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Preface Info:

Vectors for Safety - a wonderful source for Aviation News, Professional Commentary and Accident Analysis is published monthly by Gene Benson and is now a permanent "Top of the Page" feature of our INFO WAREHOUSE.

To View the August '25 Vectors for Safety CLICK HERE

 

   The PREFACE includes Vectors for Safety & the following Features plus More:

Selected CHARTING NOTICES & ALERTS  -  Charting Meetings  -  Chart Users Guide Info - Documents & Manuals Pilots May Need  -  Human Factors  -  Fatigue Risk Management  -   IFP Announcements & Reports  -  Los Angeles County Aviation Commission - Meeting Agendas 2025  -  Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors - Serving the County of LA Since 1892  -  Airport Compliance Program  -  House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Aviation Subcommittee Members

To Visit and Explore the INFO Warehouse PREFACE   

CLICK HERE 

 

 

This Page [latest] was added on 06/27/25 

 

Let's Begin:

09/26/2025   Episode 34: Aithre at SUNnFUN 2024 - From Wings "Plane Talk" Podcast - "Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer which can impact a pilot’s or flight crew’s cognitive skills and if left unchanged during flight could lead to a loss of consciousness. Jim Ruttler of Aithre, a CO alerting technology evangelist, discusses their technology" » Listen Now

09/21/2025  New APIS Rules for Bizav Start in Mexico | Aviation International News - From AOPA - "If you have ever felt an uncomfortable, involuntary tightening inside while speaking with air traffic controllers, perhaps asking them to “please say again” for the second or third time, you are not alone. Other pilots including seasoned professionals, as well as veteran controllers, occasionally have similar difficulty making sense of radio transmissions that might be plagued by signal interference, cabin noise, and terminology that is not always familiar." Learn More Here.

09/21/2025   When Flight Crews Have to Say ‘No’ to Principal Passengers - From Business Aviation Insider - "Despite the boss making it very clear that earning new business was critical to the pilot’s advancement in the company, the pilot didn’t cave to the pressure to give in, and the meeting was rescheduled. But the incident caused a rift between the business owner and the pilot that never quite healed."  The ways "no" can be expressed Here.

09/21/2025    ‘Perception Is Reality’ – Why It’s Important to Show Your Dedication to Aviation Safety - From Business Aviation Insider - "Experts explain the benefits of demonstrating safety accomplishments to company leaders, passengers and the public – especially now, after several recent accidents, incidents and near misses across the industry. - “Our industry must not only be safe, it must also be perceived as safe.” That credo, frequently cited by NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, has gained added significance in the wake of several high-profile aviation accidents in 2025, some involving business aircraft and many of which have also received extensive media coverage and public scrutiny. - At a moment when safety is not only of paramount importance to aviation stakeholders but also a concern throughout the general public, flight operations must be able to effectively demonstrate their commitment to safe operations to company leaders, passengers and others."  An article dedicated to the promotion of safety. Read it Here.

09/21/2025   For all of you Airline Pilots out there:  A New SAFO - SAFO 25003, Addressing Risk Associated with Passenger Non-Compliance and Retention of Carry-On Baggage and Personal Items During Emergency Evacuations. - This SAFO serves to emphasize the operational and safety-critical importance of strict passenger compliance with crewmember instructions during emergency evacuations. Specifically, it addresses the adverse effects of passengers attempting to evacuate with carry-on items, which can significantly impede evacuation procedures and increase the potential for injury or fatality. - The SAFO can be viewed by downloading the attached .pdf files or by clicking on the following link, https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo/all_safos   SAFO25003.pdf

09/20/2025   Explore The Wide World of GA Flying in the FAA Safety Briefing Magazine - The September/October 2025 issue of FAA Safety Briefing magazine explores the tremendous variety of general aviation and focuses on the new perspectives and skills you'll need to consider when moving on to a different type of flying.

Feature Articles

Can a Balloon Stall?
Balloon Aerodynamics and the Importance of Transient Aerodynamic Lift

Seaplanes and Safety
Risk Management Essentials for Amphibious Aircraft 

Parachute Safety Unpacked
Reducing Risk from Freefall

Tackling Transition Training
The Importance of Familiarizing Yourself with Unfamiliar Aircraft 

Harvesting Safety in the Skies
Navigating Risks in Agricultural Aviation

Philanthropic Flying
Giving Back with General Aviation

Departments

Jumpseat: an executive policy perspective
The Wide World of GA Flying

Aeromedical Advisory: a checkup on all things aeromedical
Updates to Congressional Directives

Checklist: FAA resources and safety reminders
Handbooks Help You Choose Your Next Adventure

Drone Debrief: drone safety roundup
Three Airspace Mistakes Drone Pilots Make

Nuts, Bolts, and Electrons: GA maintenance issues
The 411 on Form 337

Vertically Speaking: safety issues for rotorcraft pilots
A Smooth and Safe Transition 

On Final: an editor’s perspective
A Little Bit of Everything

Faces: FAA employee profile
Charles Grabill, FAA's Authorized and Certificated Operations Section

09/18/2025   From the 2025 Paris Airshow - Beta Technologies' Alia CX300 Electric Aircraft Debuts at Paris Air Show - VIDEO - From AINonline - Lot's of detail explained in Video form by the CEO of Beta.  Worth the View!  See it Here.

09/18/2025   NTSB Report: Fuel Starvation Led to Crash in West Virginia - From AVweb - "Pilot injured after fuel starvation led to forced landing in wooded terrain, NTSB says." NTSB writes that this could happen to any of us.  Read More Here.

09/16/2025   FAA Seeks New Runway Lighting System - From FLYING - "The FAA is looking for more affordable alternatives to the runway lighting systems used at some major U.S. airports. - The agency released a request for information last week concerning "technology that could provide pilots with a direct indication that a runway is unsafe either for entry or crossing." - Finish reading Here

09/14/2025   SAFO 25002, Managing the Risks of Lithium Batteries Carried by Passengers and Crewmembers. - FAA - This SAFO highlights the risks associated with the carriage of lithium batteries in aircraft passenger compartments. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of identifying all potential hazards and implementing appropriate risk mitigation strategies to manage lithium battery thermal runaway events, which are self-sustaining uncontrolled increases in pressure and temperature. - The SAFO can be viewed by downloading the attached .pdf files or by clicking on the following link, https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo/all_safos

• SAFO25002.pdf

 

09/14/2025   NWS Proposes Updates to Alaska Aviation Weather Charts - From AVweb - "Surface and Significant Alaska aviation weather products slated for modernization. - The National Weather Service’s Alaska Aviation Weather Unit (AAWU) has outlined proposed updates to its Surface and Significant Weather (SIGWX) charts, aiming to modernize the products and improve readability for pilots. The new designs would feature higher-resolution graphics, a shift from GIF to PNG format, and additional probabilistic details showing the likelihood of conditions such as rain, snow, or smoke. - For the Surface Chart, the biggest shift would be the removal of frontal information, which will instead be available from other NWS sources, including the Ocean Prediction Center and the Graphical Forecast for Aviation. By doing so, the chart would focus more on forecast conditions while reducing redundancy with existing services. Updates would continue four times daily at 00z, 06z, 12z and 18z."  Click Here for More.

09/11/2025    Study Finds Runway Incursion Hotspots at U.S. Airports - From AVweb - "FAA data show serious incursions dropped in 2024, but clusters remain. - A new study was released examining where runway incursions are most common across the U.S., using recent data from the FAA’s Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing system. The review by Upgraded Points took a look at data from more than 400 U.S. airports from between 2021 and 2024. Specifically, the study examined both total incursions, as well as total events classified as higher-risk Category A or B, in which a collision was narrowly missed or could have occurred. - The report found that Dekalb–Peachtree Airport (PDK), a primarily non-commercial airport in Atlanta, led the list with 103 incursions, followed by..."  Read More Here.

09/07/2025    EMAS Technology Stops Jet in Chicago - From FLYING - "Engineered Material Arresting System halts Gulfstream G150 after it overruns a wet executive airport runway. - Runway technology contributed to a positive outcome Wednesday when a Gulfstream G150 went off the end of the runway at Chicago Executive Airport (KPWK) but was brought to a stop by an Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) before it went through a fence and onto a busy street. - Public safety officials note two pilots were the sole occupants of the aircraft, and neither was injured when the business jet rolled through the runway safety area and a fence, coming to a stop just short of crossing a multilane road that runs perpendicular to the runway. -  CNN reported a light rain had..."   Read More about this reminder that all of us fair weather pilots need to consider Here.

09/07/2025   Boeing 777X Puts 117 New Tires to the Test - From FLYING - "Amid hail, wind, and storms, the jet completes grueling brake certification trials in Oklahoma. -In a series of brake certification tests conducted in Oklahoma, Boeing’s 777X test team faced severe weather conditions, including fierce winds, torrential hail, and thunderstorms. - Despite these obstacles, the team successfully completed the tests over 63 days, more than double the original forecast, and returned home in May, the manufacturing giant said.  - The primary objective of these tests was to subject the aircraft’s brakes and wheels to hard-braking scenarios to demonstrate performance for certification credit. This process involved the use of 117 new wheels."  Continue Here.

09/06/2025   Deadly Doors: Distractions Still Posing Threats to Pilots - From FLYING - "Already in 2025, there have been four serious crashes in the U.S. where a door opened after takeoff. - A door pops open just after takeoff. It’s annoying, sure—but deadly? It shouldn’t be."   More Here.

08/30/2025    Advances in Cloud-Based FDR Tech Aim to Make Business Aviation Safer - From NBAA - "Developments in cloud-based flight data recorder (FDR) technologies, data management and analytics offer opportunities for business aircraft operators to add value to their existing systems while bolstering overall flight safety. - “There is a missed opportunity with integrated data collection and analysis,” said Dror Yahav, CEO of Universal Avionics. “While many OEMs, install it to check a requirement, flight data recorders are a powerful tool that links to everything that your aircraft is connected to.” - Although their FDRs and cockpit voice recorders collect massive amounts of data, many operators often fail to do anything with it. Capturing the right data can be the first step toward improving pilot performance."   Finish reading Here

08/30/2025    NASA Selects Planette to Build Quantum-Inspired AI for Weather Prediction - From AI*Business - "QubitCast system aims to detect extreme weather events up to six months in advance while using fewer computational resources - NASA has selected weather intelligence company Planette to develop QubitCast, a quantum-inspired artificial intelligence system designed to predict extreme weather events up to six months in advance. The project aims to address limitations in current forecasting technologies, which struggle to provide accurate, timely predictions for extreme weather events like heavy rainfall, heat waves and thunderstorms. - Unlike conventional weather modeling systems, which are limited to 10-day forecasts, Planette's approach combines physics-based models with AI to extend predictions up to one year into the future. The company's technology applies quantum physics principles using conventional computers to identify hidden patterns in Earth's climate data" Continue Reading Here..

08/30/2025    Level up your instrument flying  -  VIDEO -From AOPA - "Whether you're instrument-rated or recently enrolled in instrument training, these AOPA Air Safety Institute videos offer tips and tricks to master complex instrument flying"  Learn from it Here.

08/30/2025     Over the Line -VIDEO from AOPA - "A Beechcraft B55 Baron taxis onto an active runway without a clearance, coming within 100 feet of a landing aircraft. This video examines contributing factors. "   Watch it Here.

08/30/2025    European Air Traffic Surge Linked to Rise in Fatal Accidents, EASA Report Says - From Airguide - "Europe saw a rise in fatal air accidents in 2024 as commercial traffic continued to rebound, according to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) 2025 Annual Safety Review released Tuesday Aug. 26. The report highlights that while aviation remains one of the safest modes of transport, the uptick in incidents reflects the growing pressures of increased air travel across the region."   More Here.

08/27/2025   FAA Data Shows Wildlife Strikes on the Rise - From AVweb - "Latest report underscores growing risks to aviation safety.- Wildlife strikes involving U.S. civil aircraft rose to more than 22,000 instances in 2024, a 14 percent increase over the previous year, according to a recent FAA report. That equates to about 61 strikes every day. Since 1990, more than 319,000 strikes have been reported nationwide, resulting in 82 fatalities and 126 aircraft destroyed. Globally, the report found that wildlife strikes have killed more than 643 people and destroyed over 360 aircraft between 1990 and 2024. The FAA largely attributes the rising numbers to growing bird populations and to quieter turbofan technology."

Key "Takeaways:"

• Wildlife strikes on U.S. civil aircraft increased by 14% in 2024, reaching over 22,000 incidents.
• Since 1990, these strikes have resulted in significant damage, including 82 fatalities and 126 destroyed aircraft in the U.S., and over 643 fatalities and 360 destroyed aircraft globally.
• Increased bird populations and quieter turbofan engines are contributing factors to the rising number of strikes.
• While mitigation efforts have increased since 2009, the FAA emphasizes the need for continued improvements in reporting, wildlife management, and technological advancements.                          READ MORE HERE

8/23/2025    NASA and IBM Release AI Model to Predict Dangerous Solar Weather - From AI*Business - "Open-source Surya model analyzes solar data to forecast space weather impacts on Earth's critical infrastructure - IBM and NASA have launched an advanced open-source AI foundation model designed to interpret high-resolution solar observation data and predict how solar activity affects Earth and space-based technology. - Named after the Sanskrit word for Sun, the Surya model represents a significant advancement in applying AI to solar image interpretation and space weather forecasting. - Solar flares and coronal mass ejections can disrupt satellites, airline navigation, power grids, and telecommunications while posing radiation risks to astronauts. As our dependence on space-based technology grows, accurate solar weather prediction has become increasingly critical."  Continue Here.

08/23/2025   Intelligent Approach sets new standard for single-runway airport efficiency - From International Airport Review - "Leidos explores how London Gatwick became the first single-runway airport to deploy Advanced Mixed Mode, boosting efficiency, cutting delays and reducing emissions. - London Gatwick has become the first single-runway airport in the world to implement Advanced Mixed Mode (AMM) – a major new enhancement to Intelligent Approach, a world-leading aircraft separation tool developed by NATS and Leidos. - As the world’s busiest single-runway airport by hourly movement rate, Gatwick joins a growing family of airports benefiting from the Intelligent Approach suite, which is already in use at major hubs including Heathrow, Toronto Pearson, and Amsterdam Schiphol. - “Advanced Mixed Mode is designed to increase capacity and efficiency for single-runway operations, while also reducing airborne holding especially in strong wind conditions.” said Graham Emmons, Managing Director, Civil at Leidos UK & Europe"   Learn about it Here.

8/23/2025    SpaceX Dissects Starship Issues Ahead of Flight 10 - From FLYING - "Company shares findings from investigations into anomalies both in flight and on test stand. - SpaceX’s powerful Starship rocket is nearing a return to action following an explosion on the company’s test stand in Texas and anomalies during three consecutive test flights. - The FAA on Friday closed its mishap investigation into Starship Flight 9, during which the rocket reached orbit for the first time in 2025 but failed to hit its test objectives. That opens the door for another launch, which SpaceX is targeting for no earlier than 7:30 p.m. ET on Sunday. - The regulator suspended more than 70 air routes ahead of Flight 9 due to issues experienced during Starship’s ascent burn on Flight 7 in January and Flight 8 in March. On both occasions, the rocket exploded and disrupted air travel. - SpaceX had aimed to return to action in late June. But..."   Continue Here.

08/19/2-25   Which Equipment Meets FAA Oxygen Requirements? - From AVweb - "Breathe easily at higher altitudes by selecting oxygen equipment that meets FAA compliance standards. -  ...understanding the basic requirements for oxygen equipment and its use is crucial for aviation safety, particularly when flying at altitudes above 10,000 feet. Oxygen systems help prevent hypoxia, which can lead to symptoms like impaired judgment, dizziness, and even unconsciousness, potentially resulting in the loss of equipment and life."  Learb about the oxygen and the types of systems and why understanding those facts is important Here.

08/18/2025  AINsight: LOC-I Is a Killer in Aviation - from AINonlone - "LOC-I is far and away the top cause of fatal aircraft accidents - Loss of control in-flight (LOC-I) is the leading cause of fatal aircraft accidents worldwide. These accid ents affect every aircraft type and every segment of aviation. Startle, surprise, and the psychophysiological effects of an aircraft upset can paralyze a pilot’s response unless they are properly trained.

Unlike past killers in aviation, the LOC-I threat persists on any flight, at any time, and pilots can have only a few seconds to initiate the proper flight control inputs to safely recover from an aircraft upset. If mismanaged, an in-flight upset can quickly escalate into a LOC-I event where the pilot is unable to recover from an unintended extreme deviation from the expected flight path due to either a lack of skill, altitude, or time, leading to a serious incident or fatal crash."  Review Accident Examples and Finish Reading Here.

08/16/2025   We recently added the following items to the Airport News and New Resources page on the FAA website:

Advisory Circulars

• July 2025 Addendum to Advisory Circular 150/5345-53D, Airport Lighting Equipment Certification Program
• Addendum for Quarter 4 FY 2025 to AC 150/5210-17C, Programs for Training of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Personnel
• Addendum for Quarter 4 FY 2025 to AC 150/5230-4C, Aircraft Fuel Storage, Handling, and Dispensing on Airports
• AC 150/5220-10F, Guide Specification for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) Vehicles
• Errata Sheet to Change 1 of AC 150/5340-1M, Standards for Airport Markings
• AC 150/5100-21, State Block Grant Program (Updated FAA State Block Grant Program Memorandum of Agreement Template)

Airport Engineering

• Video: EB 105A, Vertiports Industry Day, January 14, 2025 (FAA YouTube Channel)
• Updated Best Practices for the Submission of On-Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation System(s) into OE/AAA

Airport Improvement Program

• Buy American Waivers Issued and Open for Comment
• 2025 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants Announced (as of July 11, 2025)
• Competition Plan Covered Airports

Airport Part 139 Certification

• Part 139 CertAlert 25-02: Clarifications Regarding Restrictive Use Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs)

Passenger Facility Charge Program

• January through December 2024 PFC Decisions
• Updated PFC Monthly Reports

08/16/2025  Notice 8260.VGF, Design, Evaluation, and Development Policy Additions and Revisions for RNP APCH NavSpec IAPs with a VGF within Orders 8260.58, 8260.19, and 8260.3  - This notice provides guidance for the design, evaluation, and documentation of Performance Based Navigation (PBN) Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs), specifically RNP APCH Navigation Specification (NavSpec) instrument approach procedures (IAPs) with a visual guidance fix (VGF). - Documents for Download -  Draft Document Here   Comment Matrix Here    COMMENTS DUE BY: 08/29/25 - EMAIL COMMENTS CLICK HERE

08/16/2025   InFO 25007, Integration of Web-based Operations Safety System (WebOPSS) and Operations Approval Portal System (OAPS) into Safety Assurance System (SAS), is now published. - This InFO informs stakeholders that WebOPSS and OAPS have been integrated into the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) SAS. SAS Operations Safety System (OPSS) and SAS Operations Approval (OA) will replace WebOPSS and OAPS platforms. - The InFO can be viewed by downloading the attached .pdf files or by clicking on the following link, https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/info/all_infos/

• InFO25007.pdf

08/16/2025    Bizav Pilots Share Tips for Safer Go-Arounds - From Business Aviation Insider - "Pilots who are running out of runway (and ideas at the same time) had better be prepared to go around. - There are two types of go-arounds, according to Keith Wolzinger, a captain with Paragon Airways. The first is go-arounds initiated by ATC due to traffic conflict, loss of separation or disabled aircraft on the runway. The second type is crew-initiated go-arounds due to an unstabilized approach because of windshear, loss of separation, a missed approach or a traffic advisory issued from Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) traffic advisories (TA) and resolution advisories (RA). - In the real world, pilots usually can anticipate a landing; a go-around may be a surprise, said..."   Read More Here.

08/16/2025   The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation—railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space. We determine the probable causes of the accidents and events we investigate and issue safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.

In addition, we conduct transportation safety research studies and offer information and other assistance to family members and survivors for each accident or event we investigate.

We also serve as the appellate authority​ for enforcement actions involving aviation and mariner certificates issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and US Coast Guard, and we adjudicate appeals of civil penalty actions taken by the FAA.​​​​​

08/16/2035   Pilot Overcompensating for River Crosscurrents Leads to Contact with Fort Madison Bridge Protection System - From NTSB - "WASHINGTON (July 29, 2025) — Anticipating a strong cross-current that never materialized, an experienced tow pilot deviated from the sailing line on the Mississippi River and struck components of the Fort Madison Bridge near Fort Madison, Iowa, the National Transportation Safety Board said Tuesday. - The towing vessel Joe B. Wyatt was pushing 13 loaded hopper barges and 2 empty tank barges downriver on May 9, 2024, when the tow struck the bridge’s protection cell and fendering system and broke apart. No injuries or pollution were reported. Damage to the protection cell, fendering system, barges and the Joe B. Wyatt was estimated at $3.28 million. - ​The pilot had decades of experience maneuvering tows,..."  Learn more about a possibly little know commercial flight activity, and the accident that occurred Here.

08/16/2025  The Airman Testing Community Advisory (ATCA) is produced by the General Aviation and Commercial Division, Training and Certification Group, Testing Standards Section (TSS), which is the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) office responsible for practical test and airman certification standards, certification testing programs, and supporting reference materials.

The intent of this advisory is to provide an additional method of change management communication to our stakeholders and support efforts to
ensure training and testing remain correlated for an effective certification process. Stakeholder Communications We have an established process for timely responses to stakeholder inquiries and feedback. You are encouraged to submit questions and comments regarding our products and services to
afs630comments@faa.gov. - Please email comments related to Practical Test Standards (PTS) and Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
to acsptsinquiries@faa.gov. - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - The latest version of the Testing Standards Section Frequently Asked Questions *including Frequently Missed Knowledge Test ACS Codes) document is available.  Here.

08/14/2025   FAA faces critical shortage of air traffic controllers.  From CBS - "Here's a look into methods to retain and train them. - The United States is facing a shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers as many trainees quit before completing their certification, contributing to travel delays at airports across the country this summer. -The Federal Aviation Administration's training facility in Oklahoma City serves as the sole location where the agency trains new controllers, but the program faces significant challenges with about 35% of students failing to complete the intensive three-month course. If someone fails, they are not eligible to try again, according to Chris Wilbanks, who oversees training and the FAA's efforts to address the controller shortage. - "It's one and done," Wilbanks said.

The FAA is working to reduce its training washout rate by adding a mentoring program to help students during their roughly three months at the FAA training center. - The agency has also streamlined the application process, and expects more than 2,000 students this year — the most ever. -The training program includes..."  Find out More Here.  

Additional: related story:  08/13/2025   Austin City Council approves measure to explore creating air traffic controller academy amid staffing shortages - From Spectrum News 1 - " - AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council voted on a measure that seeks to address the shortage of air traffic controllers at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA).- The resolution was proposed by Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes and was approved during Thursday’s regular meeting. - It asks the Federal Aviation Administration to take “immediate comprehensive action” to mitigate the staffing shortages, including prioritizing the transfer of air traffic controllers to ABIA and upgrading the airspace levels surrounding the airport. The resolution also proposed the establishment of an air traffic controller academy in Austin, which would be a collaboration between the FAA and Austin Community College." "This comes after multiple reports of staffing issues at the FAA, causing delays at airports across the country, including the Austin airport. -  According to the resolution, staffing at the air traffic control tower is under 50% of the FAA’s staffing target."  Read this story about how communities might choose to contribute Here.

08/14/2025    How to Pick and Use Aircraft Tiedowns - From AVweb - "Explore the range of aircraft tiedowns that are used to ensure your airplane's safety on any surface. - For pilots and aircraft owners, securing an aircraft on the ground is a critical task, particularly when hangar space is not an option. A reliable tiedown system is an essential piece of equipment for protecting an aircraft from movement and potential damage caused by strong winds, storms, or other environmental forces. The selection of an appropriate system requires careful consideration of several factors. - Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tiedown - The safety and reliability of a tiedown system depend on a few key variables." Learn the variables Here.

08/14/2025   When Do You Need a Drone License? From FLYING - "It’s important to be able to navigate the UAV skies with confidence. - Did you know there are more than 780,000 drones already registered in the U.S.? With over three-quarters of a million drones taking to the skies and more than 700,000 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators out there, you’re clearly missing out if you are not part of these numbers. - Flying drones can be enjoyed by recreational flyers seeking fun and commercial drone pilots looking to earn money. The FAA makes it clear what defines each group and which certifications they need to operate legally. If you have already decided to be a part of this exciting field, you are probably asking yourself, “Do I need a license to fly a drone?” Keep reading to learn the answer to that question and many more."  Read More Here

08/13/2025   National Transit Database  - FAA -  In July, FTA initiated improvements to the National Transit Database (NTD) to ensure that NTD reporting collects accurate and comprehensive data that benefits the transit industry, riders, and communities. The changes follow a process of collecting input and issuing a final notice. Some of these improvements include:

• Creating Efficiencies and Reducing Burden: FTA is consolidating station and facility reporting into one area of the NTD, ensuring consistent transit station counts are utilized in FTA performance measures.
• Mitigating Safety Risk: FTA is clarifying guidance on reporting cybersecurity events to better monitor and mitigate risks for transit agencies.
• Innovation in Trip Planning Technology: FTA is adopting the collection of shapefile information with General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) submissions. This will improve the input of route information and trip planning.
• Ensuring State of Good Repair: FTA is aligning NTD data collection with its Transit Economic Requirements Model (TERM) by asking transit agencies to submit a count of the following assets: turntables (track); fan plants (power and signals); and pump rooms (power and signals).  These improvements support the consistency of data used in DOT’s Conditions and Performance Report to Congress.

For additional support related to reporting, please contact NTDHelp@dot.gov.

08/13/2025   NetJets Adopts App To Boost Pilot Performance - From AVweb - "The app provides pre- and postflight insights, allowing pilots to analyze their flights, compare trends with peers, and improve decision-making. - NetJets pilots will soon be able to monitor and improve their flight performance with the adoption of FlightPulse—an app from GE Aerospace. - According to a recent announcement, NetJets plans to deploy the app to more than 4,400 of its pilots across the United States and Europe, providing them with greater access to detailed performance metrics. - As a modular Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) application, FlightPulse delivers pre- and postflight insights directly to pilots. Users can review flight profiles, compare trends with peers, and analyze key data points to drive better decision-making and promote continuous self-improvement."  More Here

07/30/2025   Drone ‘Hot Spots’ May Create Elevated Risk for Midair Collisions - From FLYING - "FAA-commissioned research warns that UAV flight near airports, heliports, and other busy airspace may place crewed aircraft at risk. - A recent nationwide analysis of drone activity concluded that airports, heliports, and residential neighborhoods may be “hot spots” where the risk of midair collisions between UAVs and crewed aircraft is elevated.

Researchers at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research found that drone activity in and around congested airspace may be higher than previously thought. They also discovered that a “sizable number” of drone pilots fly above the FAA-mandated 400-foot ceiling for small uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS)—and, potentially, without authorization."

"Drone ‘Hot Spots’ - Researchers documented more than 6,000 UAS flights and analyzed 43 aerodromes. By their estimate, the drones spent about 10 percent of their total cumulative flight time operating in airspace typically used by crewed aircraft. In some locations, they believe the overlap is even greater."    Full report Here.

07/30/2025    InFO 25006, Possible Fuel Starvation during Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 133 Operating Certificate; Class C Rotorcraft External-Load Operations, is now published. - This InFO serves to inform part 133 operators of possible fuel starvation when conducting Class C Rotorcraft Load Combination (RLC) flight operations. - The InFO can be viewed by downloading the attached .pdf files or by clicking on the following link, - https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/info/all_infos/ InFO25006.pdf

07/19/2025   FAA Issues Certification Blueprint To AAM Manufacturers - From AVweb -"Advanced air mobility innovators now know what is expected of them during the certification process. The advanced air mobility industry now has a blueprint to follow for certification best practices for their vehicles. Just as most of the aviation industry was getting ready for AirVenture, the FAA published, with no fanfare, an advisory circular (scroll down to AC 21.17-4) that details various things the agency will be looking for in certification of the aircraft. Its existence was brought to light by our colleagues at FLYING Magazine last week. - The agency stresses the 64-page outline is not a legally binding document but..."   Continue Here.

07/25/2025    Defense Department will stop providing crucial satellite weather data - From NPR - "The U.S. Department of Defense will no longer provide satellite weather data, leaving hurricane forecasters without crucial information about storms as peak hurricane season looms in the Atlantic. - For more than 40 years, the Defense Department has operated satellites that collect information about conditions in the atmosphere and ocean. A group within the Navy, called the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, processes the raw data from the satellites, and turns it over to scientists and weather forecasters who use it for a wide range of purposes including real-time hurricane forecasting and measuring sea ice in polar regions."  More Here.

07/27/2025   Respect the rudder - From AOPA - VIDEO - "Are you guilty of rudder neglect? Check out this quick reminder on the importance of yaw recognition and coordinated flight."

07/25/2025   FAA Delays Secondary Cockpit Barrier Mandate - From AVweb - "The FAA has delayed a rule requiring secondary cockpit barriers on new U.S. passenger planes, originally set to take effect in August. -  The Federal Aviation Administration has pushed back the deadline for U.S. airlines to install secondary cockpit barriers by one year, the agency announced this week. - The rule, introduced in 2023, mandates that new commercial aircraft include an additional physical barrier to secure the flight deck when the cockpit door is open. It was originally slated to take effect in August 2025, but now has a 2026 compliance deadline, according to a Reuters report. - Airlines for America—the trade group representing major carriers including American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines—has requested a two-year postponement, citing several critical implementation challenges, including..."  More Here.

07/25/2025   Great news for those who possess a Light-Sport Repairman with an Inspection Rating. - Submitted by W.S - The changes adopted in § 65.109(a) and (b) of this final rule do not impose additional restrictions but rather expand the privileges of a light-sport repairman. Specifically, § 65.107(c) will allow a light-sport repairman with an inspection rating to perform the annual condition inspection on an EAB aircraft that is owned by the repairman and that is in the same category of aircraft for which the certificate holder was trained. In addition, § 65.109(b) will permit a light-sport repairman with a maintenance rating to perform the annual condition inspection on an EAB aircraft that is in the same category of aircraft for which the certificate holder was trained."

07/23/2023    MOSAIC was introduced at Oshkosh today by the FAA. - Note the 61 Kts stall speed. Yet, within the final rule it states for Sport Pilots the maximum is 59 Kts stall speed. - SCAUWG.ORG thanks Wayne for forwarding the illustration below.

For the entire FAA Rule please use this link:

07/22/2025    Swift Fuels Unleaded Update At AirVenture - From AVweb - "Approvals for about 75% of piston aircraft are expected soon. Swift Fuels CEO Chris d’Acosta told an AirVenture forum on Monday that about 35,000 gallons of its 100R unleaded avgas has been burned so far, mostly in a training fleet of Cessna 172 R and S models, and there have been no mechanical or materials compatibility issues. Swift got an STC for 100R that covered only those two models of Cessna and cut a deal with a flight school in California to supply its fuel. The fuel didn’t just perform well, it also cut the level of engine metals in the oil by a large margin and the flight school owner told the crowd, by phone link, that he’s looking forward to fueling the rest of his fleet with 100R. - d’Acosta said that to that end an ASTM specification for 100R is imminent and an expanded approved model list is..."  Finish Reading Here.

07/20/2025    Delayed reaction - From ASI - VIDEO - "This AOPA Air Safety Institute video discusses lessons pilots can learn from the fatal crash of a Socata TBM 700 on a highway after encountering ice.

07/20/2025    Margins of Safety: Avoiding Power-On Stalls - From ASI - VIDEO - "Year after year, unintended stalls are among the leading causes of fatal aviation accidents. The "departure" or "power-on" stall is practiced during flight training, but in a controlled, coordinated scenario at a high altitude. Unexpected stalls during takeoffs or go-arounds are sudden, sharp, and frightening. At low altitude, even a brief loss of aircraft control may be unrecoverable. This video explains the differences in power-on stall training versus real-world scenarios, the aerodynamics of how stalls occur during takeoffs and go-arounds, and techniques pilots can use to prevent them."  View it Here.

07/20/2025    Flying VFR through a TFR - From AOPA -  "Flying through TFRs legally might feel like a high hurdle to folks who have not conditioned their radio voices, but it is easy enough, and this is a good time to take the plunge in the name of exercising our freedom to fly, whether the executive branch or other VIPs visit your neighborhood regularly or not."  Full Article Here

07/20/2025   Overwater emergency - From AOPA - VIDEO - "This AOPA Air Safety Institute video examines how a patient transport flight with plenty of fuel on board ended in tragedy because of fuel starvation. Continue -  Webmaster Note:  Some knowledgeable sources DO NOT recommend inflating life saving vests until after exiting the aircraft.  

07/20/2025   The Secret to Better Airplane Navigation Could Be Inside the Earth’s Crust - From WSJ - With GPS increasingly vulnerable to tampering, planes need more reliable navigation systems. The magnetic pull in the Earth’s crust could offer a novel solution. - Satellite-based global positioning systems, or GPS, have been the primary method of aerospace navigation for decades. But with GPS jamming and spoofing on the rise, the industry is pushing for an update, and fast. - Now, Airbus’s Silicon Valley-based innovation center, Acubed, and artificial intelligence and quantum-focused Google spinout SandboxAQ are on a mission to demonstrate an alternate way. It involves a small, toaster-size box, lasers, a single GPU chip and a deep knowledge of the Earth’s magnetic field. - The technology, known as quantum sensing, has been in development for decades at a number of companies and is now inching closer to commercialization in aerospace. Read Complete Story Here.

7/20/2025   Preliminary Report Accident involving Air India’s B787-8 aircraft bearing registration VT-ANB at Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025.   You can read it Here

07/18/2025    Fly Legally Under Part 125 - FAA VIDEO - If you operate an aircraft under 14 CFR part 125 (aircraft with seating for 20 or more passengers or a maximum payload capacity of 6,000 pounds or more when common carriage is not involved.), you cannot “hold out” services to provide transportation to the public, either directly or indirectly, without an air carrier certificate. You cannot accept, bid on, or solicit transportation for compensation.

In the example discussed in this video below, the aircraft company accepts business brought to them by a broker, which is one example of holding out indirectly. There are many ways to “hold out,” directly and indirectly, but it doesn’t matter how it happens; it is not allowed without an air carrier certificate.

If you operate an aircraft under 14 CFR part 125 (aircraft with seating for 20 or more passengers or a maximum payload capacity of 6,000 pounds or more when common carriage is not involved.), you cannot “hold out” services to provide transportation to the public, either directly or indirectly, without an air carrier certificate. You cannot accept, bid on, or solicit transportation for compensation.

In the example discussed in this video below, the aircraft company accepts business brought to them by a broker, which is one example of holding out indirectly. There are many ways to “hold out,” directly and indirectly, but it doesn’t matter how it happens; it is not allowed without an air carrier certificate.

If you operate an aircraft under 14 CFR part 125 (aircraft with seating for 20 or more passengers or a maximum payload capacity of 6,000 pounds or more when common carriage is not involved.), you cannot “hold out” services to provide transportation to the public, either directly or indirectly, without an air carrier certificate. You cannot accept, bid on, or solicit transportation for compensation.

In the example discussed in this video below, the aircraft company accepts business brought to them by a broker, which is one example of holding out indirectly. There are many ways to “hold out,” directly and indirectly, but it doesn’t matter how it happens; it is not allowed without an air carrier certificate.

07/18/2025  Flight Control Cables Failures - FAA - VIDEO - "Damage to flight control cables from chaffing, misrouting cables, use of unapproved parts, or improper inspection procedures poses a significant risk to flight safety. Failures directly affect the pilot’s ability to control various flight surfaces, such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders. Watch this video to understand the potential causes, signs, and prevention strategies of control cable issues." Watch Video Here.

07/18/2025   Does a thumbs-up from your mechanic mean you’re good to fly an aircraft that is undergoing maintenance? The short answer is absolutely not. The General Aviation Joint Safety Committee (GAJSC) has identified a number of fatal general aviation accidents caused by flying in an aircraft that was not approved for return to service while undergoing maintenance. Without this critical documentation, the aircraft is not considered airworthy and ready to take to the sky after maintenance, repairs, or alterations. So let’s take a look at some of the key aspects of the approval for return to service.

07/18/2025   Joby Flies Hydrogen-Electric Uncrewed Aircraft - From Aviation Week - "Joby Aviation appears to have conducted an almost-9-hr. flight of a previously unknown hydrogen-electric-powered uncrewed aircraft. - Conducted at the Pendleton UAS Range in Oregon on June 30, the flight was first reported by Hunterbrook Media, the investigative reporting arm of Hunterbrook Capital, which photographed the aircraft being worked on by ground crew at Pendleton Airport. - FlightAware tracked the aircraft as it flew a racetrack pattern over the range. The record was subsequently..."  Read More Here.

07/18/2025   FAA Modifies Rest Rules for Air Traffic Controllers -  From FLYING -   "Change affecting off-duty time before midnight shift expected to start in 2026. - The FAA is slightly modifying rules governing mandatory rest periods for air traffic controllers.  -  The agency said it reached an agreement with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) that will change the required off-duty period before a midnight shift from 12 hours to 10 hours. The adjustment will make it easier to maintain adequate staffing at ATC centers, officials said, and will not undermine efforts to ensure controllers are well-rested and alert for their shifts.  -  “The FAA and NATCA have agreed to change the requirement for a 12-hour off-duty period before a midnight shift to 10 hours, which aligns with industry rest standards,” the FAA said in a statement to FLYING. “All other provisions of a 2024 MOU [memorandum of understanding], including the 12-hour rest period following the midnight shift, and the 10-hour rest periods between all other shifts, remain in effect. These changes ensure controller work schedules are more aligned with traffic demands and provide greater flexibility to staff during busy evening operations.” -  The change is expected," Finish reading here...

07/18/2025   NBAA Webinar: Experts Guide Operators Through the ‘Fog’ of Enhanced Vision System Requirements -  NBAA - "While infrared-based enhanced flight vision systems (EFVS) have become common on business aircraft, many operators remain uncertain of the precise requirements for their use in the United States and internationally. - A July 10 NBAA International Ops Spotlight webinar sought to provide clarity on what panel moderator Clement Meersseman termed, “a global patchwork of requirements and regulations around the world.

“I want to be really honest with everyone,” added Meersseman, a member of the NBAA International Operators Committee and vice president of strategic partnerships for Nimbl. “We also still have a lot of questions.” - Per 14 CFR 91.176(b), all Part 121, 125 and 135 operators must receive FAA authorization – called operational credit – to use EFVS down to 100′ above the touchdown zone before identifying the runway by natural vision. More advanced systems may receive credit for EFVS use through landing and rollout under Subpart A of that regulation. - “This is a credit for the approach [and] ..." Finish Reading Here.

07/18/2025    Drone ‘Hot Spots’ Raise Concerns Over Midair Collision Hazards - From AVweb - " new Embry-Riddle study reveals growing drone activity across the U.S., identifying airports, heliports and residential areas as key hot spots for potential midair collisions with manned aircraft. - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) researchers have identified growing drone activity across the U.S., spotlighting airports, heliports and residential areas as key hot spots for potential midair collisions with manned aircraft. - The nationwide study, conducted for the Federal Aviation Administration, analyzed drone flight patterns using Remote Identification (Remote ID) data collected from sensors positioned around the country. - Focusing on small uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS)—drones under 55 pounds—the study revealed that a significant number of flights exceed the FAA’s 400-foot altitude limit, which is ..."  Continue Here.

 

07/11/2025   Tips to Safely Use a Smartwatch on the Flight Deck - FAA VIDEO - Many pilots wear smartwatches while flying. With GPS capabilities, aviation-specific watches can serve as emergency navigation tools and even find the nearest airports, complete with maps, NEXRAD, current weather, and radio frequencies. This video discusses the benefits and tips for safely using a smartwatch in the air.  View the VIDEO Here.

07/11/2025   FAA SAFETY BREIING - New Issue - "The July/August 2025 issue of FAA Safety Briefing focuses on many of the important safety issues highlighted during the FAA's recent "call to action" meeting for general and business aviation. - Articles in this issue emphasize some key reminders to help improve NAS safety, like how to combat complacency, mitigate risk, improve communications, and avoid safety drift."  Download it Here.

07/11/2025    Drone Strikes Texas-Flood Rescue Helicopter Causing Forced Landing - From AVweb - "No injuries, but collision took emergency rotorcraft out of service."-  "In an official statement on Facebook titled PLEASE GROUND YOUR DRONES UNTIL CURRENT FLOOD SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS ARE COMPLETE, the city wrote: “This afternoon, a private drone illegally operating in restricted airspace collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations in Kerr County. The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing, and a critical piece of response equipment is now out of service until further notice. This was entirely preventable.”  Details Here.

07/11/2025   NTSB: Pilot Reported Control Issues Before Fatal Cessna 414A Crash Off San Diego - From AVweb - "The NTSB’s preliminary report confirms the pilot reported control difficulties and made several mayday calls before losing radar contact."  Learn More Here.

07/06/2025   Exclusive: Cal Fire, Skyryse Exploring ‘Optionally Piloted’ Aerial Firefighting - From FLYING - "Company plans to install its SkyOS system on firefighting aircraft to enable single-pilot or remotely operated flight. -  In January, California faced devastating wildfires that burned over 57,000 acres, destroyed more than 16,000 structures, and killed at least 30 people. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) operates the world’s largest civil aerial firefighting fleet. - In recent years, though, increasingly larger blazes have stretched the program thin.

FLYING has exclusively learned that, in a bid to get more out of its aircraft, Cal Fire is working with aviation software provider Skyryse to study the company’s SkyOS—a universal flight operating system that does away with traditional, mechanical controls in favor of electric fly-by-wire systems and simplified digital displays. The multiyear partnership is already underway and will cover “multiple aircraft” within Cal Fire’s fleet, Skyryse told FLYING." Read More Here.

07/04/2025    L.A. Police Commission approves PD’s drone program for DFR uses - From Police 1 - The civilian oversight body approved an updated policy allowing drones to be used in more situations, including calls for service, high-risk incidents and large-scale events - LOS ANGELES — Citing successes other police departments across the country have seen using drones, the Los Angeles Police Commission said it would allow the LAPD to deploy unmanned aircraft on routine emergency calls.

The civilian oversight body approved an updated policy Tuesday allowing drones to be used in more situations, including “calls for service.” The new guidelines listed other scenarios for future drone use — “high-risk incident, investigative purpose, large-scale event, natural disaster” — and transferred their command from the Air Support Division to the Office of Special Operations."

"The commissioner pointed to the city of Beverly Hills, where police have been quick to adapt cutting-edge surveillance technology. Sending out a drone ahead of officers could help prevent dangerous standoffs, informing responding officers whether a suspect is armed or not, according to Gerges Shields, who served on an internal work group that crafted the new policy."   Read full Account Here.

07/04/2025    LSA Step-Downs: Training Is A Must - From AVweb - "But so is picking the right light sport model. The Van’s RV-12 series is one top pick for handling, build quality and the latest tech. - When covering the Light Sport Expo in Sebring, Florida, somewhere around 2013, two things were clear to me at the show. Senior pilots (many were career professionals stepping down into GA) liked what they saw in the new LSA market: modern two-placers with far more tech than the average Skyhawk or Cherokee—not bad machines for golden-years fun. The other was that the just-intro’d Van’s RV-12 factory-built S-LSA was a setup for success. - Today, the difficult insurance market is forcing plenty of aging pilots out of retracs, twins and turbines. For many who aren’t ready to quit, stepping down into an LSA makes sense."  Detailed Article - Read More Here.

06/30/2025    June 2025 a Record Month for FAA Commercial Space Operations - FAA -  FAA-licensed commercial space operations reached a new monthly record, with 21 operations in June. The previous record for a single month was 20 in November 2024.

The FAA licenses commercial space operations to limit the collective risk that a launch or entry may pose to the public. The FAA is committed to enabling safe space transportation. The agency continues to fine-tune its internal processes and policies to reach timely license authorizations that support the increasing pace of operations now and into the future.

Operations during the record month include 21 launches conducted by four operators: Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance. These occurred in California, Florida, Texas, and New Zealand, and involved orbital, suborbital and commercial human space flight missions. Review FAA Commercial Space Data.

          FAA Approves First Part 450 Reentry License for Multiple Operations

The FAA has authorized Varda Space to conduct multiple operations of its Winnebago reentry capsule until its current license expires in 2029. Enabling as many missions as an operator wants, under one license, is a key streamlining element of the Part 450 commercial space launch and reentry licensing rule.

Varda is the first reentry vehicle operator to take full advantage of this feature of the Part 450 rule. As a result of this action, Varda can ramp up its operations confident of regulatory authorization and will have reduced administrative costs. The FAA can focus more on the licensing needs of other launch and reentry operators and bring on new entrants.

Provided Varda operates under the authorized mission profile and vehicle design, it will no longer need to apply for mission-by-mission license approvals. The FAA will, however, continue to perform safety oversight of each operation and Varda must provide the FAA with accurate license updates.

The FAA encourages other operators to take advantage of the benefits that Part 450 offers.

          FAA Forecasts Strong Growth of Commercial Space Operations Through FY 2034

In its first ever 10-year forecast for commercial space operations, the FAA is predicting as many as 566 licensed launches and reentries in FY 2034, more than triple the 148 achieved in FY 2024. There are more than 150 so far in FY 2025.

The expected increase in launch and reentry operations reflects operator interest in activities such as in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM); cislunar operations; Mars exploration; satellite deployment and replacement; and space tourism.

Prior FAA commercial space forecasts spanned 5-year periods. The longer forecast is intended to better aid government and industry planners.

          FAA Determines NASA WFF Ground Safety Services Satisfy Part 450

In yet another action to streamline the commercial space vehicle licensing process, the FAA issued a letter of determination stating the NASA Wallops Flight Facility (WFF) ground safety processes, requirements, and oversight align with the FAA’s Part 450 statutory authority over licensed commercial space activities at the Virginia site.

A vehicle operator launching from WFF seeking to take advantage of this determination should request its use during the FAA preapplication consultation and provide a written agreement with WFF for the provision of ground safety services and oversight for the proposed activities.

          FAA Seeks Public Comments on Commercial Human Space Flight Informed Consent

The FAA is asking for public comment on an Advisory Circular that provides guidance to commercial space operators on how to demonstrate compliance with the Part 460 commercial human space flight regulation regarding informed consent for crew and space flight participants.

The Advisory Circular would present one, but not the only, acceptable means of compliance with §460.45-1 on how the operator informs the space flight participant about the hazards and risks of the launch or reentry with the participant providing written consent. - The public comment period closes on July 20, 2025.

          Did You Know? Regulation of Amateur Rockets

Amateur rocketry operations are regulated and authorized by the FAA Air Traffic Organization and are not under the FAA commercial space licensing regulations. - To qualify as an amateur rocket, the launch must be suborbital, not have any humans onboard, remain under 150 km in altitude, and generate a thrust under 200,000 lb-sec.  -  For the FAA to authorize an amateur rocket launch, an operator must submit information such as a description of the operation, vehicle dimensions, quantities of propellants, expected altitude, expected downrange impact point, and if the vehicle will be recovered.

 

06/29/2025    Brief Like a Weather Pro - From FLYING - "Step into an aviation forecaster’s shoes and see how it’s done. - The outgoing forecaster began by covering the current weather picture. We would go over their forecast, itemize any warnings and advisories and review their expiration times, then
discuss special aircraft operations, morning route packages, and other problems. Once I got settled at the desk, I reviewed the charts, working up my own mental picture of the atmosphere and putting together a forecast. This built-up groundwork for a TAF and our flight weather products. - This is what I will cover—and hopefully it will help you be a safer pilot."  Really good lesson covered.  It begins with Upper Air Charts. Read about them Here.

 

06/28/2025    Business Aviation Accidents Offer Lifesaving Lessons Learned - From NBAA Business Insider - "Aviation’s continuous, unending journey toward zero accidents requires operators to learn from mistakes. While it remains frustrating that most aircraft accidents result from any one of a series of familiar factors, ranging from continued visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), to improper responses to unexpected problems with aircraft engines or systems, findings from the NTSB offer important lessons for pilots that offer potentially lifesaving takeaways."  Read About them Here.

06/25/2025    Don’t Sim Like You Fl coveredy - From AVweb -"Obviously, there is no replacement for an airplane to stay current and proficient. But when you sim, don’t treat the sim like an airplane. There’s a difference. - With a wonderful sim setup at home, my friend is working on his instrument rating. Unfortunately, he doesn’t use it that often—maybe a few hours a month if he’s lucky. The reason? He claims it takes him a little under an hour, maybe more, before he gets to fly it. He must turn on his computer, check the weather, plan a flight, preflight the plane, sump fuel, do all the checklists … you get the idea. - The problem here is he’s trying to fly instead of sim. He’s treating the sim as if it were his real plane, which it clearly isn’t. I see this a lot, particularly with real pilots just starting out their instrument training or non-pilot simmers trying to feel like real pilots."  Finish Reading Here.

06/25/2025     NJ And Florida TFR Busts Mar GA Public Image - From AVweb - "Pilots urged to consult NOTAMs to avoid violations. - A total of eight general aviation aircraft violated the Bedminster, New Jersey, Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over Trump National Golf Club this past weekend. There were five incursions on Saturday (June 20) and three more on Sunday, one of which resulted in a fighter intercept. President Trump spent the weekend at his golf resort, prompting the TFR. He returned to the White House on Sunday in preparation of announcing the bombing of Iran’s nuclear assets. -  The TFR was the 12th imposed over Bedminster since he took office in January, according to a spokesperson for the 601st Air Operations Center of the U.S. Air Force. The Air Force unit plans, directs and assesses air operations for NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command). As reported by the Palm Beach Daily News, there have

 

06/22/2025    Mid-Air Collision Hazard - Notice Number: NOTC4277 - IF YOU SEE WILDFIRE SMOKE, FLY AWAY!  -  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) to prohibit aircraft, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or drones, from entering designated areas during wildfires. These restrictions are essential for protecting lives and property while ensuring that firefighting aircraft can operate safely and effectively. - During a wildfire, expect multiple helicopters and airplanes flying in coordinated patterns at various altitudes. These aircraft will be maneuvering around the fire perimeter and within the smoke column as they conduct firefighting operations. - Do not report wildfires that already have firefighting aircraft on the scene. If you believe a wildfire has not yet been reported, contact the appropriate Air Traffic Control Tower, Approach Control, or Flight Service Station.

06/21/2025   NTSB Recommends Modifications to LEAP-1B Engines - From NTSB - "Some CFM International jet engines allowed smoke to enter the cockpit or cabin when damaged - WASHINGTON (June 18, 2025) — The National Transportation Safety Board issued an urgent safety recommendation Wednesday to address the possibility of smoke entering the cockpit or cabin of airplanes equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B engines and issued additional recommendations to evaluate the potential for the same issue with LEAP-1A and -1C engines. - CFM LEAP engines are used on variants of Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 Max narrow-body passenger jets."  Read More Here.

06/20/2025   FAA Q&A Lays Down The Law On Banning 100LL - From AVweb  "Wording leaves little doubt as to complying with terms of the Reauthorization Act of 2024. - 100LL fuel available, nationwide, regardless of efforts to ban its sale in favor of existing unleaded options. The statement cites Grant Assurance 40 (Access to Leaded Aviation Gasoline) established by Section 770 of last year’s Reauthorization legislation. - According to the Q&A summary, “Grant Assurance 40 prohibits airports from restricting 100LL availability until an alternative fuel meets the established criteria. Most importantly, the Q&A document explains that no unleaded fuel currently meets the criteria as established in Section 770.” - "The curt answer to Question 4 (Do any of the high-octane unleaded fuels meet..."   Read More Here.

06/18/2025   FAA Drone Detection Testing - FAA - From Friday, June 13, 2025 - The FAA will conduct drone-detection testing near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, from June 16-27.

06/18/2025   Master Your Mission in a Sim First (The Rotorcraft Collective) - VIDEO -   Realistic scenario-based training in a full-motion simulator, or even a basic aviation training device, can expose a pilot to hazardous scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. The takeaways are vital to risk management and decision-making lessons. These scenarios thrust pilots into situations where they must decide to continue deeper into the hazardous situation, pause and develop a more conservative plan, or perhaps make the most challenging decision of all — to discontinue the mission. View it Here.

06/18/2025   Just Say No! From the Rotorcraft Collective - VIDEO - The most decisive word often missing from a pilot’s vocabulary is “no.” Pilots are decision-makers who are go-oriented and focused on completing the task at hand. When “no” is the correct answer, it is the only answer. Watch this video before your next helicopter flight. View it Here.