After 16 years and hundreds of weekly columns, Jamie Beckett is stepping back from his regular spot at General Aviation News. In this final wrap-up, he reflects on his incredible journey, the amazing aviators he’s met, and his exciting next chapters in aviation.
New Meadow View Peak Backcountry Airstrip Planned For 2027
The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation has purchased 136 acres near Meadow View Peak in California to develop a new public backcountry airstrip. A $200,000 Phase 1 capital campaign will fund site improvements at the airstrip, which the foundation hopes to open in the summer of 2027.
New Aircraft Maintenance Division Opens at KDCU
The Pryor Field Airport Authority has launched a new aircraft maintenance division at Pryor Flight Center. Serving general aviation aircraft owners in North Alabama and the Southeast, this expanded facility offers inspections, avionics services, and emergency repairs.
New Glasses Feature More Lens, Same Fit Under a Headset
Flying Eyes Optics has introduced the Kingfisher Sport, a new sunglass model featuring an 8-base wrap and larger lenses for maximum visual coverage. Designed with patented, ultra-thin temples, the glasses fit under aviation headsets and helmets without causing pressure, pain, or noise leaks, according to company officials.
Fuel Control Unit Leak Causes Air Tractor Accident
Probable Cause: A partial loss of engine power due to a leak in the fuel control unit bellows, which resulted in the fuel valve moving to minimum fuel flow.
Picture of the Day: Flying Through a Rainbow
Joyce and Art Woods submitted this photo and note: “Flying through a New Mexico rainbow after a welcome rain just north of Albuquerque, in our Cessna Skyhawk XP. We observed the double rainbow ahead transform to a circle below us.”
Flight, Power, and Community Pride
The 35th annual Marion Fly/In Cruise/In brought together aviation enthusiasts and the local community for a showcase of vintage aircraft, classic cars, and warbirds. With the theme of “35 Years of Flight, Power, and Community Pride!” the event showcased an astounding variety of aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, tractors, and other vehicles.
National Symbols of Flight Unite At Wright Brothers Museum
Two symbols of American flight have united at Carillon Historical Park. A family of bald eagles recently hatched two eaglets in a tree directly above the 1905 Wright Flyer III, creating a living connection to aviation history that recently earned congressional recognition.
K-State Salina Piper Pacer Featured At Automotive Museum
Kansas State University Salina aviation maintenance students transformed a unique idea into a hands-on learning experience by disassembling, transporting, and reassembling a historic 1950 Piper Pacer. The aircraft is now featured in the “Red Hot Rides” exhibit at the Garage Automotive Museum.