Probable Cause: The flight instructor’s failure to maintain altitude while maneuvering to another runway after the engine cowling opened shortly after takeoff. Contributing to the accident was the failure of both the student pilot and flight instructor to conduct an adequate preflight inspection.
Picture of the Day: Become a Young Eagle
Trần Anh submitted this photo and note: “Get ready to have the experience of your lifetime. We’ll show you how to become a Young Eagle and taste the freedom of flight that most people only dream about.”
Fly more, spend less, learn how
After more than a decade of working with individuals and groups to help establish and manage flying clubs, I’ve bumped into more than my share of airport managers who are less than accommodating when approached with the idea of housing a flying club.
Researching spatial disorientation
FAA researchers continue studying spatial disorientation, which account for 10% of all aircraft accidents and caused 782 fatalities between 2003 and 2021.
FAA memo returns airport flexibility in flight testing
“Needlessly limiting airports during flight testing is detrimental to safety and the flight testing process itself.”
Sporty’s releases Cessna 172 model
The replica is inspired by a 1969 Cessna 172K, N46418, owned by Brandon and Casey Bates.
Student locks up on controls
Settling into ground effect the student prematurely pulled power to idle and abruptly reacted by adding significant back pressure while simultaneously locking up on the controls.
Picture of the Day: Full house
William Vergonet submitted this photo and note: “Just another morning taking care of beautiful birds.”
Ask Paul: What can I do about my engine’s rough idle?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: We have a Lycoming IO-360 A1A fuel-injected four-cylinder engine on a 1966 Mooney M20E that has a slightly rough idle. The engine only has about 400 hours on it.