My vote for the greatest aircraft ever is for one not nominated: The versatile Consolidated PBY “Catalina” flying boat. The tool, the servant, the magic carpet, the seven league boat. A graceful form expressing its function. In service from the tropics to the arctic, on land and sea. Performing key roles in war and peace […]
Opinion
Increased security in the works: Expect stricterr egulations later this year
WASHINGTON, D.C. — After security measures were established for commercial aviation, general aviation has been waiting for the other shoe to drop to see what might be planned for personal and business flights. It’s dropping. The Department of Homeland Security is now talking with various aviation groups and elected officials to test the waters about […]
Seeing stars
OK, I’ll admit it. When I heard country music star Aaron Tippin was going to be in concert at Sun ‘n Fun, I was excited. Not just because I’m a fan, but because I knew I’d get a chance to sit down and interview him. That’s one of the perks of my job. I get […]
What’s the best oil for my engine? Our oil expert weighs in on this reader’s question
I have a Lycoming AEIO-360 in my Pitts S1S. I have been running AeroShell 100W Plus for years. Some buddies I fly with have been using an Amsoil oil (I’m not sure the number). What is the best oil and weight to run in this engine? Thanks. CHUCK ROBERTS via email Chuck, yours is one […]
DONALD DOUGLAS WEIGHS IN ON THE GREATEST PLANE
I sure enjoyed the latest issue of General Aviation News, especially the article “The Greatest Aircraft Ever” (June 8 issue). On a historical note, a few years before aircraft designer Donald Douglas died, I had located his address and wrote him a letter. In my letter, one of the questions I asked him, in addition to […]
WHAT ABOUT THE C-130 AND B-52?
I was surprised that your list of greatest airplanes didn’t include the longest lived military planes in the U.S. inventory. I refer to the C-130 and B-52. I guess the reason is your readers are general aviation folks and they have not had much exposure to these two incredible airplanes. The C-130 has indeed seen […]
A DIFFERENT KIND OF USER FEE
Saturday morning, June 2nd, dawned crisp and clear in Calaveras County, Calif. My Christen Eagle II was polished and ready for the short flight to Merced. It was the 50th anniversary of their annual antique fly-in and, even though N70CE is only 10 years old, she’s always been a welcome addition to any display area. […]
FSS WOES
What is happening with flight service? My first complaint is with the phone service. I am so tired of trying to talk to an automated phone system. “Say briefer.” What am I — a 2 year old? I said it 10 times and the stupid automated piece of junk doesn’t work and yet I still […]
IS FSS BAD SERVICE JUST A BUSINESS PLOY?
Concerning the “new” Lockheed Martin Flight Service System, I am sick and tired of hearing alternative sources being suggested for obtaining a weather briefing. Lockheed, the FAA and AOPA overwhelmingly advocated this privatization as the best thing since sliced white bread. I suggest calling them even more and forcing them to deliver the services they […]