On the smoky weekend of Sept. 10-11, 2022, about 200 fliers and their planes dropped in on WAAAM for the museum’s annual fly-in. If the varied hardware sounds interesting, linger to talk with the pilots and others who traveled here. This fly-in is a relaxed social event where you’re likely to hear tips on flying, restoring aircraft, and maintenance.
Aircraft
Saving student pilots time and money
Since its introduction in 2021, AOPA’s Flight Training Advantage program has logged more than 5,000 hours and is in use by more than 1,200 schools. The program’s aim: Reduce the time associated with flight training, alleviating the financial burdens of student pilots, AOPA officials said.
Naples Airport becomes staging area for Ian donations
While the supplies were originally supposed to be delivered by general aviation aircraft, the overwhelming amount of donations led to another form of transportation that isn’t as sensitive to weight and balance considerations.
Garmin autopilot OK’d for Scouts
Garmin has received FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for the GFC 500 autopilot in the American Champion Aircraft 8GCBC Scout, while Smart Rudder Bias and vertical navigation (VNAV) functionality are now certified for Beechcraft Baron B55s and B55As.
Picture of the Day: A line-up of Swifts
Terry McCartney submitted this photo and note: “Swifts line up at the 2022 Hood River Fly-In in Oregon.”
Expanding on an open door policy
A student flying club’s open door policy was tested during Hurricane Ian and while the club’s hangar was damaged, club members are now confident the club can weather any storm.
Business aviation steps up to assist Ian victims
As final preparations are being made for the start of the National Business Aviation Association’s annual Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) Oct. 18, 2022, the association has created a dedicated website featuring its humanitarian response program and other resources, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian’s Florida landfall in late September.
KIWS offers winter IFR training special
Here’s the deal: Pilots pay for all instruction towards the instrument rating. If the pilot completes their check ride by March 1, 2023, West Houston Airport will credit back all instructional costs toward future fuel purchases.
Picture of the Day: Blue Angels sunrise
Jim Roberts submitted this photo and note: “A beautiful sunrise behind the Blue Angels at McGhee Airport (KTYS) in Tennessee. The team was in town for the Smoky Mountain Airshow, Sept. 10-11, 2022.”