Flying Staff

I’ll admit it. I wasn’t really seeing what the new Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) rules could do for aviation. Yes, the LSA rules are simplified and costs for a new airplane can be lower. And, yes, you can fly an LSA with a valid driver’s license instead of an FAA medical certificate. But the first […]

It’s hot on the ramp. The sun, blocked earlier by a thin overcast, now has an unobstructed view and it’s doing its thing with a good deal of enthusiasm. There’s a slight breeze and that helps, but the baggage handlers in my group are sweltering as we form a “bucket brigade” to unload bags from […]

10:15 a.m., eastern daylight time. The air is cool and quiet, save for the rustle of the drapes and the ripping noise made by Sabra as she opens some suture packs. Cindy is busy setting up her Mayo stand, upon which she has arranged a collection of shiny surgical clamps, two scalpels, some sutures and […]

John walked into the simulator briefing room with an ivory grin. He was wearing a crisp tropical shirt-not quite the standard dress for your typical check airman. I smiled. A tropical shirt is my favorite attire for a south Florida evening. “Hmm … my nine-month beating might not go so bad,” I thought. The copilot […]

Each month, Flying answers questions about the new Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft rule with assistance from the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), the authorities on the opportunities available within the category commonly known as “Sport Pilot”: Can a person earn a private pilot certificate in a light-sport aircraft exclusively, or must some of the training be […]

It’s been 100 years since Continental built its first engine, and Continentals have powered dozens of milestone airplanes, but its storied history is as much a rap against the company as it is an undeniable measure of success. Most pilots incorrectly believe that Continental is building the same engines the same way it has for […]

I am being a recalcitrant student. “Put the heading bug on the airport runway heading,” my friend Bruce says. “Why?” “That way you’ll know which way the runway heading is,” he answers. “Or,” I reply, “I can just look at the compass.” To my way of thinking, if I can’t remember that I’m taking off […]