Further evidence that consumers demand an ethanol-free alternative has been provided in recent weeks by actions at both state and federal levels. As reported by this blog on Feb. 20, Florida State Representative Matt Gaetz has led an effort to repeal his state’s mandates on the use of ethanol blends in vehicles.
‘Game-changing’ GA tax bill inked in Indiana
Pilots fueling up general aviation aircraft in Indiana can expect to see savings of $100, $250, or more each time they taxi to the pumps now that lawmakers have passed a package of aviation tax exemptions and restructurings. According to a report at AOPA.org, the joy also will extend to lower sales-tax line items on their aircraft maintenance bills — and that should provide a shot in the arm to the state’s aviation industry and even rid Indiana of a reputation for imposing the highest fuel taxes in the nation.
Kitson wins First-to-Solo challenge
During the 2013 Women Of Aviation Worldwide Week — March 4-10 — that attracted more than 17,000 girls and women to air and space facilities across four continents, pilots flew balloons, ultralights, airplanes, seaplanes, and helicopters to introduce 5,316 girls and women to the magic of flight in a small aircraft with the hope to spark many vocations.
More than 77% of the girls and women attending said they would consider undertaking an activity in aviation for pleasure or for a career as a result of their experience.
To encourage them to take the next step, the Institute for Women Of Aviation Worldwide holds an annual First-to-Solo Challenge to reward the first eligible girl or woman that solos with a prize.
Angel Flight West makes new software available to other organizations for free
In an unprecedented move, Angel Flight West is making its new software system and database program, Angel Flight Information Database System (AFIDS) 2.0, available to all volunteer pilot organizations at no cost. First users include four independent organizations based in California, Texas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
ATP opens new training centers
ATP is expanding its training network by opening two new training centers. Ogden, Utah (KOGD) opens May 1, and Morristown, N.J. (KMMU) opens June 1.
Shadin enhances fuel flow transducer
Shadin Avionics has revealed a minor TSO design change to its fuel flow transducer, enabling increased temperature range and performance.
Where’s Sky King when you need him?
It occurs to me that aviation has been a player in the entertainment industry for some time. And I’m not just talking about stunt pilots plowing Jenny’s into barns for the spectacular visual it creates when a moving vehicle slams into a structure that’s not meant to move. I’m talking about television, baby.
Embraer partners with university on safety
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) and Fort Lauderdale-based Embraer Aircraft Holdings have partnered to strengthen human factors research in aviation.
Sandia debuts panel punch
Aircraft owners and their avionics shops now have a more economical way to install Sandia Aerospace’s STX 165 transponder without accruing three to four hours of time cutting the existing panel. The company has a panel punch that makes the task easy.
AERO attracts 32,600 visitors from around the globe
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany — This year’s AERO attracted 32,600 visitors from around the world, according to organizers.


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