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| No, we're not paranoid-- They really are out to get us! |
The FAA is once again pushing a bad proposal that could put small repair stations out of
business and increase maintenance costs for aircraft owners.
The proposal would require all repair stations, regardless of size or complexity, to expand
their current quality control systems to meet international standards. By the FAA's own
estimate, the new quality systems would burden about half of the small repair stations to
the tune of $34,500 each.
"AOPA believes that many small shops will not be able to absorb the cost of complying
with this mandate, particularly if they are a one- or two-person shop," AOPA wrote in its
formal comments to the proposal.
Further, AOPA said that many of these repair stations may, after surrendering their
certificates, continue to operate as individual mechanics or under inspection
authorizations. They would not be exposed to the degree of surveillance currently
directed toward FAA-certified repair stations, which would only reduce the agency's safety
surveillance of the industry.
The proposal also calls for a "type rating" system that doesn't make sense for general
aviation. The preamble to the proposal says that a repair station rated for Boeing 737s
could not unilaterally add a Boeing 757 rating to its capability list. The FAA would require
type ratings for different models of GA aircraft. In other words, a repair station that is
authorized to work on Cessna 172s could not work on 182s, 206s, 210s, etc., unless
these models were added to the shop's capability list, which would presumably require
FAA approval. N
business and increase maintenance costs for aircraft owners.
The proposal would require all repair stations, regardless of size or complexity, to expand
their current quality control systems to meet international standards. By the FAA's own
estimate, the new quality systems would burden about half of the small repair stations to
the tune of $34,500 each.
"AOPA believes that many small shops will not be able to absorb the cost of complying
with this mandate, particularly if they are a one- or two-person shop," AOPA wrote in its
formal comments to the proposal.
Further, AOPA said that many of these repair stations may, after surrendering their
certificates, continue to operate as individual mechanics or under inspection
authorizations. They would not be exposed to the degree of surveillance currently
directed toward FAA-certified repair stations, which would only reduce the agency's safety
surveillance of the industry.
The proposal also calls for a "type rating" system that doesn't make sense for general
aviation. The preamble to the proposal says that a repair station rated for Boeing 737s
could not unilaterally add a Boeing 757 rating to its capability list. The FAA would require
type ratings for different models of GA aircraft. In other words, a repair station that is
authorized to work on Cessna 172s could not work on 182s, 206s, 210s, etc., unless
these models were added to the shop's capability list, which would presumably require
FAA approval. N
| "Human error is the unintentional act of performing a task incorrectly, which can potentially degrade the system." |
| 17 Be sure to check back often for updates and news 35 |
TAXI-STRiP
"An Autumn of Airplanes all Called November"
OKLAHOMA CITY'S
March, 2009
VOL.7 NO. 6
VOL.7 NO. 6
ON LiNE
| LEARN TO FLY! |
| Flight Reviews BFR's Your Airplane Or Mine. Louis Macius 405-769-9388 |
| Profiles Andy Keech Cheryl Stearns Harold Gatty Jon Johanson Pearl Carter-Scott Richard Van Grunsven Scolarship Program Mae Post Wiley Post The Winnie Mae of Oklahoma Winnie Mae's Pants Friends of the TAXI-STRiP |
| "There is no bigger issue facing general aviation today. Our future is hostage to the FAA funding decision. If we choose user fees or radical new taxes, America's unique personal aircraft transportation system will die." AOPA President Phil Boyer |
| Cimarron Field Museum |
| Blind Pilot To Fly From Britain To Australia |
A British man who describes himself as “blind as a bat”
intends to fly an ultralight from Britain to Australia later
this year, following the route of a 1919 air race through
Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Miles Hilton-Barber,
who crossed the English Channel in an ultralight
equipped with voice annunciating instruments in 2003,
will tackle the 15,000-mile trip on Monday. He’s hoping
to raise about $2 million for Seeing Is Believing, a charity
that works to prevent blindness in Third World countries.
Hilton-Barber will be accompanied by a sighted pilot. He
hopes to complete the trip in 55 days. In addition to his
flying exploits, Hilton-Barber has climbed Mt.Kilimanjaro,
competed in marathons and raced cars. He told
reporters that his dream as a young man was to fly
fighters, but poor eyesight (he has retinitis pigmentosa)
kept him out.
"Now, 37 years later and blind as a bat, I have this
wonderful opportunity and privilege to fly more than
halfway across the world."
intends to fly an ultralight from Britain to Australia later
this year, following the route of a 1919 air race through
Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Miles Hilton-Barber,
who crossed the English Channel in an ultralight
equipped with voice annunciating instruments in 2003,
will tackle the 15,000-mile trip on Monday. He’s hoping
to raise about $2 million for Seeing Is Believing, a charity
that works to prevent blindness in Third World countries.
Hilton-Barber will be accompanied by a sighted pilot. He
hopes to complete the trip in 55 days. In addition to his
flying exploits, Hilton-Barber has climbed Mt.Kilimanjaro,
competed in marathons and raced cars. He told
reporters that his dream as a young man was to fly
fighters, but poor eyesight (he has retinitis pigmentosa)
kept him out.
"Now, 37 years later and blind as a bat, I have this
wonderful opportunity and privilege to fly more than
halfway across the world."
| "A One Man Woman" |
Wiley Post would have gotten a kick out of
this YouTube video. Here's proof that you
can do a barrel roll while pouring a glass of
tea and never spill a drop.
this YouTube video. Here's proof that you
can do a barrel roll while pouring a glass of
tea and never spill a drop.
| Courtesey of FLY-LOW Magazine |
Miles Hilton-Barber, fore-ground
with his "Seeing is Believing"
Trike. Follow the flight
with his "Seeing is Believing"
Trike. Follow the flight
| Lowest fuel Prices |
| Fairchild's 45 is the center of a legal battle--Out come affects all antiques. |
| EAA Fights For Release Of Antique Specs |
Should a former airplane manufacturer that for all intents and purposes no
longer exists be allowed to deny the release of aircraft data to a private
restorer for an airplane built more than 70 years ago? Attorneys from the EAA
Legal Advisory Council were in Federal Appeals Court in Washington, D.C.,
in early February arguing that very point on behalf of Brent
Taylor’s attempt to obtain the plans through the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) was denied in Federal District Court by a summary judgment made
before the discovery phase. EAA Legal Advisory Council attorney Michael
Pangia, arguing on behalf of Taylor, asked the appeals court to refer the
case back to the district court for an evidentiary hearing which, if granted,
could pave the way for release of aircraft data needed the preservation of
aviation heritage.
The Fairchild Corporation, formed in 1990, claims that it is the legitimate
owner of the type certificate, although its name does not appear in any of the
FAA records. “FAA regulations require that transfers of aircraft type
certificates, like transfers of aircraft, must be recorded in FAA records,”
Pangia said. “The Fairchild Corporation appears nowhere in the FAA
records, as required by regulation. The FAA, siding with this new company,
took the position in court that compliance to the regulation by this company
does not matter, offering no legal reason for that position.”
longer exists be allowed to deny the release of aircraft data to a private
restorer for an airplane built more than 70 years ago? Attorneys from the EAA
Legal Advisory Council were in Federal Appeals Court in Washington, D.C.,
in early February arguing that very point on behalf of Brent
Taylor’s attempt to obtain the plans through the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) was denied in Federal District Court by a summary judgment made
before the discovery phase. EAA Legal Advisory Council attorney Michael
Pangia, arguing on behalf of Taylor, asked the appeals court to refer the
case back to the district court for an evidentiary hearing which, if granted,
could pave the way for release of aircraft data needed the preservation of
aviation heritage.
The Fairchild Corporation, formed in 1990, claims that it is the legitimate
owner of the type certificate, although its name does not appear in any of the
FAA records. “FAA regulations require that transfers of aircraft type
certificates, like transfers of aircraft, must be recorded in FAA records,”
Pangia said. “The Fairchild Corporation appears nowhere in the FAA
records, as required by regulation. The FAA, siding with this new company,
took the position in court that compliance to the regulation by this company
does not matter, offering no legal reason for that position.”
Taylor commented, “I think it’s a far-reaching case that we would
like to see resolved so people can still get the drawings they
need to simply preserve aviation heritage.”
A decision is expected to occur in late spring to mid-summer.
“Whichever way it’s decided, I expect it to be a landmark case
defining the rights of individuals under the Freedom of
Information Act,” Pangia said.
Meanwhile, as EAA recently reported, the FAA has proposed
legislation that would allow the release of abandoned type
certificate (TC) or supplemental type certificate data (including
blueprints) to individuals upon request, so they can maintain the
airworthiness of their vintage aircraft.
This would remedy the current “Catch-22” surrounding orphaned
TCs, where owners are legally required to maintain and modify
their aircraft using approved data, even though the data is
unavailable because the owner of the type certificate cannot be
found or is no longer in existence.
like to see resolved so people can still get the drawings they
need to simply preserve aviation heritage.”
A decision is expected to occur in late spring to mid-summer.
“Whichever way it’s decided, I expect it to be a landmark case
defining the rights of individuals under the Freedom of
Information Act,” Pangia said.
Meanwhile, as EAA recently reported, the FAA has proposed
legislation that would allow the release of abandoned type
certificate (TC) or supplemental type certificate data (including
blueprints) to individuals upon request, so they can maintain the
airworthiness of their vintage aircraft.
This would remedy the current “Catch-22” surrounding orphaned
TCs, where owners are legally required to maintain and modify
their aircraft using approved data, even though the data is
unavailable because the owner of the type certificate cannot be
found or is no longer in existence.
contends that it withdrew that disclosure when the recent request
for F45 data was made. The FAA agreed, although no such this
type certificate.
withdrawal appears anywhere in the FAA records pertaining to
this type certificate.
Pangia further argued that it was evident that this new company
did not even know of the existence of an F45 aircraft until
informed by the FAA of the request. “To have a trade secret, you
should at least know you have a trade secret,” he said.
Harry Riggs, EAA Legal Advisory Council Chairman, filed an
Amicus Curiae (friend of the court) brief to the case on behalf of
EAA. “What we asked the court to do is to refer this case back to
the U.S. District Court for an evidentiary hearing,” Riggs said.
“There never was such a hearing on whether or not the new
Fairchild company reinstated trade secrecy or confidentiality, if
that is even possible, which they claim exempts them from having
to give up the plans under the FOIA.”
The FAA has historically refused to release abandoned aircraft
data when the holder of the type certificate is known and does not
give permission to do so, a contention where EAA disagrees
for F45 data was made. The FAA agreed, although no such this
type certificate.
withdrawal appears anywhere in the FAA records pertaining to
this type certificate.
Pangia further argued that it was evident that this new company
did not even know of the existence of an F45 aircraft until
informed by the FAA of the request. “To have a trade secret, you
should at least know you have a trade secret,” he said.
Harry Riggs, EAA Legal Advisory Council Chairman, filed an
Amicus Curiae (friend of the court) brief to the case on behalf of
EAA. “What we asked the court to do is to refer this case back to
the U.S. District Court for an evidentiary hearing,” Riggs said.
“There never was such a hearing on whether or not the new
Fairchild company reinstated trade secrecy or confidentiality, if
that is even possible, which they claim exempts them from having
to give up the plans under the FOIA.”
The FAA has historically refused to release abandoned aircraft
data when the holder of the type certificate is known and does not
give permission to do so, a contention where EAA disagrees
| resolved so people can still get the drawings they need to heritage.”simply preserve aviation heritage.” |
whatever company that owns the plans.”whatever company
that owns the plans.”
that owns the plans.”
| FAA SIDING WITH FAIRCHILD |
| Sent in by a reader |
Click on thumbnails
| Here's my Pitch.... |
I would be willing to bet that most everyone reading the TAXI-STRiP's pages is a pilot.
I would go on to say that each of you wanted to fly since you were a kid...reading books
about flying, building model airplanes, looking skyward every time an airplane flew over.
Eventually you did get your pilots certificate and chased the shouting wind along.
Now imagine that an illness of the eye is talking over and blinding you for the rest of
your life. Those great adventurous flights you wanted to make are just dreams of what
could have been, being realized only in your mind's eye. Blindness happens. It
happened to Miles Hilton-Barber who since a boy wanted to fly from England to
Australia along a 1919 air race route through Europe, the middle east and Asia. With
the help of two great men who are serving as his eyes, Miles is realizing his life's dream
in doing what Englishmen have always done...doing what others wish they did. Make
no mistake, his is not just a stand alone adventure, Miles has set out a goal to raise
one-million dollars for "Seeing is Believing". Not all heroic feats are in the past, there is
one occurring now.
The statistics on blindness are staggering. Every 5 seconds someone goes blind.
There are 37 million blind people in our world, yet a staggering 75% of blindness is
avoidable.
As one pilot to another, I'm asking you to make a donation to this world wide cause.
Click on the link. SEEING IS BELIEVING (Thanks from the editor)
I would go on to say that each of you wanted to fly since you were a kid...reading books
about flying, building model airplanes, looking skyward every time an airplane flew over.
Eventually you did get your pilots certificate and chased the shouting wind along.
Now imagine that an illness of the eye is talking over and blinding you for the rest of
your life. Those great adventurous flights you wanted to make are just dreams of what
could have been, being realized only in your mind's eye. Blindness happens. It
happened to Miles Hilton-Barber who since a boy wanted to fly from England to
Australia along a 1919 air race route through Europe, the middle east and Asia. With
the help of two great men who are serving as his eyes, Miles is realizing his life's dream
in doing what Englishmen have always done...doing what others wish they did. Make
no mistake, his is not just a stand alone adventure, Miles has set out a goal to raise
one-million dollars for "Seeing is Believing". Not all heroic feats are in the past, there is
one occurring now.
The statistics on blindness are staggering. Every 5 seconds someone goes blind.
There are 37 million blind people in our world, yet a staggering 75% of blindness is
avoidable.
As one pilot to another, I'm asking you to make a donation to this world wide cause.
Click on the link. SEEING IS BELIEVING (Thanks from the editor)
The microlight, a Mainair Quick GT450 has
a 100HP 4-stroke engine, and they plan to
cruise at around 70 knots, making an
average of two 4-hour flights each day.
Their customised long-range 160-litre fuel
tank will enable them to make flights of up to
10 hours endurance where necessary.
“I may never see again” says Miles, “but if,
through this flight, thousands of blind
people in developing countries can have
this gift of sight restored to them again, it
will be so incredibly worth it!”
a 100HP 4-stroke engine, and they plan to
cruise at around 70 knots, making an
average of two 4-hour flights each day.
Their customised long-range 160-litre fuel
tank will enable them to make flights of up to
10 hours endurance where necessary.
“I may never see again” says Miles, “but if,
through this flight, thousands of blind
people in developing countries can have
this gift of sight restored to them again, it
will be so incredibly worth it!”
| The "Seeing Is Believing" Mainar Quick GT450 |
| On User Fees "The last thing we need right now is a grand experiment that has already proven to be a failure in other countries," Jack J. Pelton, CEO Cessna |
Most everyone has heard this old saw before: "Behind
every sucessful man is a surprise woman". Sometimes
there is a much deeper and surprising story to be told.
Such is the wonderful love story of Mae and Wiley Post.
Mary Collins, Mae and Wiley's niece has been digging
through an old trunk of Mae's, and the story that is
emerging sheds an entirely new light on one of America's
greatest aviators. Watch this space for the beginning of a
saga never before told.
every sucessful man is a surprise woman". Sometimes
there is a much deeper and surprising story to be told.
Such is the wonderful love story of Mae and Wiley Post.
Mary Collins, Mae and Wiley's niece has been digging
through an old trunk of Mae's, and the story that is
emerging sheds an entirely new light on one of America's
greatest aviators. Watch this space for the beginning of a
saga never before told.
| Afternoon Tea With Bob Hoover |
BE A FRIEND AND PLEASE SEND THIS ARTICLE TO AS MANY FRIENDS AS POSSIBLE
The Johnson City, Tennessee Medical Center staff actually discovered this
technique and performed an in-depth study on it in their ICU. The two individuals who
discovered this then wrote an article on it, had it published and have had it
incorporated into ACLS and CPR classes. It is true and has and does work. It is
called cough CPR. Cardiologists says it's the truth. If everyone who reads this sends
it to 10 people, you can bet that we'll save at least one life.
Read This...It could save your life! Let's say it's 6:15 p.m., and you're driving
home (alone of course) after an usually hard day on the job. You're really tired, upset
and frustrated. Suddenly you start experiencing severe pain in your chest that starts
to radiate out into your arm and up into your jaw. You are only about five miles from
the hospital nearest your home. Unfortunately you don't know if you'll be able to make
it that far.
What can you do? You've been trained in CPR but the guy that taught the course,
didn't tell you what to do if it happened to yourself. In the air this could get you to the
nearest airport, saving the lives of your passengers.
technique and performed an in-depth study on it in their ICU. The two individuals who
discovered this then wrote an article on it, had it published and have had it
incorporated into ACLS and CPR classes. It is true and has and does work. It is
called cough CPR. Cardiologists says it's the truth. If everyone who reads this sends
it to 10 people, you can bet that we'll save at least one life.
Read This...It could save your life! Let's say it's 6:15 p.m., and you're driving
home (alone of course) after an usually hard day on the job. You're really tired, upset
and frustrated. Suddenly you start experiencing severe pain in your chest that starts
to radiate out into your arm and up into your jaw. You are only about five miles from
the hospital nearest your home. Unfortunately you don't know if you'll be able to make
it that far.
What can you do? You've been trained in CPR but the guy that taught the course,
didn't tell you what to do if it happened to yourself. In the air this could get you to the
nearest airport, saving the lives of your passengers.
Since many people are alone when they suffer a heart attack, this article is to be
studied. Without help, the person whose heart is beating improperly and who begins
to feel faint, has only about 10 seconds left before losing consciousness.
However, these victims can help themselves by coughing repeatedly and very
vigorously. A deep breath should be taken before each cough, and the cough must
be deep and prolonged, as when producing sputum from deep inside the chest. A
breath and a cough must be repeated about very two seconds without let up until
help arrives, or until the heart is felt to be beating normally again.
Deep breaths get oxygen into the lungs and coughing movements squeeze the heart
and keep the blood circulating. The squeezing pressure on the heart also helps it
regain normal rhythm. In this way, heart attack victims can get to a hospital. Tell as
many other people as possible about this, it could save their lives! "AND THE
BEAT GOES ON ."
studied. Without help, the person whose heart is beating improperly and who begins
to feel faint, has only about 10 seconds left before losing consciousness.
However, these victims can help themselves by coughing repeatedly and very
vigorously. A deep breath should be taken before each cough, and the cough must
be deep and prolonged, as when producing sputum from deep inside the chest. A
breath and a cough must be repeated about very two seconds without let up until
help arrives, or until the heart is felt to be beating normally again.
Deep breaths get oxygen into the lungs and coughing movements squeeze the heart
and keep the blood circulating. The squeezing pressure on the heart also helps it
regain normal rhythm. In this way, heart attack victims can get to a hospital. Tell as
many other people as possible about this, it could save their lives! "AND THE
BEAT GOES ON ."
| Read This...it could save your life! What would you do if you have a heart attack while flying...? |
| Ginot at Duxford |
Ginot of Paris, a skin care products company, sponors a formation of wing walkers all atop
Stearmans. Unfortunetly these beautiful planes and ladies have not toured the US. If they did
they surely would receive the admiration they did at a recent Duxford airshow. Thanks again
to Geoffery Wiggins for his fine photos.
Stearmans. Unfortunetly these beautiful planes and ladies have not toured the US. If they did
they surely would receive the admiration they did at a recent Duxford airshow. Thanks again
to Geoffery Wiggins for his fine photos.
| Wiley's Astrological Chart |
No, the TAXI-STRiP is not venturing off in
to the land of numerology and astrology.
It's just that your editor came across a web
site that charts the charts of celebrates
and figures from history.
Map of the Heavens, Planets, Astrological
Chart, Horoscope for Wiley POST,
born November 22, 1898 at 11:00 AM in
Grand Saline (TX) (USA).
Sun in 0°28 Sagittarius, AS in 24°38
Capricorn, Moon in 25°42 Pisces, MC in
13°26 Scorpio.
Numerology: Birth path 5.
to the land of numerology and astrology.
It's just that your editor came across a web
site that charts the charts of celebrates
and figures from history.
Map of the Heavens, Planets, Astrological
Chart, Horoscope for Wiley POST,
born November 22, 1898 at 11:00 AM in
Grand Saline (TX) (USA).
Sun in 0°28 Sagittarius, AS in 24°38
Capricorn, Moon in 25°42 Pisces, MC in
13°26 Scorpio.
Numerology: Birth path 5.
| Happy Birthday Wiley!! |
Had Wiley Post been with us until now, on November 22,
he would be celebrating his 109th birthday. In the short
36 years he lived, Post achieved more than many who
lived to a ripe old age. His biography stands as an
inspiration to the youth of the world.
In this day with all of our whiz-bang gadgets, fast
airplanes and an even faster life style, it is easy to forget
upon who's shoulders we all stand.
Take a moment at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, Thanksgiving
Day, and raise a toast to an aerial pioneer who's life
goals, his spirit and accomplishments are in every
airplane, airliner, or spacecraft that flies today. And he
did it all without GPS!
he would be celebrating his 109th birthday. In the short
36 years he lived, Post achieved more than many who
lived to a ripe old age. His biography stands as an
inspiration to the youth of the world.
In this day with all of our whiz-bang gadgets, fast
airplanes and an even faster life style, it is easy to forget
upon who's shoulders we all stand.
Take a moment at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, Thanksgiving
Day, and raise a toast to an aerial pioneer who's life
goals, his spirit and accomplishments are in every
airplane, airliner, or spacecraft that flies today. And he
did it all without GPS!
| FUFO seen over Tulsa Oklahoma |
| Ever see something "funny" while flying? Some pilots have |
A group of 19 pilots and government officials met at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on November 12, to call on the government to
investigate reports of unidentified flying objects -- that's right, UFOs. All of the pilots said they have had an unexplained encounter with something in
the sky, and the government seems to be covering up, or dragging its feet, or just trying to ignore the problem. A pilot from Peru's air force said he
fired many rounds at a UFO, which was not affected. Another pilot, from Iran's air force, said he tried to fire at a UFO, but his airplane's control panel
froze up. Both pilots spoke about their experiences for the first time in public at the Press Club event. Also on the panel were former accident
investigators from the FAA and the Department of Defense. Fife Symington, who was formerly an Air Force pilot and governor of Arizona, moderated
the event. He has said he saw a UFO in 1997.
Symington watched a "massive delta-shaped craft silently navigate over Squaw Peak, a mountain range in Phoenix, Arizona," he wrote in a CNN
commentary last week. "We want the government to stop putting out stories that perpetuate the myth that all UFOs can be explained away in
down-to-earth conventional terms," he wrote. "Investigations need to be re-opened, documents need to be unsealed and the idea of an open dialog
can no longer be shunned." The Air Force has not conducted investigations of such reports since shutting down an extensive inquiry over 30 years
ago. Some pilots and ramp workers reported a UFO over Chicago's O'Hare Airport last November.
investigate reports of unidentified flying objects -- that's right, UFOs. All of the pilots said they have had an unexplained encounter with something in
the sky, and the government seems to be covering up, or dragging its feet, or just trying to ignore the problem. A pilot from Peru's air force said he
fired many rounds at a UFO, which was not affected. Another pilot, from Iran's air force, said he tried to fire at a UFO, but his airplane's control panel
froze up. Both pilots spoke about their experiences for the first time in public at the Press Club event. Also on the panel were former accident
investigators from the FAA and the Department of Defense. Fife Symington, who was formerly an Air Force pilot and governor of Arizona, moderated
the event. He has said he saw a UFO in 1997.
Symington watched a "massive delta-shaped craft silently navigate over Squaw Peak, a mountain range in Phoenix, Arizona," he wrote in a CNN
commentary last week. "We want the government to stop putting out stories that perpetuate the myth that all UFOs can be explained away in
down-to-earth conventional terms," he wrote. "Investigations need to be re-opened, documents need to be unsealed and the idea of an open dialog
can no longer be shunned." The Air Force has not conducted investigations of such reports since shutting down an extensive inquiry over 30 years
ago. Some pilots and ramp workers reported a UFO over Chicago's O'Hare Airport last November.
Having seen something in the sky that you can't identify doesn't mean that you believe in "little green"
men. It just simply means that you can't identify the object i.e., an UFO. Thousands have seen these
objects but are afraid to speak up for fear of ridicule. Maybe the time has come to speak up.
men. It just simply means that you can't identify the object i.e., an UFO. Thousands have seen these
objects but are afraid to speak up for fear of ridicule. Maybe the time has come to speak up.
| Need Something Else To Do? If the answer is a resounding "Yes", here's just the thing! |
The first Curtiss aircraft was the Golden Flyer (sometimes called the Gold Bug),
purchased by the Aeronautical Society of New York on March 2, 1909, for $5,000. The
golden tint of the varnish on the fabric covering of the Golden Flyer's wings and tail
inspired the name. It followed typical Curtiss practice as an equal-span biplane, with
a four-cylinder Curtiss pusher engine directly driving a single propeller. In an attempt
to avoid infringing upon the Wright patent, Curtiss used ailerons set between the
Golden Flyer's biplane wings instead of wing warping.
The Golden Flyer was the first airplane to fly in Oklahoma. Piloted by Charles Willard.
The Flyer took to the air on March 18th, 2010. To commemorate the flight a brass
plaque can be seen at the Capitol Hill Library, which is on the site of this historic flight.
Recently a complete set of construction plans for the Curtiss Golden Flyer, from Steve
Daughtery of the Glenn Curtiss Museum at Hamonsport, New York has become
available. This is where you can help. The 100th anniversary of heavier than air flight
in Oklahoma is coming up in 2010. The idea is to build and fly an exact replica of the
Golden Flyer on the anniversary date of that first flight.
Already a hangar has been made available for the project. Funding avenues are
being developed, but what is needed is people who have an abiding interest in
aviation and who also have experience in building wood and fabric airplanes.
This is an opportunity to become a part of Oklahoma aviation history and to leave
something of our great aviation heritage to future generations. If you have an interest
in helping with this project please send an email to www.swaviator@gmail.com or
phone me at 405-816-7350.
purchased by the Aeronautical Society of New York on March 2, 1909, for $5,000. The
golden tint of the varnish on the fabric covering of the Golden Flyer's wings and tail
inspired the name. It followed typical Curtiss practice as an equal-span biplane, with
a four-cylinder Curtiss pusher engine directly driving a single propeller. In an attempt
to avoid infringing upon the Wright patent, Curtiss used ailerons set between the
Golden Flyer's biplane wings instead of wing warping.
The Golden Flyer was the first airplane to fly in Oklahoma. Piloted by Charles Willard.
The Flyer took to the air on March 18th, 2010. To commemorate the flight a brass
plaque can be seen at the Capitol Hill Library, which is on the site of this historic flight.
Recently a complete set of construction plans for the Curtiss Golden Flyer, from Steve
Daughtery of the Glenn Curtiss Museum at Hamonsport, New York has become
available. This is where you can help. The 100th anniversary of heavier than air flight
in Oklahoma is coming up in 2010. The idea is to build and fly an exact replica of the
Golden Flyer on the anniversary date of that first flight.
Already a hangar has been made available for the project. Funding avenues are
being developed, but what is needed is people who have an abiding interest in
aviation and who also have experience in building wood and fabric airplanes.
This is an opportunity to become a part of Oklahoma aviation history and to leave
something of our great aviation heritage to future generations. If you have an interest
in helping with this project please send an email to www.swaviator@gmail.com or
phone me at 405-816-7350.
Above: Glenn Curtiss at the controls of the "Golden Flyer" Above Rt: Gloden Flyer at
Oklahoma City, 1910. Lower Rt: Willard and Flyer on the ground, Capitol Hill, OKC.
Oklahoma City, 1910. Lower Rt: Willard and Flyer on the ground, Capitol Hill, OKC.
| Curtiss Golden Flyer Specifications Wingspan: 28 ft. 9 in. Length: 30 ft. 4 in. Weight: 550 lbs Engine/Horsepower: Curtiss/25 |
FIRST POWER FLIGHT IN OKLAHOMA COMMEMORATED
Today on the west side of the Capitol Hill Library at 26th and South Hudson Street,
Oklahoma City, there is a bronze plaque marking the site of the first power flight in the State
of Oklahoma. It bears the name of the man who made that flight --- EB Charles F. Willard,
and the date of the flight, March 18, 1910, as well as circumstances.
The commemoration ceremony was held on May 21st under auspices of the Capitol Hill
Chamber of Commerce. Dr. K. E. Smith, president of the Chamber, presided, and Mr. Willard
was on hand as the guest of honor. Other Early Birds present and taking part were Burrell
Tibbs and Horace Keane. Oklahoma citizens who witnessed that first flight were also on
hand and were introduced.
Presentation of the plaque and the response by Mr. Willard were televised. Both EB Tibbs
and EB Keane also spoke briefly.
From The Early Birds of Aviation CHIRP, June 1960,Number 63
Today on the west side of the Capitol Hill Library at 26th and South Hudson Street,
Oklahoma City, there is a bronze plaque marking the site of the first power flight in the State
of Oklahoma. It bears the name of the man who made that flight --- EB Charles F. Willard,
and the date of the flight, March 18, 1910, as well as circumstances.
The commemoration ceremony was held on May 21st under auspices of the Capitol Hill
Chamber of Commerce. Dr. K. E. Smith, president of the Chamber, presided, and Mr. Willard
was on hand as the guest of honor. Other Early Birds present and taking part were Burrell
Tibbs and Horace Keane. Oklahoma citizens who witnessed that first flight were also on
hand and were introduced.
Presentation of the plaque and the response by Mr. Willard were televised. Both EB Tibbs
and EB Keane also spoke briefly.
From The Early Birds of Aviation CHIRP, June 1960,Number 63
| Charles Willard |
| Willard at the controls of the Golden Flyer |
Cessna CEO Jack Pelton made the
announcement in China, during a signing
ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in
Beijing, that the Skycatcher would be built by SAC.
"The LSA market demands the latest avionics,
safety and reliability, light-weight equipment and
a competitive price tag," Pelton said.
"Our solution is to partner with SAC, a company
with excellent facilities, state-of-the-art
technologies and a workforce highly experienced
in aircraft manufacturing. SkyCatcher customers
will get an advanced design, high-quality
workmanship and world-class product support,
all at an affordable price from Cessna, a brand
known and trusted worldwide."
Founded in 1951, SAC is a civilian and military
aircraft manufacturer with 16,000 employees in
Shenyang, China.
announcement in China, during a signing
ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in
Beijing, that the Skycatcher would be built by SAC.
"The LSA market demands the latest avionics,
safety and reliability, light-weight equipment and
a competitive price tag," Pelton said.
"Our solution is to partner with SAC, a company
with excellent facilities, state-of-the-art
technologies and a workforce highly experienced
in aircraft manufacturing. SkyCatcher customers
will get an advanced design, high-quality
workmanship and world-class product support,
all at an affordable price from Cessna, a brand
known and trusted worldwide."
Founded in 1951, SAC is a civilian and military
aircraft manufacturer with 16,000 employees in
Shenyang, China.
| Woundn'tya know it.... Cessna's 162 to be built in China |
Cessna says it has firm orders for 850
Skycatchers. Just what, if any, market impact
the outsourcing will have is anyone’s guess
but it does cast Cirrus’s decision to adapt an
already-flying European design into its Light
Sport entrant in a different light. The SRS will
be based on the Fk Lightplanes Polaris but
will have Cirrus-style modifications, including
a parachute, toe brakes and other
refinements aimed at the U.S. market.
Skycatchers. Just what, if any, market impact
the outsourcing will have is anyone’s guess
but it does cast Cirrus’s decision to adapt an
already-flying European design into its Light
Sport entrant in a different light. The SRS will
be based on the Fk Lightplanes Polaris but
will have Cirrus-style modifications, including
a parachute, toe brakes and other
refinements aimed at the U.S. market.
Do you know someone who has always dreamed of flying? Maybe you know someone who needs
an adventure or wants to start flight training but thinks he or she can't afford it. Encourage the person
you care about to visit Be a Pilot, a site designed to help aspiring pilots get started. This holiday
season, if you want to give the gift of flight time, AOPA offers the Introduction to Flight certificate,
available for download. Or give your time, at no cost, and become a mentor by signing up a future
pilot for AOPA Project Pilot. This is your opportunity to help someone begin the journey toward
becoming a pilot
an adventure or wants to start flight training but thinks he or she can't afford it. Encourage the person
you care about to visit Be a Pilot, a site designed to help aspiring pilots get started. This holiday
season, if you want to give the gift of flight time, AOPA offers the Introduction to Flight certificate,
available for download. Or give your time, at no cost, and become a mentor by signing up a future
pilot for AOPA Project Pilot. This is your opportunity to help someone begin the journey toward
becoming a pilot
| Never too late to give a gift of flight |
Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.), the ranking member of the Senate aviation subcommittee, announced his
retirement on Nov. 26. And the first question to pop into some pilots' minds was: What does this mean for
the user fee fight?
That's because Lott and Sen. John D. Rockefeller (D-W.V.), aviation subcommittee chairman, are co-authors
of S.1300, the Senate FAA funding bill that includes a $25 per flight user fee. Their position on user fees has
so far precluded any compromise with the Senate Finance Committee and its bill that would fund FAA with
modest tax increases and no user fees. That's why the funding issue is currently stalled in the Senate.
"At this point, we don't expect that the Senate will act on FAA funding before the end of the year," said AOPA
President Phil Boyer. "And before any action on the bill, the Republican leadership will likely appoint a new
ranking member to replace Lott on the aviation subcommittee. However, the Democratically controlled
congress has so far been able to hold the line of user fees.
"We don't know who that will be yet, and it leaves open the question of whether Rockefeller will have the
strong Republican support for user fees that he had with Lott."
For 35 years Lott has represented Mississippi in Congress, starting in the House, and later winning election
to the Senate. He was viewed by many as a pragmatic, effective legislator.
While AOPA disagreed strongly with Lott on the issue of user fees, he had been helpful to general aviation in
past. He was awarded AOPA's Hartranft Award in 2001 for his leadership in working with President Bill
Clinton, pushing AIR-21 through Congress, the landmark bill that unlocked the aviation trust fund.
retirement on Nov. 26. And the first question to pop into some pilots' minds was: What does this mean for
the user fee fight?
That's because Lott and Sen. John D. Rockefeller (D-W.V.), aviation subcommittee chairman, are co-authors
of S.1300, the Senate FAA funding bill that includes a $25 per flight user fee. Their position on user fees has
so far precluded any compromise with the Senate Finance Committee and its bill that would fund FAA with
modest tax increases and no user fees. That's why the funding issue is currently stalled in the Senate.
"At this point, we don't expect that the Senate will act on FAA funding before the end of the year," said AOPA
President Phil Boyer. "And before any action on the bill, the Republican leadership will likely appoint a new
ranking member to replace Lott on the aviation subcommittee. However, the Democratically controlled
congress has so far been able to hold the line of user fees.
"We don't know who that will be yet, and it leaves open the question of whether Rockefeller will have the
strong Republican support for user fees that he had with Lott."
For 35 years Lott has represented Mississippi in Congress, starting in the House, and later winning election
to the Senate. He was viewed by many as a pragmatic, effective legislator.
While AOPA disagreed strongly with Lott on the issue of user fees, he had been helpful to general aviation in
past. He was awarded AOPA's Hartranft Award in 2001 for his leadership in working with President Bill
Clinton, pushing AIR-21 through Congress, the landmark bill that unlocked the aviation trust fund.
| Sen. Lott's Out...User Fees Too? |
AOPA has been fighting for years to ensure that unmanned aircraft—or more recently, unmanned aircraft
systems (UAS)—operate safely within the National Airspace System with an equivalent level of safety as a
manned aircraft. In other words, the ability to "sense and avoid" other aircraft. Unmanned aircraft (UA)
operate without an on-board pilot or crew. UAs can either be remotely controlled from the ground by an
operator or preprogrammed to conduct the entire flight without intervention. In addition to the UA, other
components, such as a control facility, data links, and any other apparatus, all combine to create an
unmanned aircraft system (UAS).
systems (UAS)—operate safely within the National Airspace System with an equivalent level of safety as a
manned aircraft. In other words, the ability to "sense and avoid" other aircraft. Unmanned aircraft (UA)
operate without an on-board pilot or crew. UAs can either be remotely controlled from the ground by an
operator or preprogrammed to conduct the entire flight without intervention. In addition to the UA, other
components, such as a control facility, data links, and any other apparatus, all combine to create an
unmanned aircraft system (UAS).
| Think this is a good idea? Just wait! |
| EAA's Excellent Program |
Give wings is an opportunity to
participate in the aviation dreams
that have propelled EAA and its
members. It is the spirit and
innovation behind flight and the
emotion we all experience when
we see a bird soar or a space
shuttle lift off.
While we believed as children we
could fly, we now know it takes
more than our dreams to soar. It
takes courage, commitment,
inspiration and faith. It also takes
generosity and heart.
To continue to give wings to
others, to make dreams happen,
to fly where we haven’t before, we
need your help. We need your gift
and participation.
participate in the aviation dreams
that have propelled EAA and its
members. It is the spirit and
innovation behind flight and the
emotion we all experience when
we see a bird soar or a space
shuttle lift off.
While we believed as children we
could fly, we now know it takes
more than our dreams to soar. It
takes courage, commitment,
inspiration and faith. It also takes
generosity and heart.
To continue to give wings to
others, to make dreams happen,
to fly where we haven’t before, we
need your help. We need your gift
and participation.
Flying is more than an action; it is a feeling. A feeling of excitement, fun, achievement and freedom all
bundled into one exhilarating experience. Even if it’s something you can’t put into words, it still holds a
special place in your heart. Who hasn’t seen a child tilt their head high, close their eyes and raise their arms
while dreaming of flight? Giving wings to EAA can make those dreams a reality through your help.
Hear the stories of others who have given wings and the tremendous impact that has made.
Share your stories. Tell us how your efforts through volunteering, contributions or work have impacted
aviation. We’ll add your stories to the others and together inspire others to help. more
bundled into one exhilarating experience. Even if it’s something you can’t put into words, it still holds a
special place in your heart. Who hasn’t seen a child tilt their head high, close their eyes and raise their arms
while dreaming of flight? Giving wings to EAA can make those dreams a reality through your help.
Hear the stories of others who have given wings and the tremendous impact that has made.
Share your stories. Tell us how your efforts through volunteering, contributions or work have impacted
aviation. We’ll add your stories to the others and together inspire others to help. more
| _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ |
| Looming Ethanol Fuel Dilemma |
| Boeing 40C flies first time in 80 years |
Scud running in 1928 was no safer than it is now. A
pilot who tried it in a monster biplane called a Boeing
40C suffered a dramatic conclusion.
The Pacific Air Transport airplane, which flew
passengers and the mail in an enclosed cabin while
the pilot sat out in the breeze, clipped trees for a mile,
slicing one and then another, until a mountain got in
its the way near Canyonville, Ore. The single
passenger died, and the cargo of diamonds scattered.
There it sat for 70 years until it was recovered by the
Oregon Aviation Historical Society and sold to
Addison Pemberton. Now, eight years later and with
the help of 61 volunteers who had put in 18,000
hours, it’s flying again. It will make appearances at
Blakesburg, Iowa, and at Oshkosh, Wis., this year
before retracing an original airmail route from New
York to San Francisco in September
Originally, the airplane went for $22,000 and had a
420-horsepower Pratt & Whitney 1340 engine with a
TBO of 200 hours. Its new 525-hp Pratt & Whitney
1340 has a TBO of 1,600 hours.
pilot who tried it in a monster biplane called a Boeing
40C suffered a dramatic conclusion.
The Pacific Air Transport airplane, which flew
passengers and the mail in an enclosed cabin while
the pilot sat out in the breeze, clipped trees for a mile,
slicing one and then another, until a mountain got in
its the way near Canyonville, Ore. The single
passenger died, and the cargo of diamonds scattered.
There it sat for 70 years until it was recovered by the
Oregon Aviation Historical Society and sold to
Addison Pemberton. Now, eight years later and with
the help of 61 volunteers who had put in 18,000
hours, it’s flying again. It will make appearances at
Blakesburg, Iowa, and at Oshkosh, Wis., this year
before retracing an original airmail route from New
York to San Francisco in September
Originally, the airplane went for $22,000 and had a
420-horsepower Pratt & Whitney 1340 engine with a
TBO of 200 hours. Its new 525-hp Pratt & Whitney
1340 has a TBO of 1,600 hours.
| For the website and more photos of this beautiful Boeing go here |
EAA staff experts in Oshkosh are
working with members and state
officials in Oregon on potential
fuel availability problems that may
arise for some pilots when
legislation mandating a 10
percent ethanol blend for most
gasoline sold in the state goes
into effect this year.
Governor Ted Kulongoski signed
House Bill 2210 into law last year,
which contains the ethanol
additive provision. Implementation
begins in northwestern counties
January 15, 2008, with other
areas of the state facing
compliance by April 15 and
September 16.
Full story
working with members and state
officials in Oregon on potential
fuel availability problems that may
arise for some pilots when
legislation mandating a 10
percent ethanol blend for most
gasoline sold in the state goes
into effect this year.
Governor Ted Kulongoski signed
House Bill 2210 into law last year,
which contains the ethanol
additive provision. Implementation
begins in northwestern counties
January 15, 2008, with other
areas of the state facing
compliance by April 15 and
September 16.
Full story