As we do at the end of each year, the editors of Flying have compiled a list of the most important, compelling and industry-shaping news stories to emerge in the preceding 12 months. As always, the year was jam-packed with major news stories, from the political battles that gripped Washington to new airplane introductions and more, all of which makes covering the general aviation industry so exciting. We expect several of these stories to continue to generate headlines well into the new year and beyond.
Top 25 Aviation Stories of 2017
Key Takeaways:
- The year saw significant new aircraft introductions, including Cessna's SkyCourier utility twin, Diamond's DA50 high-performance single, the Airvan 10, and the certification of a diesel-powered Cessna Skyhawk.
- Technological advancements made general aviation safer and more accessible, highlighted by affordable ADS-B solutions (uAvionix SkyBeacon) and a wave of new retrofit autopilot systems.
- Regulatory shifts from the FAA included redefining slow flight and stall training to improve safety, an initiative to eliminate burdensome regulations, and the ongoing impact of frequent presidential Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs).
- Emerging trends included Uber's exploration of flying-taxi concepts, a production ramp-up by Mooney, and a boost to general aviation activity from the transcontinental solar eclipse.
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