The Fire Boss is aviation’s ultimate hybrid: An Air Tractor AT-802 turned elite firefighter. Discover the high-stakes world of water scooping, the veteran pilots behind the stick, and how this niche fleet dominates global wildfires.
Pilots
Court Hands Victory to Watsonville Pilots in Airport Land-Use Dispute
A Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge rules the city violated state law in approving a residential development near Watsonville Municipal Airport in California.
New Cable Allows Two Headsets to Share One Jack
Hobbs Flyer has introduced its 6-Pin LEMO Panel-Powered Splitter, allowing two aviation headsets to share a single panel mounted 6-pin LEMO jack with full microphone, stereo audio, and power support.
Crosswind Landing Bends Bellanca
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing with a crosswind.
Picture of the Day: Start ´Em Young They Say!
Steve Talbot submitted this photo and note: “A family selfie shot on Feb. 21, 2026, aboard C-172 C-GWDM while ‘trying’ to fly over the beautiful Quebec City region. It was five-year-old Miss Florence’s very first time sitting in the front with Daddy.”
From Sewing Machines to Sky Ships: The Lycoming-Zeppelin Connection
Our engines expert tells the tale of how a rumor led to Lycoming powering the famous Goodyear Airships.
From Rock Tours to Rescue Missions
Tom Scholz, founder of the rock group Boston, has donated his 1980 Bonanza to Pilots To The Rescue.
Museum Partners With Local School District on High School Aviation Program
The Museum of Flight is partnering with the Peninsula School District to launch a new Aviation Academy. Replicating the successful Aeronautical Science Pathway, the program offers students hands-on training and up to 60 college credits at no cost to families.
Sporty’s Introduces Cessna 172R Cockpit Puzzle
The 500-piece puzzle features a detailed view of the Skyhawk’s classic flight deck, capturing the complete panel — from the flight instruments to the avionics stack.