Think you can’t afford to buy an airplane? Think again. This practical guide breaks down the essential steps to successful aircraft ownership, from defining your true mission and setting a realistic budget to navigating insurance, pre-buy inspections, and securing local hangar space.
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AirVenture 2026 By The Numbers
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 soared to new heights, welcoming a record-breaking 734,000 attendees to the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.
FAA Advances Digital Departure Clearances for General Aviation
The FAA is rolling out Mobile Clearance, a new digital tool allowing general aviation pilots to request IFR departure clearances directly through apps like ForeFlight and Garmin. Designed to enhance safety and efficiency, this feature reduces radio congestion and minimizes controller readback errors, FAA officials said.
New Restaurant Opens at KGMU
Greenville Downtown Airport has welcomed its newest dining destination: Hangar 28 Kitchen & Events. Replacing the former Runway Café, this renovated venue offers scratch-made menus, cocktails, and runway views.
CAU Expands Reach Flight Center Network
California Aeronautical University (CAU) continues expanding its Reach Flight Center network with the addition of the Lunken Flight Training Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. This partnership allows students to complete local flight training while earning a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics degree through CAU’s online program.
Sporty’s Partners With Foreflight on Educational Resources
Sporty’s has partnered with Jeppesen ForeFlight to distribute its aviation education products, including training manuals, test guides, syllabi, logbooks, books, online courses, and other educational resources.
The Evolution of the SkyView HDX
Dynon is expanding its SkyView HDX ecosystem with new products, including the SV-AUDIO-6BTR Remote Audio Panel and a standalone engine monitor. Designed to create the “ultimate integrated IFR platform,” these updates offer experimental aircraft owners new features and a path to future avionics upgrades.
Pilot Crashes His New Plane on First Familiarization Flight
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain control after takeoff, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.
Picture of the Day: Around the AirVenture Grounds
General Aviation News writer and photographer Frederick A. Johnsen sent in these photos captured during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. The show wrapped up Sunday, July 26.