Probable Cause: An inflight collision with a bird during initial climb.
Aircraft
Picture of the Day: Santa temporarily replaces his sleigh
Hayman Tam submitted this photo and note: “Santa arrives by helicopter at the Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos, California. This year the reindeer were replaced by an Enstrom 280C Shark.”
Just the facts
While the general aviation industry hailed the passage of the FAA’s final Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule in July 2025, many still remain confused about what it really means. To help increase understanding, the FAA recently released a MOSAIC Fact Sheet that breaks down the important dates, the changes, and what is coming later in 2026.
FAA investigating Lycoming IO-360 shutdowns
An airworthiness concern sheet was published after multiple reports were received indicating uncommanded engine shutdowns on aircraft with IO-360 engines using AVStar manufactured vertical and horizontal mounted fuel servos when the throttle was brought back toward idle.
Deadline for GA Awards nominations extended
The deadline was extended due to this year’s government shutdown.
Loss of control leads to ground loop
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop on the runway.
Picture of the Day: On Dasher, on Dancer…
Christian Sanchez submitted this photo and note: “During the festive Christmas season, I brought my dog to the airport with me. Once my C150 was out of the hangar, she eagerly settled down beneath one of the wings (her favorite spot). Sporting a pair of antlers myself, I thought it would be amusing to take a playful photo of her as my personal ‘reindog.'”
When good is better than best
The Grumman F6F Hellcat stands out as the U.S. fighter that downed more Japanese warplanes than any other Allied naval aircraft in World War II. Yet the Hellcat’s capabilities, as measured in speed, were always in the shadow of the racy Vought F4U Corsair.
AOPA, GAMA make list of top lobbyists
In its annual list of Top Lobbyists in 2025, The Hill included Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Advocacy Jim Coon and Paul Feldman, Vice President of Government Affairs for the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.