Textron affiliate Pipistrel unveiled the new Voyager at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. This two-seat training aircraft features IFR capabilities, intentional spin certification, and Garmin avionics.
Aircraft
Fuel Contamination Proves Fatal for Three
Probable Cause: The pilot’s loss of airplane control during a single-engine go-around. Also contributing to the accident was fuel system contamination, which resulted in detonation and a total loss of left engine power.
Picture of the Day: Landing On The Green Dot
General Aviation News columnist Frederick A. Johnsen sent in this photo, with a note: “A Cessna 182 catches the reflected green dot as it nears touchdown at Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. The Cessna was one of many aircraft that arrived Friday afternoon, July 17, when smoky skies cleared enough to permit VFR conditions at Oshkosh. AirVenture officially started Monday July 20 and runs through Sunday, July 26.”
Volunteers Restore Monache Meadows Airstrip In High Sierras
After decades of neglect and unofficial closure, the Recreational Aviation Foundation has successfully restored California’s Monache Meadows airstrip. Thanks to 15 years of persistent volunteer efforts and Forest Service cooperation, this remote High Sierra destination is now safely open for backcountry pilots.
New Blackstar Sim Debuts at Oshkosh
Blackstar Flight Simulation has introduced the Blackstar Eclipse. As the first advanced training device integrated with the Community Aviation Platform, it uses military-grade Varjo XR-4 visual headsets to bring unprecedented realism to the general aviation flight training market.
VFR into IMC Fatal for Three
Probable Cause: The pilot’s decision to continue the visual flight rules flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Pictures of the Day: Smoky Morning at Oshkosh
Paul Spanbauer submitted these photos and a note: “EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, which officially starts July 20, is just across the runway, but tough to see through the Canadian wildfire smoke.”
Questions From The Cockpit: How Do Rotary Engines Work?
Amanda, a private pilot in Minnesota, writes: I was reading about the early aviation engines, and with the rotary engine, the entire engine spun. How on earth did that work with getting spark to the cylinders? Obviously cables were out…
Head-Up Display Glasses for General Aviation Debut
Three aviation companies have partnered to introduce APEX HUD, connected head-up display glasses for general aviation pilots. Integrating EyeLights hardware with Adventure Pilot’s iFly EFB and AURA AERO expertise, this new technology enhances flight safety and situational awareness.