Orlando, background work on the reauthorization of the FAA continues, and NBAA President Ed Bolen told today's opening session that there is strong opposition to the administration's apparent preference for user fees to fund the agency. Sean Tucker Scheduled For Oprah Thursday Those of you who don't regularly tune into the Oprah Winfrey show in the middle of your work day might want to set the DVR for whatever time it is she's on Thursday. 10/20/2009 Cessna Citation Mustang Continues To Expand Fleet, Avionics Capabilities Cessna announced Monday that it has delivered 241 Citation Mustangs since the aircraft entered service in April 2007. The entry-level business jet has found worldwide appeal with deliveries revealing a 60/40 domestic/international mix and a variety of field operations, including owner-operators, corporate flight departments as well as fleet sales to flight schools, charter companies and air-taxi operators.
AOPA Pleads Case for Embattled Approaches The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association is asking the FAA to reconsider its plans to cancel some of the 154 ground-based instrument approaches that are on the budget chopping block.
AOPA sticks up for GA in ‘USA Today’ opinion piece Just a week after USA Today ran a one-sided article generating negative sentiment against general aviation and perpetuating public misconceptions about GA, the newspaper is adding fuel to the fire. This time, it is an editorial. But, this time, USA Today has given AOPA the opportunity to rebut. AOPA President Craig Fuller sets the record straight with the facts. Fuller’s opinion piece is published in its entirety below.
Bear vs. Cub vs. Man The images are the story, and the story is that bears aren't the best custodian for your fabric-covered airplane. 10/19/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Benton Airport, Benton, KS "Stearman Field has 5100ft Runway now and we have a new grass runway and sprinkler system. New Airport Cafe coming soon." - Submitted by Dwayne Clemens. Got Comments? - Got Photos? NTSB Says Controllers Should Have Emergency Powers The NTSB is using the US Airways flight 1549 Hudson River ditching to allow air traffic controllers to independently label an aircraft's discrete transponder code as an emergency code, regardless of the crew's actions. (Link to PDF.) Capt. Chesley Sullenberger and FO Jeff Skiles, famous for their safe handling of an Airbus A320 as it glided into the Hudson, did not set their transponder to 7700.
Bill Hopes To Boost General Aviation Sales Republican Congressman Todd Tiahrt of Kansas Thursday introduced the General Aviation Jobs Act, designed to buoy small aircraft sales by extending bonus depreciation and more.
Revised 51 Percent Policy Good News for Builders, Kit Makers For the past four years, EAA and the amateur-built aircraft community have been facing perhaps the most significant threat ever faced by the homebuilt movement. But today, we're confident in declaring that the threat is over; the FAA this week released the long-awaited final order that revises the amateur-built aircraft certification policy known as the 51 percent rule as well as Advisory Circular 20-27G, the guide for amateur builders on how to properly certify every step of the building process. 10/16/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - MaliBooz Bar and Grill, Reading , PA "Located in the Reading Airport Terminal, Malibooz Bar Grill. I finally got the chance to check this place out the other day. I had the hamburger and fries. Service was great and the food was awesome. Aircraft parking is right in front of the terminal building. When you are done eating make sure you ask the waitress for the door code to get back onto the flight line." - Submitted by Mike Bennett. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Photo Added! - Peach State Aerodrome, Williamson, GA "Final approach to runway 24 at Gaston's fishing resort 3M0 in Arkansas. Great place to fly with cottages along the White River, restaurant that extends over the river with great views, swimming pool, and nature walks." - Submitted by John Heilmann. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Lawmaker introduces bill to boost general aviation sales U.S. Congressman Todd Tiahrt (R-Goddard) introduced Thursday a bill he says is designed to boost the sales of general aviation.
Nature of aircraft among many questions in Colorado balloon chase Authorities in Larimer County, Colo., were taken on the strangest of possible chases today by a silvery balloon, shaped like a flying saucer, which went flying thousands of feet over the plains northeast of Denver. 10/12/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Methow Valley, Twisp, WA "The Methow Valley offers road and mountain biking, great fishing, and the nicest x-c ski trails anywhere. Twisp airport has a courtesy car and its an easy walk to the Methow river or into town for lunch. Airport has grassy area for overnight camping, an annual fly in in July and cookouts every friday night weather permitting." - Submitted by Cole Smith. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Photo Added! - Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport, Fishers, IN Submitted by Claudia. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Photo Added! - Peach State Aerodrome, Williamson, GA "Tim Preston of Preston Aviation located at Peach State Airport instructs in the Stearman" - Submitted by Peggy Preston. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Rickenbacker's Bistro, Ogden, UT "This is one of my favorite restaurants in Utah! The food and service is amazing, and the view is unbeatable. This is a must try if you are anywhere near the Ogden area!" - Submitted by Miles. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 10/8/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Forest Ridge Mountain Home, Jefferson, NC "Last month Marvin Stump retired. A great guy by the name of Mike took his place althought I can not recall his last name..." Submitted by Perry. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Oklahoma Antique Airplane Association Fly In, Pauls Valley, OK "The Oklahoma Antique Airplane Association has a monthly meeting/fly in at or club house on the northwest corner of the PVJ field, once a month on the first Saturday. Come join in on the fun! You don't have to fly an antique in, we have cars, motorcycles, and every kind of airplane old and new. We eat about 11:30 to 12:00 and have burgers hot dogs and in the winter chili and Cajun food. Kids are welcome and rides are availabe for anyone that shows up." - Submitted by Greg. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Roanoke Island, NC "Great Airport. Beach, picinic shelter and aquarium. Lost Colonly Play nearby. Downtown is a great place to walk beside the water and eat. At the south end of the island is where the fishing boats come in. Fisherman's Wharf is a really great seafood restaurant. Real fresh fish. Seafood shop below restaurant will pack your fish for trip home. Said they would leave a bushel of oysters at the airport if you call ahead." - Submitted by Gil. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 10/7/2009 FAA Stops Direct Chart Sales To Small Dealers The FAA will no longer offer wholesale rates on aeronautical charts to dealers with less than $5,000 per year in sales, as of this week. - AVweb 10/2/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Bonners Ferry, ID "Cheap fuel, close to restaurants, friendly people, new self serve pumps, pilot shop, courtesy car for small fee, wireless internet access." - Submitted by Ian. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Fly-ins, Crisfield, MD "Fly-in taxi service sea food capital of the world! Charter fishing, golfing, waterfront homes, runway homes. Home of the Smith Island Cake. Tour boat Smith Island, Tangier Island." - Submitted by John Gillespie. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Beaumont Hotel, Beaumont, KS "Delicious food, friendly service, good prices. Beaumont is an old Frisco railway town and there are historical markers around town that make interesting reading." Submitted by Bill. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Sky Galley Restaurant, Cincinnati, OH "The Sky Galley resturant is witout a doubt one of the finest airport resturants around. Food is great, Service is too. When the weather is nice nothing beats their outdoor patio on the ramp The fish special on Friday is worth the trip." Submitted by The Captain. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Photos Added - The Beaumont Hotel, Beaumont, KS "Steve McGuire of Ponca City OK taxis his Luscombe down Main Street to the Hotel aircraft parking area. A group of 3 aircraft flew from Ponca City to Hotel Beaumont for lunch on September 13, 2007." Submitted by Tom Auerbach. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/29/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Custer State Park Airport, SD "Located on the animal loop in the middle of Custer State Park, SD, the field allows access to beautiful hills and valleyss of the black Hills. Prior to going get the current phone # for the State Game Lodge and upon landing , if open, call and they will attempt to pick you up for a great breakfast, lunch or dinner at the lodge. Prices are reasonable but there is no fuel or other services. Rapid City Regional Airport is approximately 24 NM to the Northeast. Insure to check for antelope on the runway prior to landing, a wait my be needed to exit the field boundries due to Bison close to the gate." - Submitted by Bill Franklin. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
New Fun Place to Fly Added - Middle Island Lighthouse, Alpena, MI "Middle Island is a privately owned island off Alpena, Michigan on the northeast shore. You will stay in what was once the still active lighthouse's signal building which can sleep eight. There is no electricity on the island so appliances run on gas as do the lights. You can spend many hours exploring the island's hiking trails while trying to spot some of the deer that will share your island. Build a roaring bonfire on the beach at night and you will see Great Lake freighters passing close enough to hear the rumble of their huge engines. You will be amazed at how many more stars there are when they don't have to compete with city lights! So, if you are interested in Great Lakes maritime history, lighthouses, or just a secluded get-a-way, this might be your destination. See the web site http://www.middleislandkeeperslodge.com/ for more information and be sure to tell Captain Mike you'll need a ride from the airport." - Submitted by George Crackel. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/25/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Airport Cafe at Kern Valley Airport, Kernville, CA "My wife, dog and I camped out here for a couple of nights. The campground is well appointed and during our visit, empty. The solar shower doesn't work very well, but everything else is there. The Cafe rented me their wreck, which allowed us some freedom. One of the better airplane camping spots that I've visited." Submitted by Jlezin. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Harbor Springs, MI "Nice little airport in northern Michigan on Little Traverse Bay. A courtesy car is available although we brought our folding bikes because we heard there was a trail which ran from Harbor Springs through Petoskey to Charlevoix, an area known as “Michigan’s Gold Coast”. The bike trail is a former railroad track which mostly follows the shoreline of the Little Traverse Bay and runs past the approach end of runway 28. The trail is a wide, paved, landscaped path with only slight slopes, and has many scenic lookouts and parks along the way. There is easy access to downtown shopping and restaurants from the trail. Bed and breakfasts and hotels from the quaint to the elaborate can be found along the path as well as a couple of campgrounds, one of which is located in Petoskey State Park.. There is also a place right on the trail which rents bikes if you don’t have your own to bring.
" - Submitted by Doug. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - The Pinehurst Inn, Ashland, OR "$99 Fly-in special! Romantic dinner, snuggly bed, yummy breakfast at the Pinehurst Inn Bed and Breakfast, located in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. From the tie-downs, the Inn is a 10-minute walk through bird and butterfly-laden woods, and we are happy to provide transportation. Dinner choices are New York Steak, Wild Salmon, Herb-encrusted Chicken and Spinach with 4-cheese Ravioli. The Inn was built in the 1920's and decor is period appropriate, with no TV, DVD's VCRs, or anything else that would distract you from focusing on spending quality time with your loved one, with the exception of the antique piano where we gather for live music after dinner when circumstances permit. Rooms are tastefully appointed with antiques and include private bath with large clawfoot tub. Breakfast is extended Continental. The $99 special is limited to rooms 3 and 4, however reduced rates are available for other rooms as well. Call today for your reservations!
" - Submitted by Donnie Rowlett. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/19/2009 New Fun Place to Fly Added - Oswego County Airport, Fulton, NY "The Restaurant on site has GREAT food, great prices. The fuel is reasonable and easy self serve or truck. The staff is friendly and helpful, but I think they shut down at 1600 hrs. After hours the restrooms are on the public side of the fence, Hanger E." - Submitted by Rod Tuft. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Fun Place to Fly Update - Central Coast California, Santa Maria, CA "A few comments and corrections. The landing fee is now $25 dollars. Has been since 1/1/09. The ride down to Avalon via the shuttle vans is $25 dollars round trip. The landing fee covers one complete day regardless how many times you may go over and back. Overnight parking is now 10 dollars. The airport closes at 7:00 pm.....although not sure what would happen if you took off for home after that.. You can get real time digitized weather at 310 510-9641. The food is still good, and atmosphere is friendly." Submitted by Flip Begich. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/14/2009 Fun Place to Fly Update - Florida Flying Gators Airpark, Groveland, FL "Florida Flying Gators are having a grand reopening Fly-in on the 14th of November, 2009. http://flyinggators.com/news/spring.htm. The airfield was closed all summer to install a runway irrigation system and reseed." Submitted by Rex. Another update by Rex: "I have walked the runway with a Commercial-Grade Measuring Wheel twice and the usable runway length is 2000ft. Including the extension at the north end of the runway for runoff into the high grass the total length is 2150ft. The AirNav.com information is out of date. The main runway was lengthened but the AirNav.com information was never updated." Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - The Cabin Grill, Ione, WA "Most awesome place to eat. Great food low prices. Very friendly atmosphere. Owners rock.Highly recommended." Submitted by Sara. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Fun Place to Fly Update - Kealy's, Janesville, WI "Stopped at Kealy's after our attempt to fly to BMI was aborted due to fog. Great service, above average food. We were laughing because their menu mentions home made toast multiple times. You know what, the toast, made with home cooked bread, really was worth mentioning." Submitted by RW2. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Primo Barone's Restaurant in Franklin, PA "Great Italian restaurant right off the ramp. Enter buiding through FBO excellent fuel prices here. Friendly service, nice prices. I love the eggplant parmesan, my pilot prefers the veal parm, and their daily specials are always worth considering. From the looks of their parking lot, they get a lot of local business." Submitted by Lenore Collins. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Fun Place to Fly Added - Ciafre's Runway Restaurant Lounge, Butler, PA "Located on second floor wheelchair accessible: elevator of airport administration building on ramp at end farthest from hangars. Great view of runway and ramp, menu with good variety and nice prices daily specials, friendly service. Open Tuesday through Sunday. We enjoy everything there from sandwiches to veal parmesan and surf turf." - Submitted by Lenore Collins. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/9/2009 New Destination Added - Granny's Farm Bed and Breakfast with Airstrip, Marshall, IN "This unmapped airstrip is a 9-27 turf runway a mile and a half East of Turkey Run State Park. Call ahead to make arraingements to land. Ideal for a get-away for a small plane. Grannys Farm Bed and Breakfast combines Turkey Run State Park, Covered Bridge Capitol of the Midwest, an Airstrip, a Bed and Breakfast and friendly host to make your get away complete. I have stayed there 2 or 3 times and look forward to return. This is a wonderful find for aviators...and not well known. Enjoy." Submitted by Russ Kaspar. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Added - Grissom AFB, Peru, IN "Grissom AFB has been open to the public for about a year. There are places to eat close to the FBO Montgomery and the golf course is open to the public as well. The Grissom Air Museum is up the road about 1/4 mile. Jerry at the FBO gave me a lift and one of the volunteers gave me a ride back. I did not have time for lunch or golf and will return for both." Submitted by David. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Destination Update - Tailwind Cafe, Ocala, FL "The ramp is kind of long and I taxied for a while until I found the resturant. Look for the jockies by the sidewalk. Great cheezeburgers and fast service." Submitted by Stan. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/6/2009 Destination Update - Rio Concho Aviation Cafe, Fort Worth, TX "Without a doubt the best fly in breakfast in Texas. Weekends bring in dozens of classic and modern aircraft... and the food is 1st class. 4 stars or better!" Submitted by Tim Gabriel. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Destination Update - Crosswinds Cafe "Where else can you find a menu that has Warthog, Champs, and bombers for breakfast! Great place...great people. My wife and I go there often and you should too!" Submitted by Jroutley. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Destination Update - 57 Alpha Cafe, Rutherfordton, NC "Fantastic flight and beautiful scenery to go along with the good food and wonderful service not to speak of the great music provided by the owner out on the porch while you eat. You need to go on a Saturday afternoon for lunch.!" Submitted by Dennis C. Got Comments? - Got Photos? 9/2/2009 Selling LSAs at the mall US Aviation, based at Denton Airport (DTO) in Texas will display a Remos GX LSA at the Golden Triangle Mall, Sept. 11-13. The LSA’s pilot, Michael Combs, plans to fly it in all 50 states, starting next April. The journey will cover 18,400 miles. Combs says his aircraft, called Hope One, will be the first LSA to visit all 50 states and his tour is meant to be a Flight For The Human Spirit. (GANews)
Aero-TV: Flight of Inspiration - Speaker Jessica Cox Receives Her Wings Able Flight Wing Recipient, Jessica Cox, Speaks to EAA AirVenture Attendees. On July 28th, 2009, Able Flight held a special ceremony to recognize the tremendous achievements of three remarkable new pilots, Mal Zakery, Jeremy Maddox, and Jessica Cox. (Aero-News Network)
New Aviation Event Added - 54th Fly-in/Drive-in Breakfast, Pottstown, PA Breakfast features ham, eggs, pancakes, juice, and coffee for only $6.00 ($3.00 for kids). PAOP has been known for this event for nearly 60 years. Pilots fly in from the entire region, to be joined by local residents who drive to this friendly, interesting outdoor event.
New Aviation Event Added - Montgomery County Annual Picnic Open House, Gaithersburg, MD It's that time of year again... for pilots, friends, neighbors and family to reunite at the Montgomery County Airpark. Please join us on Saturday, September 12 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. for this special annual event, sponsored by MCAA and our resident flying clubs. As always there will be free food and beverages, music, aircraft displays and fly-bys, and plenty of activities for the kids including the ever popular paper airplane contest. We're also very excited to have History Flight as our special guest this year. Members of this Florida based not-for-profit aviation organization will be bringing their carefully restored and maintained B25 and T6 aircraft for display and, weather permitting, rides. For more information on History Flight and their vintage aircraft visit www.historyflight.com. Back by popular demand is the Waco biplane flown by former airline pilot John Corradi, of Culpeper, VA. For more information on John and his plane visit www.blueridgebiplanes.com. We hope to see you on September 12! 8/26/2009 New Destination Added - Central Mississippi Light Flyers, Pisgah, MS "2500 foot grass strip, home to aprox. 25 airplanes, ultralights, and several gliders. Gliders flights on most weekends. Club meets the second saturday of each month. lunch is served, followed by a short business meeting. Visitors always welcome." Submitted by Tony. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Added - Matthew's at the Paso Robles Airport, Paso Robles, CA "Matthew's at the Airport may be the best airport restaurant anywhere. A famous New York City chef, Matthew threw in the towel on NYC and moved to Paso Robles, where he has two restaurants, one in town and one at the airport. It isn't fast, but it's really, really good. Also on the airport is a cool warbird museum and great FBO with rental cars. Paso Robles is the heart of the central coast wine country and has a great small town downtown too." Submitted by Richard. - Got Comments? - Got Photos?
Destination Update - Flyboys Cafe, Mansfield, OH "I love this place! It's the best place to watch planes, and enjoy some really good food. The entire front end of this place is all windows and there is some really good plane action always going on. Today, it's C-130's doing touch and go's, and a couple of corporate jets! I frequent this place often and it's getting to be quite the popular destination with pilots!" Submitted by Plane Watcher. Got Comments? - Got Photos?
New Aviation Event Added - Fearless Men of the Flying Fortress, Polk City, FL Fantasy of Flight’s popular Living History Symposium Series returns Oct. 17 and 18 to honor the Fearless Men of the Flying Fortress. Upon entry of the U.S. into World War II, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress played a vital role in the bombardment of Germany. Fantasy of Flight visitors are invited to relive history though the eyes of the pilots and crew of the B-17 Flying Fortress and their fighter escorts. 8/24/2009 New Photo Added! - Bald Eagle Aviation, Inc, Columbia, CA "There was a lot to see within easy walking distance form the airport, and we had the best dinner ever at a local restaurant - Pete's Cafe. There were other good places to eat as well - we had another dinner at the local restaurant - Jardin's, but the meal at Pete's was off the charts!!! Price and quality - both great!! Hot showers and electric outlets in the bathrooms!" - Submitted by Linda. Got Comments? - Got Photos? Destination Update - Hard Eight BBQ, Stephenville, TX "My husband and I landed, a gentleman pulled up in a golf cart, left us with the golf cart, and gave us directions to Hard Eight. It was an excellent visit. The FBO is still under construction, looks like it will be nice once finished." Submitted by Jane Trolinger. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Added - Pine Mountain Lake Airport Hotel Charlotte, Groveland, CA "Hotel Charlotte is a BB Hotel in the authentic Gold Rush era town of Groveland, and we offer transportation to and from the Pine Mountain Lake Tuolumne County airport for our hotel guests. We will also transport our hotel guests to and from the public golf course at Pine Mountain Lake. We have Traditional Rooms for 1 or 2 persons, or Large Rooms for 2 to 3 persons, and Family Suites for 2 to 5 persons. All rooms have an en suite bathroom with shower, many rooms have classic claw foot tubs too, and all rooms have TV. High speed internet computer and WiFi in the parlor are free for hotel guests, and a buffet style scrambled egg, sausage, and pancake breakfast is included in the rate for all guests. In addition to the hotel, we offer Vacation Rental properties as well, which can sleep from 4 to 30 people, within walking distance of the Pine Mountain Lake golf course." Submitted by Lynn Upthagrove. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Added - Zangger Vintage Airpark, Larchwood, IA "Tail wheel friendly and well kept turf runway located adjacent to a very nice 9 hole golf course. Lunch available at the club house or the Main Street Bar and Grille has an excellent menu for lunch or dinner." Submitted by Jim Zangger. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Added - Clifton, TN Golf Course, Marina, Clifton, TN "Ross Creek Landing Golf Course is a beautiful course to play. Only a couple of hundred feet from the airport. Call ahead give them your arrival time and the Golf Carts will be waiting for you on the ramp. This was rated the #1 golf course in the state of TN. They have a nice resturant. If you like the water, the Tennessee River is not far. Call ahead to the Marina and they will come and get you and have a boat rental ready. If you want to stay the night the Bear Inn will come and get you. There is no fee for leaving your plane overnight. Go to http://cityofclifton.com/introduction.asp and look at the area." Submitted by Mike. - Got Comments? - Got Photos? 8/12/2009 Destination Update - The Company House Bed & Breakfast Inn, Ducktown, TN "Mike and Margie are salt of the earth. My son and I only stayed one night as we flew in one day and flew out the next after a day of white water rafting. However, Mike and Margie treated us as family. Mike came and picked us up at the airport and let us use his truck to get around. I highly recommend this venue to everyone." Submitted by Bradley Perrier. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Destination Photos Added - French Lick, Indiana "A wide variety of photos added, displaying what you can see in French Lick." - Submitted by Dyan Duncan. Got Comments? - Got Photos? New Aviation Event Added - EAA Chapter 59 Pancake Breakfast and Information Exchange, McGregor, TX Saturday, Sep 5, 2009. Blueberry pancakes, aircraft of all kinds, hand prop demo, ethanol detection demo, fly market, and more. 1st Saturday of every month.
Blog Update - Topic: Aircraft Hangars are too Expensive "They recently raised the rent on my 4 year old T hanger with electric from $75 to $100 a month! How they can get away with charging me $100 a month for a hanger is beyond me! This is highway robbery!" Submitted by Don.
