Horry County’s decision to close Twin City Airport (5J9) in Loris, South Carolina, has sparked fierce pushback from the local aviation community. While officials cite high rehabilitation costs and low usage, local pilots and business owners argue the airfield has been systematically neglected for decades and are fighting to save it. It’s a story that’s common among small general aviation airports across the country.
flying
Spirit of St. Louis 100th Anniversary Flight Launches at Oshkosh
The Lindbergh Foundation has launched the countdown to the 100th anniversary of the Spirit of St. Louis flight. Part of the festivities include the Centennial Charter Flight, a six-day luxury journey retracing Charles Lindbergh’s historic New York to Paris route, while supporting programs that inspire the next generation of aviators.
Tecnam Unveils Rivale
During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, Tecnam revealed the first physical design elements of its new aircraft program: The Tecnam Rivale. Showcased through a 3,000-pound stainless steel sculpture, the Rivale will feature Continental’s new V6 engine.
Piper Aircraft To Build New Service Center in Vero Beach
Piper Aircraft plans a major expansion of its Vero Beach manufacturing campus, featuring a new service center. Scheduled to open in late 2027, this new factory-supported facility will provide maintenance and aircraft delivery services for the general aviation community while creating 20 new jobs.
magniAIR Electric Engines Now Available for Pre-Order for Experimentals
MagniX has begun accepting pre-orders for its magniAIR electric engine, designed specifically for experimental and kit planes. With initial deliveries targeted for 2027, these firewall-forward packages will allow builders to integrate electric powertrains into popular aircraft kits.
Lycoming Engines Extends TBO to 2,600 Hours
Lycoming Engines has extended the Time Between Overhaul (TBO) to 2,600 hours for numerous factory-new and rebuilt engine models.
Elixir Aircraft Expands Lineup With New Elixir+ Family
During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, Elixir Aircraft unveiled its new Elixir+ family of training aircraft, featuring the Essential, Expert, and Elite configurations designed to support every stage of pilot training.
Absolute AoA Heated Probe System Earns FAA Approval
Avionics manufacturer Holy Micro! has received FAA NORSEE approval for its new Absolute AoA Heated Probe System.
Picture of the Day: A Crowd Favorite
General Aviation News writer and photographer Frederick A. Johnsen sent in this photo with a note: “A T-28 taxis past the crowd on opening day of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.”