The FAA is seeking public comment on a proposed rule that will allow flight training in experimental aircraft, such as for transition training.
Experimental Aircraft
CubCrafters begins testing electric lift augmenting slats
By increasing the velocity of the airflow over the top surface of a wing, ELAS lowers the air pressure above the wing, increasing the lift it can generate.
Carbon Cub UL debuts at SUN ‘n FUN
Developed for international markets, the Carbon Cub UL is the launch airplane for the new Rotax 160-hp turbocharged engine.
Task-based experimental flight test guidelines published
The task-based Phase I flight testing program is an alternative to the standard 25 or 40-hour flight testing requirement for amateur-built aircraft, replacing the hours-based test period with a list of tasks to complete, according to officials with the Experimental Aircraft Association.
FAA rescinds controversial flight training policy
The FAA has published a Notice of Policy in the Federal Register confirming that letters of deviation authority (LODAs) are no longer required for most flight training in experimental aircraft where the use of the aircraft is not being compensated.
The Cheshire Cat takes flight
Mike Daniel’s new airplane is called the Cheshire Cat, with the idea that the Carbon Cub FX-3 is his guiding force to take him through the wonderland of backcountry flying.
Picture of the Day: Hencho 01 ready for takeoff
German Torres submitted this photo and note: “My airplane is ready to make its first flight. Similar to a Coyote 6, it is named Hencho 01. It was built by Hector Evans. We are in San Antonio de Areco, near Buenos Aires, Argentina.”
First flight: Electric Sky Jeep
A firm based at Old Buckenham Airfield in Norfolk, England, has been working on the electric Sky Jeep, which is based on a Zenith CH-750, for the past three years.
Number of fatal accidents in homebuilts ticks up
For the federal fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2022, the FAA reported there were 56 fatal accidents in experimental category aircraft over the preceding 12 months, including 39 in amateur-built aircraft. That compares to 42 total accidents — 33 in amateur-built aircraft — during the 12-month period between October 2020 and September 2021.