Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 24 Oct 2009 15:52:33 -0800
Duration: 0

The MacMahans Talk Biplanes... At Oshkosh 2008! Miss Muffet may seem like an unlikely name for a proud biplane, but if you listen to the MacMahans a bit, the name makes perfect sense. The owners of a beautiful blue and red 1941 Boeing A75N1 (PT17) Stearman, the two seat trainer bipe is powered by a Lycoming R680-4P-B4 and has received lavish care over the years from the MacMahan family. Back for its second year since a complete restoration, the proud Boeing Stearman drew admiring glances from thousands of pilots who came upon it... and devoutly wished for one just like it. While most folks know the Boeing Model 75 by the common name of "Stearman," it has worn a number of hats and been called a lot of names... (and a few of those weren't nice ones, if you learned to fly taildraggers in this bird). The US Army Air Corps designation for the A75N1 is "PT-17," the Navy designation is "N2S," and the Canadian military designation is "Kaydet." The Stearman was originally designed to ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 29 Jul 2009 08:33:15 -0800
Duration: 0

ANN's Flagship Undergoes A Major Upgrade They say its kinda like watching someone you love going "under the knife," and so there I was, watching my treasured Cirrus G3 Turbo, cast about in pieces all over the hangar at Sarasota Avionics. It was a tough thing to see... but the weeks beforehand were even tougher as we considered the whys and wherefores of undertaking a major (i.e., expensive and extensive) avionics upgrade -- switching from our highly dependable and easy-to-use Entegra 'Generation One' System... to the "next big thing..." i.e., Avidyne's much ballyhooed and promoted "Release 9." Come along with Aero-News for the first part of our look into the technically tasking endeavor we've undertaken... namely taking a good airplane and making it (to our mind) even better. With the help of Avidyne and what is turning out to be an exceptionally avionics shop, Sarasota Avionics, we're going to start documenting the trials and tribulations of this little adventure over the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 28 Jul 2009 07:53:36 -0800
Duration: 0

Jim Bass Has Passed Piper's Leadership On To Two Exceptionally Qualified Veterans The GA industry got a bit of a shock a few weeks ago, albeit not totally unexpected, when Piper CEO Jim Bass stepped down to take on other challenges. Bass oversaw the rejuvenation of an industry legend and left them in really great shape with new owners and a much brighter future. With this revelation, Piper promoted two of its senior executives. Kevin J. Gould, Piper's Vice President of Operations, who became Piper's Chief Executive Officer, and John Becker, Piper's Vice President of Engineering, who took on the role of President of the Company. Gould, an experienced senior executive with more than 20 years of leadership roles in engineering, manufacturing and general management, said that the strong foundation and exceptional accomplishments Piper has achieved under Bass' leadership place the company in an excellent position to grow and prosper. "Under Jim's leadership during the last four ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:33:02 -0800
Duration: 0

Third Largest Fly-In In Nation LEADS Them All In Terms Of Hospitality There is a reason that ANN dubbed the annual Arlington Fly-In the Friendly Fly-In -- no other event produces as positive a vibe as Arlington and does it with such consummate professionalism... and yeah, its chock full of aviation goodness, to boot. ANN sent two of our best folks to Arlington this year, to enjoy and document the sites, sounds, stories and personalities of Arlington 2009. ANN E-Media producer Paul Plack and Videographer Nathan Cremisino wore out a lot of shoe leather but came wit big grins on their faces and a sincere appreciation for a Fly-In that "is run awfully well." That opinion appears to have been shared by many... in light of this year's report in which Arlington, the third-largest fly-in in the country, saw a 14 percent boost in attendance over last year, according to the organizers. What can I say, it was great - a phenomenal turnout this year, said Barb Tolbert, executive ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 17 Jul 2009 06:53:14 -0800
Duration: 0

Have YOU Upgraded YOUR ELT? While perusing the wares at the most recent iteration of the AEA Convention and Toy Show (grin), there was no end to the glitzy, exciting goodies that pilots absolutely love to play with. Not so noticeable, though, were the latest generation of ELTs... not nearly as sexy as the latest glass panels. Its easy to forget all about them until you wind up in a stricken bird down in the boonies wondering if ANYONE is on their way to retrieve you. Mind you, NOAA notes that most aircraft operators are mandated to carry an ELT though they still have the option to choose between either a 121.5 MHz ELT or a 406 MHz ELT. The FAA has studied the issue of mandating carriage of 406 MHz ELTs. The study indicates that 134 extra lives and millions of dollars in SAR resources could be saved per year. The only problem is that 406 MHz ELTs currently cost a bit more than 121.5 MHz ELTs, though we note that the gap is starting to close. Still, negating the cost ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:50:20 -0800
Duration: 0

Aero-TV Conducts Its Annual Three Question Survey Of COPA Members (Part 2) Opinions! We love them... especially when they come from folks with something interesting to say! Aero-TV engaged in one of its favorite exercises during the 2009 Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association's Annual Convention -- that of surveying a dozen or so people at an event with three questions targeted toward the interest group that we're visiting. So, we came up with three good question for the thousands of folks who populated this year's convention... we started with a pretty good conversation starter, namely, what do you think of Cirrus Chairman Alan Klapmeier's announcement of his intent to buy out the SF50 Vision program? The second of the three questions has been the source of no small amount of controversy in the Cirrus community (as well as the rest of GA), namely... is the legal system dealing a fair hand to aviation? In the light of a recent judgement against Cirrus after a VFR pilot blundered ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:34:04 -0800
Duration: 0

Aero-TV Conducts Its Annual Three Question Survey Of COPA Members Opinions! We love them... especially when they come from folks with something interesting to say! Aero-TV engaged in one of its favorite exercises during the 2009 Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association's Annual Convention -- that of surveying a dozen or so people at an event with three questions targeted toward the interest group that we're visiting. So, we came up with three good question for the thousands of folks who populated this year's convention...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:49:52 -0800
Duration: 0

Hundreds of Birds Return To Duluth As we have noted each year, one of our favorite annual events is the yearly "Migration" hosted by owners and flyers of the Cirrus Design flock. Gathering in the shadow of the CD factory in Duluth, Minnesota, it is an event chock full of fun, fellowship, education and more than a few surprises. Exceptionally well organized, by ANY standard, the event hosts hundreds of planes, flyers and exhibitors -- and rarely leaves any attendee looking for more. That said, the annual COPA Migration is obviously THE biggest event of the year for Cirrus pilots. Just a few days ago, in late June 2009, hundreds of Cirrus aircraft flew in from all over the country (and beyond) to return to the "nest" to take advantage of an extensive and varied roster of activities for the pilots AND their families -- despite the issues associated with a down economy and the uncertain futures that go with it. Migration events include a number of unique and highly-anticipated ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 10 Jul 2009 08:33:31 -0800
Duration: 0

Two Powerful Voices Fight For Excellence In Aero-Education There are a number of voices speaking loudly and clearly about matters we all need to address in terms of flight safety and aero-education. Two of the most prominent of those voices are Professional Aviation Educators Sandy and JoAnn Hill. The center of a massive controversy this year, Sandy and JoAnn are getting their lives back to normal in the wake of the separation from NAFI and the start of the independent Master Instructors LLC program. Master Instructors LLC has updated, restructured, and is once again available to all qualified applicants. Adhering to a rigorous continuing education and peer-review process, the program promotes professionalism among aviation educators and provides well-deserved recognition for their contributions to aviation education, training, and safety. The Master Instructor program was conceived and developed by MCFIs Sandy and JoAnn Hill, longtime CFIs and nationally known aviation ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:51:57 -0800
Duration: 0

Two Powerful Voices Fight For Excellence In Aero-Education There are a number of voices speaking loudly and clearly about matters we all need to address in terms of flight safety and aero-education. Two of the most prominent of those voices are Professional Aviation Educators Sandy and JoAnn Hill. The center of a massive controversy this year, Sandy and JoAnn are getting their lives back to normal in the wake of the separation from NAFI and the start of the independent Master Instructors LLC program. Master Instructors LLC has updated, restructured, and is once again available to all qualified applicants. Adhering to a rigorous continuing education and peer-review process, the program promotes professionalism among aviation educators and provides well-deserved recognition for their contributions to aviation education, training, and safety. The Master Instructor program was conceived and developed by MCFIs Sandy and JoAnn Hill, longtime CFIs and nationally known aviation ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 08 Jul 2009 06:34:35 -0800
Duration: 0

There IS An Easier Way To Let Your Autopilot Fly.... Sometimes its the little things that really improve your quality of flight... and the potential of some novel roll-steering solutions are sure to make a positive contribution to the busy pilot's IFR ambitions. Roll-Steering?? Whassat?? Well, in the case of Icarus Instruments, their Steering Assist Module (SAM) is an insanely small avionics accessory that allows your auto-pilot to make like (in some ways) an FMS. When flying a GPS flight plan, you typically fly in HDG mode and your autopilot flies the course youve set with the heading bug in the HSI. At each waypoint, the GPS displays the new track or heading to the next waypoint. You then must twist the HDG knob to the new course, often making several tweaks until the correct track is finally acquired. With GPS roll steering, the autopilot is provided with a dynamically calculated bank angle in advance of the new track, automatically accounting for ground speed, wind ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:52:40 -0800
Duration: 0

There's More Than One Way To Build A Jet Last week, ANN and Aero-TV broke big news as Alan Klapmeier disclosed his plan for the possible buy-out of the Vision jet program from Cirrus Aircraft and Arcapita. As usual, we got the salient details to you right away... hours before official details leaked out and several more hours before some other so-called aviation publications could transcribe and copy the interview... (grin). It was a pivotal moment for the Vision jet program as Alan Klapmeier signaled his determination to bring this jet dream to market, even if he had to start all over again (outside of Cirrus), to do it. As noted at the time we broke this story, with the knowledge and apparent blessing of both entities, Cirrus Co-Founder Klapmeier is raising funds to complete the purchase and development of the single-engine Cirrus Vision jet. Financial advisers, Merrill Lynch, have signed to provide the necessary financial horsepower to oversee the money side of the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:52:55 -0800
Duration: 0

Embraer's Phenom 100 Gets To Brag About EASA Certification And A Healthy Order Book...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:33:03 -0800
Duration: 0

Aero-TV: Southeast Aerospace Intro's TRIG TT21 and TT31 Transponders Versatile New Transponders Arrive On Scene One of the cool new offerings spied a few weeks ago at the AEA 2009 Convention were a pair of new Transponders being repped by Southeast Aerospace. Southeast Aerospace is a factory authorized sales & service center for a great number of manufacturers. and is also approved and certified by many other aircraft OEMs and maintenance organizations. Southeast Aerospace is located at Melbourne International Airport (KMLB) on Florida's Space Coast. The Trig Model TT21 is a unique compact remote mount Mode S transponder system with a total weight of just over 1 lb. It is a '2 Part System' and includes an integrated altitude encoder, and features low power consumption, is a European Mode S compliant unit designed for light aviation. It is an ED-73B Class 2 compliant Mode S level 2 datalink transponder, with support for extended squitter, with an LCD Display, easy to use ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:34:56 -0800
Duration: 0

The Commercial Space Revolution Is Alive And Well! Just a smidgeon over five years ago, ANN was literally on the edge of history... watching the XPrize-inspired Mike Melvill head out and then return from the first successful commercial spaceflight in Burt Rutan's dreamrocket. A lot has happened since then... and a whole new industry... as well as a public perception of our future in space, has resulted. At the National Space Society's 28th annual International Space Development Conference, NSS and a very motivated group of people dedicated themselves to an in-depth look into the emerging privately funded sector of the space industry. The space industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. The Space Shuttle will be retired in less than two years, resulting in the loss of thousands of jobs. Although hiring by the emerging privately funded sector of aerospace may ameliorate some of this job loss, the suspension of manned spaceflight by our civil space program for at ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 07:49:51 -0800
Duration: 0

Aero-TV: Silent And Radical -- Manfred Radius Glider Aerobatics Extraordinary Energy Management, Exquisite Skills Make For An Amazing Airshow! Manfred Radius began his career in flying sailplanes in 1961 at age 17 in Hamburg, Germany. He has logged in excess of 4,000 flights and accumulated over 1,900 hours in at least 60 types of sailplanes. Manfred immigrated to Canada in 1969 and became a gliding instructor in 1972, adding the glider aerobatic instructor's endorsement in 1977. He is a former member of the Flight Training and Safety Committee of the Soaring Association of Canada. In 1974 he reached a high point in his career when he achieved an altitude of 35,000 feet above sea level over the Rocky Mountains near Colorado Springs. Flying the same sailplane in which he performs at air shows, Manfred flew a distance of 600 km (375 miles) over the Appalachian Mountains in May of 1986, a flight lasting 8 hours and 45 minutes. For many years, Radius was the only one in North ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 05:32:54 -0800
Duration: 0

Next-Generation LSA Hits The Market The Sting S3 is the latest in a generation of LSAs that have been a part of the Sport Pilot scene for a number of years. The airplane is manufactured in the Czech Republic by TL-Ultralight, sro. A predecessor, the StingSport was the fifth light sport aircraft to be certified in the USA. The S3 is the fourth generation in a line of distinguished aircraft that includes the S3 (2008), the StingSport (2004), the Sting Carbon (2000) and the Star (1996). The design of the Sting S3 is a product of Miroslav and Petr Kabrt, whose Vanessa Air company, in collaboration with Czech Technical University of Prague, specializes in the design, analysis and testing of whole-composite aircraft and aircraft components for civilian and military applications. The Sting S3 is a low-wing, tricycle-geared, single-engine airplane manufactured from composite materials with two side-by-side seats. The wing of the Sting S3 uses the MS (1)-0313 airfoil profile and is ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:33:03 -0800
Duration: 0

Making The Back of Your Prop Part Of Your Instrument System What a concept! The VirtualHUD Head Up Display is an intriguing product that allows a pilot to have situational awareness without taking their eyes off where they are flying. It uses a novel technology to project the flight instruments onto a virtual surface created by the back of a spinning propeller. The VirtualHUD projects standard flight information, like Heading, Altitude, Speed, Attitude (Pitch and Roll) in addition to Highway in the Sky (with a GPS waypoint selected.) With the addition of an external video feed, it can also project any other information desired. This image is projected in front of the pilot, turning the propeller arc into a window of visibility even in Smoke, Haze and Fog. This is made possible by including such sophisticated sensors as a GPS, digital compass, air data sensors, as well as multiple accelerometers and gyroscopic force sensors. The VirtualHUD NightVU also has the ability to accept .....

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:03:27 -0800
Duration: 0

One Of The Most Gifted Women In Aviation... Ann Cooper This year's 2009 Women In Aviation convention is the gift that keeps on giving... as the number of intriguing stories and interviews that came out of the 2009 version continue to to impress one and all. However; like our interview with Amy Laboda, we don't mind playing favorites now and then...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:33:24 -0800
Duration: 0

It's ALL About Staying In Touch To Stay Competitive Despite what our elected leaders are trying to shovel our way these days, airplanes are amazing and undeniable tools of commerce... actually, vital tools, according to our direct experience as business aircraft operators. The modern biz-plane gets us to where we need to be to be able to business on our or our customers' terms. But even enroute, there is a need to stay in touch... and the very mobile aircraft equipped with an 'office in the sky' is turning out to be the kind of tool that tips the balance in favor of a competitive operation. So... the tools we use to make our very valuable aircraft EVEN MORE valuable have become critical elements in any business strategy. When it comes to such tools, companies like International Communications Group, Inc. (ICG) of Newport News, Virginia, have become indispensable in pioneering ways to stay in touch with business as it happens. Since 1994, ICG has built a very successful ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:33:02 -0800
Duration: 0

The Oldies Can Be Newbies... There's something about a Cub... a something that has remained alluring over the course of the better part of a century. But then again, there are Cubs and there are SUPER Cubs... hence our fascination with the CubCrafters Super SportCub. CubCrafters tells ANN that the SUPER SportCub shares many airframe parts with the Sport Cub S2 and the Carbon Cub Kit. By eliminating virtually all airframe components that dont carry flight or landing loads, this modern design is simpler, lighter and stronger than the Piper Super Cub designed in 1949. 60 years of technology has enabled CubCrafters engineers to maximize material design and incorporate modern manufacturing processes that maximize strength and minimize weight. With a 180 HP engine, the airframe design has been tested to well beyond the requirements for Light Sport Aircraft. Flight and landing loads were increased by 40% to 5.65Gs for the design loads, and to 8.5Gs for ultimate tests. Piper Super ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:33:03 -0800
Duration: 0

Arlynn McMahon Takes Flight Instruction To New Heights We've still got a big smile on our face over the few days we spent at this year's Women In Aviation Conference... and not just because ANN's Jim Campbell got to play token male among the thousands of aero-minded women in attendance -- but simply for the positive vibe and the many great people we met, got to know and interviewed. One of the most memorable was a woman by the name of Arlynn McMahon, the newly minted National CFI of the Year for 2009. Arlynn, founding member of the SAFE movement, is also a chief flight instructor, a ground instructor, and the training center manager for Aero-Tech, a Part 141 Cessna Pilot Center at Lexington's Blue Grass Airport. Arlynn is a Master CFI who specializing in training future and current CFIs, and also carries the distinction of serving as a Designated Pilot Examiner and an FAA Safety Team representative. As noted above, McMahon is also a charter member of the Society of Aviation & ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 10 Jun 2009 05:52:55 -0800
Duration: 0

Such Innovative Technologies Have Become Commonplace In GA You know that they're there -- but you rarely see them -- the tiny little boxes that provide the physical guidance for today's ingenious generation of glass panel cockpits. Solid-state by design and bereft of the hundreds of moving parts once associated with gyros and their support systems, the modern AHRS is a dependable, and superior replacement for the vacuum pumps and gyros of old. Known by a variety of similar names, the modern AHRS is an all-electronic Attitude and Heading Reference System that combines the functions of a Vertical Gyro and a Directional Gyro to provide measurement of Roll, Pitch, and Heading (Azimuth) angles. Aero-TV took a little time at the recent 2009 AEA Convention to get an AHRS education from one of the leaders in the field... Crossbow Technologies. Founded in 1995, Crossbow pioneered the use of Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) Inertial System technology in a wide variety of ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:52:49 -0800
Duration: 0

CBP's P-3 AEW Crews -- These Folks 'Have Our Back' Day and night, there are a number of heroic people and aviation assets prowling the skies for signs of those that would threaten America in one of many forms. One of those heroic groups is employed by US Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, for short. CBP is one of the Department of Homeland Securitys largest and most complex components, with a priority mission of keeping terrorists and their weapons out of the US. It also has a responsibility for securing and facilitating trade and travel while enforcing hundreds of U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws. One of the most critical tools in the CBP arsenal are the few Lockheed Orion P-3B AEWs in use around the world. The P-3 Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Detection and Monitoring (D&M) aircraft are the only law enforcement AEW aircraft in the world. They were developed to provide wide area search, increased command control, and communications capabilities. CBP ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:35:18 -0800
Duration: 0

Despite The Hype, There's No Denying That They Keep Offering New Airframes Epic Aircraft is one of those companies that is, at times, awfully hard to figure. Despite a lot of hype, more than a few disappointments and some claims that got them in hot water, Epic remains a player (albeit controversial) on the high-performance aircraft scene and (now) in the LSA scene. Most noted for a series of experimental turbo-props and jets, some of which are supposed to be headed for certification, Epic is now addressing some perceived needs in general and sport aviation. The foundation of their business is built around "Owner-Assist" programs that allowed a number of well-healed builders to craft a very sophisticated airframe under the watchful eye of Epic staffers. While the FAA had some early heartburn over this and it was Epic's pushing of the Amateur-built definition that is credited for FAA's unwelcome and forthcoming recrafting of the 51% Rule, Epic's Rick Schrameck insists that the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:35:18 -0800
Duration: 0

CBP's P-3 AEW Crews -- These Folks 'Have Our Back' Day and night, there are a number of heroic people and aviation assets prowling the skies for signs of those that would threaten America in one of many forms. One of those heroic groups is employed by US Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, for short. CBP is one of the Department of Homeland Securitys largest and most complex components, with a priority mission of keeping terrorists and their weapons out of the US. It also has a responsibility for securing and facilitating trade and travel while enforcing hundreds of U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws. One of the most critical tools in the CBP arsenal are the few Lockheed Orion P-3B AEWs in use around the world. The P-3 Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Detection and Monitoring (D&M) aircraft are the only law enforcement AEW aircraft in the world. They were developed to provide wide area search, increased command control, and communications capabilities. CBP ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:54:02 -0800
Duration: 0

A True 'Escape' Vehicle If there is anything that's missing from the Zoom Family Air Cadre, it's an amphib... and after seeing the FPNA Capetown (in its amphib configuration) at this year's Sebring Sport Aviation Expo, I might have to look at changing that. The $125.5K CapeTown is distributed by Floatplanes and Amphibs LLC, of Sebring, FL. The Capetown is constructed with an all metal anodized aluminum riveted airframe with Ceconite doped fabric covered control surfaces. The cowls and wingtips are composite, while all fabric is UV-proofed as it is sealed and painted, offering a projected 20-year life. It is powered by a Rotax 912ULS (100hp) 4-stroke engine. The cockpit is over 50 inches wide, in a 2-seat side-by-side, adjustable configuration. The primarily clear doors are extended all the way to the floor, to offer what FPNA calls a 'helicopter-like' view out each side. Clear panels behind the cockpit enhance the view even further. The bird features full dual controls... ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:02:34 -0800
Duration: 0

Makes The All-Glass Part 23 Cockpit A Highly-Capable Reality L-3 Avionics Systems is fielding the new Trilogy ESI-1000 Electronic Standby Instrument -- which should be certified and available within a few weeks. Designed as a backup for glass cockpit avionics, Trilogy is the first solid-state integrated standby system created specifically for Part 23 aircraft. Trilogy combines attitude, altitude, airspeed and optional heading data on a clear, 3.7-inch diagonal Active Matrix LCD display. The instrument fits easily into a standard 3-ATI mounting cutout. With an integrated air data computer, solid-state attitude sensor and optional external magnetometer, Trilogy presents accurate flight information independently of other systems. In the event of a primary glass failure, Trilogy facilitates a smooth transition from primary to standby instrument because it provides a common format to today's primary flight display. It enhances safety by reducing workload and making the transition ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 28 May 2009 20:33:21 -0800
Duration: 0

Game-Changing Products Like These Are Re-Making The World of Aviation One of the most pleasant aspects of flying a Technologically Advanced Aircraft over the last few months, are the many new capabilities they bring and the safety that results. While there is always the risk of "info-glut," we've come to particularly appreciate those products that do their job simply, aggressively and with an eye to the future. In ANN's Cirrus G3 Turbo, our 'Aviator' package has become more than just a great tool, but a pivotal means by which we get our traveling done effectively and safely. Such a product is WxWorx, the data provider for XM WX Satellite Weather, one of the world's leading satellite-delivered weather services. WxWorx is part of a larger family of companies operating under the umbrella of Baron Services. The mobile arm of the Baron group, it combines capabilities inherent to the parent company with the satellite delivery of XM WX Satellite Weather. The company was founded by ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 28 May 2009 20:33:21 -0800
Duration: 0

Champion Aerobat Flies Solo As Well As Formation Acts Matt Chapman is one of those guys who is just where he wants to be -- and is living the life most aviators can only dream of. Recognized internationally as an aerobatic pilot who thrills millions of airshow fans each summer, he began flying aerobatics in 1984 and quickly worked his way up to the highest level of competition aerobatics the Unlimited category. Chapman's resume includes having won one of only five slots on the U.S. Unlimited Mens Aerobatic Team in 1996 and 1998. At the 1998 World Aerobatic Championships, Matt was the highest-ranking American pilot, finishing third in the world with a bronze medal. He led the Mens Team to a silver medal. Along with this impressive finish came the coveted Hilliard Trophy, awarded to the highest finishing US pilot at the WAC. Matt also won the prestigious International Aerobatic Club Championships in 1994 and the Fond du Lac Cup in 1995. Matt's current passion, though, is ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 28 May 2009 20:33:21 -0800
Duration: 0

An Evolutionary Upgrade Keeps This Audio Panel Series At The Top Of The Game While there is no end of news concerning the major companies that populate the GA world, sometimes its the quiet little companies that really deserve more of the attention. A case in point is PS Engineering... a little company that decided it could specialize in one aspect of avionics and try to be the best in the field... and to many, that's just what they've done. One of their latest efforts is the PMA8000B -- a new audio panel coming that should go a long way towards making those long cross-country flights speed by a little quicker. PS Engineering has added a new player to its product line, the PMA8000B-MP3. This Audio Control Panel incorporates all of the capability of the popular PMA8000B, but adds an internal MP3 player that stores up to one gigabyte of music... which means pilots can leave their iPods secure in their flight bags. Pilots may upload files to the panel using a portable USB Thumb ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 22 May 2009 12:33:25 -0800
Duration: 0

Paper? We Don't Need No Stinkin' Paper! We live in amazing times...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 21 May 2009 08:31:38 -0800
Duration: 0

Aero-TV: Airplanes Direct -- Heart Of The Past, Tech Of The Future Keeping Up With Changes in The Aero-Marketplace Aviation is filled with people with great ideas -- some of them stand the test of time... and some of them do not. The latest is 'Airplanes Direct' -- an online attempt to recraft the aircraft sales marketplace. AD claims that an innovative approach to the aviation marketplace is what is behind their effort... a combination of online utility and social networking are being combined to match potential aircraft buyers with sellers. Airplanes Direct also utilizes a search platform, designed with ease of use in mind, to allow interested parties to shop the market and see what might be available. Aviation faces unique challenges in t he coming years due to a number of forces...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 20 May 2009 09:33:05 -0800
Duration: 0

Unpuzzling The Regs Put Forth by The Washington Puzzle Palaces Produced just before the FAA had a sudden and unexpected moment of good sense and killed off the current NPRM covering an aggressive Repair Station regs, AEA's Ric Peri held forth on a number of ponderous topics...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 20 May 2009 09:33:05 -0800
Duration: 0

Unpuzzling The Regs Put Forth by The Washington Puzzle Palaces Ric Peri, AEA's man in Washington, chatted with Aero-TV a few weeks ago on a number of topics, and in Part Two of the interview, Peri talks some more about Repair Stations, Repair Manuals, standardization, and the ever-changing role of the DER. The status of the Part 147 ARAC, the standard for Aviation maintenance schools, came up as it will determine how (primarily) A&Ps are brought into the industry for years to come. The program has been out of committee for quite a few months and the inevitable back and forth between the industry and the FAA is underway. AML-STCs... the topic is a complex one and one that was generating quite a bit of discussion at AEA 2009. AML (Approved Model List) STCs are a way to lower the costs and regulatory complexity of avionics installations, but the problem is that all such STC are hybrids...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sun, 17 May 2009 06:52:45 -0800
Duration: 0

The Airshow Biz is Not an Industry... It's A Family We all have to deal with trial sand tribulations unique to us... but few will ever deal with the kind that Alan Henley has been facing for t the last year. A consummate aviator paralyzed while a simple act of playing with his kids went awry, Alan is having to rebuild a life that once meant unlimited freedom of the skies into something a bit more constrained... but knowing Alan, he's going to push those limits as far as he can. Hence, the reasons that dozens of performers, hundreds of industry personnel and tens of thousands of people came together to honor and support a single flyer...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sun, 17 May 2009 04:33:19 -0800
Duration: 0

Piper's PA-46 Meridian Gets The G1000 Treatment One of the more intriguing upgrades we saw on our last visit to Piper Aircraft was the availability of the G1000 avionics suite for the PA-46-500TP Meridian six-seat single-engine turboprop aircraft. Initial deliveries of Meridians equipped with the G1000 are already underway. "We are dedicated to providing our customers with the very best technology our industry has to offer," said Piper President & CEO James K. Bass. "Now, with the G1000 available for the Meridian, we are giving this amazing aircraft an avionics suite that enables it to meet its full potential." Garmin's all-glass flightdeck in the Meridian presents all flight-critical data -- from engine and flight instrumentation to navigation, communication, weather, terrain and traffic data -- digitally on three large-format, high-resolution displays. The 15-inch multi-function display is flanked by two 10.4-inch PFDs; Garmin's Synthetic Vision Technology will also be offered...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 14 May 2009 11:52:33 -0800
Duration: 0

This Is How They Build 'Em We've had a ball showing you various aspects of how and why the Cirrus Aircraft SR20s and SR22s became some of the most popular aircraft in recent GA history. But the build process is nearly as fascinating as the airplanes themselves... especially in light of the changes the G3 version of the SR series has undergone in the last two years. Not only did they redesign the airplane to be better in the air, but to be assembled in a more economical and sturdier fashion. The G3 update was extensive...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 13 May 2009 10:32:55 -0800
Duration: 0

This Is How They Build 'Em We've had a ball showing you various aspects of how and why the Cirrus Aircraft SR20s and SR22s became some of the most popular aircraft in recent GA history. But the build process is nearly as fascinating as the airplanes themselves... especially in light of the changes the G3 version of the SR series has undergone in the last two years. Not only did they redesign the airplane to be better in the air, but to be assembled in a more economical and sturdier fashion. The G3 update was extensive...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 12 May 2009 11:58:06 -0800
Duration: 0

Another Of Our Favorite "Under-Recognized" Friends, Bridgette Doremire Is An Aero-Powerhouse One of the greatest of the many joys that comes our way are the friendships and relationships we develop with hundreds of people each year...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 08 May 2009 00:52:36 -0800
Duration: 0

Kitfox Intros Super Sport S-LSA With Base Price Under $84K! For quite a few years, the Kitfox breed was nearly as ubiquitous a name as any in aviation. And while many might argue that their best days are behind them, we beg to disagree. Excellent new ownership, and a principled business plan seem destined to remake this company and its products for years to come. Kitfox Aircraft LLC provided ANN's Aero-TV crews with a first glimpse of its new Kitfox Super Sport S-LSA, which was formally unveiled last month. The Kitfox design began 25 years ago and has evolved into an American classic. Over 4,500 kits have been delivered into over 42 countries around the world. Now with the latest development of the Kitfox S-LSA, even those who do not want to build one can enjoy flying a highly-accomplished, well-regarded airplane. Kitfox tells ANN the evolution in the design "has resulted in an aircraft that is as at home in the back country as it is at your local FBO." The Kitfox Super Sport o...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 06 May 2009 15:32:52 -0800
Duration: 0

Trying To Inspire During Tough Times... And Succeeding We've known Paula Derks for quite a number of years and a number of adjectives come readily to mind when we consider the leader of the Aircraft Electronics Association... competent, decisive, expert, cheerful and insightful... and now we feel compelled to add one more -- inspiring. This year's rendition of the annual AEA Convention took up the Derks mantra and therefore wound up being a surprisingly upbeat affair. While everyone bemoaned the awful economic situation forced upon them, to a person there was unanimity in the belief that the industry would not only survive but come back bigger and stronger than before...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 06 May 2009 15:32:52 -0800
Duration: 0

AEA's Outgoing Chairman Talks About The Organization After years in service to the Aircraft Electronics Association, AEA Chairman Michael O'Leary got to follow AEA President Paula Derks in a final official address to the AEA membership. No second fiddle, O'Leary had everyone's attention...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 06 May 2009 14:52:46 -0800
Duration: 0

MFDs Are Just The Beginning Of The Goodies Coming Soon From Aspen Completing the vision...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:32:55 -0800
Duration: 324

A Three Question Survey Of This Year's Amazing Women In Aviation Conference At a number of the more intriguing special events that ANN and Aero-TV partake in, we engage in an interesting exercise in which we pose at least three questions to a dozen or so of those attending to gauge the mood on a range of issues pertaining to the subject at hand. This year's Women In Aviation Event was ripe for another such pursuit. Of the three topics raised this year, one was the obvious issue of whether or not there was still a perceptible level of discrimination against women in the aviation industry, the second was whether or not the current economic issues might make it easier or more difficult for women to enter this industry -- and finally (today's episode), what advice our respondents might have for a women looking to the aviation world with her feet on the ground but stars in her eyes...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:32:55 -0800
Duration: 340

A Three Question Survey Of This Year's Amazing Women In Aviation Conference At a number of the more intriguing special events that ANN and Aero-TV partake in, we engage in an interesting exercise in which we pose at least three questions to a dozen or so of those attending to gauge the mood on a range of issues pertaining to the subject at hand. This year's Women In Aviation Event was ripe for another such pursuit. Of the three topics raised this year, one was the obvious issue of whether or not there was still a perceptible level of discrimination against women in the aviation industry, the second (today's episode) was whether or not the current economic issues might make it easier or more difficult for women to enter this industry -- and finally, what advice our respondents might have for a women looking to the aviation world with her feet on the ground but stars in her eyes...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:32:55 -0800
Duration: 382

A Three Question Survey Of This Year's Amazing Women In Aviation Conference At a number of the more intriguing special events that ANN and Aero-TV partake in, we engage in an interesting exercise in which we pose at least three questions to a dozen or so of those attending to gauge the mood on a range of issues pertaining to the subject at hand. This year's Women In Aviation Event was ripe for another such pursuit. Of the three topics raised this year, one was the obvious issue of whether or not there was still a perceptible level of discrimination against women in the aviation industry, the second was whether or not the current economic issues might make it easier or more difficult for women to enter this industry -- and finally, what advice our respondents might have for a women looking to the aviation world with her feet on the ground but stars in her eyes...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:32:55 -0800
Duration: 526

One Of The Seven Wonders Of The Aeronautical World Ask ANN's Jim Campbell, a guy who may have flown more unique aircraft types than anybody on Planet Earth, what some of his favorite airplanes are and one name, in particular, will come up quickly -- The Lockwood AirCam. What's an AirCam? The Air-Cam is a unique, twin-engine, light sport aircraft, with impressive STOL capabilities (and even more impressive manners) that include the ability to fly into short, unimproved airstrips or operated safely over the most challenging terrain on the globe. Two decades ago the National Geographic Society commissioned the design and construction of the AirCam, and the serial #1 was shipped to the Congo and flown for National Geographic by Phil Lockwood. Phil then put the aircraft into production, though he eventually went on to pursue other interests. In mid-2006 Lockwood regained ownership of the AirCam design rights (previously years held by Leza Aircraft). After Lockwoods facility was expanded ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 28 Mar 2009 01:53:22 -0800
Duration: 185

Record Number of Performers Scheduled -- This Is THE Place To Be This April 18-19! As previously noted, the airshow industry, and the community that supports it, is said to be a close-knit and supportive one... and if there was ever any doubt about that, it has to disappear with the upcoming Cecil Field Airshow... a celebration of aviation that has been brought about, in large part, to help and support Alan Henley (pictured right), a much beloved member of the AeroShell Aerobatic team who suffered a paralyzing injury last year while engaged in the simple act of playing with his kids. The airshow community is rallying to the cause with incredible passion and organization. At least 35 aerobatic performers are currently committed to flying in the North Florida airshow next month (April 18-19), with the able aid of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA). All 35 performances are scheduled for both days, along with a number of ground and aviation static and support displays and ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:33:04 -0800
Duration: 549

Aero-TV: Sikorsky X2 Update -- Progress On An Advanced Rotorcraft The Coolest Rotorcraft EVER??? Possibly the most avidly anticipated briefing of Heli-Expo 2009, was the official Sikorsky update of the truly innovative X2 program. Just last year, Sikorsky proved that it's one incredibly cool -- and equally unusual -- flying machine... and, it works! Sikorsky successfully completed the first flight of its X2 Technology Demonstrator, in late August, maneuvering the prototype aircraft through hover, forward flight, and a hover turn, in a test flight that lasted approximately 30 minutes. Sikorsky Chief Test Pilot Kevin Bredenbeck conducted the test flight at Sikorsky’s Schweizer Aircraft Corp. rapid-prototyping facility in Horseheads, NY, and was a headliner at the HAI 2009 briefing before a packed house of rotornauts. The first-flight milestone culminated more than four years of design, development and testing of the Demonstrator aircraft’s suite of technologies that ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 25 Mar 2009 21:53:32 -0800
Duration: 421

A Very Cost-Effective Approach to "Boomer" Training Employed by The Air National Guard Meet the BOSS... the Air National Guard's prototypical effort to develop a KC-135 Boom Operator Simulation System. Designed to provide "a high fidelity, fully DMO (Distributed Mission Operations) capable squadron level boom operator simulator for KC-135 squadrons," this is a collaborative effort designed to maximize training capabilities while (at the same time) minimizing the costlier aspects of keeping KC135 "Boomers" trained on their equipment and many different types of aircraft they may be asked to interact with. The BOSS is a low cost, squadron-level KC-135 simulator that began prototype integration recently and is being fielded with an estimated requirement for 17 devices. The Air National Guard program uses four Christie Mirage HD 3D stereo DLP projectors offering a projected 3D image that gives the boom operator 'true-to-life depth of perception that could otherwise only be ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:53:30 -0800
Duration: 540

The Heli Industry Seems Better Equipped Than Most To Ride Out The Economy No one has to tell you that the aviation world is getting clobbered... by the economy, awful press and some truly poor lawmaking. In a world where it seems we have no end of hazards to be wary of, the last thing we needed was a few more. but, then again, we simply persevere. Most prominent among the aero-survivors at this early point in the eco-debacle, is the helo industry... which seems to be staying fairly healthy despite the miasma that surrounds us. That was particularly evident at the recently concluded HAI Heli-Expo, which ANN attended in Anaheim, California. Heli-Expo 2009 came to a close in Anaheim on Tuesday, February 24th, with all indicators pointing to a record breaking show, according to the folks at HAI. While a total of 17,373 participates attended the show over all three days last year, Heli-Expo had attracted 17,321 by only the second day this year - with final attendee figures ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sun, 22 Mar 2009 01:50:15 -0800
Duration: 380

Another Fascinating Technology Seen At I/ITSEC 2008! It is one thing to simulate an aircraft, it is another to be able to not only simulate the vehicle but allow a full simulation of the mission that vehicle may be asked to undertake. According to SAIC, flight mission trainers are efficient and effective training devices that can help junior pilots acquire flying skills and help experienced pilots become familiar with new operating procedures associated with collective mission training. Science Applications International Corporation’s (SAIC) new air mission trainer (AMT) is based on our virtual trainer product line. The AMT establishes a flexible technical baseline that can easily support the implementation of both fixed- and rotary-wing flight variants. The AMT immerses the student in a rich and dynamic synthetic environment with more than 20 specific geographic locations and 40 real-world airfields. The AMT is a network simulator that can link pilots together to fly in ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:40:04 -0800
Duration: 395

EVERYONE Loves A Mustang... Here's One That Can Be Owned/Flown -- Affordably! With real-live P-51s pretty much ruining a million dollar bill these days, there are few of us that can aspire to ownership of such a treasure. However; if you're willing to scale down your expectations a bit, there could be a solid Mustang replica in your future -- and a hell of a beautiful one, at that. John Williams, he of Titan Tornado fame, was one of the passionate Mustang fans that decided that the only way he was going to own the (affordable) plane of his dreams, was to build it for himself. And best of all, having created and engineered a beautifully detailed 3/4 scale version, he has made this bird available in kit form for one and all. Titan Aircraft's T-51 is the newest addition to their highly regarded family of light aircraft. Titan Aircraft's replica P-51 combines friendly low speed handling characteristics with agility and high performance. The T-51 is rated at a +6g/-4g load limit ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 22:49:42 -0800
Duration: 432

EVERYONE Loves A Mustang... Here's One That Can Be Owned/Flown -- Affordably! With real-live P-51s pretty much ruining a million dollar bill these days, there are few of us that can aspire to ownership of such a treasure. However; if you're willing to scale down your expectations a bit, there could be a solid Mustang replica in your future -- and a hell of a beautiful one, at that. John Williams, he of Titan Tornado fame, was one of the passionate Mustang fans that decided that the only way he was going to own the (affordable) plane of his dreams, was to build it for himself. And best of all, having created and engineered a beautifully detailed 3/4 scale version, he has made this bird available in kit form for one and all. Titan Aircraft's T-51 is the newest addition to their highly regarded family of light aircraft. Titan Aircraft's replica P-51 combines friendly low speed handling characteristics with agility and high performance. The T-51 is rated at a +6g/-4g load limit ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:54:17 -0800
Duration: 435

True 'Seat Of The Pants' Flight Simulation You know the feeling... that 'seat of the pants' sensation that cues into the true nature of the flight that you're undertaking... its an innate part of the true world of flight... and possibly the most difficult aspect of aviation to simulate. But... imagine if some company put as much effort into the recreating the 'seat of the pants' sensations as the sights and more overt motions associated with flying? Well, imagine no more. There seems to be a pretty impressive offering available and ANN got a look at it for the first me at the 2008 I/ITSEC convention late last year. The ACME Dynamic Motion Seat enhances simulation training for any type of land, sea, or air vehicle by providing high-fidelity realistic motion cues to the crewmember -- through an extremely well-engineered seat. Its a truly inspired device -- with a phenomenal bag of tricks... ACME claims that their DMS is a cost effective method of providing motion cues to a ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:31:58 -0800
Duration: 484

Frank's 'Robby' Helos Go Turbine The Robinson R66 is one of the few bright spots in an otherwise bleak outlook for the future of light aircraft over the next few years. The Roll-Royce RR300 powered five place helo is scheduled to see certification within the next year and deliveries shortly thereafter... but none too soon for Robinson Helicopter... whose once lofty sales numbers are getting hammered by a global economic meltdown. After setting sales records in 2008, especially in terms of foreign shipments (even catching the attention of then President Bush, who stopped by to get a look at the operation for himself), Robinson sees the R66 as a serious competitor for future turbine helo buyers who are looking for the simplicity and cost-effectiveness pretty much absent from the competition. The R66 is powered by the RR300, and engine that was specifically developed in consultation with Robinson, and optimized for the R66. The Model 300 is a modernized derivative of the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 10 Mar 2009 11:31:33 -0800
Duration: 556

33 Seconds Of Pure Rocket Flight Jet packs -- that is, real ones -- generally suffer from very short endurance. The longest flight of the original Bell rocket belt was just 26 seconds. A newer, lighter, carbon-fiber design using hydrogen peroxide rockets, has upped that record to 33 seconds. Yeah, we know, that doesn't seem like a real great improvement... but it was long enough to stage a spectacular demonstration last year on Monday Night Football. And just a few months ago, it was long enough to propel pilot Eric Scott 1,500 feet across Colorado's Royal Gorge near Caon City. "This is a new jet pack record," Scott told KOAA-5 after landing on-target, despite a last-minute crosswind gust. "The height, 1,053 feet off the floor. 1500 feet across. That is a world record." Scott works for Denver-based Jet P.I. Unlike Bell's rocket belt, which was developed with military applications in mind, the Jet PI jetpack is designed specifically for use in publicity stunts and demo ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:49:43 -0800
Duration: 581

The SkyCatchers Are Coming... Soon! It won't be long now... before brand new Cessna LSAs start taking to the sky to help a new generation of aviators take wing. At the 2009 US Sport Aviation Expo, ANN's Jim Campbell caught up with the Cessna folks to get an update on the SkyCatcher program. At this time, all engineering work and testing of the 162 SkyCatcher is being completed according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Remaining flight tests are focused on gathering data and making minor refinements to ensure the aircraft complies with ASTM requirements and fulfills its intended role in the training and sport flying market. An extensive Ground Vibration Test, though not an ASTM requirement, was conducted to meet Cessna’s lofty standards for airframe integrity. Additional testing beyond the ASTM requirements will include a full airframe fatigue test on a production aircraft. Cessna plans to begin deliveries in the US later this year. The ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 03 Mar 2009 23:52:49 -0800
Duration: 466

Whirrrrrr? Randall Fishman, the 2007 AirVenture Grand Champion 'Lindy' and Ultralight Innovation award winner, has a plan to prove a number of concepts about electric-powered flight via the development and testing of his ElectraFlyer-C, an electric-powered, single-seat airplane. Fishman, president of Electric Aircraft Corp., flew a rechargeable, battery powered weight-shift trike at Oshkosh in 2007 and in 2008, an all-metal, low-wing bird called the ElectraFlyer-C. The ElectraFlyer-C is a re-engined Moni motorglider from the 1980s with an 18-hp electric motor in place of its original noisy 2-stroke engine. The Experimental Aviation Association (EAA) reported last week the ElectraFlyer-C cruises at 70 mph, stalls at 45 mph, and has a top speed of 90 mph and a flight duration of 1-1/2 hours. The motor direct drives a 45-inch ground adjustable, two-blade PowerFin carbon fiber propeller, which lifts the aircraft at a climb rate of 500 to 600 fpm. Takeoff rpm is 2800. The motor ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:31:45 -0800
Duration: 393

Aero-Maintenance Expert Provides New Management Services For Busy A/C Owners Every now and then, someone has a "DOH!" moment... you know, a startlingly good idea that just somehow makes all the sense in the world. Mike Busch has had one, in no uncertain terms, and hundreds of aircraft owners are now eager to reap the benefits of his brainstorm. Savvy Aircraft Maintenance Management, Inc. (SAMM) is basically this -- an "in-house" maintenance expert that will be available on an annual basis for private aircraft owners... to oversee all maintenance related matters and offer their expertise, on-call, to make sure that an aircraft owner's dollars are being used only for what they are intended -- to keep their aircraft flying safely and predictably. While he is backed up by an expert staff of maintenance pros, this is Mike Busch's baby... Mike Busch A&P/IA (CEO) is a renowned aviation writer, teacher, aviation type club tech rep, aircraft owner advocate, and entrepreneur. For nearly ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:16:40 -0800
Duration: 381

There IS Life Ahead For VLJs... Well, Some Of Them Anyway In light of the global economic malaise and a significantly anti-aviation sentiment in many parts of the world (especially if you listen to Congress or read the NY Post...), one has to wonder where tomorrow's aviation business is going to come from... and doubly so for the slowly maturing VLJ market. ANN and Aero-TV were the principal media partner for MIU Events' Very Light Jets - Latin America and the Caribbean conference last fall, and spent quite a bit of quality time with a number of industry experts discussing the current market for VLJs in Latin America. We learned that there are more business jets and turbo props in Brazil than in any other single country outside the United States and Canada. As a region, Latin America and the Caribbean operate more turbo props than either Europe or Asia. With Very Light Jet (VLJ) manufacturers forecasting more than 60% of their sales outside the US, Latin America and the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:16:40 -0800
Duration: 481

A Unique And Fast Paced Formation Airshow Act -- With Triple The Fun! The airshow industry is nothing if not varied... there seems to be more variety in this business than in most others and just about the time when you've gotten to the point when you've seen every variation of, say, formation airshow teams, along comes a solidly entertaining and quite different offering. Such an offering is the internationally flown and flavored "Yak Attack" airshow team, featuring a triple formation airshow act utilizing either CJ-6 or Yak 52TW mounts. Yak Attack airshows is an aerial display team that came about when three highly skilled and seasoned professional aviators decided to join forces. The team lead is Daniel Fortin. Dan is a corporate pilot who began his flying career with gliders at the young age of 16 and like many kids in Canada, Dan's dream took him to the Canadian Forces. Over the course of his career, Dan flew many different airplanes ranging from single seat gliders to ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:16:40 -0800
Duration: 412

More "Up Close" Info On GA's Latest FIKI Certified Bird Just a few weeks ago, ANN broke the exciting details on Cirrus new "Known Ice Protection" option for Cirrus SR22 and Turbo models. Aircraft are available for sale now, with FAA certification for operations in known icing conditions expected in Q2 of 2009. The KIP program, called project "KIWI" by the folks who were in on the secret development project, has been years in the making and required extensive engineering, serious rework of the airframe and construction protocols, and lots of flight testing... some of which was fairly intense. There are a number of features inherent in this massive upgrade... extended TKS panels for the wing, vertical stabilizer, horizontal stabilizers (including the very end of the leading edge of the elevator counterbalance), as well as dual rate redundant TKS de-icing fluid pumps, a windshield TKS application system, prop slinger, an ingenious wing/tail icing detection light, heated stall ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 26 Jan 2009 06:32:56 -0800
Duration: 455

A Unique And Fast Paced Formation Airshow Act -- With Triple The Fun! The airshow industry is nothing if not varied... there seems to be more variety in this business than in most others and just about the time when you've gotten to the point when you've seen every variation of, say, formation airshow teams, along comes a solidly entertaining and quite different offering. Such an offering is the internationally flown and flavored "Yak Attack" airshow team, featuring a triple formation airshow act utilizing either CJ-6 or Yak 52TW mounts. Yak Attack airshows is an aerial display team that came about when three highly skilled and seasoned professional aviators decided to join forces. The team lead is Daniel Fortin. Dan is a corporate pilot who began his flying career with gliders at the young age of 16 and like many kids in Canada, Dan's dream took him to the Canadian Forces. Over the course of his career, Dan flew many different airplanes ranging from single seat gliders to ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 24 Jan 2009 20:33:21 -0800
Duration: 512

It's Airshow Week--Again!--At Aero-TV! (Part Two) The Second in a Three Part 'ICAS Conversation' for 2009, starts off a series of interwoven interviews in which we asked about a dozen airshow professionals the same three questions... each of which will become the topic of its own program over the course of the series. In this installment we asked a number of airshow luminaries the following question... after last year's unacceptable accident rate, what is happening with the attitudes and safety culture of the airshow industry? Is 'Safety First' working for you? In the three part series, we have already examined the affect of a depressed economy has had on the airshow business and in the next sequence, we look forward to asking individual performers and acts about the pilots and performances that provided inspiration to today's airshow superstars. Produced at the 2008 ICAS Convention just before the end of the year, we were pleased to be able to tackle such important subjects ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 21 Jan 2009 19:52:34 -0800
Duration: 486

It's Airshow Week (Again!) At Aero-TV! The First in a Three Part 'ICAS Conversation' for 2009, starts off a series of interwoven interviews in which we asked about a dozen airshow professionals the same three questions... each of which will become the topic of its own program over the next three days. In this installment we asked a number of airshow luminaries the following question... with the constant bad news we have to deal with each and every day in terms of the ailing economy, do you see this affecting your airshow business? In the next two parts, we'll address the airshow industry's efforts (in 20908) to increase its safety consciousness and the individual performers and acts that provided inspiration to today's airshow superstars. Produced at the 2008 ICAS Convention just before the end of the year, we were pleased to be able to tackle such important subjects as the industry made ready to start another year... and were impressed (as usual) to see that the industry ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 20 Jan 2009 03:52:41 -0800
Duration: 331

One Of GA's Legacy Manufacturers Wasn't Bashful About Looking To The Future We thought that the presser that Piper conducted at NBAA 2008 might hold a few clues as to their future and that, combined with other interview material might make for an interesting overview as a revitalized Piper heads into 2009. Jim Bass, President of Piper Aircraft announced during the 2008 NBAA Convention that, against declining industry-wide sales of piston aircraft, Piper's piston sales were up through the 3rd quarter of '08. At a time when General Aviation’s overall piston-aircraft deliveries are down, Piper Aircraft underscored its comparative string of successes by noting that its piston aircraft deliveries were up 24 percent for the 3rd Quarter of 2008. The company also that announced overall deliveries for the first nine months of 2008 were up 18 percent over the same period last year, and that its upline PA-46 models are registering record deliveries. "In the last three years, Piper ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Sat, 17 Jan 2009 01:52:42 -0800
Duration: 535

Three Guys, Three Helicycles... Way Too Much Fun Some years ago, it was my pleasure and privelege to get to know a gentle, sweet man by the name of BJ Schramm. Uncommonly talented in all things rotary-wing related, BJ had a gift for rotors and was a truly great human being, to boot. The designer of the much lauded Rotorway heli series, it was BJ's dream to build the ultimate little single helicopter for the sport enthusiast... but to give it the kind of reliability that had not heretofore been associated with sport helicopter kits. The Helicycle folks sum up BJ's fascination with rotorcraft, thusly, "Having flown many types of helicopters both piston and turbine powered, for over 30 years and having constructed, from scratch, over a dozen prototype helicopters from one to four seats; it was B.J. Schramm's desire to create a personal single seat helicopter which embodies all desirable features that could be engineered into a single machine." This was near the time that the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:52:41 -0800
Duration: 496

Amazing technologies Produce Extraordinary Simulation Capabilities To many, the complex mathematical issues involved in modeling intricate aircraft operations may not be all that interesting... kinda like watching paint dry, to some. That is, until you understand what is involved here. Some of the most difficult tasks to perform require the most difficult computations to simulate... and the minute that you can perform such complex modeling, the potential to train to an even more rigorous standard becomes possible... and then we all win. So... at the 2008 Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) last month, Aero-TV stood up and PAID ATTENTION when we saw something done right there on the convention floor that was intensely difficult to do... the complex modeling of a Bell 206, following a moving ship on a waterway, and the landing of the Bell on that ship. Think of all that this action implies -- the modeling of the helo, the boat, and the ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:49:40 -0800
Duration: 562

Aero-TV: Helicycles Aloft -- BJ Schramm's Legacy (Part One) Three Guys, Three Helicycles... Way Too Much Fun Some years ago, it was my pleasure and privelege to get to know a gentle, sweet man by the name of BJ Schramm. Uncommonly talented in all things rotary-wing related, BJ had a gift for rotors and was a truly great human being, to boot. The designer of the much lauded Rotorway heli series, it was BJ's dream to build the ultimate little single helicopter for the sport enthusiast... but to give it the kind of reliability that had not heretofore been associated with sport helicopter kits. The Helicycle folks sum up BJ's fascination with rotorcraft, thusly, "Having flown many types of helicopters both piston and turbine powered, for over 30 years and having constructed, from scratch, over a dozen prototype helicopters from one to four seats; it was B.J. Schramm's desire to create a personal single seat helicopter which embodies all desirable features that could be engineered ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:52:38 -0800
Duration: 515

Another Cirrus Upgrade Coming To The Market For over a week, ANN and Aero-TV personnel have been in Duluth, MN, helping to document the major announcement that you are seeing and hearing now. Cirrus Aircraft is introducing its new "X" series of aircraft, a feature rich series of upgrades to the decade long revolution started by Alan and Dale Klapmeier. Chief among these upgrades is an eye opener... Cirrus' "KIP" Known Ice Protection... an FAA certified FIKI system based on well-tested TKS technologies and an extensive series of modifications that allow high-end Cirrus SR22s equipped with the Perspective flight deck to deal with a number of known icing conditions (accompanied by an in-process FAA exemption on stall speed that should be complete shortly). The KIP program, called project "KIWI" by the folks who were in on the secret development project, has been years in the making and required extensive engineering, serious rework of the airframe and construction protocols, and ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:31:46 -0800
Duration: 476

As We've said before... Who Ya Gonna Call When Ya REALLY Need Help??? Doug Ritter is a man with a mission... to get you through what could conceivably be the worst day of your life so that you can have a day after the worst day of your life. And in the case of a ditching at sea, the issues necessary to insure survival both numerous as well as ponderous... and that's why Ritter, Aviation's own "survival guy" is the man to listen to. As we've previously described the irrepressible Ritter, he's the guy that no one wants to talk to... until it's too late. Doug Ritter, aviation's most prominent survival expert, has built a business and a devoted following among those knowledgable pilots that understand that survival is more a matter of preparation than reaction. Douglas S. Ritter's, 'Equipped To Survive' web site is easily the most comprehensive online resource for independent reviews of survival equipment and outdoors gear, as well as survival and Search and Rescue information. ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:31:52 -0800
Duration: 397

A Glider That Goes... WHOOSH??? The 2008 ICAS Convention brought together a lot of diverse talent from all aspects of the airshow industry... but a few of those attending this year raised some eyebrows... like Bob Carlton. Bob began flying in 1979 at the age of 19. He has logged over 2000 hours in a wide variety of aircraft and holds a commercial pilot certificate. Bob's repertoire includes hang gliders, airplanes, helicopters, and sailplanes from hundreds of sites in the US, Canada, Mexico and Australia. More to the point of this story, Bob has flown airshows professionally since 1993. He hails from Albuquerque, New Mexico and is a member of SSA and ICAS. He began flying airshows in his Salto sailplane, and over the years has continued to update his routine with innovative performances such as barnstormin' biplane aerobatics, helicopter sailplane tow, night aerobatics with strobes & pyro and the world's only twin jet sailplane. His innovating ways continue with the recent ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:52:39 -0800
Duration: 540

Despite The Economy, The Airshow Industry Seems Optimistic The annual ICAS Airshow Convention is one of our favorite events of the year... both for the pure enjoyment of our fellowship with an amazing group of people, as well as the bell weather research we get from our attendance. Following a fairly safe and positive year, ANN sat down with International Council of AirShows President, John Cudahy to see what the current economic malaise may do to a cost-conscious industry, as well as other pressing aero-issues. The airshow industry often serves as the public's best view of the excitement and potential of the aviation world, so a healthy airshow industry seems critical to the well-being of flyers everywhere. ICAS tells us that Airshows draw large numbers of demographically attractive spectators - a well-educated, affluent group of men, women and children of all ages. More than 70 percent of the audience at an air show has had some college education. Three quarters report ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:52:38 -0800
Duration: 588

EVS Is Here... and Changing The Vision of GA! At the AOPA Expo 2008, it was obvious that 2009 was to be (in part) the year of EVS. A number of OEM and aftermarket deployments were shown and discussed and ANN's Aero-TV crews used the event as an opportunity to find out more about the Forward Vision offering... recently TSO'ed for retrofit installation in the Cirrus SR 20 and SR 22. Patrick Farrell, CEO of Forward Vision, joined with One Sky Aviation president at AOPA to announce the STC (#SA02329AK) award for installation of the EVS-100 infrared sensor on the Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft. "With this STC, we will cooperatively be able to provide an affordable (and STC certified) EVS system to the general aviation community that will bring an enhanced level of situational awareness and ultimately flight safety to the cockpit of Cirrus aftermarket aircraft," Farrell stated. The companies had hoped to announce the STC much sooner, but weather delays preempted flight testing. ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:33:23 -0800
Duration: 309

Almost Like The Real Thing... The largest exhibition of modeling and simulation technology in history was held just a few weeks ago Orlando from December 1-4, 2008. Thanks to the able guidance of the folks of I/ITSEC, especially their John Williams, the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference, Aero-TV got another good long look at some of the impressive simulation and training technologies being brought to our defense by military training operations. The event, known as the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference, (I/ITSEC) occupies nearly 200,000 square feet of exhibition space at the cavernous Orange County Convention Center. More than 575 exhibitors, including government, research, academic, industry and military participants, display all facets of modeling and simulation -- live, virtual and constructive. Virtual reality and totally immersive environments were prominently featured in hundreds of exhibitor areas. ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:52:43 -0800
Duration: 641

Rod Talks About In-Flight Emergencies One of the better reasons to attend the popular aviation events around the nation is the opportunity to enjoy the wit and wisdom of some of aviation's true experts... but no one plays as well to an aviation crowd as aviation humorist, flight instructor and safety advocate, Rod Machado. Rod is a professional speaker who travels across the United States and Europe delighting his listeners with upbeat and lively presentations. Machado truly loves mixing it up with the audience. His unusual talent for simplifying the difficult and adding humor to make the lessons stick has made him a popular lecturer both in and out of aviation. Rod’s presentations include topics as diverse as Risk Assessment, Defensive Flying and Handling In-flight Emergencies. His non-aviation topics include: Safety Awareness programs, Humor as a Communication Tool and The Lost Art of Thinking. Flying since 1970 and instructing since 1973, Rod has over 8,000 hours of ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:33:23 -0800
Duration: 598

Rod Talks About In-Flight Emergencies One of the better reason to attend the better aviation events around the nation is the opportunity to enjoy the wit and wisdom of some of aviation's true experts... but no one plays as well to an aviation crowd as aviation humorist, flight instructor and safety advocate, Rod Machado. Rod is a professional speaker who travels across the United States and Europe delighting his listeners with upbeat and lively presentations. Machado truly loves mixing it up with the audience. His unusual talent for simplifying the difficult and adding humor to make the lessons stick has made him a popular lecturer both in and out of aviation. Rod’s presentations include topics as diverse as Risk Assessment, Defensive Flying and Handling In-flight Emergencies. His non-aviation topics include: Safety Awareness programs, Humor as a Communication Tool and The Lost Art of Thinking. Flying since 1970 and instructing since 1973, Rod has over 8,000 hours of ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:31:42 -0800
Duration: 477

OK... We Admit It, We're BIG Fans! Most of the world has seen him fly -- but often in the guise of some other person... whether it be James Bond or The Phantom. The man behind the stick for some of aero-movie-dom's most famous scenes is none other than JW "Corkey" Fornof... one of the best pilots in the biz and a helluva nice guy. Better yet, he claims to be ANN's biggest fan... and with that particular approbation (one he hasn't been bashful about voicing -- Thanks!), it seemed only natural that he become the subject of an Aero-TV feature. Fornof is more than James Bond's 'stand-in pilot.' Corkey is a living/flying legend... for all the right reasons. Corkey flew with his father, J.W. "Bill" Fornof, in a world famous two ship air show with matching bronze Bearcats for a number of years (until Bill's tragic loss in 1971). Their airshow business was based in Houma and involvced routines built around the flying of the T6, Mustang and his favorite warbird, the rotund but ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 01:31:48 -0800
Duration: 575

OK... We Admit It, We're BIG Fans! Most of the world has seen him fly -- but often in the guise of some other person... whether it be James Bond or The Phantom. The man behind the stick for some of aero-movie-dom's most famous scenes is none other than JW "Corkey" Fornof... one of the best pilots in the biz and a helluva nice guy. Better yet, he claims to be ANN's biggest fan... and with that particular approbation (one he hasn't been bashful about voicing -- Thanks!), it seemed only natural that he become the subject of an Aero-TV feature. Fornof is more than James Bond's 'stand-in pilot.' Corkey is a living/flying legend... for all the right reasons. Corkey flew with his father, J.W. "Bill" Fornof, in a world famous two ship air show with matching bronze Bearcats for a number of years (until Bill's tragic loss in 1971). Their airshow business was based in Houma and involvced routines built around the flying of the T6, Mustang and his favorite warbird, the rotund but ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 22:49:39 -0800
Duration: 529

'The Most Nothing You'll Ever Do' It just maybe the quintessential "Old-Style" Fly-In... a beautiful airstrip, hundreds of planes, no agendas, no schedules... just lots of airplane lovers enjoying the company of airplane loving people and their planes. It may be the closest thing to airplane heaven on this side of eternity... or so we've been told. And now that we've been there... seen the sights, caught the vibe, enjoyed the company and just plain goofed off for the whole annual weekend event, we gotta tell you, we can't argue with that description. Every year aficionados of these antique aircraft gather at Lee Bottom on the last Saturday of September for the Wood, Fabric and Tailwheels Fly-In. This year marked the twelfth anniversary of the event. The airport, near Hanover, IN, sports a newly-lengthened 4000 ft turf runway, which seems natural for the aircraft they're trying to attract. Nestled up to the Ohio River on the Indiana-Kentucky border, Lee Bottom resides in some ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 22:49:39 -0800
Duration: 572

'The Most Nothing You'll Ever Do' It just maybe the quintessential "Old-Style" Fly-In... a beautiful airstrip, hundreds of planes, no agendas, no schedules... just lots of airplane lovers enjoying the company of airplane loving people and their planes. It may also be the closest thing to airplane heaven on this side of eternity... or so we've been told. And now that we've been there... seen the sights, caught the vibe, enjoyed the company and just plain goofed off for the whole annual weekend event, we gotta tell you, we can't argue with that description. Every year aficionados of these antique aircraft gather at Lee Bottom on the last Saturday of September for the Wood, Fabric and Tailwheels Fly-In. This year marked the twelfth anniversary of the event. The airport, near Hanover, IN, sports a recently-lengthened 4000 ft turf runway, which seems natural for the aircraft they're trying to attract. Nestled up to the Ohio River on the Indiana-Kentucky border, Lee Bottom resides in ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:33:23 -0800
Duration: 280

Two Seriously Big Birds Heading For Certification Among the more intriguing aircraft of NBAA 2008 were two good-sized birds brought by a manufacturer formerly best known for their experimental designs. Ron Lueck was on hand to discuss the new and upcoming airplanes from Comp Air, starting with the most recent Comp Air 9 and continuing on to the Comp Air 12. Comp Air claims that the fully Carbon Composite construction of the 250 kt CA9 gives it a 'sleek airframe that allows it to cruise at 250 knots even though it has fixed landing gear.' The fixed landing gear gives the aircraft the ability to utilize rugged terrain and unimproved airstrips where a retractable gear aircraft may be impractical, while the high useful load offers additional capabilities and utility. The Honeywell TPE331-12 powerplant provides 1000 HP. The CA9 has a seating capacity for 6 persons, a wing area of 250 sq. ft., and a stall speed of 58 kts. It has an empty weight of 3,800 lbs, and a gross weight of ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:31:42 -0800
Duration: 371

Group Calls For 'Swift Changes' As Crisis Continues At NAFI ANN broke the story about problems within the hallowed ranks of the National Association of Flight Instructors two months ago and the news has been coming fast and furious since then. Dissatisfaction with a number of NAFI board-level decisions led to creation of the 'Take Back Our National Association of Flight Instructors Committee' -- TBO NAFI. This committee, comprised of NAFI members, including Master Instructors and several Regional and National Flight Instructors of the Year, has called for swift and sweeping changes to the governance of NAFI. ANN reported that the crisis began in October when NAFI members learned two of the "most productive, well-liked, pro-instructor, and long-standing members of the Board" -- JoAnn and Sandy Hill -- would not be re-elected to their positions, and would be relieved of their day-to-day administration of the NAFI Master Instructor Program. "These issues served to focus ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:33:23 -0800
Duration: 407

Red Bull Gives You... Rotors? So what makes pilot Charles "Chuck" Aaron's airshow act so special? Well, all you had to do was watch his HELI-AEROBATIC act at Oshkosh to know that something SERIOUSLY DIFFERENT had come to Wittman Field. The Red Bull BO-105 CBS, made by Eurocopter/Messerschmitt Boelkow Blohm (MBB), blew everyone away with a routine rarely seen anywhere, much less at world-class airshow like Oshkosh. As noted in our 2008 Oshkosh coverage, how he got there is enough to write a book on. It almost seems that he was born into aviation, although Chuck will say he was never pushed into it. For him, his father (a flight instructor) was "my greatest inspiration." This ignited the fire... but it was rotorcraft that gave him that feeling of a "magic carpet ride." Fast forward several years... to when energy drink company Red Bull asked him if he could make a helicopter perform aerobatics. Chuck needed some time to ponder the notion, but he soon came around to the idea. ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 09 Dec 2008 23:52:35 -0800
Duration: 523

Private TiltRotor Operations May Be in YOUR Future In the midst of the 2008 NBAA Convention, the mockup of a BA609 TiltRotor concept destined for civilian usage continued to draw curiosity. First announced in 1998, full-size mockups of the BA609 have been fixtures at industry trade shows for several years... but actual progress on the program has been slow in coming. Most of the 80+ orders for the 6-9 passenger aircraft have been on the books for a decade, and the initial $10 million asking price has skyrocketed to somewhere south of twice that amount. So far, two of a planned four prototypes have taken flight. The flight test program has validated the BA609's unique flight envelope, including flight at altitudes up to 25,000 feet and speeds up to 310 knots, all at the maximum weight. The test program continues to check all the points of the flight envelope as required by both the FAA and EASA. The BA609 partners believe the BA609 is the most suitable, flexible, and versatile ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Tue, 09 Dec 2008 01:52:35 -0800
Duration: 564

Aero-TV At AOPA Expo 2008: From Boyer To Fuller It was somewhat bittersweet to all concerned... the thought that Phil Boyer was presiding over his last AOPA Expo as the President of the world's largest pilot's organization. And what an Expo it was! The combination of seasonably pleasant weather, new product announcements -- and, most importantly, Phil's looming retirement -- drew 9,500 members and attendees, according to the pilot advocacy organization. That's far from the record 12,973 members and others who attended AOPA's last West Coast event, the 2006 Expo in Palm Springs... but given current anxieties about a looming recession, it's a rather impressive number nonetheless. There's no denying when most pilots think about the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association... they think of Phil Boyer, the man who has helmed the pilot advocacy organization for the last 18 years. Alas, Phil's time at AOPA headquarters in Frederick, Maryland is nearing its end... and on Saturday, ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 08 Dec 2008 06:52:40 -0800
Duration: 577

AOPA Today

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:52:38 -0800
Duration: 551

Honda Aircraft Stakes Out New Territory Via a Unique Jet Design There are few things in aviation today that can truly claim the adjective of "Unique." Much of aviation is derived form concepts, designs or planforms that we've seen before... unless you find yourself considering the HondaJet. The HondaJet is an advanced, lightweight, business jet featuring an extra large cabin, high fuel efficiency, and high cruise speed compared to existing small business jets. To achieve the high-performance goals, an over-the-wing engine-mount configuration, a natural-laminar-flow wing, and a natural-laminar-flow fuselage nose were developed through extensive analyses and wind-tunnel tests. The wing is metal, having an integral, machined skin to achieve the smooth upper surface required for natural laminar flow. The fuselage is constructed entirely of composites; the stiffened panels and the Sandwich panels are co-cured integrally in an autoclave to reduce weight and cost. The prototype ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 04 Dec 2008 18:49:49 -0800
Duration: 503

Let's Get Up Close And Personal With A Flying Legend Seen in a two part Aero-TV program a few weeks back, we talked about spending time with a ghost. In this case, the ghost looked a lot like a B-17... by the name of "Thunderbird." We're back with Thunderbird one more time... this time to do a walk-around of the grand old beast, to look her over from stem to stern and teach you a few things about one of the grandest birds to grace the skies. The B-17 Flying Fortress was an Army Air Corps heavy-duty bomber from World War II. These four-engine aircraft flew strategic bombing missions over Europe armed with .50 caliber machine guns and five thousand pounds of bombs. 13,000 B-17’s were produced over the course of the war, of which only 13 still are airworthy today. The Lone Star Flight Museum’s B-17 is painted in the colors of ‘Thunderbird’, an aircraft with the 303rd bomb group which flew 116 missions during World War II. The Lone Star Flight Museum tells ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 04 Dec 2008 12:33:18 -0800
Duration: 563

Retrofittable 21st Century Engine Management -- For Twins! AOPA Expo 2008 gave the Aero-TV crew a chance to catch up with the latest and greatest from Xerion Avionics. This time we got a long look at the with the AuRACLE CRM 2120 twin-engine monitoring system. The CRM 2120 is designed to be a total replacement system for aged/old tech engine gauges with a single integrated monitoring system that will make engine management shores a far less tasking effort. Xerion representatives state the AuRACLE shortens the scan required by scattered and outdated steam gauges by providing a localized and innovative display. The AuRACLE CRM 2120 displays engine data on dual 5.0" sunlight-readable LCD displays (now available in either vertical or horizontal formats), and offers military-grade reliability. Engine and fuel data from both engines appear on two five-inch, sunlight-readable, LCD screens. Operation info such as MP, RPM and fuel flows are displayed on the upper screen, along with ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:52:34 -0800
Duration: 357

What Every Pilot Should Know about FAA Enforcement OK... this is kind of a special story for us, as it features one of aviation's truly undersung heroes... a guy who manages to make lawyers look good (quite a feat in and of itself...) and has worked tirelessly to protect aviators nationwide. A guy by the name of John Yodice. John Yodice is AOPA's chief legal officer and is recognized as one the top aviation attorneys in the nation. John Yodice set up his private practice in the District of Columbia and Maryland upon graduation from the George Washington University School of Law in 1959. Since then he has been continuously representing pilots and others in aviation law matters. Mr. Yodice is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Oklahoma. He serves as General Counsel for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations. He is a Director (and past president) of the Lawyer-Pilots Bar ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:33:22 -0800
Duration: 503

Aero-TV Profiles The Dash For A Cure -- ALS Awareness In Flight Two Pilots Attempt To Set A Record And Raise Much-Needed Money To Fight A Deadly Disease As noted in the ANN story that profiles the magnificent efforts of two flyers to race around the world and raise money to fight ALS. CarolAnn Garratt and Carol Foy, who have family members diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease, will circumnavigate the world in seven days, in a small Mooney M20, attempting to shatter a world record to raise money and awareness for ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It will be an extraordinary trip... From central Florida, the two will fly non-stop across the United States to San Diego, California. After a quick gas stop and supply replenishments they will set out for Lihue, Hawaii, taking on a trip of approximately 16 hours of flying -- with good tailwinds. Leaving Hawaii, their second longest leg is ahead of them, 3202 nautical miles to Guam. They hope to catch 25 to 30 knot tail winds to ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 27 Nov 2008 17:52:33 -0800
Duration: 542

Where Will The Aviators Of Tomorrow Come From? Here's One Flyer Trying to Affect Our Future... Positively He's made quite a name for himself in his 25 years... and we surely haven't heard the last of this aviator. Barrington Irving is reportedly the youngest person to pilot a plane around the world solo. He is also the first African American and first Jamaican to accomplish this feat. He accomplished his amazing adventure in a Columbia 400 named the "Inspiration." Over the course of the trip he got to know Mother nature very well. Of the over water portions of his flight, Irving (above) added "My hats off to Charles Lindbergh. I don’t know how he did it but I know why his windows were so small, when you’re flying over that much water, you don’t want to see it." Born in Jamaica and then raised in Miami inner-city, Irving and his friends didn’t have many routes "out." Good grades and athletic prowess in football promised Irving a future in sports and a way ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:31:41 -0800
Duration: 321

In Times Of Economic Uncertainty, This Program May Be A REALLY Big Help Let's face it, these are not great times for aviation... but for those of us willing to brave the economic storm, there is help with the rocky road to aircraft ownership... and its a big aid, indeed. But check this -- The Recovery Rebates and Economic Stimulus for the American People Act 2008 offers accelerated tax deductions to qualifying businesses that take delivery of a new aircraft before the end of 2008. ANN checked with one of the true experts in aircraft sales, our friend Fred Ahles, from Premier Aircraft Sales, who runs one of the most professional aircraft sales operations we've seen. Fred arranged for us to conduct an interview with Lou Meiners, CPA, of Advocate Consulting. Lou has been around the aviation biz for a while... having served as the tax advisor of a large commercial airline for over 20 years, while serving as President of a fixed base operator providing charter services, while also ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:52:34 -0800
Duration: 397

USMC's Most Versatile Jet Takes Oshkosh By Storm You couldn't get away from it... that roar... that blast of unconfined thrust that occurs as the US Marine Corps Harrier 'Jump Jet' spools up and takes a flight... in the most amazing ways. One of the truly all-time favorites at Oshkosh, Aero TV got the chance to speak with the pilot for this year's Harrier demonstration, Major Dave Martin, call sign: Doc. The Harrier arrive at the fabled land of Oshkosh on July 28th, and stayed through the daily air show on Wednesday, July 30th, before heading home. It performed its ever-popular flight demonstrations during each of the EAA AirVenture air shows on July 28-30. (Note to anyone within about a 1/4-mile radius of show center at future such demonstrations: bring earplugs... or not, since the noise is part of the fun -- E-I-C). The AV-8B Harrier II is designed for combat air support, as well as combat air patrol, missions against ground defenses and armed escort. The single-seat fighter ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:33:17 -0800
Duration: 545

USMC's Most Versatile Jet Takes Oshkosh By Storm You couldn't get away from it... that roar... that blast of unconfined thrust that occurs as the US Marine Corps Harrier 'Jump Jet' spools up and takes a flight... in the most amazing ways. One of the truly all-time favorites at Oshkosh, Aero TV got the chance to speak with the pilot for this year's Harrier demonstration, Major Dave Martin, call sign: Doc. The Harrier arrive at the fabled land of Oshkosh on July 28th, and stayed through the daily air show on Wednesday, July 30th, before heading home. It performed its ever-popular flight demonstrations during each of the EAA AirVenture air shows on July 28-30. (Note to anyone within about a 1/4-mile radius of show center at future such demonstrations: bring earplugs... or not, since the noise is part of the fun -- E-I-C). The AV-8B Harrier II is designed for combat air support, as well as combat air patrol, missions against ground defenses and armed escort. The single-seat fighter ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:52:46 -0800
Duration: 475

Icing On The Cake! HBC Receives Brazilian Order Worth Nearly $200M When Hawker Beechcraft said earlier this year it wanted to strengthen its foothold into international markets... the company wasn't kidding, or making idle comments. In the early hours of NBAA 2008, HBC announced Brazilian-based Lder Signatures S.A. had ordered 23 aircraft spanning the Hawker Beechcraft product line. Lder, a Hawker Beechcraft dealer and authorized service center since 1996, purchased what is considered to be one of the largest general aviation aircraft orders in Brazilian history with a value estimated at nearly $200 million. The contract was officially signed by Lder CEO Eduardo de Pereira Vaz at NBAA. "Lder has been a partner with Hawker Beechcraft as a dealer and authorized service center for 12 years. We’ve shared a great relationship with them over the years and it’s a tremendous honor to now receive one of Brazil’s largest-ever orders from this great company," said Brad ...

Author: AeroTVNetwork
Added: Mon, 17 Nov 2008 23:52:42 -0800
Duration: 492

AirBoss Ralph Royce Chats About Airshow Safety There are few more complex "organisms" than an airshow in full operation. The amount of detail, coordination and expertise needed to pull off the modern American airshow is beyond the abilities of any one human being... though it does rely on one to try to coordinate the aerial operations... the much respected and much feared AIR BOSS. At an inaugural East Coast airshow in 2008, ANN and Aero-TV had the chance to see one of the best at work. Ralph Royce -- Aviation Legend, Pilot, Warbird Jock and Airshow Expert, was at work this time keeping everything safe, entertaining and ON TIME. Following the completion of the show, ANN's Editor-In-Chief Jim Campbell sat down with Royce to talk airshows, safety and how to help all involved to (according to one of Ralph's favorite sayings) "don't do nuthin' dumb." Royce has an amazing history in the aviation world. Royce served for 15 years as President and Chief Executive Officer of the The ...