Tailwheel legends are those aviators who take the time to pass down their wisdom to the next generation one airplane, one lesson, and one conversation at a time.
Flight Training
Velocity Squared: Engineering the Future of Flight Training
Air Force veteran and systems engineer Chris Shaw has launched Velocity Squared Aviation Academy in Hondo, Texas. This new professional flight training school bridges the gap between unstructured local schools and expensive pilot mills, offering rigorous, airline-style training under a cost-effective Part 61 model.
New PreFlight Guard Kit Ensures Remove Before Flight is Complete
Every general aviation pilot fears the moment they realize a cover was left on after takeoff. Smart Jet Aviation has introduced the PreFlight Guard, a sensor-equipped kit designed to ensure every “Remove Before Flight” item is safely stowed, providing pilots with peace of mind before every flight.
It’s In The (Flight) Bag
When the Wright brothers first flew, they needed no bag. Pilots weren’t really a thing yet. There were no tools to carry. No mandatory logs to be kept. The only thing a pilot of the day might need to be successful was a functional airplane, a hat and, perhaps, a pair of goggles. Honestly, the hat was optional.
ALSIM Introduces LSA Sim
Powered by a flight model using the Rotax 912 engine, the AL3X reflects the performance and handling characteristics found across a broad range of modern LSA platforms, including the Tecnam P-Mentor, Pipistrel Alpha Trainer, Sling, Bristell, Van’s RV series, and Evektor Harmony.
MOSAIC Brings Big Changes to Aircraft Maintenance
The FAA’s new MOSAIC rules are transforming general aviation by expanding privileges for Light-Sport Repairmen. Discover how these sweeping changes create affordable, fast-tracked career pathways into aircraft maintenance, allowing aviation enthusiasts to turn their passion into a highly rewarding profession.
New Helicopter Scholarship Takes Off
Mark Robinson, an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, has launched a new scholarship for helicopter flight training. Valued at a minimum of $7,100, the scholarship is intended to grow the number of helicopter pilots in the U.S.
Cirrus Introduces the TRAC10 Engineered for Professional Flight Training
Cirrus Aircraft has unveiled the TRAC10, a purpose-built flight training airplane designed for professional and collegiate aviation programs. First deliveries are expected in 2027.
Picture of the Day: Idaho Backcountry Visit
Tom Gresham submitted this photo and note: “A Cessna 182 sits on Bernard Airstrip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho’s Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area. This stop was part of a multi-day training session in backcountry flying. Many of the airstrips in the backcountry are long enough for a Skylane, but density altitude remains a constant factor.”