Plane & Pilot Archives - Plane & Pilot Magazine https://cms.planeandpilotmag.com/author/plane-pilot/ The Excitement of Personal Aviation & Private Ownership Tue, 09 Jul 2024 14:04:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 Watch for ‘Oshkosh Live’ During AirVenture https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/watch-for-oshkosh-live-during-airventure Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:34:28 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631748 AA AirVenture is a bucket-list experience for pilots and aspiring aviators. This year, through an exciting partnership with Redbird Flight, FLYING is expanding its coverage of the largest airshow in...

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AA AirVenture is a bucket-list experience for pilots and aspiring aviators. This year, through an exciting partnership with Redbird Flight, FLYING is expanding its coverage of the largest airshow in the U.S. with a live daily broadcast from the airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

If you plan to go to AirVenture this year, you can find our “Oshkosh LIVE” Redbird Studio on-site at Redbird Exhibit space 301, adjacent to Hangar A and facing Knapp Street. If you have never been to AirVenture, we hope tuning in to our daily coverage will inspire you to make the trip to Oshkosh one day.

If you’re simply unable to join this year, our goal is to ensure you don’t miss out on all of the excitement by bringing the experience to you live across several of our websites and social media channels.

What to Expect

Daily live segments hosted by editors from FLYING, KITPLANES, Plane & Pilot, AVweb, The Aviation Consumer, and AirlineGeeks will host daily live segments featuring interviews with the world’s top airshow performers, a look at some of the most rare aircraft in the world, tips for how to build your own aircraft or pursue a career in aviation, and features on the rich history that has shaped AirVenture.

When and Where to Watch

Our live broadcast will run daily, Monday through Thursday, July 22-July 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CDT (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EDT).

On Friday, July 26, we will livestream additional original content from the week throughout the day. You will find us broadcasting and streaming live across all of our brand websites—on the FLYING and AVweb YouTube Channels, as well as FLYING and Plane & Pilot Facebook pages.

Follow us on Facebook or click subscribe to one of our YouTube channels and you’ll receive alerts that we are live!

We hope to see you in Oshkosh or that you’ll tune in to see all the exciting news and activity from this year’s EAA AirVenture.

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New Editorial Director Hired for FLYING https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/new-editorial-director-hired-for-flying Tue, 23 Apr 2024 14:58:44 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631330 Firecrown announced Tuesday that, effective Monday, April 22, Randy Bolinger joins the team as editorial director of FLYING, where he will oversee editorial strategy for its flagship brand, FLYING Magazine.  Bolinger, a...

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Firecrown announced Tuesday that, effective Monday, April 22, Randy Bolinger joins the team as editorial director of FLYING, where he will oversee editorial strategy for its flagship brand, FLYING Magazine. 

Bolinger, a pilot, aircraft owner, and aviation enthusiast at heart, brings more than 30 years of experience in developing a voice for leading aviation brands, including Cirrus Aircraft, Gulfstream Aerospace, and the Civil Air Patrol, and other aviation/aerospace brands through CAP. 

During his time at Gulfstream, one of Bolinger’s many responsibilities included  leading content development for Nonstop magazine, its premium global aviation lifestyle publication. In his most recent role with the CAP, he executed a complete rebranding of the 80-year-old organization, helped grow the pilot population through a recruitment strategy, and led the redesign and content strategy of its in-house publication, Volunteer magazine.

“Randy’s relationship with FLYING is a long and prosperous one,” said Lisa deFrees, Firecrown’s aviation group lead “We have worked with him in all his previous roles and partnered with him on past events. We are excited to bring this full circle and put his creative genius and competitive drive directly to work for FLYING’s content strategy.  His diverse background makes him uniquely qualified to lead FLYING into the future and will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our family of aviation media titles.” 

“I’ve been fortunate to turn a lifelong fascination for flight into a dynamic career, and FLYING has been a significant part of that journey every step of the way,” said Bolinger. “Working for powerful world-class brands fuels my passion, and in the realm of aviation journalism, there is no more powerful, prestigious, or familiar brand than FLYING, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.” 

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Are You Ready for Your Next Medical? https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/are-you-ready-for-your-next-medical Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:29:30 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631281 More and more pilots show up on the AME’s doorstep armed with the wrong or not enough paperwork to pass an FAA medical exam. That could be mean waiting a...

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More and more pilots show up on the AME’s doorstep armed with the wrong or not enough paperwork to pass an FAA medical exam. That could be mean waiting a half year or more for the FAA to issue a medical when you could have been issued a certificate on the spot if you only had the right paperwork in place to support an otherwise approved medical condition. Wingman Med is a new third-party aeromedical service with a unique military Top Gun experience for helping pilots navigate the complicated path to certification.

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Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1986 Stolp SA-100 Starduster https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/bargain-buys-on-aircraftforsale-1986-stolp-sa-100-starduster Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:27:03 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631252 Today’s bargain is one of the least-expensive aircraft available for purchase and promises a unique, high-performance, open-cockpit flying experience for less than the price of many new Harley-Davidson motorcycles.  Pilots...

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Today’s bargain is one of the least-expensive aircraft available for purchase and promises a unique, high-performance, open-cockpit flying experience for less than the price of many new Harley-Davidson motorcycles. 

Pilots interested in a unique experimental biplane should consider this 1986 Stolp SA-100 Starduster, which is available for $25,000 on AircraftForSale.

Introduced in 1957, the SA-100 is a single-seat, fabric-covered biplane with a tubular steel fuselage. Presently, 27 examples are actively registered in the U.S., making it a rare and unique sight at most fly-ins but with an owner community that’s large enough to engage with for support.

Originally designed around a 125 hp Lycoming O-290, many including this one have been upgraded to more powerful engines. Sporting a 150 hp Lycoming O-320, this example should handily exceed the already healthy 1800-foot-per-minute rate of climb reported by owners of the original version. More importantly, it’s far easier to source parts and maintenance for the O-320 than for the older O-290, making ownership significantly easier.

Inside, the lone occupant is presented with a charmingly vintage aesthetic. Devoid of any modern color screens or even radios, the simple panel resembles that of a World War II-era biplane. Some modern functionality has been added, however, in the form of an electrical system, G-meter, and cylinder head temperature gauge.

With a midrange engine time of 890 hours since major overhaul and a total airframe time of only 625 hours with no known accident history, this Starduster offers a massive amount of open-cockpit aerobatic performance for the dollar.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

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Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1947 Beechcraft Bonanza https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/bargain-buys-on-aircraftforsale-1947-beechcraft-bonanza Tue, 09 Apr 2024 13:55:36 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631241 Today’s bargain provides timeless style and legitimate cross-country capability in a package that would be welcome at any vintage aircraft fly-in. Introduced in 1947, the Bonanza reshaped general aviation, and...

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Today’s bargain provides timeless style and legitimate cross-country capability in a package that would be welcome at any vintage aircraft fly-in. Introduced in 1947, the Bonanza reshaped general aviation, and the example featured here is one of the first in a series of nearly 20,000 aircraft.

Pilots interested in a classic cross-country machine with vintage style should consider this 1947 Beechcraft Bonanza, which is available for $64,500 on AircraftForSale.

With the classic V-tail and the small triangular third cabin window, this Bonanza is unmistakably one of the early models but has been updated with a more contemporary paint scheme. Claimed to have always been hangared in a dry climate, the presence of corrosion is less likely than in other examples. To remove any doubt, the seller will provide a fresh annual inspection to the new buyer when the sale is complete.

The VFR panel is relatively basic in function, but what it lacks in IFR capability, it makes up for in retro style. Both the panel and glareshield are color-matched to the exterior paint, and the classic polished piano keys have been retained to maintain the airplane’s original, authentic aesthetic. While the radio stack is modest by modern standards, the radios and transponder are arranged in a neat stack that is more straightforward to update compared with other aircraft types. 

Under the cowl, this Bonanza’s 6-cylinder Continental has been updated with a 60-amp alternator to handle the addition of future electrical equipment or accessories. The engine has 925 hours since major overhaul, and the original propeller has been replaced with a hydraulic Hartzell, making future maintenance and parts sourcing far easier.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

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No Foolin’? CubCrafters Gear to Help Nix Ground Loops https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/no-foolin-cubcrafters-gear-to-help-nix-ground-loops Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:59:40 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=631211 CubCrafters, a leading designer and manufacturer of light sport and Part 23-certified aircraft, unveils a backcountry landing gear configuration to minimize ground loops in backcountry flying. CEO Patrick Horgan expresses...

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CubCrafters, a leading designer and manufacturer of light sport and Part 23-certified aircraft, unveils a backcountry landing gear configuration to minimize ground loops in backcountry flying.

CEO Patrick Horgan expresses confidence in the innovation, stating, “This is the most robust landing gear configuration ever put on a Cub type aircraft.” He highlights its strength and braking power, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize safety in backcountry aviation.

The company plans to merge certified nosewheel and tailwheel landing gear into one configuration, anticipating swift FAA approval under a performance-based safety continuum doctrine.

Retrofitting options for existing X and NX Cubs are available, with anticipated reductions in insurance premiums.

Brad Damm, vice president, notes the advantages of the new quincycle landing gear, emphasizing its versatility for both off-airport and pavement landings. Despite challenges in ground taxiing, the company remains optimistic, citing the overall benefits.

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The Onewheel And More Gear Pilots Will Love https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/products/pilot-gear/the-onewheel-and-more-gear-pilots-will-love Mon, 30 Aug 2021 12:25:34 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?post_type=products&p=611927 Learn all about this fascinating transportation mode, a tow bar that doesn't need a motor for power, and a new item that will make checking your tire pressure simple.

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In each issue of Plane & Pilot magazine, we share awesome gear and other cool items pilots and aviation enthusiasts will love.

The round-up in our July 2021 issue features the Onewheel and more!

Onewheel: A Fun, Efficient Way To Get Around After You Land

Onewheel: A Fun, Efficient Way To Get Around After You Land

One of GA’s thorniest dilemmas is, “I’ve arrived at my destination airport; now what?” Covering the last mile (or several miles) from the airport into town or to a campsite can be frustrating, especially at rural airports. One fun and practical option is the compact Onewheel—a rugged electric-powered skateboard that actually works as efficient, hands-free, reliable ground transportation. It’s been touted in Forbes, Wired and even The New York Times, which suggested self-balancing “micromobility” devices such as the Onewheel could be the solution to Manhattan traffic.

Onewheel hit the market in 2013 after eight years of tinkering “and lots of coffee” for inventor Kyle Doerksen of Santa Cruz, California, where Onewheel is now based. Its stability-control components use much of the chip technology found in electronic avionics systems. It’s not inexpensive (monthly financing is available), but a Onewheel can serve as an around-town commuter option as well as letting you riding trails just for fun. In addition to the larger GT, which has a range of up to 32 miles per charge, Onewheel also offers its smaller “Pint” version with about half that range. Either one charges in around two hours, or one hour with an optional “Ultracharger.” The GT is more stable, but the 23-pound Pint is nimbler, according to the company. Top speeds are 20 mph for the GT and 16 mph for the Pint.

To try out a Onewheel, I visited The Sportsman outfitting shop in Logan, Utah, where Mark Fjeldsted gave me a quick sidewalk lesson on the Pint. With Mark literally holding my hand, my first attempt produced significant RIO (rider-induced oscillation). But I quickly got the hang of it, and my second solo run was smooth and effortless (much easier than spelling Mark’s last name). Just like in an airplane, you pitch down to accelerate and pitch up to slow down. Steering is done as with a conventional skateboard, but I found the Pint far easier to control. My wife also took a spin on the Pint, and her turns were better than mine.

I could readily imagine the Onewheel as viable airport transportation, and it must be a ton of fun for trail riding, racing and other adventures.

Price: Onewheel Pint: $950 ($53 per month); Onewheel GT: $2,300 ($79 per month) | Available at: onewheel.com

Ride-Along GoTow Tow Bar Uses A Cordless Drill For Power

Why pay for the electric motor on a tow bar when you can use your own cordless drill? If you’ve always wanted electric power to move your airplane, the made-in-the-USA GoTow-powered tow bar could be your answer. Built of lightweight aluminum, the GoTow uses the operator’s weight to actuate the drive wheel (so if you fall off, it doesn’t keep going), and you also get to ride along as you reposition the aircraft. The steerable wheel makes maneuvering easy. 

The GoTow is adjustable for use on several different aircraft types without an adapter, including most Cessna singles and Cirrus SR20/22 models. It works with Beech Bonanzas and more types with optional adapter kits. Check the Sporty’s website for applicability for your plane. Requires at least an 18V cordless drill with half-inch chuck capability.

Price: $1,695 | Available at: sportys.com

Tired Of Crawling To Check Tire Pressure?

Tired Of Crawling To Check Tire Pressure?

Especially for a low-wing aircraft with wheel pants, slithering underneath to check tire pressure can be a real pain in the ass—literally.  European-based wheel, brake and landing gear specialist Beringer has announced its new SensAIR tire pressure and temperature monitoring system. With SensAIR, sensors attached to a Beringer rim connected to a smartphone app via a single code per wheel, eliminating the risk of measuring data from, say, another nearby tire in the hangar.

The user sets the lower limits of pressure and temperature on the smartphone app, and exceedances activate an alert. You can check tire pressure and temperature not only before a flight but en route to ensure a safe landing.

Beringer’s U.S. business unit is based in Greenville, South Carolina. SensAIR is currently available for 4-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch and 8-inch wheels.

Available at: beringer-aero.com

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A Golden Anniversary for King Schools https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/a-golden-anniversary-for-king-schools Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:28:39 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=630739 In 1974, amidst a backdrop of historical events, John and Martha King embarked on a journey that would shape the aviation training landscape for decades to come. Their videos have...

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In 1974, amidst a backdrop of historical events, John and Martha King embarked on a journey that would shape the aviation training landscape for decades to come. Their videos have touched the minds and hearts of generations of learner pilots. Now, as King Schools commemorates its 50th anniversary, the couple reflects on their remarkable legacy.

Barry Knuttila, CEO of King Schools,said, “2024 marks 50 years since John and Martha began what has turned into a lifelong passion and an exceedingly successful business.” Through their dedication, pilots have achieved their training goals, navigating regulatory changes and technological advancements.

Martha King remarked, “It’s humbling to see that our little idea has turned into something so successful and enduring.” Their pioneering approach, characterized by clear, simple, and fun instruction, has resonated with aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

From humble beginnings conducting ground school courses to pioneering video instruction, the Kings revolutionized aviation education. Today, King Schools stands as the premier supplier of instructional materials, utilized by over half of all U.S. pilots.

John highlighted the couple’s unique partnership, stating, “When we paired up, we decided to be equal partners in everything we would do.” Their determination and shared vision have been instrumental in the company’s longevity and success.

As they continue to inspire future aviators, the Kings remain active in the industry, flying their Falcon 10 jet and developing new courses. Their contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, including induction into  halls of fame and the upcoming Richard G. McSpadden General Aviation Safety Award.

To celebrate this milestone, King Schools has launched a year-long celebration, featuring events, special offers, and updates on their website and social media platforms.

As Knuttila summarized, “In 2024, Nixon, Rubik, Skylab, and John’s sideburns are long gone, but John and Martha King are still educating pilots with insights gained during a lifetime of learning and experience.” The aviation community anticipates the next chapter in the Kings’ remarkable journey.

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Hartzell Propeller Acquires WhirlWind Propellers, Diversifying Product Line https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/hartzell-propeller-acquires-whirlwind-propellers-diversifying-product-line Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:14:59 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=630723 Hartzell Propeller announced on Wednesday its acquisition of WhirlWind Propellers Corporation’s assets, marking a significant expansion into the light sport aircraft sector. Established in 1995, WhirlWind Propellers specializes in manufacturing...

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Hartzell Propeller announced on Wednesday its acquisition of WhirlWind Propellers Corporation’s assets, marking a significant expansion into the light sport aircraft sector. Established in 1995, WhirlWind Propellers specializes in manufacturing composite constant-speed and ground-adjustable propellers for various aircraft markets, including light-sport and unmanned vehicles.

Hartzell Propeller president JJ Frigge expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing its potential to enhance propeller development capabilities. “The acquisition allows Hartzell to further expand WhirlWind’s rapid propeller development capabilities for the design, tooling, and manufacturing of advanced carbon composite propellers,” Frigge stated.

Hartzell plans to maintain the WhirlWind brand and its product offerings, demonstrating a commitment to continuity and innovation within the sector. Jim Rust, former president of WhirlWind Propellers, will continue his service with Hartzell, leveraging his technological expertise in rapid prototyping composite propeller systems. Rust expressed his excitement about joining the Hartzell team, stating, “I am excited to be part of the Hartzell Propeller team and eager to see the WhirlWind brand continue to thrive under Hartzell’s leadership.”

The acquisition signals a strategic move by Hartzell to broaden its product portfolio and strengthen its position in the aviation market, particularly in the growing light-sport aircraft segment.

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AvWeb, Firecrown Debut New Aviation Storytelling Show https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/avweb-firecrown-debut-new-aviation-storytelling-show Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:00:11 +0000 https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/?p=630353 AvWeb and Firecrown are launching a new show called Inside Aviation. The program will delve into the diverse world of aviation, exploring various aspects and uncovering captivating stories that will...

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AvWeb and Firecrown are launching a new show called Inside Aviation. The program will delve into the diverse world of aviation, exploring various aspects and uncovering captivating stories that will resonate with both aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. 

Inside Aviation promises to take viewers on a journey through the fascinating world of aviation, showcasing the technical aspects and human experiences through a diverse array of special guests. The show’s format is designed to be engaging and informative, catering to a broad audience and stirring the conversation around a variety of topics from commercial to general aviation and everything in between. 

Hosted by Kevin Cortes, a private pilot and FLYING Magazine’s director of audience development, and Ryan Ewing, founder and executive editor of Firecrown’s AirlineGeeks.com, the show is set to air every Friday in both visual and audio formats. 

The Pilot Episode: Tracking Taylor Swift and Elon Musk + Urban Air Mobility’s Future

Inside Aviation’s first episode debuted on March 1, featuring two guests. The first half of the show focuses on the ever-evolving future of urban air mobility, while the second portion discusses recent controversy around tracking private aircraft. 

https://youtu.be/r4e1aIqvdsM

Jack Daleo, a staff reporter at FLYING Magazine who primarily covers urban air mobilities, joins the show to discuss what’s in store for the development and deployment of UAM aircraft. The dialogue dives into recent blockbuster commitments, including JSX’s plans to acquire 332 hybrid-electric aircraft. From regulatory landscapes to supply chain complexities, Daleo also answers questions about what he expects the eVTOL space to look like in the next decade. 

Daleo also curates a weekly newsletter, called Future of FLYING, where he deep dives into the latest happenings on the cutting edge of aviation.  

Later in the pilot episode, Cortes and Ewing are joined by Jack Sweeney, a Florida-based college student whose recent flight-tracking activities have created some controversy both inside and outside the aviation space. Sweeney began setting up various bots to track Elon Musk’s private jet in 2020, leading to threats of legal action from the billionaire. 

Sweeney’s flight-tracking bots took aim at other celebrities too, including Mark Cuban and most recently Taylor Swift. The 22-year-old student continues to be threatened with legal action but asserts that his tracking activities are already public information. 

In the episode, Sweeney answers questions about why he feels compelled to track these high-profile figures’ aircraft and the technology behind flight-tracking tools. He also discusses the recent taunts, with Musk calling him an “awful human being” on X (formerly known as Twitter) in early February. Inside Aviation can be found on AvWeb’s YouTube channel and Facebook page in a video format. The show is also available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple.

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