Airplane Geeks Podcast

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852 Ram Air Turbine Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

The Air India B787 fatal crash and the ram air turbine, how your personal travel data is sold, next generation commercial aircraft engines, personal electric flying machines that are becoming dangerously affordable, and GippsAero is coming back to Australia to build the GA8 airvan. Aviation News Indian authorities begin investigating Air India crash in which 1 passenger survived India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the fatal crash of an Air India B787. Of the 242 passengers and crew aboard, one passenger survived. Numerous theories are being speculated in the press, including loss of power by both engines, failure to set the flaps properly for takeoff, and erroneously retracting the flaps instead of the landing gear. Some say the Ram Air Turbine appears to be deployed in one video. The Ram Air Turbine (RAT) extends from the fuselage or the wing to generate power in an emergency. Twin blades [corrected] spin a shaft connected to either an electrical generator or a hydraulic pump that drives a generator. The B787, A320, and A380 Ram Air Turbines are produced by Collins Aerospace. The company manufactures hydraulic, electric, and hybrid RATs that generate both electric and hydraulic power. Safran also produces Ram Air Turbines. Ram Air Turbine. Image courtesy Collins Aerospace. US Navy Vought RF-8G Crusader on display at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (NASM) Udvar-Hazy Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Airlines Secretly Sold One Billion Passenger Records—Now The Government Can Track Where You Travel The Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) is a major provider of settlement services for the airline industry. Clients include airlines, travel agencies, and corporate travel departments. ARC is owned by the airlines and sells passenger names, full domestic flight itineraries, and payment details (e.g., credit card used) through its “Travel Intelligence Program” (TIP). Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is reportedly purchasing this data. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) is critical of this practice and wants airlines to explain why they allow ARC to resell this information. CBP claims they adhere to strong privacy policies, and only use the data for open investigations. Open Fan Would Be Suboptimal On Narrowbody, RTX Chief Scientist Says The next generation of single-aisle aircraft will need to offer at least a 20% fuel burn improvement. Some of that will likely come from the airframe, and most will come from the power plants. The next generation of turbofans under development includes the CFM International open-fan RISE demonstrator and geared turbofans from Pratt & Whitney. Thermal efficiency vs. propulsive efficiency: Thermal efficiency measures how effectively an engine converts fuel energy into mechanical work. Propulsive efficiency measures how efficiently the engine converts mechanical energy into useful thrust. Both are dimensionless ratios, typically expressed as a percentage (%). The overall efficiency of the engine is the propulsive efficiency multiplied by the thermal efficiency. Mentioned American Helicopter Museum UAV News Talk Freakonomics Airplane Food Spurwink Farm Pancake Breakfast and Fly-In Personal electric flying machines are becoming dangerously affordable Aerolite EV-103 Video: Aerolite EV-103 Electric powered aircraft - First Owner Review at Oshkosh 2021 https://youtu.be/DIaD71KOAdU?si=FTHeEU87xsSjcbto SP140 electric paramotor GippsAero promises Gippsland jobs with new GA8 airvan launch Hosts this Episode Max Flight, David Vanderhoof, and our Main(e) Man Micah.

851 Supersonic Flight Ban Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

We speak with the Chief Pilot for a large European carrier about taking delivery of his airline’s first A321XLR, and with a fractional ownership pilot about changing from the Phenom to the Challenger Global 300. In the news, we look at lifting the supersonic flight ban, revamping the Army flight school, denying an unleaded avgas motion, reforming flight delay compensation, and considering the Fire Boss air tractor for fighting wildfires Guests Captain Al Evan is the Chief Pilot for a large European low-cost carrier. He was the Airbus and Pratt & Whitney liaison for the delivery of his airline’s first P&W-powered A321XLR. Captain Al and Micah Stephen Ivey is a pilot for a large fractional ownership company. He recently changed from the Phenom to the Challenger Global 300. Stephen Ivey Aviation News U.S. Lifts 50-Year Ban on Supersonic Overland Flights Supersonic flight by civilian aircraft over the U.S. was originally banned in 1973 due to concerns about sonic boom noise pollution and potential damage on the ground. However, on June 6, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the FAA to repeal the ban and replace it with an interim noise-based certification standard. The Order instructs the FAA Administrator to establish a standard for supersonic aircraft noise certification that considers community acceptability, economic reasonableness, and technological feasibility. Army revamps flight school after deadly crashes The U.S. Army is overhauling pilot training to focus on fundamental skills. The change in 2013 from TH-67 training aircraft to the LUH-72A Lakota helicopters contributed to the need for training adjustments. The Army determined that the quick advancement of inexperienced crews was leading to unsafe situations. The Army is considering outsourcing pilot training to a contractor-owned-and-operated schoolhouse. Judge Denies G100UL Motion A California judge ruled that GAMI’s G100UL is not "commercially available" and therefore cannot be mandated for sale in California to replace leaded aviation fuel. This comes after a motion by the Center for Environmental Health to enforce a 2014 consent agreement that says FBOs and distributors must sell a lower lead alternative that is “commercially available.” The judge ruled that the fuel must first be universally available to all piston-powered aircraft. There must be a “general consensus” from the industry and potential customers that the fuel is safe and appropriate for their use. Europe Flight Delay Compensation Reform Coming, And It’s Bad News The European Union's flight delay compensation policy EC261 (sometimes called EU261), has been unchanged since 2014. Some EU transport ministers have been discussing reforms where passengers would have to experience longer delays before being eligible for compensation. Currently, compensation ranges from €250 to €600: €250 compensation if you’re delayed by at least two hours for flights under 1,500km (930 miles). €400 compensation if you’re delayed by at least three hours for flights of 1,500-3,500km (930-2,200 miles). €600 compensation if you’re delayed by at least four hours for flights over 3,500km (2,200 miles). A new proposal would: Provide €300 compensation if you’re delayed at least four hours for flights under 3,500 km. Provide €500 compensation if you’re delayed at least six hours for flights over 3,500 km. See DOT’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard. What is a Fire Boss? The agriculture aircraft that doubles as a water bomber Dave Frisch, the president of Portage Aircraft Specialties Ltd., sells Air Tractors designed for agricultural spraying. He says that if you add specially designed floats, these aircraft become a type of water bomber known as the Fire Boss. Being a small aircraft, the Fire Boss can scoop water out of smaller bodies of water and get into tighter spaces. Video: Calls to use Fire Boss to battle wildfires https://youtu.be/eirEDz6QO2I?si=_DhJ09EeGbJnb1GM Mentioned Spike Aerospace Innovations in Flight Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Max Trescott.

850 Experimental Sounding Rocket Association Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

The International Rocket Engineering Competition, a tentative contract for the United Airlines flight attendants, the proposed NASA funding cut, planes that nearly collide at LAX, and a bill to prohibit chemtrails. Also, the Spurwink Farm fly-in, the Angelo State University aviation bachelor program, an aviation mechanic website, and launching satellites from F-4 Phantoms. International Rocket Engineering Competition Guests Steve Taylor, President of the Experimental Sounding Rocket Association (ESRA), Brahm Soltes, the ESRA volunteer who coordinates with the FAA, and Logan Herrera, the ESRA Media Director. ESRA is a non-profit organization founded in 2003 to foster and promote engineering knowledge and experience in rocketry. The organization’s primary focus is to provide opportunities for academic groups to compete in aerospace challenges. ESRA hosts the annual International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC), the largest university rocket competition in the world. Around 150 teams compete in high-altitude categories with either custom-designed or off-the-shelf propulsion using solid, liquid, or hybrid motors. The scoring system considers engineering report quality and flight performance. Categories are 10,000 ft, 30,000 ft, and 45,000 ft altitude targets. This year’s IREC competition is June 9-14, 2025, at Spaceport Midland, Texas, and the event will be live-streamed. Video: Get Ready for Madness in Midland Texas https://youtu.be/DpheAYmdufI?si=OSNWnVbD8HNLrlK5 FAA Part 101 governs amateur rockets, and the process for obtaining an FAA waiver starts with identifying the launch area and completing Form FAA 7711-2 - Certificate of Waiver or Authorization Application. ESRA worked with the FAA Regional Service Center and the Office of Commercial Space Transportation to determine and minimize the impact on the airspace. Affected Air Route Traffic Control Centers were identified and the waiver obtained by ESRA authorizes an airspace cylinder to 100,000 feet. The multidisciplinary teams competing in IREC get hands-on experience and learn by doing. The Tripoli Rocket Association provides the training and certification required to launch rockets in this power class and mentors the teams. Rocket motor provider Aerotech provides on-site support, although some teams make their own propulsion system. Experimental Sounding Rocket Association YouTube Channel NASAspaceflight.com Kennedy Space Center upcoming events Aviation News Inside United’s ‘Game-Changing’ Flight Attendant Deal: Raises, Retro Pay, and Hotel Upgrades United Airlines and the flight attendants' union have agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement. The deal, which requires membership approval, includes wage increases, retroactive pay in the form of a “retro bonus,” boarding pay, no new scheduling system, layover improvements, and preserved healthcare benefits. The membership votes July 7-29, 2025. Trump's 2026 budget would slash NASA funding by 24% and its workforce by nearly one-third NASA budget funding would be cut from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion for fiscal year 2026, which starts Oct. 1, 2025. NASA science funding would be cut by 47% next year, to $3.9 billion, affecting 41 science projects. United plane makes wrong turn, nearly colliding with other flight mid-air: FAA Two planes departing from San Francisco International Airport’s parallel runways came within 1,950 feet of lateral separation, and 275 feet of vertical separation. The FAA is investigating. Louisiana lawmakers push ‘chemtrail’ ban legislation through the House Louisiana Bill SB46 provides that, “No person shall intentionally inject, release, apply, or disperse, by any means, a chemical, chemical compound, substance, or apparatus into the atmosphere within the borders of this state for the express purpose of affecting the temperature, weather, climate, or intensity of sunlight.” Exclusions exist for fire suppression and agricultural or forestry applications under 1,000 feet. Observation of this activity would be reportable, but there is no penalty for violation. Mentioned The Rotary Wing Show Podcast, Max Trescott’s latest addition to his new aviation podcast network. Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, has launched a Commercial Aviation Undergraduate Degree - a Bachelor of Commercial Aviation. Degree tracks include Flight Operations - Fixed Wing, Flight Operations - Helicopter, Aviation Administration, and Air Traffic Operations. Part 141 Flight School Skyline Aviation partners with the University. Aviation Mechanic School lists schools in a number of states along with location, tuition, length of the program, features, and websites. There is also a Things to Consider When Choosing a School page. Cold War-era fighter jets F-4 Phantoms could launch satellites for US firm Video: Air Traffic Control: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) https://youtu.be/YeABJbvcJ_k?si=5Mq8Tc08g-MqkBaE Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Max Trescott.

849 Open Skies for Southwest May 21, 2025

Show notes

Southwest Airlines files to fly to all Open Skies countries, the TSA explains last year’s New Jersey drone scare, a Lufthansa A321 flew for 10 minutes without a pilot at the controls, sleep and fatigue in military aviation, a new direction for the Boeing criminal charge, and lithium-ion fires onboard airplanes. Also, a resurrected aviation podcast and a brand new one. Aviation News Southwest Airlines seeks permission to expand international network Southwest Airlines filed a request with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to fly international routes to all countries with Open Skies agreements. That would include European countries, Latin America, Asia, and Africa. The airline has not confirmed specific new routes yet. International air travel is governed by bilateral and multilateral agreements between countries, and so airlines need economic authority from the DOT. These Open Skies treaties set the terms for airlines to operate between nations, including route rights, frequency, and capacity. See: U.S. Air Carriers and International Economic Authority from the DOT. Economic Authority is authorized by the Office of the Secretary of Transportation in the form of a certificate for interstate or foreign passenger and/or cargo authority. Newly Released Documents Show What the Feds Knew About the New Jersey Drone Scare In December 2024, the President said the “drone” sightings were "nothing nefarious." Congress received a classified briefing indicating no threat to the public, but the FAA imposed flight restrictions. At the time, TSA presented an internal slideshow (“official use only”) showing four incidents as normal air traffic. That slideshow is now publicly available. Lufthansa Jet Flew 10 Minutes With No Pilot at Controls After Cockpit Emergency Spanish investigators say the Captain on Lufthansa flight LH1140, an A321, took a toilet break, and then the First Officer in the cockpit suffered a “sudden and severe” incapacitation. The Captain had difficulty getting through the security door and the plane flew for 10 minutes without anyone at the controls. Report to Congress on Sleep and Fatigue in Military Aviation The report titled Management of Sleep and Fatigue in Military Aviation [PDF] was published by the Congressional Research Service on May 13, 2025, and examines the effects of sleep deprivation and its impact on operational readiness and aviation safety. The report highlights that military aviators face significant psychological and physiological demands, which can lead to sleep deprivation and fatigue. These conditions are exacerbated by factors such as unpredictable schedules, long-duty days, challenging flight conditions, and disruptions to circadian rhythms due to crossing multiple time zones. Research has shown that sleep deprivation negatively affects cognitive, physical, and emotional functioning, increasing the risk of accidents in training and combat environments. To mitigate these risks, the Department of Defense employs both non-pharmacological and pharmacological strategies. Non-pharmacological measures include administrative policies that limit duty hours, regulate flight schedules, and educate aviators on the importance of sleep. Pharmacological measures, such as FDA-approved medications, are used selectively when behavioral strategies are insufficient. The report also discusses congressional considerations regarding fatigue management policies and their effectiveness in ensuring aviator safety and mission success. US proposes dropping Boeing criminal charge In an online meeting, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) officials told families of the 737 Max crash victims that the Government may allow Boeing to sign a non-prosecution agreement to settle the case. This would avoid the criminal fraud trial scheduled to begin on June 23, 2025. An earlier settlement agreement was rejected by a judge. A DOJ official said after the meeting that a decision has not yet been made to go to trial or proceed with a nonprosecution agreement. Also that Boeing and DOJ have not yet negotiated the final details of any nonprosecution agreement. However, past guest Erin Applebaum represents 34 families of those killed in the Ethiopian crash and said, "While DOJ claims no final decision has been made, their scripted presentation made it clear that the outcome has already been decided." She added, "Boeing has never stood trial for the 346 lives lost due to its admitted crimes. Now, DOJ is prepared to let the company walk away, again, with no more than a financial penalty." Lithium-ion batteries are causing a dramatic rise in fires on airplanes The FAA Lithium Battery Incidents page provides a wealth of information on this topic. Between March 3, 2006, and April 9, 2025, there were 462 passenger aircraft lithium battery incidents and 129 cargo aircraft incidents. 240 categorized battery pack/battery 131 involving vape devices 90 cellular phone 78 other electronic devices 75 laptops 3 medical devices. Credit: Department of Transportation. David Wroth, Senior Director of Technology and Systems for UL Standards & Engagement, says fires typically involve batteries that are damaged or abused, and sometimes substandard or counterfeit batteries. The TSA requires that power banks, cell phone charging cases, and spare laptop batteries must be placed in carry-on baggage only. Mentioned Aviation Maintenance Technician Day The UAV Digest podcast is returning, hosted by David Vanderhoof and Max Trescott. The show will be renamed UAV News Talk. Also, a new podcast called NTSB New Talk has started publishing. Follow both in your favorite podcast app. Australia’s Largest Import of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Lands in Sydney Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, Max Trescott, and David Vanderhoof.

848 Aviation Maintenance Training May 14, 2025

Show notes

Aviation maintenance training with the Chennault Aviation Maintenance Academy Director of Education, and with the Director of Maintenance for Chennault Aviation Services. In the news, more Newark Airport air traffic control problems, a large IAG order for Boeing and Airbus jets, calls to abolish airport screening, and Qatar’s B747-8 gift. Guests Michael Riccardelli, Director of Education, Chennault Aviation Maintenance Academy (CAMA), and Joshua Borel, Director of Maintenance, Chennault Aviation Services. CAMA offers hands-on aviation maintenance training that combines technical excellence with real-world experience and is rooted in the legacy of General Claire Lee Chennault and the Flying Tigers. The Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program is designed both for people starting a career, and for those looking to take a new direction. It provides the skills, knowledge, and certifications for success in aviation maintenance. Mike and Josh tell us about the non-profit Aerospace Maintenance Council and the Aerospace Maintenance Council Competition, which recognizes and celebrates the aviation maintenance technician. The competition is held annually in conjunction with Aviation Week Network’s MRO Americas and, for the first time in 2025, in conjunction with Vertical Aviation International's VERTICON. Chennault Aviation was a sponsor of both events. CAMA offers three programs: the traditional 18-month classroom program, self-paced A&P online training, and Choose Aerospace, which is offered through the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) for juniors and seniors in high schools. Joshua Borel, Michael Riccardelli, and Casey Salzar. Mike and Josh explain the worldwide shortage of aviation maintenance technicians and how they are taking action to help get younger people interested in aviation. They also describe the synergy provided when one location encompasses maintenance training, flight training, and an operating airport. Michael Riccardelli was a CH-46 Sea Knight Helicopter technician in the Marine Corps and received his A&P in 1991. He assisted NASA in the Columbia recovery operations and maintained helicopters in the oil and gas industry, as well as EMS helicopters for Air Evac Lifeteam. Mike started aviation maintenance instructing in 2011. He coached student aviation maintenance skills teams for 12 years, with multiple wins in various competitions, including the Aerospace Maintenance Competition. He fielded the first all-female student aviation maintenance skills team, which took first place. Joshua Borel flew model airplanes from the age of 8. He joined the Air Force in 2011 as a C-5 Galaxy ISO (heavy inspection) Crew Chief, winning two Knuckle Buster awards. In 2016, Josh enrolled in the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, winning 1st in the 2017 PAMA Olympics, 2nd in the 2017 AMC School Category, and 1st in the 2018 AMC School Category. He graduated in February 2018 with A&P as class Valedictorian. Joshua joined Chennault Aviation while it was just a Part 61 flight school. He received his PPL in 2021 and became Director of Maintenance in 2022. He helped grow the company into not only a flight school, but a Part 135 Charter, a Part 147 A&P School, and a public airport. Aviation News Newark Liberty Airport suffers third system outage in less than 2 weeks, impacting hundreds of flights Another week of delays and cancellations caused by a system outage. This time, a 45-minute ground stop was reportedly the result of a momentary failure of a backup system. Controller staffing remains a problem, and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says the number of flights will be cut. IAG orders 71 long-haul jets split between Airbus and Boeing IAG announced orders for 33 aircraft from Airbus and 38 from Boeing: Thirty-two 787-10 aircraft for British Airways, twenty-one A330-900neo aircraft, six Airbus A350-900s, six A350-1000s, and six 777-9s. See: Rolls-Royce Gets Exemption From Tariffs Boom CEO Wants Airport Screening Abolished U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently posted on X: “Tell me how we can Make Traveling with Family Great Again! There’s no better place to start a family than the USA so I want to make it easier for you to travel with your kids. Here’s your chance to tell me, your Transportation Secretary, what I can do to make travel easier for your family. Send me your best ideas!” That tweet received over 13,000 responses, most wanted to see TSA screening dropped, claiming other technologies could replace the unnecessary and invasive procedure. Trump administration poised to accept 'palace in the sky' as a gift for Trump from Qatar: Sources According to sources familiar with the proposal, the royal family of Qatar is offering to gift a luxury Boeing 747-8 as a new Air Force One. The plane would be available for use by President Donald Trump and then be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation. See: Turning Qatar's Gifted 747 Into Air Force One Will Be Anything But Free Mentioned Secretary Duffy’s ATC Modernization Plan has a Couple of Problems from Jetwhine. Innovations in Flight 2025 at the Smithsonian's National & Space Museum June 14, 2025, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Max Trescott.

847 Vulcanair V1 Training Aircraft May 07, 2025

Show notes

The Vulcanair V1 training aircraft will be built in a new US manufacturing facility and offered as an affordable option for flight schools. In the news, air traffic control problems at Newark and government actions, the impacts of tariffs on commercial aviation, a call for in-cockpit video recorders, the timely availability of weather forecasts for aviation, Real ID goes live, and wildlife at airports. The V1 trainer, courtesy Vulcanair. Guest Stephen Pope is the Director of Communications for Vulcanair Aircraft North America. Vulcanair is establishing a manufacturing facility in the US and plans to make the Vulcanair V1 trainer aircraft affordable for flight schools. Steve describes the history of the company and how it optimized the V1 model piston airplane for the US flight training market. The V1 is similar to the Cessna 172, but costs less and is easier to maintain. To address the problem of very old training aircraft at flight schools that are expensive to replace, Vulcanair has formed a leasing company that will offer the V1 to schools for $79 per hour. Vulcanair plans to cover the cost of engine and propeller overhauls. Vulcanair is building a factory in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, with a planned opening date of September 2025. It is sized to produce up to 100 aircraft per year, and the workforce will come from area military veterans. The facility will serve as the main parts hub in the US. After the opening, Vulcanair will build five aircraft for production certification, which they hope to receive in 1Q2026. Vulcanair Aircraft was established in 1996 with private capital to become a General Aviation manufacturer worldwide. Between 1996 and 1998, Vulcanair purchased all the assets, type designs, trademarks, and rights of Partenavia and the SF600 Series Program, including type certificates, tooling, and rights from Siai Marchetti. Vulcanair Aircraft introduced modern tools, a modern organization, and a world-class engineering team to enable aircraft design upgrades and improvements. Vulcanair Aircraft North America is the corporate identity for Ameravia Inc., which was founded in 2015 to serve as the U.S. distributor for Vulcanair aircraft. The company has expanded its operations by offering the P68 line of twin piston- and turbine-engine aircraft, and the V1 single-engine training aircraft. Before joining Vulcanair Aircraft North America, Steve was an Aircraft Sales Counselor with LifeStyle Aviation and a sales and marketing executive with Spectro | Jet-Care. He was Editor in Chief at Flying Magazine, as well as Editor at Business Jet Traveler. Aviation News House Panel Approves $12.5 Billion Boost in ATC Funding The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee added $12.5 billion for air traffic control modernization and controller funding. At the same time, the Committee dropped grants for sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen, and other low-emission technology projects. A provision that would have prohibited the use of funds to privatize or sell portions of the ATC system was voted down. See: House Panel To Consider $15B ATC Boost, SAF Grant Cuts and The FAA wants to hire more air traffic controllers, but that won’t happen overnight. United removes 35 round-trip flights per day from Newark Airport schedule as travel woes continue Some air traffic controllers walked off the job after systems went down. Runway construction and a lack of controllers contributed to the flight cancellations. United CEO Scott Kirby said, “This isn’t just about schedules or pay. It’s about a system on the brink of collapse.” See: Chaos grips Newark Airport as controllers walk out, exposing FAA crisis Major airlines deliver dire warning to Trump administration as grim new twist emerges in tariff drama Air France and Lufthansa reported that transatlantic bookings from Europe to the US are down in the first quarter of the year. The Financial Times reported that the total number of foreign visitors to the US fell 12 percent in March. In a recent earnings call, Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith told investors 'We know there are a lot of customers that are holding back in buying tickets for a little more clarity on... the border, and things like that.” See: Canada's vengeful boycott of major US industry spirals with $4billion and 28K jobs at risk Statistics Canada figures show the number of Canadians making trips to the US by car dropped 32 percent in March compared to a year ago. Air travel was down 13.5 percent in March. AINsight: It’s Time To Put Video Recorders in Cockpits Editor-in-Chief Matt Thurber writes that “the mental burden is getting worse” with the frequency of fatal aircraft accidents. He says, “The burden isn’t that accidents happen; we’ve all come to accept that. It’s that so many of these recent accidents are an utter mystery, and not even the nattering nabobs on social media have any—even outlandish—clues about what might have happened.” Lack of data hampers the NTSB in its investigations. Mandatory cockpit audio and video recorders could change that. US weather forecasting is more crippled than previously known as hurricane season nears Some current and former National Weather Service meteorologists have told CNN that they are concerned that forecasts and warnings will not be issued on time. They give as reasons layoffs, early retirements, and preexisting vacancies. Of the 122 National Weather Service forecast offices, 30 lack a meteorologist-in-charge. Some offices have reduced or eliminated daily weather balloon launches, with more likely to do the same. NWS Doppler radar and automated surface weather observation stations repair technicians have more than 90 vacancies. Secretary Bellows and legislature urge feds to slow down Real ID May 7, 2025, is the current date for the implementation of Real ID. The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 and was designed to enhance the security of identification documents, such as driver's licenses and ID cards. The Act prevents federal agencies from accepting non-compliant IDs for certain official purposes. States are responsible for implementing Real ID, most notably with driver’s licenses. The Department of Homeland Security says the main goals of Real ID include: Increasing security with stricter verification processes for obtaining identification. Preventing fraud and identity theft by standardizing ID requirements across states. Regulating access to federal facilities, nuclear power plants, and domestic flights. Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and the legislature's transportation committee are proposing this phased-in approach and say people traveling without a Real ID should receive a warning. The Maine Secretary of State worries “that May 7 will come as a shock" and advocates for a phased approach with warnings initially given. Meet the man who protects snowy owls that migrate to Boston's Logan Airport Snowy owls fly from the Arctic and spend the winter at Boston’s Logan Airport. The airport contains 1,800 acres of short-mowed grass, similar to the Arctic tundra. There, the owls find plenty of ducks and rodents to eat. It’s an ideal location for them, not so much for the airport. The FAA mandated that airports create a bird patrol and keep birds away from the airport. Initially, this was accomplished by shooting the birds. In 1981, Norman Smith had a better idea: relocating the owls. So far, he’s moved over 900 snowy owls and relocated them away from the airport. See: Snowy Owls and Their Admirers Causing Problems at Portland Jetport Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.

846 Seattle Aerospace Bash Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

A report from the Seattle Aerospace Bash, Boeing's strategic divestments, Avelo Airlines' controversial charter flights, Electra's innovative aircraft technology, Lockheed Martin's future fighter jet developments, and Boeing's reacquisition of Spirit AeroSystems. Seattle Aerospace Bash The Seattle Aerospace Bash (Formerly BBQ) was held April 5th, 2025, at the Museum of Flight View Room, in Seattle, Washington. Aerospace enthusiasts and geeks gathered to celebrate the year ahead in aviation and space. In addition to food, activities included an aerospace swap meet, a sticker/freebie table, Isaac Alexander’s aerospace trivia contest, and an aerospace raffle with various prizes. Isaac Alexander and participants at the Seattle Aerospace Bash. Brian Coleman spoke with organizer Isaac Alexander about the Seattle Aerospace Bash. Isaac is known as Jet City Star on many social media platforms, and he’s the Chief Content Officer at the Hype Aerospace Insights service. Brian also had a conversation with Brian Wiklem about aerospace memorabilia and the aviation documentaries he produces as a hobby. Find avgeektv on YouTube and at avgeektv.com. Freebies at the Seattle Aerospace Bash. Aviation News Boeing to Sell Portions of Digital Aviation Solutions to Thoma Bravo for $10.55 Billion Boeing has entered into a definitive agreement with software investment firm Thoma Bravo to sell portions of its Digital Aviation Solutions business. The all-cash transaction is valued at $10.55 billion. Thoma Bravo would acquire the assets of Jeppesen, ForeFlight, AerData, and OzRunways. Jeppesen provides flight planning tools, and navigation charts. It was acquired by Boeing in 2000. ForeFlight offers an electronic flight bag and was acquired in 2019. AerData specializes in lease management, engine fleet planning, and records management. It was acquired 2014. OzRunways produces an electronic flight bag and maps for drone operators in Australia. That company was acquired 2024. Boeing will retain Digital Aviation Solutions' fleet maintenance, diagnostics, and repair service elements. That organization currently employs approximately 3,900 people worldwide. Subject to regulatory approval, the transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025. Thoma Bravo has over US$179 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024. North Bay activists call for boycott of Avelo Airlines as it plans for ICE deportation flights Avelo Airlines previously announced it would operate deportation charter flights for the Department of Homeland Security. This sparked protests against the airline at Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in California, at Daytona Beach International Airport in Florida, and near Wilmington Airport in Delaware. Avelo Airlines generates profit by leveraging its ultra-low-cost carrier model. Key strategies include low operating costs, ancillary revenue, efficient fleet utilization, use of secondary airports, and lean staffing. Avelo’s Cost per Available Seat Mile (CASM), excluding fuel, is only 6.6 cents. CASM = Total Operating Costs / Available Seat Miles (ASM) ASM is the number of available seats times the distance flown. Typical CASM for different airline business models: 6-8 cents for ULCC 8-10 cents for LCC 13-17 cents for legacy carriers Electra raises $115m for ultra-short take-off and landing aircraft Electra.aero is developing the eight-engine hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short, a 9-passenger, high-wing aircraft. The company claims a 150-foot ground roll, 75 dBA at 300 feet, and 40% lower fuel burn. The target market is regional aircraft. The Ultra Short technology demonstrator is undergoing flight testing. The first eSTOL flight was May 16, 2024. Video: Electra First eSTOL Flight May 2024 https://youtu.be/esTykmreHuQ?si=1dRhyc5CSsWihtL2 John Langford is the founder and CEO of Electra.aero. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the immediate past President of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). He founded Aurora Flight Sciences in 1989, Athena Technologies in 1998, and Electra.aero in 2020. 6th-Generation F-47 Fighter Has A Message For Lockheed’s ‘Super’ F-35 After losing the F-47 NGAD contract to Boeing, Lockheed Martin has returned by promoting a Super F-35. Lockheed Martin Chairman, President, and CEO Jim Taiclet says the company plans to incorporate technologies from Lockheed’s NGAD bid to create an upgraded F-35. Taiclet calls it a “fifth-generation-plus” fighter. The claim is that this F-35 variant could provide almost 80% of sixth-gen capabilities, but cost about half the projected F-47 cost. Airbus to acquire Spirit AeroSystems industrial facilities Spirit AeroSystems was originally spun off from Boeing in 2005, but Boeing is now re-acquiring the company. That deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025. Boeing has reached a definitive agreement with Airbus SE to divest some Airbus-related assets, including: Kinston, North Carolina (A350 fuselage sections) St. Nazaire, France (A350 fuselage sections) Casablanca, Morocco (A321 and A220 components) Wichita, Kansas (A220 pylon production) Belfast, Northern Ireland: (Production of A220 wings and the A220 mid-fuselage) Prestwick, Scotland: (A320 and A350 wing component production) Airbus will receive US$439 million in compensation from Spirit AeroSystems to ensure Airbus takes ownership of Spirit's facilities and operations tied to Airbus programs. The closing of the transaction is planned in the third quarter of 2025. The Airbus asset divestiture and the Boeing merger are subject to regulatory approvals. Also, Airbus has an agreement with Spirit AeroSystems to provide Spirit AeroSystems with US$200 million in non-interest-bearing lines of credit to support Airbus programs. Finlets A Closer Look at Finlets – Aircraft ‘Fins’ for Sustainable Aviation Finlets are patented by Vortex Control Technologies (VCT). The company focuses on aerodynamically controlling vortices emanating from the aft fuselage of aircraft. Why No Winglet On Horizontal Stabilizer? Why don't horizontal stabilizers have winglets? Finlets on a C-17. Photo courtesy Vortex Control Technologies. Mentioned Mayor Left Speechless After Theft of Amelia Earhart Statue in Harbour Grace Boeing begins flying back planes refused by Chinese airlines Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

845 Aircraft Maintenance Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

We speak with a KC-135 pilot and licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic who runs a business specializing in aircraft maintenance, avionics upgrades, and aircraft management. In the news, budget cuts at NOAA's Oceanic and Atmospheric Research Office, a ruling in the so-called “toxic uniform” lawsuit against American Airlines, wildlife hazards, the Swiss Global 7500 aircraft, ATC retirement age, and Air Force restrictions on pregnant pilots. A KC-135R Stratotanker taxis down the flight line in an alert response during a Nuclear Operational Readiness Exercise (NORE) at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, April 6, 2025.(U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Jesse Hanson) Guest James Spearman is an aviation entrepreneur who owns James Spearman Aircraft LLC, an FAA Part 145 Repair Station specializing in aircraft maintenance, avionics upgrades, and aircraft management. He is also an active KC-135 Stratotanker pilot with the Tennessee Air National Guard who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in December 2024. James holds a CFI, A&P with Inspection Authorization (IA), and Seaplane ratings (ASES, AMEL, ASEL). He has over 1,000 flight hours in a range of aircraft, from the KC-135 Stratotanker to a Cessna 140, and holds type ratings in the Boeing 707, Boeing 720, Beechjet 400, and Mitsubishi MU-300. James graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Maintenance Management. In our conversation, James describes flying the KC-135 Stratotanker in a night-time combat mission and experiencing a loss of electrical power. He and his crew managed to compensate and return safely to base. We also look at how he started his aircraft maintenance business, the type of work performed, and his commitment to a high-level white-glove service. James’ aircraft maintenance company works primarily on Cirrus airplanes, and he is also a Diamond Aircraft authorized service center, an Epic service center, and a Garmin avionics dealer. Seaplane discovery rides and ICON A5 training are offered through Iconic Air & Sea Adventures. James also produces the The James Spearman Show podcast. Eleven Airmen from the 134th Air Refueling Wing receive the Distinguished Flying Cross on December 7, 2024 at a ceremony on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Knoxville, Tennessee. The ceremony highlighted the critical role played by the recipients during a coordinated defense effort in response to one of the largest missile and drone attacks in history, when Iran launched a massive assault on Israel involving over 300 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Ben Cash) Aviation News Stand Up for NOAA Research – The Time to Act is Now A Statement from the American Meteorological Society, in partnership with the National Weather Association, says “The administration's 2026 budget passback plan, currently under consideration, eliminates NOAA's Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Office and its 10 research laboratories and 16 affiliated Cooperative Institutes, and moves the few remaining research efforts to different NOAA departments. If enacted, the passback would close all of NOAA’s weather, climate, and ocean Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes.” The organizations are asking concerned citizens to reach out elected representatives and share concerns. Find Your Representative Find Your Senator Judge Throws Out ‘Toxic Uniform’ Lawsuit Against American Airlines After Nearly Eight Years Of Litigation The class action lawsuit, first filed in 2017, alleged that uniforms given by American Airlines to pilots, flight attendants, and other employees caused rashes, hives, breathing difficulties, and headaches. After nearly eight years, the federal judge threw out the lawsuit against American Airlines and former uniform manufacturer Twin Hill in a summary judgment, saying there was insufficient evidence proving that the uniforms caused the symptoms. Rabbit sucked into United Airlines’ plane engine causes ‘giant fireball,’ forces flight to make emergency landing On takeoff from Denver International Airport to Edmonton, Canada, United Flight 2325 experienced a rabbit strike on the #2 engine. A loud bang was followed by “significant vibration.” The FAA reported that in 2024, there were more than 20,000 aircraft wildlife strikes. Most were birds, four were rabbits.See Wildlife Hazard Mitigation from the FAA to report a strike and download data from the FAA Wildlife Strike Database. Rob and the Easter Bunny. (Rob is on the left.) If the brand new $117 million private jet being too big to fit in their hangar was not embarrassing enough for Swiss officials, in less than two months of taking delivery, the jet broke down in Turkey, forcing the Swiss foreign minister to abandon it and fly in a smaller jet The Swiss Air Force acquired a new Bombardier Global 7500 for the diplomatic fleet. Too large for its hangars in Bern, the jet is hangared 40 kilometers away at Payerne Air Base. The main capital runway is too short for it to take off fully fueled. The jet experienced a power loss in one of the two GE Passport engines during takeoff. Transportation Secretary Questions ATC Retirement Age U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is concerned about ATC staffing shortages and the weak pipeline of controllers. Duffy said "We have too many controllers that retire after 25 years of service. And so we have to look and go, is this a national security issue? Is this a safety issue? And should these air traffic controllers be retiring after 25 years of service?" Federal law mandates that controllers retire by age 56. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) argues that raising the retirement age doesn’t address the root problem. The union advocates for increased recruitment, enhanced training programs, and stronger retention efforts. Air Force brings back restrictions on pregnant pilots The Air Force is reversing a policy that allowed pregnant pilots to fly under certain conditions, citing insufficient data on the effects of g-force and miscarriage risks. Critics argue that outdated studies and lack of health data have led to restrictive rules, forcing women to choose between flying and family. Mentioned Video: NZ7001 delivery flight talk Brad Scott https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD7V4Sg5BV0 Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

844 Airline Retailing Apr 16, 2025

Show notes

Airline retailing with ATPCO CEO Alex Zoghlin, IATA’s New Distribution Capability, Offers & Orders, and the Elevate industry conference. In the news, AI transformation of the airline industry, cyber criminals stealing United FA login credentials, shark skin riblets on Delta 767s, first flight of a prototype hydrogen-powered helicopter, China’s tailless 6th generation fighter jet, and a fatal helicopter crash in the Hudson River. Guest Alex Zoghlin is the CEO of ATPCO, a neutral industry partner that provides airline management tools, pricing data, and solutions that support airline retailing. Owned by the airlines, ATPCO blends data and systems with technology to create value for hundreds of commercial airlines around the world. The company turned 60 this year. IATA describes Airline retailing as a customer-centric approach in the airline industry that focuses on enhancing the shopping experience across various channels. It is enabled by the New Distribution Capability (NDC), which allows airlines to offer more personalized services and products directly to consumers. This modern retailing model emphasizes frictionless, intuitive, and personalized shopping experiences for travelers. The transition to this model provides airlines with opportunities to innovate their distribution strategies and create additional value. Alex explains how ATPCO provides value to airlines. We talk about continuous pricing and dynamically generated fares as well as some of the factors airlines use in their pricing strategies. He describes how airlines can have fixed price points for different offerings, then turn specific offerings on or off depending on the circumstances. We look at curated ticket pricing that can create the specific travel experience the customer wants - extra baggage, type of seat, lounge access, etc. With this capability, airlines could potentially compete for the flyer's travel business. ATPCO’s Elevate 2025 airline industry conference was held April 7-10, 2025, in Chicago. Alex says the conference theme this year was data and AI: How airlines can use the wealth of available data and some AI tools to make win-win offerings for both the airlines and the consumers. In our conversation with Alex, we consider several other airline industry topics such as the 2050 industry carbon reduction goals and the current tariff situation in the United States. Alex is a long-time airline/travel industry veteran. He co-founded Orbitz, sold a distribution startup to Travelport, and worked as a VP at Hyatt for 6 years. Alex has several aviation-related pursuits: He’s a pilot and a flight simmer, he has a Part 107 drone license, and he participates in launching large amateur rockets, specifically the LDRS (Large, Dangerous Rocket Ships), an annual gathering of rocket enthusiasts organized by the Tripoli Rocketry Association. Aviation News How AI is Transforming the Airline Industry The Promise of Travel in the age of AI, a 32-page Skift & McKinsey report (2023), claims that AI could generate an estimated US$45bn in potential value for the airline industry globally through operational efficiencies, revenue optimization, and customer service improvements. AI is already impacting the airlines through organizational changes, predictive maintenance from aircraft health monitoring, AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots, personalized in-flight entertainment options, and voice-cloning technology to provide a multilingual IFE system. In the future, look for flight path optimization for increased fuel efficiency, refined dynamic pricing models, and even autonomous aircraft. Cyber Criminals Are Going After The Paychecks Of United Airlines Flight Attendants Using Fake Websites That Look Legit Criminals are using website spoofing to steal the login credentials of United FAs. In addition to paychecks, Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are at risk. Airline passengers who quickly search for an airline's phone number can also become victims of scams. Delta Air Lines Innovates Fuel Efficiency with Shark Skin Riblets on 767s In partnership with Australian company MicroTau, Delta is testing “shark skin” riblets that reduce drag on the Boeing 767. The claim is up to a 4% improvement in fuel efficiency. The skin is applied to the fuselage, wing, and tails. MicroTau's Riblet Package was also tested on Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 technology demonstrator. The engineering behind the first hydrogen-powered helicopter flight A Robinson R44 that has been modified as a hydrogen-powered helicopter prototype achieved a successful first flight. Robinson and Unither Bioélectronique (through the United Therapeutics subsidiary) are collaborating on the project that incorporates two low-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, a lithium-ion booster battery pack, and a MagniX electric motor. The cylindrical hydrogen fuel tank is mounted under the tail boom and the cooling system utilizes two nacelles on either side of the helicopter. See: What are proton exchange membrane fuel cells and how do they work? Courtesy Biolin Scientific. New video of China’s tailless, triple-engine fighter jet has military aviation community buzzing New video of the J-36 flying over a highway have appeared on Chinese social media sites. The highway is located near the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group runway where the jet is believed to have been made. See: New Video Of China’s J-36 Next Generation Stealth Fighter Emerges and 6-second video of the J-36 on X. Fewer than 1 in 3 airlines have advanced offer and order strategies IATA explains in Distribution with Offers & Orders (New Distribution Capability - NDC) that NDC is a data exchange format based on Offer and Order management processes for airlines. This allows airlines to create and distribute relevant offers to the customer, regardless of the distribution channel. NDC (New Distribution Capability) was launched by IATA and is a travel industry-supported program. It’s open to any third party, intermediary, IT provider or non-IATA member, to implement and use. See: On-demand Webinar - The Future of Airline Retailing: Building a Customer-First Model with Offers & Orders The Future of Airline Retailing: Building a Customer-First Model with Offers & Orders IATA: Get Started with Airline Retailing [PDF] Helicopter crashes in Hudson River in New York City, all 6 on board killed The chartered helicopter was flying a couple and their three children on a sightseeing tour. Video shows the Bell 206 falling into the river without a tail rotor or a main rotor blade. See: Deadly Hudson River helicopter crash renews calls to restrict non-emergency flights. Local New York City elected officials are calling for a ban on non-emergency helicopter traffic over the City. Mayor Eric Adams countered that there is no need for an outright ban. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Max Trescott, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.

843 Deportation Flights Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

Challenges faced by charter operators in deportation flights, the NTSB's new online accident reporting portal, rising military aviation accident rates, the uncertain future of Air Wisconsin, and the merger of regional carriers Republic and Mesa. Also, findings from the NTSB regarding Boeing evacuation slides, the impact of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) on businesses, innovations in helicopter technology, and the legacy of women in aviation, particularly the WASPs during World War II. Aviation News Inside ICE Air: Flight Attendants on Deportation Planes Say Disaster Is “Only a Matter of Time” Miami-based Global Crossing Airlines (operating as GlobalX) is a Part 121 operator and the primary contractor for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation flights. (Known as “ICE Air”). Seven current and former GlobalX flight attendants spoke with ProPublica and expressed concerns about the safety of the deportation flights. Courtesy GlobalX. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics In fiscal year 2024, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) reported conducting over 1,000 charter deportation flights. Avelo ripped for plan to fly ICE deportation charters as Tong suggests pulling state support: 'Deeply disappointing' Avelo Airlines plans to begin flying deportation flights for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security out of Arizona. Connecticut local and state officials are expressing displeasure with the airline. The mayor of New Haven suggested that the state consider pulling its "support" for Avelo. NTSB introduces new online portal for accident reports The new online Form 6120.1 supplements the paper version. The overall process for reporting an accident remains the same: Step 1: Preserve the scene. Step 2: Provide an Initial Report to the NTSB 24-hour Response Operations Center (ROC). Step 3: NTSB determines if they will investigate the accident. Step 4: Complete 6120.1 form after the NTSB Investigator contacts you. See: Report an Aircraft Accident to the NTSB You can complete the form by either downloading the PDF version or using the interactive digital form, which you can access through a unique link that the investigator will email to you. If you witnessed an aircraft accident and would like to provide the NTSB with a statement of your observations, prepare a statement and email it to witness@ntsb.gov. U.S. Military Records Highest Aviation Accidents In A Decade; What Is The Major Cause Of Rising Incidents? The EurAsian Times says, “FY2024 was one of the worst aviation safety years for the US Army in a decade.” They cite statistics from the Aviation Division of the Directorate of Analysis and Prevention at the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center showing a “steady decline in mishap rates per 100,000 hours beginning in 2006.” FY2022 saw a record low of 0.50 Class A mishaps per 100,000 hours, but that rate doubled in 2023 and the FY2024 Class A mishap rate (1.90) was almost four times greater than FY2022. Air Wisconsin Halts Scheduled Flights, Future Uncertain American Airlines’ 5-year contract with Air Wisconsin for regional capacity has ended. The April 3, 2025 breakup was announced last January, when Air Wisconsin President and CEO Robert Binns noted that the airline is making a “strategic shift” to focus on government-subsidized Essential Air Service flying and charter operations. To date, the airline has been unsuccessful in winning any EAS contracts. Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group to Combine, Creating America's Regional Airline of Choice Republic Airways Holdings Inc. and Mesa Air Group, Inc. announced that they have a definitive agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction. If the merger succeeds, the combined company would be renamed Republic Airways Holdings Inc. Bryan Bedford, Republic's President and Chief Executive Officer, said "We're thrilled to combine the Republic and Mesa teams to create one of the world's leading Embraer Jet operators. Republic and Mesa share a common mission to connect communities across America, and we believe that we can better achieve that mission together. With this combination, we are establishing a single, well-capitalized, public company that will benefit from the deep expertise of Republic and Mesa associates, creating value for all stakeholders well into the future." See: Republic Acquiring Mesa, Forming Bigger Regional Airline NTSB Finds Issues with Boeing Evacuation Slides The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recently made seven critical safety recommendations relating to evacuation slides — three to Boeing and four to the FAA. The safety recommendations address the failure of an evacuation slide to deploy normally during an emergency evacuation. NTSB identified the issue during an investigation of an emergency landing involving FedEx flight 1376, a Boeing 757-236, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. See: Address Noncompliant Evacuation Slide Components on Boeing Airplanes [PDF] On October 4, 2023, the flight crew of FedEx flight 1376, a Boeing 757-236, received an engine indication and crew alerting system message indicating a failure of the left hydraulic system shortly after takeoff from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport-Lovell Field (CHA), Chattanooga, Tennessee. The flight crew turned the airplane back to CHA but could not lower the landing gear. The crew declared an emergency and performed a gear-up landing. The flight crew could not open the left (L1) door, and the slide did not deploy. An attempt was made to open the right (R1) door, but it lodged on the slide pack. With force, the door was opened, the slide deployed, and the crew exited the airplane. Preliminary findings from the NTSB indicate different reasons for the difficulty in opening the L1 and R1 doors to deploy the evacuation slides. The R1 bannis latch (which releases the slide pack when an armed door is opened) did not conform to the then-current configuration of the release cable assembly. After the CHA accident, FedEx inspected the L1 and R1 doors on the 97 other airplanes in its Boeing 757 fleet and found no other instances of a misrouted deployment strap. However, the inspection found 46 doors (about 24%) that were not compliant with other ADs The NTSB’s review of the Boeing 757 and FedEx aircraft maintenance manuals found that they contain inconsistent depictions of the bannis latch configuration as required by ADs. Lawmakers Push For Airport TFR Relief New Jersey and Florida lawmakers say their airports suffered harm from the Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) that occur when President Trump visits. They want compensation and sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau asking for that from existing congressional funds. According to the Patch, Congress has allocated $3.5 million annually to compensate businesses that are regularly impacted by TFRs, but funding applications cannot proceed until the FAA opens a Notice of Funding Opportunity. See: Kean Advocates For Airports Impacted By Trump's Visits To Bedminster Mentioned David Vanderhoof’s History Minute on Instagram from the American Helicopter Museum is about the Navy and Marine Corps celebrating their 250th Anniversary in 2025. Max Trescott’s We Fly: Skyryse One article in Flying magazine about the Skyryse One helicopter—a single control stick, IFR-certified version of the Robinson R66. Rob Mark’s Jetwhine post, ”When the WASPs Took Over Avenger Field” by Pam LeBlanc. Video: Chinook CH-47 Helicopter Ground Resonance Test and Self Destructs with Rear Tandem Rotor Breaking https://youtu.be/oUuCfWxdz9o?si=En47Pqlvsp1nhhAX 00:00 Introduction to Aviation News and Updates02:27 NTSB's New Online Accident Reporting Portal09:17 Deportation Flights and Charter Operators' Challenges16:40 Rising Military Aviation Accident Rates26:52 Air Wisconsin's Uncertain Future32:47 Merger of Regional Carriers Republic and Mesa35:43 NTSB Findings on Boeing Evacuation Slides46:11 Navigating Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)49:40 Congressional Support for TFR-Affected Businesses50:51 Innovations in Helicopter Technology56:41 The Future of Helicopter Operations01:01:43 Women in Aviation: The WASP Legacy01:11:14 Closing Thoughts Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Max Trescott, and Rob Mark.

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