February 7, 2010
Aspen Evolution Training Program Debuts
Flying the Aspen Evolution from Sporty's explores everything to basic setup and shortcuts and advanced functions. Watch MFD, traffic, weather overlay, full ILS approach to feature PFD, MFD.The DVD is $29.95.
FAA Proposes Limits on Companies Hiring FAA Inspectors
“We’re committed to making sure operators don’t hire their former FAA inspectors and create even a perception of inappropriate activities,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “The ‘cooling off’ period we’re proposing actually exceeds the restrictions applicable to most businesses that hire former Federal employees.”
Current law basically forbids former federal employees (including those at the FAA) to represent an entity before the government on matters in which they were involved. It also places a 2-year restriction on those same former employees from representing anyone in matters that the employee was directly responsible for. The new proposal goes a step further by placing inspector hiring restrictions on FAA-certified companies and fractional ownership operations themselves.
FAA policy already provides for a 2-year cooling off period for newly employed aviation safety inspectors, prohibiting them from having certificate management responsibilities over their former aviation employer.
The rule would not keep operators from hiring former inspectors to serve in other positions (e.g. aircraft dispatcher, flight attendant, maintenance technician, pilot, or training instructor) as long as they do not represent the operator in FAA matters.
The FAA is asking for public comments until February 19, 2010. The text of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is at: http://www.federalregister.gov/OFRUpload/OFRData/2009-27852_PI.pdf
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AeroRouter Introduces the AeroRouter 800
Aviation Fabricators Receives STC for Learjet 55 Divan
ICG Introduces New CTU the AeroCom 1700
February 4, 2010
Astrasim Expo

We have restructured the website which has now gone LIVE.
The new website has been created to bring together everyone with a passion for flight simulation, a new community for the UK that empowers the user to get involved. Users can create their own profile upload images and videos, take part in forums, get the latest news via our feeds and even book their slot at the UK's premier flight simulation show this year.
It is FREE as a non commercial organisation to attend the show at RAF Cosford, although space is limited, all the information can be found at the site along with information on Commercial company participation.
Managing Director John Marshall said âwe are very excited about the new website, although not new in idea; this is a bespoke site which offers flight sim enthusiasts a great opportunity to share and engage with other fans of the genre, it truly encompasses all we were looking to achieve, and bring together an âall in one package' for everyone who has an interest in the future of flight simulation in the UK"
Cosford will be a major event in the flight simulation calendar, a full two day show at this world class venue with everything from demonstrations to seminars and not forgetting the amazing museum itself with much of our national aviation heritage on display.
To find out more please visit http://astrasimexpo.co.uk
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February 1, 2010
Angle of attackfirst releases lesson in the series ‘Aviator90′
01.02.10 / 10:29, Kategori: MS Flight Simulator.
Angle of Attack has released the first episode in the series "Aviator90".<br />This first episode explains aerodynamics in an easy, well quite easy, way. Aerodynamics are complicated, but without them we could not fly at all!<br />The series will be a total of 45 lessons in total, all free.....January 30, 2010
Brunner Elektronik Force Feedback Yoke & Rudder
The modular design allows use as a FNPT I, as well as a training device FNPT II MCC and FFS; for standard procedure training, as well as abnormal and emergency procedure training.
Productlink: http://www.beh.ch/index.php?id=143?&L=4
January 28, 2010
Emergency Ad issued for TCM
January 26, 2010
Mooney Echelon STC Available Only at Lycoming Service Centers
Harrison Ford Recieves Award

Harrison Ford has received "Spreading Wings" award from the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. The award recognized Harrison Ford's work in promoting aviation to youth in addition to his films.
Carter Aviation Technologies First Licensing Deal
TSA Rules Targets Repair Station
FAA Finalizes Changes in Hudson River Airspace to Enhance Safety
For Immediate Release
November 16, 2009Contact: Laura Brown
Phone: (202) 267-3455
FAA Finalizes Changes in Hudson River Airspace to Enhance Safety
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today finalized a federal rule, effective November 19, 2009, that will enhance safety by separating low-altitude, local aircraft flights over the Hudson River from flights transiting through the river airspace.
“Better separation of aircraft means a higher margin of safety,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These new rules will ensure that aircraft can operate safely in the busy Hudson River airspace.”
"These changes will define separate corridors for aircraft operating locally and those flying along the Hudson River area," said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. "Separating aircraft on different missions and improving pilot situational awareness will add more layers of safety to this high-demand airspace."
The rule also now requires pilots to follow safety procedures that were previously recommended, but were not mandatory. In a new Special Flight Rules Area over the Hudson and East Rivers, pilots must:
Maintain a speed of 140 knots or less.Turn on anti-collision and aircraft position/navigation lights, if equipped.Self-announce their position on specific radio frequencies.Carry current charts for the airspace and be familiar with them.In an exclusion zone below 1,300 feet over the Hudson River, pilots must announce their aircraft type, position, direction and altitude at charted mandatory reporting points and must stay along the New Jersey shoreline when southbound and along the Manhattan shoreline when northbound.
Pilots transiting the Hudson River must fly at an altitude between 1,000 feet and 1,300 feet. Local flights will operate in the lower airspace below 1,000 feet.
The rule also will incorporate provisions of an October 2006 Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that restricted fixed-wing aircraft in the exclusion zone over the East River to seaplanes landing or taking off on the river or those specifically approved by FAA air traffic control.
All three updated pilot charts that local fixed wing and helicopter pilots use for navigation will include these airspace changes on November 19, 2009.
The FAA will conduct seminars and coordinate with pilot groups to make pilots aware of the new requirements. The FAA also has developed an online training program that covers flight operations in the New York area.
FAA New Hudson River Rules Takes Effect on Thursday, November 19, 2010
Lawsuits Filed Against Eclipse Executives
Solar Impulse First Flight

Solar Impulse is a European long-range solar-powered plane. Solar Impulse is also the first solar-powered plane.
Wingspan 63mWeight 1,600 kg,Take-off speed 35 km/hAverage flying speed: 70 km/hMotor power 4 x 10 HP electric enginesBattery specific capacity: 220Wh/kgSolar cells: 11,628 (total area 200m²)Maximum altitude 8,500 m (27,900 ft)
The first flight was made on December 3, 2009 by the pilot named of Markus Scherdel.
From: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8393688.stm
Solar-powered plane makes first historic 'hop'
The Solar Impulse prototype plane, part of a planned solar-powered circumnavigation of the globe, has left the ground for the first time.
The maiden flight was dubbed a "flea hop" by project leaders, at 350m in length and a height of just one metre.
The plane will now be transported to a different airfield for a flight of a few hours in March.
The final version of the plane will attempt a transatlantic flight in 2012 prior to the round-the-world trip.
The prototype first ventured outside a hangar in November, with a range of on-the-ground tests and a run-up of the plane's motors.
Thursday's flight, with test pilot Markus Scherdel at the controls, was the first time the plane had been brought to takeoff speed.
"The airplane flew the way we have experienced it in the simulators," said Bertrand Piccard, a founder of Solar Impulse and the first person to carry out a round-the-world balloon flight.
"That's of course a very big comfort for all the engineers who've worked for six years to build this airplane."
The next flight, at the Payerne air force airfield in western Switzerland, will see the plane reach an altitude of nearly 9,000m.
Only after this flight will the plane make its first "solar flight" - that is, powered by the solar generators rather than the on-board batteries.
The team plans a flight of a full day and night in the summer of 2010, building up to a transatlantic flight in small steps as the crew ensure the plane's behaviour is well-understood.
"It's a completely new flight domain," said Dr Piccard.
"It's the first time in the history of aviation that an airplane so big and so light using so little energy gets in the air - basically everything is new."
Watch First Flight
Hawker Beechcraft AmSafe Seatbelt Airbage Available
January 25, 2010
Updated Blogger: Redesign
New Features
Improved Image Handling
Improved Raw HTML
Add your Location to your posts with geotagging
Vertical Resizing
Easy Link Editing in Compose Mode
Full Safari 3 Support
New Preview Dialog
Placeholder Image for Tags
New Residing Toolbar
January 23, 2010
ACR Electronics Debuts Personal Locator Beacons
ACR Electronics has introduced its newest Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) -- the SARLink 406 MHz GPS PBL.GPS-Integrated Personal Locator Beacon with Digital Display The SARLink™ broadcasts a unique registered distress signal that not only tells rescuers where you are, but who you are. The onboard GPS can fix your position to within 100 meters and then utilizes a powerful 406 MHz signal to relay your distress call to orbiting SAR satellites. As local Search and Rescue is deployed, a separate homing signal and integrated LED strobe light guide rescuers to your location.
The SARLink View™ takes PLB technology one step further with its breakthrough digital display. In an emergency, the high-visibility screen provides automatic prompts for optimizing the beacon and confirms critical data such as your exact GPS coordinates, data bursts and remaining battery power. Additional functionality allows the user to test and view GPS coordinates multiple times with minimal impact on useful battery life.
Calm in the Storm
The SARLink View’s digital display provides a measure of calm in an emergency — displaying critical data so that you know the beacon is working to summon help. • Most sensitive internal GPS in the industry, pinpointing your exact location faster than standard GPS-enabled PLBs • High efficiency electronics = performance you can count on • Professional grade design tested and built for years of backcountry use • Feature-rich self-test display • Super Bright LED Strobe • On Board 66 Channel GPS • Typical Performance 30 Hours • Made in the U.S.A Increase the functionality of your SARLink View with optional 406Link nonemergency messaging service. Product Number: 2885 Model Number: PLB-350 C Size: 2.25 x 5.88 x 1.29” (5.72 x 14.94 x 3.28 cm) Weight: 8.9 oz (258g) with lanyard Battery: Class 2 (non-hazmat) lithium battery packs; 6 years from date of manufacture. 11 year storage Material: Engineered polycarbonate blend Color: High visibility ACR-treuse™ Deployment: Manual Activation: Manual Operation: 2 steps: deploy antenna, press ON button, giving clear view of sky Waterproof: 16.40ft (5 m) @ 1 hr., 33 ft (10 m) @ 10 min. Factory tested: @ 70°F, exceeds RTCM waterproof requirements Radiated Power: 5 W +/-2dB (406 MHz), 50 mW +/-3dB (121.5 MHz) Operational Life: Exceeds required 24 Hours @ -4°F (-20°C) Typical Performance: 30 Hours @ -4°F (-20°C) Longer in higher ambient temperatures Storage: -40°F to + 158°F (-40°C to +70°C) Accessories: Attachment clip included, Optional flotation pouch (P/N 9504) Certification: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC Pending: Canada, Europe Limited Warranty: 5 years Lead Free: Yes
and
Head out with confidence. With three levels of integrated signal technology — GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal and 121.5 MHz homing capability — the SARLink™ quickly and accurately relays your position to a worldwide network of Search and Rescue satellites, reducing search time and increasing your chances of survival. It’s reliable signaling technology that has saved more than 25,000 lives since 1982. The SARLink™ broadcasts a unique registered distress signal that not only tells rescuers where you are, but who you are. The onboard GPS can fix your position to within 100 meters and then utilizes a powerful 406 MHz signal to relay your distress call to orbiting SAR satellites. As local Search and Rescue is deployed, a separate homing signal and integrated LED strobe light guide rescuers to your location. The SARLink is light in weight and small enough to be easily carried in a pack or pocket by skiers, hikers, hunters, kayakers, climbers, pilots, snowmobilers or any other outdoor enthusiast. Performing a full functional self test of the PLB’s internal circuitry, battery voltage & power, and 406 MHz transmission gives you the peace of mind knowing your PLB will work the moment you need it to the most. ACR Exclusive: Built-in GPS acquisition test mode allows you to test GPS functionality up to 12 times over the life of the battery life. Tap in to the same field-tested rescue technology used by the U.S. Military, Coast Guard, NATO Special Forces and Arctic explorers. No Subscription FeesSuper Bright LED StrobeOn Board 66 Channel GPSSelf-Test and GPS Test FeaturesTypical Performance 35 HoursNon-Hazmat BatteryMade in the U.S.A Model Number: PLB-350 B Size: 2.25 x 5.88 x 1.29” (5.72 x 14.94 x 3.28 cm) Weight: 8.9 oz (258g) with lanyard Battery: Class 2 (non-hazmat) lithium battery packs; 6 years from date of manufacture. 11 year storage Material: Engineered polycarbonate blend Color: High visibility ACR-treuse™ Deployment: Manual Activation: Manual Operation: 2 steps: deploy antenna, press ON button, giving clear view of sky Waterproof: 16.40ft (5 m) @ 1 hr., 33 ft (10 m) @ 10 min. Factory tested: @ 70°F, exceeds RTCM waterproof requirements Radiated Power: 5 W +/-2dB (406 MHz), 50 mW +/-3dB (121.5 MHz) Operational Life: Exceeds required 24 Hours @ -4°F (-20°C) Typical Performance: 35 Hours @ -4°F (-20°C) Longer in higher ambient temperatures Storage: -40°F to + 158°F (-40°C to +70°C) Accessories: Attachment clip included Optional flotation pouch (P/N 9504) Certification: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC Pending: Canada, Europe Limited Warranty: 5 years Lead Free: Yes
Power Flow Unveils System for Bonanza
Price: Unknown
IWASM Debuts New WASP Playing Cards
International Women's Air & Space Museum (IWASM) in Cleveland, Ohio has produced the third collectible deck of playing cards for the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) of World War II. Price: $10.00
Online Store: http://womensairandspacemuseum.com/eshop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=18&products_id=298
50th Anniversary of Hawker Beechcraft Baron
Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is making its 50th anniversary of the Beechcraft Baron by making a limited edition model. Special Tribute to Conan O’Brien
The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien on NBC is officially over. “Walking away from ‘The Tonight Show’ is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. this is the best job in the world, I absolutely love doing it. I did it my way, with the people I love and I do not regret a second. I have more good fortune than any I know. Please do not be cynical. I hate cynicism. For the record, it’s my least favorite quality. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen.” Some early reporters report that Conan O’Brien is going to Fox. But, he has to wait until September 1, 2010. Watch Conan O’Brien’s Tonight Show on NBC memories of the last 7 months. I wish Conan O’Brien the Best in all future endeavors. Avidyne Entegra Release 9 Now Available for Pipers
The Avidyne Entegra Release 9 is optional avionics for the Piper PA-46 Meridian, Piper PA-46 Mirage, and Piper PA-46 Matrix aircraft. The Avidyne Entegra Release 9 is a high-resolution IFD5000 displays, dual-redundant FMS900W systems with QWERTY keypad, digital 16-watt VHF NAV/COM radios, and dual WAAS/RNP-capable GPS receivers.The certification of the Avidyne Entegra Release 9 for the Piper PA-46 Matrix is expected to come out in the 2nd half of 2010 and the certification of the Avidyne Entegra Release 9 for the Piper PA-46 Mirage and the Piper PA-46 Meridian are expected in 2011.
Price: $50,000.
Information: http://www.avidyne.com/landing/release9.asp
NextGen ADS-B Technology Now Available for Pilots in Gulf of Mexico
The NextGen system ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast), is a combination of ground-to-airplane-to-satellite. The UAT ADS-B is operating on 978 MHz frequency.
Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin for Zodiac CH601XL & CH650
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
SAIB Number:
CE-10-08
Issue Date:
11/07/2009
Subject:
Wings: Zodiac CH601XL and CH650 Wing Structural Modifications
Title:
PDF Copy:
Introduction
This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin informs you of an airworthiness concern on all variants of Zodiac CH601XL and CH650 airplanes, all serial numbers, including special light-sport category aircraft (S-LSA), experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA), and experimental amateur-built aircraft.
Background
Since April 2009, the FAA has been conducting a special review of the Zodiac CH601XL and the nearly identical CH650 to evaluate design and operational details of these aircraft. This review was a continuation of efforts to investigate several in-flight structural failures of the CH601XL dating back to 2005. Five in- flight structural failure accidents have occurred in the United States and several abroad. The U.S. accidents involved two S-LSA, one E-LSA, and two experimental amateur-built kit aircraft. The design of all CH601XL & CH650 airplanes is essentially the same, but only the S-LSA aircraft are designed and produced to ASTM International LSA standards. We quickly launched the FAA special review because of the accidents exhibited signs of structural failures. After the review we made a determination that these accidents did not clearly indicate a single root cause. Instead, it implicated the potential coupling of design and operational aspects of the aircraft.
Our analysis did reveal several areas of concern regarding the CH601XL design that may impact the overall safety of the design. Those causing the greatest concern are as follows:
· Wing structure: FAA analysis shows bending loads used to design the wing structure were non-conservative and the basic static strength of the CH601XL/CH650 does not appear to meet the intent of the ASTM standards for a 600kg (1320 lb) airplane, given the current flight envelope in the Pilot Operating Handbook.
· Structural Stability: Other aviation authorities have noted the presence of buckling in the wing structure, including in the center section. Such structural instabilities can have a significant effect on static strength and flutter characteristics.
· Flutter: Our detailed review of available flutter analysis reports was inconclusive. However, accident photos clearly indicated flutter was present during the in-flight structural failures. The FAA believes flutter may either be a first order root cause of in-flight structural failure or a secondary cause after some initial wing structural deformation or twisting.
· Airspeed calibration: Calibration procedures do not appear to adequately account for basic static pressure source error due to the location of the static port. This could lead to potential airspeed indication anomalies, particularly since the CH601XL/650 derivatives can be delivered/built with several different airspeed indicators installed or without an indicator at all. The situation could lead to the potential of operating the airplane above the maneuver speed and/or the design cruise speed, potentially leading to structural failure.
· Stick force characteristics: Flight test data from foreign authorities indicates at aft center of gravity the stick forces become very light. The FAA believes this may be a contributing factor in structural failure accidents if coupled with operations over gross weight, at speeds higher than VA, and/or for aircraft loaded improperly. In such conditions, it would be very easy to dynamically load the CH601XL/CH650 wing beyond its design structural load limit.
Recommendations
In order to prevent potential catastrophic structural failure, we strongly recommend that all owners and operators of Zodiac CH601XL/CH650 comply with actions outlined in a forthcoming Aircraft Manufacturing & Design, LLC (AMD) Safety Directive / Safety Alert to address the above-referenced concerns before further flight.
For SLSA owners and operators: We remind all owners and operators of their regulatory obligation to comply with Safety Directive / Safety Alert issued by AMD in accordance with the ASTM International consensus standards safety directive process and recommend the following:.
· Reference 14 CFR §21.190(c)(5) – The manufacturer’s requirement to issue safety directives.
· Reference 14 CFR §91.327(b)(4) – Owner/operator compliance with each safety directive.
· Obtain and install AMD’s modification kit (i.e., major alteration) per drawings and instructions.
· If necessary, obtain a special flight permit to fly the aircraft to a location where the safety directive modifications can be made. The FAA may add special requirements for operating your aircraft to a place where the modifications can be done. The FAA may also decline to issue a special flight permit in particular cases if we determine you cannot move the aircraft safely. To apply for a special flight permit, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 21.199.
For amateur-built and E-LSA owners and operators: Due to shared design characteristics that amateur-build and E-LSA aircraft have with S-LSA, we strongly recommend compliance with the drawings and instructions contained in the AMD Safety Directive/Safety Alert and recommend the following: · Reference 14 CFR §91.7: “(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. (b) The pilot in command of a civil aircraft is responsible for determining whether that aircraft is in condition for safe flight. The pilot in command shall discontinue the flight when un-airworthy mechanical, electrical, or structural conditions occur.”
· Obtain and install the kit manufacturer’s structural modification kit. The modification kit addresses the structural design changes and operating limitations required to meet a safe condition for operation.
· Contact the kit manufacturer with any modifications already incorporated to correct the identified unsafe condition to validate safety-of-flight issues.
· If necessary, obtain a special flight permit to fly the aircraft to a location where the safety directive modifications can be made. The FAA may add special requirements for operating your aircraft to a place where the modifications can be done. The FAA may also decline to issue a special flight permit in particular cases if we determine you cannot move the aircraft safely. To apply for a special flight permit, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 21.199.
For Further Information Contact
Wes Ryan, Manager ACE-114, Programs & Procedures, FAA Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106; Phone: (816) 329-4111; Fax: (816) 329-4090; e-mail: wes.ryan@faa.gov.
(Optional) For Related Service Information Contact
AMD, LLC (SLSA Manufacturer) Mailing address:
Heart of Georgia Regional Airport P O Box 4277 Eastman Georgia 31023 USA
415 Airport Road, TEL: 478-374-2759
Eastman, Georgia 31023 USA FAX: 478-374-2793
Email: http://www.newplane.com/
Zenith Aircraft Company (Kit Manufacturer) TEL: 573-581-9000
Mexico Memorial Airport, PO Box 650 FAX: 573-581-0011
Mexico, Missouri, 65265-0650 USA. Email: http://www.zenithair.com/
FAA issues SAIB on Zodiac CH601XL & CH650
Matt Younkin Injured
On Tuesday, November 10, 2009 aerobatic pilot, Matt Younkin survived a plane crash that happened at 3:00 P.M. in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. He didn't have any life threatening injuries, but he did have a broken hand that got treated on and fixed. The doctors also had to stitch up a cut on his leg. He will perform again! Younkin's family released the following statement through the Younkin Airshows website:
"Matt Younkin was injured while flying the Younkin Mullicoupe on Tuesday afternoon. During his flight he experienced a loss of power and was forced into an emergency landing near a model airplane field south of his home in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Matt's injuries are non-life threatening and he is expected to make a full recovery in time for the 2010 airshow season. We would like to thank you for your thoughts and prayers at this time."
Younkin Family


