Think there’s no way you could own an airplane? That belief is not based on objective facts, but opinion — an opinion that is largely based on erroneous information, supposition, and perhaps just a tinge of fear. The truth is you probably can afford to own an airplane.
Opinion
Questions from the Cockpit: Break glass in case of emergency
Is there any truth to the story that if your static port gets blocked you can break the glass on the vertical speed indicator to restore the system?
Ask Paul: How old is this vintage engine?
This 1946 engine may very well be able to be overhauled and put back in service, providing you have the engine logbook.
A goal, a plan, and high hopes
Plan C is the last resort: If I determine the weather is below minimums, I stay put. This is the plan many pilots don’t even consider. Maybe because it feels like a failure. They fear others will think them less than a real pilot.
How long can aviation oil sit on the shelf?
The answer is fairly easy from a legal standpoint because the specifications state that the supplier must guarantee that the oil stay within spec for at least three years. But what’s the “technically safe” shelf life of aviation oil?
One Pilot’s View: Aerobatics Light
A Lazy 8 is not an extreme aerobatic maneuver, but is a bit of a thrill for a stodgy ho-hum pilot like me. I love to practice Lazy 8s because of the sensations in the seat of my pants and the challenge of making them near perfect.
Birth of the aircraft carriers
The launch from the Navy’s first aircraft carrier, USS Langley, on Nov. 18, 1922, signaled the beginning of practical aircraft carrier operations.
Have wings, will travel
Logic suggests there’s a really great airport restaurant out there or a hangar filled with treasures an aviation nut like me would enjoy seeing. Perhaps there is town along my route that boasts of having the World’s Largest Ball of Yarn or the best BBQ on the planet. I honestly don’t know — but you might. That’s where the magic happens, when locals share the pride of their little corner of the world with travelers passing through.
Drones one step closer to NAS integration
There should be no misunderstanding: Drones WILL be fully integrated into the National Airspace System at some point in our future. Would you prefer a seat at the table or just wait to see what happens?