Probable Cause: The pilot’s decision to take off with a quartering tailwind and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s improper elevator control inputs during takeoff.
Aircraft
Picture of the Day: Chesapeake Bay
Kevin Douthitt submitted this photo and note: “A Chesapeake sunset.”
The Basics Aren’t Always So Basic
No matter how technologically advanced the world around us might become, the basics still have their place. And like the seaplanes I love so dearly, the Piper J-3 Cub is a simple, honest, straight-forward flying machine. It is timeless.
Air Tractor Acquires Thrush Aircraft
Air Tractor combines Leland Snow’s original companies under one roof.
National STOL Competition Expands
The competition will include eight events in 2026, with a new stop in Creswell, Oregon.
Portable Oxygen System Debuts
Engineered for the cockpit, the Altitude One delivers constant-flow oxygen for up to four seats, addressing a long-standing gap between lightweight portability and multi-passenger capability, according to company officials.
CFI Takes Control During Landing, Then Loses Control
Probable Cause: The flight instructor’s failure to maintain adequate airspeed during landing which resulted in a loss of directional control and runway excursion. Contributing to the accident was the pilot receiving instructions failure to maintain runway alignment.
Picture of the Day: Magic Carpet
Jackie Burch submitted this photo and note: “A quick day trip out to Blythe, California, to visit a friend for a dip in the Colorado River, an adventure searching for wild donkeys, and an encounter with a huge rattlesnake! The magic carpet — a Cessna 150 — makes it all happen in one day in a very cost-effective way. This was the last photo of the very enjoyable day.”
Sometimes All It Takes Is Showing Up
A visit to a classroom or a tour of your hangar can be the spark that changes a young person’ life for the better.