Question of the Week: Crash Pilots as Criminals? February 2, 2012 A New Hampshire pilot is facing manslaughter charges in the death of his daughter after the twin he was flying without a multi-endorsement crashed in Massachusetts. Are there circumstances where pilots should face criminal action?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about the proposed weight limit increases for light sport aircraft; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: On a related note, last week we asked about the future of the Reno Air Races; click through to see how readers answered that poll.
Question of the Week: Should the Races Go On? January 5, 2012 The group that runs the National Championship Air Races in Reno says there will be at least one more gathering at Reno-Stead Airport, but it's up to the powers that be to decide the form it will take. If you were pulling the strings, what would it look like?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers ; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: 2011 Year-in-Review December 29, 2011 As 2011 draws to a close, we want to know which GA news coverage was most compelling to our readers. What was the top general aviation news story of 2011?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers who should succeed Randy Babbitt at the FAA; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what they thought of the FAA's plan to charge for access to AeroNav's electronic charts; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: Is the FAA Right to Raise Prices for Digital Charts? December 15, 2011 To cover its expenses, the FAA's AeroNav proposes to charge at least $150 per user for its digital databases, more than doubling the cost of apps like ForeFlight and WingX and probably eliminating free viewing of charts on services like DUATs and other no-charge sites. Is the FAA right to raise prices for digital charts?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers for their opinion on Randy Babbitt's resignation as FAA Administrator; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if any of the manufacturers are getting close to finding the perfect price point for LSAs. Click through for the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what they thought of D.B. Cooper's infamous skyjacking: Was it a smashing success, or did it end in tragedy? Click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: What Happened to D. B. Cooper? November 24, 2011 Today is the 40th anniversary of arguably the most famous hijacking of all time and one of the most compelling mysteries of the last four decades. In today's blog, Dan Gryder offers a video teasing a full explanation of the crime, and our Editorial Director Paul Bertorelli notes there are no shortage of questions and answers about the case. What do you think: Did D.B. Cooper pull off the perfect crime?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers how the FAA's decision to begin charging for flight data will affect them, if at all; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: This week's it's wildlife, but last week we asked if our readers had ever had any encounters with lasers shone at them from the ground; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers how reliant they are on high-tech instruments in the cockpit; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: How's Your Electronics Dependence? October 27, 2011 This week we learned that iPads have the ability to randomly delete files, including your charts and plates. We're wondering how dependent you've become on tablets, touch screens and other wonder boxes. How much do you rely on high-tech tools in the cockpit?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they're ready to sign up for a tour of outer space; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked what the top story out of this year's NBAA Convention was; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: NBAA's Top Story October 13, 2011 We've just wrapped up our coverage of the 2011 NBAA Convention in Las Vegas, and now we'd like to hear from you. What do you think the big news out of NBAA was?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb if the FAA was on track with mandating 700 hours of flight time for first officers on airlines; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about AOPA and EAA's joint attempt to push reform of the third class medical certificate; click through to see a breakdown of the answers we received.
Question of the Week: Third Class Medicals and Recreational Flying September 29, 2011 EAA and AOPA will propose to the FAA that the driver's license medical that now applies to Sport Pilot certificate holders be expanded, and their initial suggestion is that it be limited to the ability to fly four-place aircraft (with one passenger) having 180 horsepower or less, fixed gear, day VFR. What do you think?
Plus: On our way out the door to the AOPA Summit two weeks ago, we was AVweb readers what aviation issue they believe should be AOPA's top priority as an organization. Click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked if airline pilots are becoming too reliant on automation and "forgetting how to 'fly the airplane'"; click through to see how AVweb readers responded.
Plus: Last week, we asked if EAA's Young Eagles-inspired program for adults can attract new pilots the world of general aviation; click through to see what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if the development of high-tech Russian and Chinese fighter jets represent and end to the American century of air superiority; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they agreed with a study predicting that pilots make better business executives; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if D.B. Cooper had finally been identified; click through to see how many readers claim to know the real story.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about renewed interest in user fees (and the new wrinkles in this latest proposal). Click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers which they would choose if they could have only one — GPS or broadband internet. Click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if general aviation businesses are too dependent on tax breaks; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: Tax Breaks and GA June 30, 2011 President Obama pretty much sealed the fate of bonus depreciation on GA aircraft in a press conference Wednesday. Is the general aviation industry too dependent on tax breaks?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if Boeing should continue the 737 program despite the costs of upgrading and head back to the drawing board and try to come up with another game-changing paradigm; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: Upgraded 737 or New Airplane? June 23, 2011 The big question in the commercial airplane business — and one that wasn't answered at the Paris Air Show — is whether Boeing will upgrade the 737 at great cost (because of design issues) or create a whole new airplane. If you were Boeing's CEO, what would you do in the single-aisle market?
Plus: Last week, we asked whether historic aircraft like the Liberty Belle should be flying; click through to see how AVweb readers answered our last "QOTW."
Plus: Last week, we asked what advice AVweb readers would give to Cessna's new CEO, Scott Ernest; click through to see the breakdown of our readers' answers.
Plus: Last week, in the wake of data recovered from Air France 447's CVRs, we asked if automation has made flying safer or just opened the door to new hazards; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: Fly the Airplane? May 26, 2011 According to the Wall Street Journal, the crew of Air France 447 got so wrapped up in the management of systems they forgot to "fly the airplane" as so many of us had drummed into us. Has automation made us safer — or more vulnerable?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers how much financial support governments should provide to aviation companies. Did Canada make the wrong decision about funding Diamond's D-Jet? Click through to see how AVweb readers answered our poll.
Plus: Last week, AVweb reader Dave Myrick wanted to know what you consider the single greatest threat to general aviation; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: Fuel and the Future of GA May 12, 2011 This week's question was suggested by AVweb reader Dave Myrick, who wants to know what his fellow flying enthusiasts think is the greatest threat currently facing GA.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if China's plan for opening their country to GA will be good for the West; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if government is overreacting to the recent reports of controller lapses; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Back before Sun 'n Fun, we asked readers to rate their recent experiences with ATC; click through to see the breakdown of their answers.
Question of the Week: How's ATC Been Lately? March 24, 2011 In light of the apparent lapse at Reagan National early Wednesday, we're wondering if you've noticed any slip or improvement on the other end of the radio in the past couple of years. How would you rate ATC service?
Plus: With U.S. investors loking at the viability of a counterbid to AVIC's Cirrus offer, we asked AVweb readers what they thought of Cirrus as an investment. Click through to see how they answer's last week's poll question.
Plus: Last week, we asked how to define "Made in America" in terms of aircraft construction; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: What Does "Made in the U.S.A." Mean? February 24, 2011 Many American aircraft manufacturers perform varying amounts of the construction of their aircraft in other countries. Now Embraer is doing final assembly of its Phenom light jets in Melbourne, FL and saying those aircraft are "made in the U.S.A." This week, we put the question to readers: What is an American airplane?
Plus: Last week, we asked what project would top Congress's aviation spending if AVweb readers were in charge of the budget; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what kind of warbird they would like to fly (assuming money were no object); click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if the LSA sector is fulfilling its original promise of bolstering general aviation; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: LSA Gut Check January 20, 2011 The LSA market continues to evolve and go through changes many predicted in concept, if not in detail. With the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring this week, we're asking you if light sport has raised the profile and appeal of general aviation as a whole.
Plus: Last week, we asked if shoulder restraints should be mandatory equipment in aircraft; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about the Chinese J-20 fighter jet and what it signifies for China's role in aerospace; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: How About China? January 6, 2011 With China courted by the West for the potential aviation business it might create, is the possibly suspect emergence of a high-tech F-35-esque stealth fighter of concern?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they're ready to own an electric airplane; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Are YOU Ready for the Electric Airplane? December 30, 2010 We've asked this a couple of times before, but we think it's worth asking again whether the advances in electric aircraft design are making you think in that direction. Could your next airplane be electric?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about ADS-B subsidies — who's getting them and who (if anyone) should get them. Click through for a breakdown of the answers.
Question of the Week: ADS-B — Who Pays? December 23, 2010 Last week, an aviation panel recommended the federal government subsidize the installation of ADS-B equipment in airliners and business jets. Does that make sense to you?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about their use of online flight planning services; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what they did to give back to the aviation community in 2010; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Giving Back November 25, 2010 'Tis the season to be thankful and maybe a little more generous. What have you done lately to further the cause of keeping GA healthy?
Plus: Last week, we asked about the TSA's full-body scans and pat-downs. Click through to see what AVweb readers made of the hullabaloo.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if the Third Class Medical should be abandoned entirely; click through to see what they had to say on the subject.
Plus: Back before NBAA, we asked whether the United States is (or should be) the dominant force in setting pilot and aircraft certification standards; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: Where Does the U.S. Stand in Aviation? October 14, 2010 FAA credentials are widely accepted throughout the world, regardless of the requirements of other countries. The European Union is consideringinvalidating U.S. certificates and aircraft certification standards. Is this a trend, and what should be done about it?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what makes an airplane an airplane; click through to view the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: Your ADS-B Checklist September 30, 2010 ADS-B will be fully deployed by 2013 but not mandatory until 2020. What's your timetable for becoming compliant?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about through-the-fence agreements. You can probably guess where most of our readers fell on the subject, but click through if you'd like to see the actual breakdowns.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about the U.S. Air Force's proposal to mix UAV traffic amongst GA aircraft in the skies over North Dakota; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: Can Military UAVs Mix with Other Traffic? September 16, 2010 We've asked questions about military UAVs and the rest of us before, but now the Air Force has specific ideas on how that airspace should be shared. In its proposal for a 1,200-square mile training box in North Dakota. Do you think military UAVs should be sharing the air with civilian aircraft?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers whether satellite tracking could or should replace emergency locator beacons; click through to see how everyone answered.
Question of the Week: Time to Phase Out ELTs? September 9, 2010 In some high-profile recent accidents, emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) have failed to activate or their signals were obscured. The technology has existed for some time to track individual aircraft by satellite. Should we scrap ELTs in favor of satellite tracking?
Plus: Last week, we asked why aviation incidents and accidents are so appealing to the mainstream media — and got some great letters on that topic, by the way. Click here to read a couple. And click through on the headline to see the complete breakdown of answers to last week's poll.
Question of the Week: Is It Safe to Panic Yet? September 2, 2010 By now you've likely heard about John and Martha King being held at gunpoint by police in Santa Barbara last weekend. We've already heard from more than 100 readers about how they feel about the whole thing. Now, we want to know how you feel — not about what happened to the Kings, but where GA fits in the whole scheme of security and crime.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about a mid-air collision between a radio-controlled model airplane and a biplane — and whether that indicated a need for new regulations. Click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked whether a recent string of air show accidents and incidents indicated performances were becoming unsafe and should be discontinued. You can probably guess which side of the issue most AVweb readers came down on, but click through to see the numbers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what legal protections should be in place for flight school students; click through to see the breakdown of answers.
Question of the Week: A Vision for EAA's New President August 5, 2010 EAA has picked a new president, and AVweb asked Rod Hightower what his vision was for the next five years. You can view his response here, and we encourage you to have a look before you reply. We've given some options below but realize this might not be a classic multiple-choice question so feel free to expand your thoughts in a letter to the editor at editor@avweb.com. We'll feature the letters that represent a cross-section of points of views in our Monday AVwebFlash.
Plus: Back before AirVenture, we asked AVweb readers if the U.S. should consider an owner maintenance cateogory; click through to see the answers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers ; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Are You Worried About Access to 100-Octane Fuel? July 1, 2010 It's all about the avgas. The clock is ticking on 100LL, and many are worried that there may be a 100 octane crunch in the days before a new fuel standard solidifies. We're curious if the thought keeps you awake at night. Do you think enough is being done to ensure a supply of 100 octane fuel in the future?
Plus: Last week, we asked about your efforts to the beat the equipment upgrade deadline on ELTs; click through to see how your fellow AVweb readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about the state of pilot professionalism; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Pilot Professionalism May 27, 2010 Pilot professionalism has been on the minds of lots of people in high places in the last week, with an NTSB forum and some follow-up speeches on the topic. How are pro pilots doing, in your opinion?
Plus: How many of you participated in Learn to Fly Day? Click through for the results of last week's question.
Plus: Last week, TCM accounced their plans for a diesel engine and we asked AVweb readers if they'd consider a diesel engine in their airplanes; click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked if it might be time to re-consider LORAN-C as a ground-based alternative to GPS — and got some great mail on the subject. Click through to see how your fellow AVweb readers answered.
Plus: Back before our Sun 'n Fun polling hiatus, we asked readers for their opinion on the FAA's decision to allow more tolerance in active pilots' use of antidepressants under "special issuance" certificates; click through to see how your fellow readers answered.
Question of the Week: Antidepressants and Aviators April 7, 2010 Last week, the FAA decided to relax the rules on anti-depression medications. What do you think? Do you support the FAA's decision to allow special issuance certificates for pilots (undergoing treatment) with well-controlled clinical depression?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they'll be attending either of the major U.S. summer aviation shows (Sun 'n Fun and AirVenture), just local air shows, or some combination of the two; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Air Show Season Plans April 1, 2010 Where are you headed and what will take you there? Air show season begins in earnest in two weeks with Sun 'n Fun going from April 13-18. We'd like to hear your aviation event travel plans for 2010.
Plus: Last week, we asked if the time has come for an overhaul of the flight training system; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers for their opinions on air traffic controller Glenn Duffy and his son, now infamous as DFW's "Kid Controller." Click through to see how the AVweb community answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what stance GA should take toward the future of lead in avgas — and got a pretty clear answer. Click through to find out how your fellow readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb which of the currently-proposed alternatives to 100LL (if any) will reign as the avgas of the future; click through to see how your fellow readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers which of major nominees should receive this year's Collier Trophy; click through to see their pick.
Question of the Week: Your 2010 Collier Trophy Picks February 4, 2010 The nominations for the prestigious Collier Trophy, given annually by the National Aeronautic Association for "the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America, with respect to improving the performance, efficiency, and safety of air or space vehicles, the value of which has been thoroughly demonstrated by actual use during the preceding year" were released Wednesday. Who or what is your pick for aviation's most prestigious prize?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what the various GA groups should make their top priority in 2010; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: GA's Top Priority in 2010 January 28, 2010 The leaders of the major aviation groups got together this week to discuss priorities for the coming year and came up with a list. Which is the most pressing in your opinion?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers whether they'd train in an LSA if they suddenly found themselves back at the beginning of their pilot training. Click through to see how they answered.
Plus: Last week, we tackled a hot-button topic and asked if general aviation pays its fair share into the system; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked about increasing airline security and whether it will discourage people from traveling commercially; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Tougher Security ... Fewer Passengers? January 7, 2010 There are more checkpoints, procedures, delays, and red tape than ever involved in flying commercial. This week, we'd like to know if the hoops are changing your reliance on the airlines to get from Point A to Point B.
Plus: Last week, we asked how much flying you plan to do in 2010; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: Your 2010 Flying Plans December 31, 2009 The new year is upon us, and we'd like to know how many of you plan to fly more this year, how many plan to taper off, and how many are making drastic changes (i.e., giving it up).
Plus: Last week, we cast our vision toward the future and asked how many AVweb readers plan to buy LSAs at some point. Click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Shopping for an LSA in 2010? December 24, 2009 It's been a while since we last asked about light sport airplanes. Are you planning to buy one during the coming year? Or have you already taken the plunge?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers for their opinions on the 1,500-hour minimum requirement proposal; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Measuring Competence in Hours December 17, 2009 The National Association of Flight Instructors is saying that hours of experience may not translate to a measurable level of skill in pilots. We'd like your opinion on the matter.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about through-the-fence agreements; click through to see what they had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers how much flying they did in 2009 (compared to previous years). Click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Your 2009 Log Book December 3, 2009 2009 is winding down, and that's our cue to get nosy about our readers and their flying habits. We'd like to know how much air time you've logged this year.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers about the hefty fines levied against three airlines involved in a notorious ramp delay last year; click through to see what your fellow readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Aircraft Delays and Fines November 26, 2009 The Department of Transportation stepped in where Congress has so far feared to tread this week and levied large fines against three airlines involved in keeping a regional jet full of passengers on the small aircraft overnight last August. Is that the way to improve customer service?
Plus: Last week, we asked if the TSA's interest in repair stations as a potential security threat is warranted; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Repair Stations as a Security Concern November 19, 2009 The TSA has announced plans to impose stricter security requirements on FAA-certificated repair stations in the U.S. and in other countries. This week, we'd like readers to gauge the security threat posed by repair stations.
Plus: Last week, we asked if some historic aircraft are just too rare and historically precious to be flown by groups like the Commemoraitve Air Force; click through to find out where AVweb readers stand on the issue.
Question of the Week: Too Rare for the Air? November 12, 2009 The Commemorative Air Force lost its bid to keep a one-of-a-kind F-82 Twin Mustang when its appeal of an earlier court ruling in favor of the Air Force reclaiming the historic aircraft was rejected. The CAF originally wanted to restore the aircraft to flying condition, which prompts our latest Question. We'd like to know what you think about putting one-of-a-kind historic airplanes into the air.
Plus: We previously asked AVweb readers about the proposed legislation to ban laptops and other electronic distractions in the cockpit; click through to see how you responded to last week's Question.
Question of the Week: A Laptop Ban in the Cockpit? November 5, 2009 Two Northwest Airlines pilots have had their certificates revoked after they say they forgot to land in Minneapolis because they were using their laptops. Now Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) wants a federal law against laptops and "other personal electronic devices" in the cockpit. Is that really necessary?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if the Northwest pilots deserved to have their tickets revoked; click through to see what our audience had to say on the matter.
Plus: Last week, we asked how AVweb readers might defend the use of airplanes for business if they found themselves deep in conversation with a skeptic; click through to see which answer was the most popular among our readers.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if hassles, paperwork, expense, and uncertainty have sapped any of the fun from flying; click through to see how they answered.
Question of the Week: Is Flying Still Fun for You? October 15, 2009 Between rising costs, onerous security, and more regulation, sometimes it seems like the fun is going out of aviation. Do you agree?
Plus: Last week, we asked what AVweb readers thought of the possibility that teen-aged alleged serial airplane thief Colton Harris Moore learned to fly from the internet; click through to see what they had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked if Congress should be pushing harder to pass an FAA reauthorization bill; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they were personally contributing to the spike in air show attendance reported by ICAS (the International Council of Air Shows). Click through to see how many air shows your fellow readers have attended so far this year.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers for their opinion on the FAA's proposed revisions to the Hudson River Exclusion Area (EA). Click through to see how they responded.
Question of the Week: The FAA's Proposed Rules for the Hudson River Corridor September 3, 2009 The FAA is proposing rules that would segregate Hudson Class B Exclusion Area traffic by altitude and mandate common safety practices already used by many pilots. We'd like to know what you think of them, particularly the Class B VFR designation that is being proposed.
Plus: Last week, we asked if more manufacturers should be granted the same latitude as Boeing to self-certify parts and processes — or perhaps even wider powers of self-certification. Click through to see how AVweb readers responded.
Plus: With Barack Obama on vacation under a Presidential TFR at Martha's Vineyard this week, we thought it would be a good time to ask AVweb readers what they think of Temporary Flight Restrictions. Click through to see how your fellow readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if there should be tighter regulation of the VFR corridor over the Hudson River in New York City; click through to see the most popular responses.
Plus: Last week, GAMA released some sobering numbers about aircraft orders (and cancellations) for the current year. In response, we asked AVweb readers to predict when we might see the bottom of the current downturn for aviation. Click through to see how they answered last week's Question.
Plus: In the week leading up to EAA AirVenture, we asked which of the four major attractions at this year's show our readers were most excited about seeing; click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Plus: See which aviation trade shows AVweb readers told us are on their calendars for 2009.
Question of the Week: Your Trade Show Plans for 2009 July 16, 2009 Last week, we asked which air shows were on your schedule for 2009. This week, we want to shift away from the just-for-fun trips and look at the business and trade shows on your calendar.
Plus: See which air shows were most popular with your fellow AVweb readers in last week's poll.
Plus: Last week, in the wake of several VLJ announcements, we asked AVweb readers if there are still too many of these "personal jets" vying for space in an increasingly tough aviation market; click through to see how your fellow readers answered.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers to peer into their crystal balls and enlighten us as to the future of electric airplanes; click through to find out how our readership breaks down into dreamers, curmudgeons, and the steadfastly level-headed.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they would still recommend a job in the airline industry to young people shopping around for a career; click through to see how they responded.
Question of the Week: Still the Coolest Job in Town — Or Not So Much? June 18, 2009 There's been a lot of talk about the way young airline pilots are trained and treated after they're hired. This week, we want to know: Is flying the line still a career you'd recommend to young people?
Plus: Last week, we asked if flying was becoming too much of a hassle (what with the badges and the passenger manifests and the customs check horror stories); click through to see how AVweb readers answered.
Question of the Week: Is Flying Becoming Too Much of a Hassle? June 10, 2009 Security badges, rules about where you can go on the ramp, submitting passenger manifests, being held at gunpoint without any apparent cause — it's getting tougher to enjoy the freedom of flight these days. Is it giving you second thoughts about your flying activities?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers to rate the health of their local airport and its perceived value in the community at large; click through to see how they responded.
Plus: Last week, we asked about "personal aerial vehicles" and whether they will cause trouble for the GA community; click through to see what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Are You (And Your Airport) Ready for Hoverpods? May 28, 2009 Although the personal air vehicle has long been a goal for dreamers and schemers, new technology seems to be enabling machines that will be able to raise people from the surface but won't necessarily be airplanes. AVweb wants to know what pilots think about sharing the skies with these devices.
Plus: Last week, we asked how the TSA's proposal for security badges at GA airports might affect our readers; click through to read what your fellow AVwebbers had to say on the subject (as if you can't guess).
Question of the Week: Airport ID Badges May 21, 2009 Security badges at your local airport may be here sooner than you expect. If it happens, we're curious what your reaction will be.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they'd ever faced the same situation as air show performer Sean Tucker: running out of fuel. Click through to read what they had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Gassed Up and Ready to Go May 14, 2009 Since our podcast with Sean Tucker about his fuel exhaustion incident, we've had a lot of response to Paul Bertorelli's blog on the topic. We thought we'd poll the AVweb community anonymously through "Question of the Week" to see just how widespread this phenomenon is: Have you ever run out of gas?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they had upgraded to 406 MHz ELTs; click through to see how many of you have.
Question of the Week: 406 MHz ELTs — Will You Upgrade? May 7, 2009 In February, satellite monitoring for 121.5 ELTs ended, and the military, Coast Guard and Civil Air Patrol are strongly recommending installation of 406 ELTs, which are monitored. Canada has backed off on mandatory equipage. This week, AVweb wants to know how you feel about installing the new gear.
Plus: Everyone's watching the budget these days, including many AVweb readers who are foregoing new airplane purchases and instead choosing to spruce up their existing planes. Last week, we asked what you'd be buying for your airplane this year. Click through to see how your fellow readers answered.
Question of the Week: Shopping for Your Airplane April 29, 2009 Vendors at Sun 'n Fun reported surprisingly brisk sales this year, which indicates owners are tarting up their existing airplanes. What are you buying this year?
Plus: Wayyy back in the days before Sun 'n Fun, we ran a couple of stories that promised improvement on the economic horizon and asked AVweb readers if they really believed there were brighter days ahead for GA; click through to find out if AVweb readers see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Plus: Is the economic storm raining on your air show plans? Last week, we asked AVweb readers how many aviation events they will attend this season, compared to 2008. Click through to see what they told us.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers which sectors of the aviation economy could benefit the most from stimulus money; click through to find out where your peers thought that money could do the most good.
Question of the Week: Where Should Stimulus Money Be Spent? March 25, 2009 Plenty of parties — government and otherwise — stand ready to pump money into the aviation industry to help it weather economic hard times. But where should it be spent? We'd like to hear which segment of aviation should get the lion's share of "stimulation."
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what they might say to Juan Barnes, the TSA's new security liaison to GA, about the current state of the agency's policies and practices. Click thorugh to see what they had to say.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if their friends and family think they're rich because they fly; click through to see what the Rockefellers had to say for themselves.
Question of the Week: You Like to Fly; That Means You're Rolling in Dough, Right? February 19, 2009 Even GA pilots are beginning to feel pressure for their "rich man's hobby" in this turbulent economy. This week, we'd like to know how your friends, family, and peers view your involvement with aviation. Do others think you're rich because you fly?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers to put yourselves in the position of the major airplane makers and tell us how they'd react to the oppressive antipathy toward private jets that's been dominating the headlines; click through to see which approach readers favored.
Question of the Week: Walk a Mile in the Airplane Makers' Shoes ... February 12, 2009 There's no question about it: Washington is down on bizjets. Now that major airplane makers like Cessna and Hawker are mounting campaigns to remind everyone why companies use them, we thought a little armchair quarterbacking might be in order. This week, we invite you to picture yourself as the head of a major airplane manufacturer and tell us how you'd respond to the current climate.
Plus: Last week, we asked if the FAA should take a closer look at helicopter EMS procedures and perhaps create a new class of regulations; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked how companies receiving federal bailout money should handle air travel in the current climate; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: Business Travel in the Age of Bailouts January 29, 2009 After the Big Three automakers flew to Washington in their jets to request federal aid, private air travel in the name of business has become a touchy subject. With pressure to change their ways, corporations are beginning to ask themselves how to move executives from one place to another if they're partaking of government aid. We'd like to hear what you think: How should companies receiving federal bailouts deal with their travel needs?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers where they'd most like to fly to get away from it all; click through to find out which fantasy destination was the most popular.
Question of the Week: Your Ideal Pilot's Getaway January 22, 2009 We've tackled some pretty heavy topics in this section in the last little while, so (given the upbeat mood of this week), let's engage in a little desert island thinking: If you could get in your airplane (assuming unlimited capabilities by the pilot and the aircraft) and go anywhere you wanted right now, where would it be?
Plus: Last week, we gave AVweb readers the hypothetical opportunity to decide how federal aviation stimulus money should be spent; click through to see where your fellow readers' priorities lay.
Question of the Week: Aviation Stimulus Money — If It Comes, Where Should It Go? January 15, 2009 Times are tough, and money is tight — but everyone knows there are plenty of projects that need tackling in the aviation world. If the newly-unified aviation industry succeeds in getting federal spending for aviation infrastructure, what should be the first priority?
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if 2009 might be the year they take the plunge and buy a light airplane; click through to read what they told us.
Question of the Week: Is 2009 the Year You Buy a Light Airplane? January 8, 2009 Tough times for the U.S. economy have slowed predictions of breakout growth in general aviation — but they haven't stalled it. Tell us if this is the year you plan to buy a light airplane.
Plus: Last week, we asked which breaking news story of 2008 deserved the title "Story of the Year"; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: 2008 Aviation News Year-in-Review December 31, 2008 As 2008 draws to a close, we turn to our most trusted news source (that would be you, the AVweb reader) for an opinion on which headline dominated the year.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers what gifts they received over the holidays; click through to find out whether your fellow readers were naughty or nice.
Question of the Week: What Airplane Stuff Was Under Your Tree? December 24, 2008 Happy holidays from your friends at AVweb! Now that the biggest gift-giving day of the year has come and gone, we want to hear what aviation gifts you received during the holidays
Plus: Last week, we asked what gift is ideal for pilots; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they're flying more now that fuel prices have fallen; click through to read what they had to say on the subject.
Plus: Last week, we asked if Ford & GM made the right move in selling off their corporate jets; click through to read what AVweb readers had to say on the subject.
Question of the Week: The Next FAA Administrator November 20, 2008 With the new administration preparing to take office in the U.S., appointments and high-profile positions are on everyone's mind. This week, we'd like to hear what you think of aviation's top office. Who should be the next FAA Administrator? Plus: See what AVweb readers identified as the top GA priority for Obama's administration.
Question of the Week: Post-Election Priorities for General Aviation November 13, 2008 The U.S. elections are finally over, and the incoming Democratic administration is gearing up to take office. This week, we want to know where you think GA's priorities should lie. Plus: What future did AVweb readers predict for Eclipse and AAI?
Question of the Week: Uncertain Future for Leading VLJs October 30, 2008 Amid troubling new reports on some of the most promising very light jets, we find ourselves wondering what the future holds for AAI (owners of the Adam A700 design) and Eclipse. We imagine our readers are doing some wondering as well, and we're curious what you think. Plus: The results of last week's poll on (over-?)specialized job training in aviation.
Question of the Week: General Aviation and the Troubled Economy October 8, 2008 While the doors seemed to be falling off the global economy this week, we didn't see much evidence of hardship inside the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, where the National Business Aviation Association held its annual convention and trade show. In fact, quite a few businesses seemed to have sunnyoutlooksforbusinessaviation, at least for the forseeable future. But what about GA? How will the current economic conditions affect general aviation? Plus: Find out what AVweb readers said about foreign operators running U.S. airports, last week's "Question of the Week."
Question of the Week: Privatized Airports, Foreign Operators — Is There a Security Risk? October 2, 2008 In an age where security concerns dominate the American psyche, many AVweb readers may be surprised to learn that a Canadian company is taking over the operations of Chicago's Midway airport, making it the first major privatized airport in the U.S.. We're curious how you're reacting to the news (if at all). Is the privatization of major U.S. airports wise, and should foreign operators be allowed to bid? Plus: Do AVweb readers think the very light jet revolution is over?
Question of the Week: Is the VLJ Dream Dead? September 25, 2008 Two years ago, very light jets were seen as the future of business aviation and possible a savior for the entire industry. A number of recent events have shaken the faith of even true believers, but it's way too early to count VLJs out. This week, we want to hear what you think. Plus: Find out how AVweb readers answered last week's poll, on using their airplanes for humanitarian volunteer efforts.
Question of the Week: Helping Out with Your Airplane September 18, 2008 With so many members of the general aviation community donating their time, skills, money, and resources to the hurricane recovery effort in Texas, we'd like to know how much volunteering you've done. Plus: See what AVweb readers had to say about the state of aviation security in the U.S. seven years after 9/11.
Question of the Week: Reflecting on Post-9/11 Air Security September 11, 2008 It's been said that the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 changed everything; the date certainly motivated a lot of changes in general aviation, and we'd like to know what you think about them, seven years later. Plus: How interested are AVweb readers in owning the Martin Jetpack?
Question of the Week: The Martin Jetpack — You Know You Want One (Right?) September 4, 2008 It was all the rage at EAA AirVenture 2008, and now it seems the Martin Jetpack will be available with a BRS 'chute. This week, we're curious how many AVweb readers would be willing to sink their (hypothetical) money into one. Plus: See what AVweb readers said about experimentals' access to airport in densely-populated areas (last week's Question).
Question of the Week: Experimental Access to Major Airports August 28, 2008 A recent incident in Nevada has some calling for a ban on experimental and/or homebuilt airplanes at major airports in densely populated areas. We want to hear what you think. Plus: Find out what AVweb readers said about mandatory ELTs in the cockpit, the subject of last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Do Mandatory ELTs Make Sense in thd 21st Century? August 21, 2008 A debate in Canada is raging about mandatory equipage with 406 ELTs, and the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association says it's not only expensive, it's outdated technology that doesn't work much of the time. We know where COPA stands, but what do you think? Plus: What did AVweb readers make of the TSA's new security initiatives in response to last week's Question?
Question of the Week: The Biggest News Out of AirVenture '08 August 6, 2008 AVweb covered plenty of product announcements and breaking news at EAA AirVenture last week. Now we'd like to know what you consider the biggest news to come out of Oshkosh this year. Plus: See how AVweb readers rated their airport's security as we look at the results of our previous Question.
Question of the Week: Security at Your Airport July 24, 2008 AVweb has recently run two stories in which aircraft were tampered with or parts were stolen. Programs like Airport Watch work well when there are people around. This week, we'd like to know how you rate the night security at your airport. Plus: See how many single-engine personal jets AVweb readers think will be around in ten years' time.
Question of the Week: VLJs Are One Thing, But Is the Age of the Single-Engine Jet Upon Us? July 17, 2008 "Personal jets" are all the rage these days, but this week we want to know how you think they'll fare over the long term. How many single-engine jets do you think will be available 10 years from now? Plus: How fellow AVweb readers are making the trek to Oshkosh this year.
Question of the Week: Your AirVenture 2008 Travel Plans July 10, 2008 EAA AirVenture is just a couple of weeks away, and AVweb wants to know how you're going to get there. Plus: Results of last week's Question, asking what level of performance might tempt AVweb readers to buy an electric airplane.
Question of the Week: What Level of Performance Would Tempt You to Go Electric? July 3, 2008 With fuel prices constantly on the rise, we've been getting a lot of QOTW suggestions from readers about alternative power. This week, we have one from Bruce B., who sent us a rather specific list of characteristics and wonders if any of these might tempt AVweb readers to make the jump to a battery-powered electric airplane. Plus: The shocking result of last week's Question, "At what fuel price would you quit flying?"
Question of the Week: How Much Is Too Much for AvFuel? June 25, 2008 Fuel prices toppped $7 a gallon in Detroit earlier this week, and the U.S. average for 100LL is currently sitting at $5.54/gallon according to our own Fuel Finder. This week, we want to know where (and if) you draw the line at paying for ever more expensive fuel. Plus: See what type of instrument panel AVweb readers rated their favorite in response to last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Your Ideal Instrument Panel June 18, 2008 Many of you will be shopping for new cockpit instrumentation at AirVenture, and that brings to mind a question put to us by reader Brett Friermood a while back. Brett's not so fond of the glass panel cockpits but has the impression he's in a minority. This week, let's see where Brett's preference ranks in relation to other AVweb readers. Plus: The results of last week's poll, "How long do you think 100LL will be available?"
Question of the Week: The Future of 100LL June 11, 2008 With avgas prices rising and technology moving forward, we're starting to hear a lot of doom-and-gloom predictions for the future of 100 low-lead. This week, we want to know your opinion on the matter: How long do you think 100LL will be available? Plus: Find out which boogeyman AVweb readers rated the most threatening in last week's Question, fuel prices or user fees.
Question of the Week: User Fees vs. Rising Fuel Costs — Which Is a Greater Threat? June 4, 2008 This week's Question comes from AVweb reader Steve Allen, who wonders which has you more concerned — the rock or the hard place. Plus: Find out what AVweb readers are planning to do with their flying time this summer. (Hint: It's pretty low-key.)
Question of the Week: Summer Flying Plans May 29, 2008 This week, we want to know how you're spending your summer vacation (flying-wise). Plus: What did AVweb readers say about economic uncertainty and their personal flying habits in response to last week's Question?
Question of the Week: Economic Uncertainty and Your Aviation Plans May 21, 2008 Under threat of a looming recession, many companies and private individual are tightening their belts with regard to aviation spending. This week, we'd like to know how you're reacting to all this economic nervousness: Has the state of the economy affected your future aviation plans? Plus: Results from last week's poll, "Are diesel engines the wave of the future?"
Question of the Week: Are Aircraft Engines Going Diesel? May 15, 2008 Between new designs, new fuels, and better engineering, aircraft engines can be the most dynamic segment of the aviation business. Diesels have garnered a lot of attention lately, and we'd like to know whether you think this is a genuine shift in thinking or just a fad. Plus: Did AVweb readers see a future for air taxi operations when we asked them last week?
Question of the Week: Changing Forecast for Air Taxi Services? May 7, 2008 With DayJet's announcement that it will scale back operations and lay off employees, many are beginning to speculate that the bright, golden rug has been out from under the future of air taxi services. As usual, we'd like to know what you think: Do air taxi operations have a future? Plus: How many AVweb readers would say "yes" to an electric-powered airplane?
Question of the Week: Are You Ready for an Electric Plane? May 1, 2008 With alternative power, fuel efficiency, and the environmental footprint on everyone's mind, we're all starting to think tomorrow's aircraft may look and feel a little different from what we're used to. This week, we want to hear what you think about electric aircraft. Plus: Did AVweb readers do anything special to celebrate Earth Day last week?
Question of the Week: Earth Day, As Seen from the Skies April 23, 2008 If you're able to read AVweb, we can safely assume you've heard about Earth Day and all the new ways to conserve, recycle, and take a little better care of our environment that came out of this year's celebration — and if you've heard about it, there's even a chance you actually did something about it. Plus: Find out what AVweb readers had to say about synthetic vision technology in last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Synthetic Vision — Must-Have Tech? Or All Bells-and-Whistles? April 17, 2008 At last week's Sun 'n Fun show, the hot new announcements in avionics were about so-called synthethic vision. Garmin announced its own new system, and Diamond is already offering it in the DA40 Star. This week, we want to hear what you think of the rising tide of SVT technology. Plus: How many air shows/fly-ins did AVweb readers tell us they plan to attend this year?
Question of the Week: Your 2008 Air Show Travel Plans April 3, 2008 As we're packing up to head south for Sun 'n Fun, now's a good time to ask about readers' plans for this (busy-looking) air show season. Plus: The most popular method for saving fuel when you fly, courtesy of AVweb readers who answered last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Fuel Economy and You March 27, 2008 With fuel prices rising, we're curious: What are you doing to save fuel when you fly? Plus: The most popular answer to last week's Question about airplane security.
Question of the Week: The Spring Thaw — How Much Flying Did You Do Over the Winter Months? March 6, 2008 As the days get longer and warmer, flying suddenly seems a little easier to do than it did during the winter months — and a lot more appealing. But before you take to the springtime skies, tell us: How much of a damper did Old Man Winter put on your air time? Plus: What did AVweb readers have to say about their recent FSS experiences?
Question of the Week: The State of AFSS February 28, 2008 The FAA says it's working to correct problems with the flight service station system that was contracted out to Lockheed Martin two years ago. It's submitted a report to Congress on what it plans to do, so we thought it timely to get an update from readers on how Lockheed Martin is doing. Plus: Find out what 51% of AVweb readers had to say about the "51% Rule" when it comes to homebuilts.
Question of the Week: More Regulation for Homebuilts? February 21, 2008 With the FAA considering new rules on what constitutes a "homebuilt" aircraft, this may be a good time to ask, "Should builder assistance on homebuilts be more regulated?" Plus: Did AVweb readers foresee a resurrection on the horizon for Adam Aircraft?
Question of the Week: The Future of Adam Aircraft February 13, 2008 Following Adam Aircraft's decision to suspend operations on Monday, there have been quite a few long faces among fans of very light jets. This week, we'd like to hear your prediction for Adam's future: Will the company (or its products) be resurrected? Plus: Rising fuel prices vs. the threat of user fees — in the last seven days, which did AVweb readers say had a better chance of grounding them?
Question of the Week: Which Is More Likely to Ground You — Fuel Prices or User Fees? February 6, 2008 In the past, we've asked about many factors that might limit (or even prohibit) you from flying recreationally. This week, AVweb reader Matt Bentson put the same question to us pretty directly, and we're passing the buck along to our readership: Which is more likely to ground you first — rising fuel prices or the added expense of user fees? Plus: A report on last week's poll about government subsidies for ADS-B avionics upgrades.
Question of the Week: NextGen Avionics Subsidies to Prepare for ADS-B? January 31, 2008 The Governor of Alaska is proposing that aircraft owners be offered low-interest loans to equip their aircraft with avionics that will be required under the FAA's NextGen airspace management system. Should similar subsidies be offered to owners in Hawaii and the Lower 48, or should the government be even more involved? Plus: When are AVweb readers planning to buy their first LSA? Or do they already own one?
Question of the Week: Your First LSA January 24, 2008 Having just covered the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida, we can't help but notice that interest in these little airplanes is still on the rise. This week, we want to know: When do you plan to buy your first LSA? Plus: What did AVweb readers tell us about their upgrade and add-on plans for 2008?
Question of the Week: Your 2008 Airplane Upgrades January 16, 2008 Last week, we asked readers who are planning to take the plunge into ownership what type of aircraft they might purchase in 2008. (Click through to see the post popular type of airplane purchase among AVweb readers). This week, we'd like to hear what plan to buy for your existing airplane ... .
Question of the Week: Is 2008 the Year You Buy? January 9, 2008 With everyone knee-deep in resolutions and financial planning for 2008, it might be a good time to ask those of you in the market just what type of aircraft you might purchase this year. Plus: Find out what AVweb readers predicted will be the top story of 2008.
Question of the Week: The Top Aviation Story of the Coming Year January 2, 2008 Running with last week's theme (but switching gears a bit), we'd like to ask our readers to cast their predictions for the story that will shape 2008. What do you think will be the biggest aviation story of the coming year? (If your nominee isn't listed, don't worry: We've set up a (new) temporary address at 2008@avweb.com where you can tell us your contenders.)Plus: What did AVweb readers pick as the top story of 2007?
Question of the Week: The Top Aviation Story of 2007 December 26, 2007 It's time to cast an eye backward over the past year and ask, What was the biggest aviation story of 2007? (If your nominee isn't listed, don't worry: We've set up a temporary address at 2007@avweb.com where you can tell us your contenders.) Plus: What did AVweb readers choose as the next frontier for aviation?
Question of the Week: The Future of Flying December 20, 2007 It's a safe bet that (almost) all AVweb readers are big proponents of the GA lifestyle, but is that really where the future of aviation lies? As 2008 approaches, are we closer than ever to Jetsons-style aircraft for the everyman — or is flying getting so complicated and expensive that it's best left to the professionals? What is aviation's next frontier? Plus: Find out how AVweb readers responded to last week's Question, Is overall aviation safety headed for a decline?
Question of the Week: The State of Safety December 13, 2007 Amid news of many high-profile near-accidents, we're forced to consider that aviation is becoming a more dangerous activity — or maybe we're only seeing part of the picture in these news reports. What do you think? Is overall aviation safety headed for a decline?Plus: How did AVweb readers respond to last week's Question, "Is it time to limit our flying for the sake of the environment?"
Question of the Week: Ready or Not, GA's Going Green December 6, 2007 The Environmental Protection Agency says it's getting a lot of inquiries from people concerned about the impact of aviation on the environment. What should aviation's response be: Is it time to limit our flying for the sake of the environment? Plus: What did readers think of the EAA's move to create a new class of kitplane not necessarily bound by the "51% Rule" when we asked them last week?
Question of the Week: If X < 51%, Then Does Y = A Kitplane? November 29, 2007 The EAA is recommending a new class of kitbuilt aircraft where builders might not have to complete a strict "51%" of the process on their own. What do you think of this? Plus:Time magazine recently reported that 49% of pro pilots are "very happy" with their jobs. Find out how many AVweb readers lit up with smiles when we asked the same question last week.
Question of the Week: Pilot Job Satisfaction November 21, 2007 According to Time magazine, 49% of pilots are "very happy" with their jobs. This week, we'd like to know how many AVweb readers fall into that category. Plus: Your answers to last week's question, Should the U.S. government re-open a serious inquiry into UFOs?
Question of the Week: UFOs — Time to Get Serious ... Or Just Another Good Laugh? November 15, 2007 In the past, 44% of AVweb readers reported seeing them — and now a group of pilots and government officials are petitioning the U.S. government to open a serious inquiry into their nature. We're talking about UFOs, of course. Is it time for a serious investigation? Plus: What did AVweb readers say about increased border security for G.A. pilots entering the U.S.?
Question of the Week: Cross-Border Air Security November 7, 2007 Now that Michael Chertoff has laid out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's
plans to fortify borders against private airplane traffic, we want to hear what AVweb readers think: How much general aviation cross-border security do you think is reasonable? Plus: What did AVweb readers have to say last week about foreign companies controlling the flight operations of U.S. air charter companies?
Question of the Week: Homeland Air Charters, Foreign Hands — Safety or Paranoia? November 1, 2007 With the FAA's revocation of AMI's jet air charter certificate, we're hearing a lot of talk that reminds us of last year's Dubai port controversy. Safety and security definitely seem to be at play in the FAA's decision, but were they overreacting? We'd like to hear what AVweb readers think: Should foreign companies be allowed to manage the flight operations of U.S.-based charters? Plus: Who did AVweb readers say should have the final call when it comes to releasing safety information (like that found in NASA's notorious safety report) to the public?
Question of the Week: Safety, Transparency, and Oversight in the Age of Free Information October 24, 2007 NASA's decision to withhold the results of a flight safety survey has raised questions about what type of information should be publicly available to pilots and citizens. This week, we want to know what AVweb readers think. Who should make the call when it comes to releasing this sort of data to the public? Plus: Who did AVweb readers predict will be the new owners of Columbia Aircraft Manufacturing.
Question of the Week: Columbia Aircraft, Now Brought to You by ... ? October 17, 2007 With Cirrus and Cessna both bidding on the assets of Columbia Manufacturing, the race is on! Whom do you predict will win the bankruptcy sweepstakes and get to put their name above Columbia's on the company letterhead? Make your predictions here! Plus: Should passengers be allowed to use cell phones on commercial flights? AVweb readers had a strong opinion on last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Cell Phones on Airliners October 11, 2007 We've probably asked this before, but it's come up again, and we're wondering if you've changed your mind on it: This time, there's actually a petition against allowing cell phone use on airliners. What do you think? Should their use be allowed on commercial flight? Plus: How much did AVweb readers say they'd be willing to spend on avionics upgrades for ADS-B in answer to last week's question?
Question of the Week: Technology Made Microchips Smaller — Are Bizjets Next? September 27, 2007 With NBAA's annual convention wrapping up, there's no denying that very light jets are the hottest segment of business aviation growth. With this in mind, many say it's only a matter of time before the big jet makers start offering scaled-back aircraft for the VLJ and mid-size markets. Is it inevitable that Airbus and Boeing will enter the small- and medium-sized business jet market? Tell us what you think. Plus: Do AVweb readers consider a pilot's license an indispensible element of "the right stuff" for NASA trainees?
Question of the Week: The Search for Steve Fossett September 12, 2007 The search for Steve Fossett has been on everyone's mind this week. We realize this will stir a lot of reactions (and maybe some emotions), but based on the e-mails we've seen, we're curious what you think of the search. In your opinion, how has it been handled?
Question of the Week: Is It Time for a (Mandatory) ELT Upgrade? September 5, 2007 The NTSB is recommending the FAA require newer 406Mz emergency locator transmitters in all aircraft, preferably by February 2009. This would require many upgrades, but according to the NTSB would greatly increase rescuers' ability to locate downed aircraft. This week, we want to know what you think about a mandatory upgrade to 406Mz ELTs. Plus: Where did AVweb readers fly this summer? Find out how your fellow readers answered last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Where Did You Fly This Summer? August 30, 2007 This week, we're asking the old back-to-school standard: What did you do on your summer vacation? Or, more appropriately to AVweb, where did you fly this summer? Plus: The results of last week's question on youth outreach.
Question of the Week: What Will Spark Interest Among Tomorrow's Pilots-to-Be? August 23, 2007 With more and more pilots hanging up their aviator goggles, there are plenty of efforts underway to attract a new generation of people to flying. These days, it seems like everyone's pet initiative doubles as a recruitment tool for young pilots — but which holds the most promise for getting more young people into aviation? (Click through to answer.)
Plus: What did AVweb readers think of NASA's quarter-million-dollar prize for the first Personal Air Vehicle Challenge.
Question of the Week: Was NASA's Personal Air Vehicle Challenge a Good Use of Funds? August 16, 2007 NASA's first Personal Air Vehicle Challenge concluded this past weekend, with the full $250,000 in prize money awarded in various amounts to the four contestants. The entered airplanes were modified versions of certified and experimental models, but none incorporated any truly groundbreaking technology, nor will any of them lead to a personal air vehicle for the masses. Do you think this money was well spent? Plus: Last week, we asked how many of you have chosen to fly non-ATA airlines because of ATA members' widespread support of user fees. Click through to find out how your fellow readers voted.
Question of the Week: Is the User-Fee Debate Affecting Your Commercial Flight Choices? August 9, 2007 Last week, Delta Air Lines was the latest Air Transport Association member to toe the group's pro-user-fee line when it sent an e-mail to customers blaming general aviation for delays. Have the repeated attacks on general aviation from ATA and its individual members influenced what airline you fly? Plus: Of all the big news to come out of Oshkosh this year, which did our readers deem the biggest announcement of AirVenture 2007?
Question of the Week: What Was the Biggest News Out of Oshkosh at EAA AirVenture 2007? August 1, 2007 Now that EAA AirVenture is history, which news announcement from the air show excited you the most? Was it the Eclipse concept jet, the Cessna SkyCatcher, the FAA's big news about the D.C. ADIZ — or something else entirely? Plus: What did readers have to say about last week's Eclipse concept jet debut?
Question of the Week: Eclipse's New Solo Jet — Hip or Hype? July 25, 2007 This week at Oshkosh, Eclipse revealed a big surprise — a four-place single-engine jet with a sexy v-tail and sleek good looks. So, AVweb readers — what do you think? (Answer this week's poll to let us know.) Plus: What letter grade (A, B, C, D or F) did FAA Admin Marion Blakey receive from AVweb readers in response to last week's question?
Question of the Week: Marion Blakey's FAA Administrator Report Card July 19, 2007 Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) this week called for the resignation of FAA Administrator Marion Blakey due to continued air traffic congestion in the New York metro area. Taking a bigger picture view near the end of her five-year term, what grade would you give Blakey for her management of the FAA? (We'll put Sen. Schumer down for an F.) Plus: When polled, what did AVweb readers say to the notion of retiring FSS altogether and relying on DUATS for briefings?
Question of the Week: The End of FSS? July 12, 2007 Given the Lockheed Martin-run Flight Service Stations' modernization snafus, long telephone holding times, and the erosion of specialists' knowledge of local areas due to facility consolidation, one AVweb reader has suggested that the FAA should just shut down FSS completely since DUATS provides the same service. Should the FAA eliminate FSS and require pilots to obtain flight briefings and file flight plans via the computer-based DUATS system? Plus: The results of our impromptu VLJ Beauty Pagent!
Question of the Week: VLJ Beauty Contest July 5, 2007 In the past, we've asked about price, performance, and other level-headed considerations in the personal jet/very light jet market. This week, let's put practical considerations aside and find out which bird has the most striking, graceful profile. We want to know which VLJ catches your fancy. Plus: When we talk about the state of controllers, should we be using the word crisis — even in quotes? Find out what our readers said in response to last week's Question.
Question of the Week: The FAA vs. NATCA — Who's Telling the Truth (or More of It) about the Controller Crisis? June 28, 2007 The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) and the FAA for months have been trading barbs about controller staffing, hiring, and retirement. Do you believe NATCA, which says there is a controller crisis looming — or do you believe the FAA, which says that it is staffing facilities to traffic and has adequately planned for hiring and retirements?
Plus: The results of last week's popular "vote" to replace Marion Blakey as FAA Administrator when she steps down in September.
Question of the Week: The FAA Administrator—It's a Tough Job, But Who Will Do It When Blakey Steps Down? June 21, 2007 Both FAA Administrator Marion Blakey's term and the current FAA reauthorization legislation expire on September 30, though the aviation community is heavily focused on the latter issue and has largely ignored the former. So we'd like to know who you think should be the next FAA Administrator. (We've assembled our own short list of potentials; if you choose "other," please e-mail us your choice.) Plus: How many hours (and what certifications) did AVweb readers think should be required of new hires at regional airlines?
Question of the Week: Commercial Hiring Requirements at Regional Airlines June 13, 2007 Regional airlines are currently struggling to fill new-hire classes, and some are being hired as first officers with the bare minimum of a commercial license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, meaning they could have as little as 250 hours TT. What should be the minimum qualifications for a regional airline new-hire pilot? Click here to answer. Plus: Click through to find out how AVweb readers felt about the FAA's new internet-based WINGS revamp.
Question of the Week: Headset Shopping May 30, 2007 This week, AVweb wants to hear a little about your aviation shopping, specifically how you choose a new headset. Besides price and features, what is the biggest influence in deciding which aviation headset you will buy? Plus: Find out what AVweb readers had to say about the stiff penalty for shining lasers at aircraft.
Question of the Week: Pointing Lasers at Aircraft, Throwing the Book at Offenders May 23, 2007 The House of Representatives has passed a bill that would make it a crime to point a laser at an aircraft, punishable by up to five years in prison. Does the punishment fit the crime? Plus: Your reponse to last week's question on whether the FAA should mandate traffic advisory systems to prevent midair collisions.
Question of the Week: Could FAA-Mandated Avionics Prevent Midair Collisions? May 16, 2007 Including last week's fatal midair collision between a Cessna 172 and Beech Bonanza, there have been 24 fatal and 16 non-fatal midair collisions involving GA aircraft in the U.S. since 1997. Should the FAA mandate that all GA aircraft be equipped with traffic advisory systems to help prevent midairs? Click through and tell us what you think. Plus: How many AVweb readers could we meet at Oshkosh this year? Find out how many of you said you'll be attending AirVenture.
Question of the Week: AirVenture 2007 R.S.V.P.s, Please May 10, 2007 Attendance seemed to be down this year at Sun 'n Fun, so we'd like to know about your plans for EAA AirVenture. Are you planning on attending the annual air festival in Oshkosh in July? Tell us. Plus: Find out what AVweb readers had to say about the quality of AFSS post-consolidation, in the results report from last week's poll.
Question of the Week Redux: Is AFSS Consolidation Affecting the Quality of Your Weather Briefings? May 3, 2007 Last week, we asked AVweb readers if they've seen any noticeable change in the quality of weather briefings since AFSS consolidation has gotten underway. Unfortunately, a last-minute typo in the AVwebFlash newsletter meant that many readers never got a chance to participate in last week's poll — so we're keeping it open another week, to hear what everyone has to say. We're very interested in your local AFSS experiences, and if you'd like to tell us more than you can in a simple poll, please feel free to e-mail us with more detail.
Question of the Week: Is AFSS Consolidation Affecting the Quality of Your Weather Briefings? April 26, 2007 Now that automated flight service station (AFSS) consolidation has started in earnest under contractor Lockheed Martin, have you noticed any changes in aviation weather briefing quality? Plus: If Toyota were to make a, um, "ToyotaCraft" — what type of G.A. aircraft should it be?
Question of the Week: Speculating on Toyota's Future as an Aircraft Manufacturer April 18, 2007 Now that Honda is firmly committed to the general aviation market, it stands to reason that arch rival Toyota will follow. Which GA market segment would you like to see Toyota enter? Plus: Is the FAA doing enough to reform medical certification by extending the validity of medical certificates for pilots under age-40? — your answers to last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Third-Class Medical Certificates and Minimum Age, According to the FAA April 12, 2007 The FAA proposed this week to raise the validity of third-class medical certificates from 36 months to 60 months for airmen under 40 years of age. In your opinion, does this action go far enough? Should the age cut-off be higher? Tell us what you think. Plus: Now that we've seen five of them delivered to customers, what did AVweb readers have to say about the much-anticipated Eclipse 500 last week?
Question of the Week: Now That You've Seen the Eclipse (or a Few of Them), What Do You Think of It? April 5, 2007 Now that Eclipse has delivered five Eclipse 500s and released preliminary performance data for the final configuration of the $1.55 million very light twinjet, how would you classify the airplane overall? AVweb wants to hear whether you're amazed, underwhelmed, or somewhere in between. Plus: Find out how many of last week's poll participants admitted to knowing someone who withheld information on their medical.
Question of the Week: Is Medical Fraud Really as Widespread as the U.S. House Believes? March 29, 2007 Last week, AVweb wanted to know whether you agreed with the FAA's estimate of 5,000 VLJs being delivered over the next decade. (Click through for the answer.) This week, we want to hear what you think about the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's assertion of "widespread fraud" among pilots who hide serious medical conditions from examining physicians in order to protect their FAA certification.
Question of the Week: The FAA Predicts 5,000 VLJs in the Next 10 Years; How About You? March 21, 2007 We've asked for your predictions on the light bizjet boom in the past; this week, we want to know whether you agree with the FAA's predictions. The FAA's forecast predicts 5,000 very light jet deliveries over the next decade. If you'd written the forecast, how many VLJs would you have predicted to be delivered over the next 10 years? Plus: What single factor is the most important to AVweb readers when choosing an FBO?
Question of the Week: The Most Important Factor in Choosing an FBO March 14, 2007 Plenty of factors inluence your decision to choose one FBO over another. This week, AVweb wants to know which single factor has the greatest bearing on your choice. Plus: What level of success did you predict for air-taxi services in your responses to last week's Question?
Question of the Week: Predicting the Success of Air Taxi Services March 7, 2007 On-demand, per-seat air-taxi service on very light jets is expected to start this summer. We'd like to hear your predictions on how successful these services might be. (Please send us an e-mail if you have more thoughts on this topic.)
Plus: What's the biggest problem faced by local airports? Results of last week's QOTW poll.
Question of the Week: What Lies at the Root of Airport Problems? February 28, 2007 What's the biggest source of problems at your local airport? Everyone's situation (and opinion) is a little different, but this week, AVweb wants to hear which of four major issues is the biggest in your area.
Plus: Results of last week's Question on rising avgas taxes and how they might affect your GA flying.
PLUS: The landslide results of last week's Question, "Is G.A. paying its fair share in fuel taxes?"
Question of the Week: Is 'Little Guy' G.A. Paying His Fair Share in Gas Taxes? February 7, 2007 A typical single-engine piston airplane burns about 10 gph, which translates to $1.94 per operating hour in federal fuel taxes. Double these amounts for a light piston twin. Given these contributions, do you think that light aircraft operators are "paying their fair share" for use of the airspace system (airport infrastructure, ATC services, etc.)? Tell us what you think. Plus: Your thoughts about the end of the Age-60 era.
Question of the Week: The Age-60 ... Er, Age-65 Rule January 31, 2007 The FAA plans to raise the mandatory retirement age for airline pilots from 60 to 65. Do you support this change, and should there even be an age limit for Part 121 operations? Plus: Reader responses to last week's question about the Cirrus's new MFD safety checklist.
Plus: Your answers to last week's Question, Has recent reluctance on the part of maintenance shops to service older aircraft influenced you to consider purchasing a newer airplane?
Plus: Results from last week's Question! In 2007, do AVweb readers plan to log more, fewer, or about the same number of hours in the air as they did in '06?
Plus: The results of last week's poll about wearing hearing aids while flying.
Question of the Week: Hearing Aids in the Cockpit December 27, 2006 This week, an AVweb readers asks, "Do you wear hearing aids while flying? If so, do you have difficulty hearing transmitted messages?"
Plus: The results of last week's poll. What type of IFR approach charts do AVweb readers prefer — paper or electronic? FAA or other?
Plus: Results of last week's Question on how you pay for your avgas.
Question of the Week: Paying at the Pump December 13, 2006 This week, we're thinking about a story on aviation credit cards that will run in the next issue of our sister publication, Aviation Consumer — and we'd like to know how AVweb readers pay for their avgas. (The full story will appear in the next issue of Aviation Consumer. If you don't want to miss it, click here to subscribe.)
PLUS: Results of last week's question on local government officials and their attitudes toward community airports.
Question of the Week: Local Governments and Local Airports December 6, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know how your local government officials view the community airport. Plus: We report on how many of you were ready to upgrade your GPS with WAAS, in the results of last week's Question.
Question of the Week: Upgrading Your GPS to WAAS November 29, 2006 For this week's Question, we turn to an AVweb reader at the FAA, who wonders how many of his fellow readers are planning to upgrade their GPS units with WAAS capability. Plus: How did AVweb readers rate Lockheed Martin's performance as a private provider of AFSS last week?
Question of the Week: Lockheed Martin's AFSS Report Card November 22, 2006 AVweb recently reported on the triumphs and tribulations of AFSS privatization. Program Manager Dan Courain says Lockheed Martin is doing well, but what do AVweb readers think? Rate their performance in today's "Question of the Week." Plus: How many AVweb pilots said they'd be willing to fly a single-engine piston into IMC conditions last week?
Question of the Week: Flying into IMC November 15, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know how much risk our instrument-rated pilots shoulder. Tell us: Do you ever fly single-engine piston airplanes into solid IMC? Plus: Will the shift of power from Republicans to Democrats in both houses of Congress affect the push for user fees? Find out what AVweb readers thought of the possibility when we put the question to them last week.
Question of the Week November 8, 2006 The November elections are behind us, and now AVweb wants to know if you think the power shift will affect the hot issue of user fees. Could the shift of control from the Republicans to the Democrats in the House of Representatives, and most likely the Senate, will thwart the push for aviation user fees in the next FAA reauthorization bill? Plus: Results of last week's question on airplane emergency recovery parachutes.
Question Of The Week November 1, 2006 Does the average pilot's sense of invincibility increase when flying an aircraft with an parachute recovery system? This week, AVweb wants to hear your opinion on the psychological effect of airplane parachutes on a pilot. Plus: Results of last week's question -- how much will your candidate's stance on user fees affect your vote at the polls?
Question Of The Week: User Fees, Mid-Term Elections, and Your Vote October 25, 2006 Mid-term elections are coming up in just a few days. With this in mind, AVweb would like to hear how much weight our U.S. readers are putting on their respective candidates' stance on aviation user fees. To what extent will aviation user fees affect your vote on November 7? Tell us!
Plus: Results of last week's Question regarding the VFR Corridor in New York City.
Since de-regulation more than 25 years ago, the U.S. has seen airlines soar and sink. Mostly sink. September 11 didn't help. Delays caused by airport caused by airport capacity don't help. The impending air traffic controller shortage surely won't help. The legacy major air carriers haven't seen sustainable profit in a very long time. Would you like to see some form of government regulation for the airlines in hopes of bringing a more stable path for them to succeed?
Plus: The results of last week's Question, What's the most important factor in choosing an aircraft?
Question of the Week September 21, 2006 If all aircraft are products of compromise and the balance of those compromises determines an aircraft's market, we're going to make this very difficult. What's the most important feature of your desired aircraft? This week, we'd like to you look at our list of choices and tell us which is your number one consideration. PLUS: What types of planes are AVweb readers looking to purchase?
Question of the Week: What Kind of Airplane Are You Considering? September 14, 2006 This week, AVweb's "QOTW" is targeted at those of you who are considering becoming airplane owners. Given the realities of your life and current situation, what's your preference? Tell us! Plus: What do AVweb readers think is the root cause of the current controller crisis?
Question of the Week: Runway Responsibility August 31, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to hear your opinion on runway responsibility. A controller can clear you onto a specific runway, but if you find yourself somewhere else, who bears responsibility for that mistake? Plus: Results of last week's question about readers' flying pedigree.
Question of the Week: Your Aviation Lineage August 24, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know a little bit about your flying pedigree. What influences helped bring you to aviation (or aircraft ownership)? PLUS: Results of last week's question on 100LL — and the nebulous future of avgas.
Question of the Week: Of Alternative Fuels and Alternative Engines ... August 17, 2006 Is 100LL nearly extinct? Some would argue gasoline is almost extinct! Tell us how you feel about 100LL — and being stuck burning it. Plus: Overwhelming solidarity from readers in response to last week's Question, "What do you think is the biggest cause of aviation accidents?"
PLUS: Will Cessna's LSA offering tempt you to buy a Sport Plane? (Results of last week's Question.)
Question of the Week: Cessna's LSA and You August 3, 2006 AVweb wants to know how news of a Light Sport Aircraft from Cessna is affecting our readers. Are you reconsidering the Pilot revoltion? Or is LSA something that just doesn't affect you? PLUS: Results of last week's Question, "What's Your Reason to Attend AirVenture?"
Question of the Week: AirVenture — Why Would You Go? July 20, 2006 With AirVenture Oshkosh just around the corner, AVweb wants to know what motivates (or would motivate) you to attend G.A.'s biggest event. PLUS: Are professional pilots overpaid? Your answers to last week's Question.
Question of the Week July 13, 2006 Starting this week, our "Question of the Week" will remain open for only seven days — from Thursday morning to the following Wednesday. After Wednesday, we'll close the polling to make way for a new weekly question. (You'll still be able to view the poll results in our archive, even after a "QOTW" expires.) Our first question under the new system: Heavy iron and big bucks — are professional pilots overpaid? PLUS: Results of last week's question on preparedness and unorthodox landings.
Question of the Week June 28, 2006 This week, AVweb looks to the future and asks you to speculate on some of the possible perks of a privatized ATC system. Are pilots overlooking the upsides of privatization? Plus: Results of last week's question on whether LSA is fulfilling its promise to break down barriers and bring new pilots into aviation.
Question of the Week June 22, 2006 Light Sport -- It's here, but has it removed the barriers keeping prospective pilots from aviation? AVweb wants to hear your opinion. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the Cessna "Cirrus Killer" and its place in the market.
Question of the Week June 15, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of Cessna's "Cirrus Killer." If it's for real and offers similar bang for the buck when compared with Cirrus (or Columbia or Turbo-Mooney aircraft), what's your reaction? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the most exciting G.A. stories of the year.
Question of the Week June 8, 2006 2006 has been full of exciting announcements, innovations, and power struggles. This week, AVweb wants to know which of the hottest happenings in general aviation is at the top of your watch list. PLUS: Results from last week's question about the Lycoming crankshaft failure in a Cessna 172S over St. Augustine.
Question of the Week June 1, 2006 According the NTSB, last week's Cessna 172S incident in St. Augustine included crankshaft failure -- and the engine was a Lycoming. This week, AVweb wants to know how you react to the news. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on the predictions for a robust VLJ market.
Question of the Week May 25, 2006 According to the manufacturers, thousands of Very Light Jets have already been ordered. This week, we invite you to speculate on what that means: Does the market really exist for thousands of Very Light Jets? PLUS: Results of last week's question on diesel airplane engines.
Question of the Week May 18, 2006 Engines: With the rising cost of fuel, fears (founded or not) that 100LL may one day dry up, and production problems hitting long-established manufacturers, how do you feel about diesel piston-engines? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the U.K. report on UFOs.
Question of the Week May 11, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know if you believe the recent U.K. report that UFOs are just unidentifiable (and largely uninteresting) flying objects — or if you think there's more to these phenomena than we're being told. PLUS: Results of last week's question on rising fuel prices and their effect on your flying habits.
Question of the Week May 3, 2006 This week's question comes by way of a suggestion from Richard Herbst of Control Vision Corp. "I’d like to see a 'Question of the Week' addressing the relationship between fuel prices and hours flown," writes Richard. "What effect are fuel prices having on your flying?" Click through to answer. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on your favorite VLJs.
Question of the Week April 27, 2006 Last week, we took orders for you favorite VLJs. One significant contender -- the first to fly with its production engines -- was mistakenly left out. We're curious to see the votes when it's included as an option, so we're going back to the drawing board and giving you the revised list of contenders this week. If you've already answered, please take a few moments to chime in on this new, revised poll.
Question of the Week April 20, 2006 If we gave you a closetful of cash — but only enough for one jet — which VLJ would you choose? Chime in with this week's "QOTW" poll. PLUS: Results of last week's question on crankshaft replacement costs.
Question of the Week April 13, 2006 Lycoming engines -- again. This week, AVweb wants to know if owners should have to pay to replace suspect crankshafts built into their engines. PLUS: Results of our pre-Sun-'n-Fun question about expensive missile defense initiatives for airliners.
Question of the Week March 29, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know how you feel about expensive missile defense initiatives. PLUS: Results of last week's question about new taxi-and-hold procedures.
Question of the Week March 23, 2006 Taxi into position and hold procedures are no longer welcome at most airports. Your local airport was probably affected, but it's possible nobody asked your opinion. So now we are. PLUS: Results of last week's question on owner maintenance.
Question of the Week March 15, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know how much maintenance you're willing to do yourself. Do you take advantage of provisions that allow pilots to peform certain maintenance tasks on their own aircraft? PLUS: Results of last week's hot-topic question on unions in the aviation industry.
Question of the Week March 8, 2006 Unions -- good or bad for the aviation industry? Ballot-stuffing aside, this week AVweb wants to know where you stand on the issue of unions. (No, you don't get a grey-area third option this time.) PLUS: Results of last week's question about your faith in Lycoming.
AVweb's Question of the Week March 2, 2006 Lycoming's crankshaft issues continue. This week, AVweb wants to know if the recalls and retirements have affected your impression of the company and its products. PLUS: We've got your answers to last week's question about the controller crunch.
AVweb's Question of the Week February 23, 2006 Will there or won't there be a shortage of controllers? The FAA is walking a new tightrope under a stricter budget, and NATCA believes trouble is on the horizon. What do you think? PLUS: Are piloting careers less glamorous these days? See what our readers think in the answers to last week's Question.
AVweb's Question of the Week February 16, 2006 This week, AVweb wants to know if being paid to fly is still the dream job it once was. You may get the chance soon — but do you want it? PLUS: Results of last week's question on mid-air collisions.
AVweb's Question of the Week February 9, 2006 Mid-airs — they've multiplied over the past few days. How concerned are you that you'll be struck from the sky by another aircraft? PLUS: Results of last week's question on lightning strikes.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 1, 2006 Certain physical laws sometimes conspire to make your aircraft a particularly good target for enormous natural electric discharges in the atmosphere (lightning). This week, AVweb wants to know: Has your aircraft ever been the target of a lightning strike? PLUS: Results of last week's question on wolf-hunting from the air.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 26, 2006 Wolf hunting from the air. No one's asking your opinion — except us. Should hunters be allowed to shoot wolves from aircraft? PLUS: Answers to last week's question — what's the single most important factor limiting the amount of flying you're able to do?
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 19, 2006 There are many distractions and responsibilities that keep us from flying as much as we'd like to. This week, AVweb wants to know what single factor has the greatest effect on the amount of time you spend in the sky. PLUS: Results of last week's question -- how many of you are planning to buying Light Sport Aircraft in the next ten years?
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 12, 2006 LSA: Do you plan to be a participant, or just an observer? A burgeoning industry hopes the skies will soon be teeming with Light Sport Aircraft, but we want to know if one of those aircraft will belong to you. PLUS: Results of last week's question on VFR vs. IFR. Click through to find out which AVweb readers prefer ... .
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 5, 2006 Flying VFR vs. flying IFR — this week, AVweb wants to know (if you had to pick), which method you'd choose. PLUS: Results of last week's question on your biggest health concerns in regards to medical certification.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 29, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know what health issue is most important to you (in relation to your medical certificate). PLUS: What did AVweb readers want to find in their stockings this year? Answers to last week's question.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 22, 2005 It's Christmas time. What tops your airplane's wish list this year? PLUS: Results of last week's follow-up question about the American Airlines shooting.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 15, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to hear more of your opinions on the shooting of Rigoberto Alpizar by Federal Air Marshals. Plus: Results of our initial poll about the incident.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 8, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to hear your opinion on yesterday's shooting death of an airline passenger by Federal Air Marshalls. Is this an example of a system that works, or one that failed? PLUS: Results of last week's question on readers' longest cross-country flights.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 30, 2005 What's the longest distance you've flown in your aircraft, from departure to final destination? For the purpose of this exercise, stops for fuel, the restroom, or sleep do not count. All answers in nautical miles, please! PLUS: How many of you fly VFR, and how many prefer IFR? Results of last week's poll.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 23, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know if you prefer Visual Flight Rules or Instrument Flight Rules. PLUS: Results of last week's question on your konwledge of lightgun signals.
Question of the Week ... November 17, 2005 Lightgun signals. We all have to learn them. Sometimes our instructors even help us remember them. This week, we want to know if you've ever used them. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the glamour and romance of commercial piloting.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 10, 2005 The lure of the airlines. Recent times have put the spotlight on some of the downsides of professional big-jet piloting. Do you still want to fly the heavy iron, or have you been won over by the dark side? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the closing of Potomac Airfield.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 3, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to hear your reactions to the closing of Potomac Airfield, one of a handful of small GA airports operating in the vicinity of Washington, D.C. PLUS: Results of last week's question on falling jet prices and just what constitutes the "magic number" for AVweb readers.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 27, 2005 You can get a new Bonanza for $700,000. Diamond hopes to (one day) offer you its single-engine jet for "well under" $1 million. What if, when little jets (and their engines) are mass produced, prices fall? What price point would allow you to buy? PLUS: Results of last week's question on Docket #17005 — the proposal to make the D.C. ADIZ a permanent feature of Eastern U.S. airspace.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 20, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know if you've taken the time to comment on Docket #17005 — the proposed rule to make the D.C.-area ADIZ a permanent feature of Washington's airspace. (For more on the Docket and the proposed rule, see the links in "Stress Points" at AVweb's home page.)
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 13, 2005 General aviation costs continue to rise. This week, AVweb wants to know if you've been priced out of flying. (Yet?) PLUS: Results of last week's question on eye surgery, corrective lenses, and other methods of improving your vision (both the FAA-approved and the not-so-FAA-approved varieties).
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 6, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to give you a quick eye test. Remember, you're on the honor system. PLUS: Results of last week's Question on the future of aviation in the U.S.A.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 29, 2005 Privatization, risng prices, and those dreaded user fees — this week, AVweb invites you to peer into your crystal ball and tell us which (if any) of these you see looming in the future of U.S. aviation. PLUS: Results of last week's question on avgas prices (and how much is too much to pay).
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 22, 2005 Last week, AVweb asked what your personal threshold is with regard to user fees. This week, we want to know how high avgas would have to rise before you considered giving up flying. Plus, we give you the results of the user-fees poll.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 15, 2005 It seems there are those who feel the services pilots receive — from air traffic control to other weather and flight services — do not come with a direct cost. With user fees on the tip of everyone's tongues, AVweb wants to know how much you'd be willing to pay for these services. PLUS: Results of last week's question on GPS in the cockpit.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 8, 2005 This week, an AVweb reader wants to know just how deeply GPS has transformed the flying habits of pilots. Do you use GPS religiously, or are you strictly devoted to your paper charts? PLUS: Results of last week's question about Hurricane Katrina and our readers' participation in the relief efforts.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 1, 2005 Hurricane Katrina has devastated large tracts of Louisiana and Mississippi, prompting the aviation community to ask, "What can we do to help?" This week, we'd like to know what you'll be doing to help the relief effort. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the Washington, D.C. ADIZ.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 25, 2005 There's been a lot of discussion about the ADIZ in Washington becoming permanent (including this editorial, appearing today in our "ATIS" opinion section). We've already asked how you feel about the possibility; this week, we'd like to know if any of you are planning to fight the plans to make the ADIZ permanent. PLUS: Results of last week's question on hypoxia.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 18, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know how much attention to pay to hypoxia in the cockpit. Sure, it depends a lot on the performance of the aircraft — but it depends just as much on the performance of the pilot. And some of the contributing factors are well out of your control. How much concern do you grant hypoxia when you fly? PLUS: Results of last week's question on mid-air collisions.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 11, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know how concerned you are about having a mid-air collision. Terrified it will happen to you? Willing to bet that it won't? Tell us. PLUS: Answers to last week's question about the National Defense Airspace over Washington, D.C. becoming a permanent fixture of East Coast aviation.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 4, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think about the changes to the Washington, DC ADIZ. Unfortunately, we can't offer a wide range of analysis in our answers — we'll have to rely on your letters and commentary to fill in the gaps — but, for the purposes of "QOTW," we'd like to know which blanket statement comes closest to matching your attitude. PLUS: Results of our pre-AirVenture survey on NATCA and the FAA.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 21, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of the latest FAA/NATCA discontent.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 13, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of the latest FAA/NATCA showdown. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the latest Lycoming crankshaft recall.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 7, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know how you feel about pulling the 'chute — or at least having the option. Given the choice, would you rather fly an aircraft that has a full-aircraft parachute system? PLUS: Responses to last week's question on instrument ratings and safety.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 30, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know how you feel about the relationship between an instrument rating and a pilot's safety. Does an instrument rating make for a safer pilot? PLUS: Answers to last week's question, "Why do you fly?"
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 23, 2005 This week, it's the beginning of summertime. We could burden you with deep-reaching thoughts, or we can give you a question to set you free. So here goes: There are as many reasons as there are shades of blue, but if you had to pick between these ... why fly? PLUS: Results of last week's question on pilots, life insurance, and aircraft insurance.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 16, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know how well covered you are: Do you have insurance? PLUS: The somewhat surprising result of last week's survey on flat panels vs. round gauges.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 9, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know whether you prefer round gauges or flat panels. PLUS: The results of last week's poll on homebuilts.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 2, 2005 This week, AVweb asks the perennial puzzler: "Build or buy?" The experimentals of yesterday are today's top-of-the-line certified designs. So what do you think of today's homebuilt aircraft? Would you build one yourself? Fly someone else's? PLUS: Results of last week's question on autolandings and push-button flying.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 26, 2005 They're auto-landing Harriers on aircraft carriers. Is it good or bad that the once prized skills of pilots are being passed over to machines? This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of push-button flying. PLUS: Results of last week's question about blame and the May 11 ADIZ incursion in Washington, DC.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 18, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know who you hold responsible for the DC incursion — the pilots or the government? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the ADIZ and the incursion.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 12, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know if the DC ADIZ is doing their job — or are we just overreacting to their overreactions? PLUS: Results of last week's question on looming user fees.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 4, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of all this talk of "user fees." Are you scared yet? PLUS: Results of last week's question on taildragger currency.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 27, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know if you're current in a taildragger. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the continuing (?) boycott of Chicago over the fate of Meigs Field.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 20, 2005 Meigs is dead. Long live Meigs. This week, AVweb wants to know where you stand (in spring 2005) on the tearing down of Meigs Field. PLUS: Results of last week's question pitting glass-panel displays against analog displays.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 13, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know whether you prefer the glass-panel display or an analog display. PLUS: Results of last week's question on fly-in spending.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 6, 2005 Sun 'n Fun is upon us, and this week AVweb wants to know how much money we skyhounds are spending on fly-ins. Not counting the price of admission, travel (avgas, etc.), and accommodations (food and hotel), how much do you spend at these events? PLUS: Results of last week's question on cell phone use by PICs.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 31, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to know when and where Pilots in Command use their cell phones. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the ATC shortage and its effects on flying.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 23, 2005 This week, AVweb revisits a hot topic — the ATC shortage. One AVweb reader would like to know what impact (if any) the shortage has had on your flying.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 16, 2005 Let's get political: General politics aside, this week we want to know if the Bush administration been good or bad for General Aviation. PLUS: Results of last week's question on near-mid-air collisions (and reporting them).
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 10, 2005 This week, one AVweb reader wants to know if you've ever had a near-mid-air and didn't report it. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the spread of MOAs.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 2, 2005 This week, an AVweb reader wants to know what you think about Military Operation Areas (MOAs) an the amount of airspace they're taking away from GA. Our esteemed reader asks, "Should the military be allowed to take over any more airspace without giving up an equivalent amount? I suggest this because today the military has far fewer operation aircraft and flying squadrons than they did during the Cold War. In addition, many of the units are deployed overseas supporting operations in Iraq, Afganistan, etc." PLUS: Results of last week's question on UFO sightings.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 24, 2005 Cue the "X-Files" theme music: This week, AVweb wants to know if you've ever seen a UFO — and if so, what did you think it was? PLUS: AVweb readers' verdict on the Lycoming verdict.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 16, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to hear what you think about the Lycoming verdict (decreeing that the engine manufacturer must pay nearly $100 million as a result of crankshaft failures, planes crashes, and subsequent litigation). PLUS: Results of last week's question about the upcoming privatization of FSS.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 10, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to hear your predictions for the future of FSS once Lockheed Martin takes over the flight service stations. PLUS: Results of last week's question on alcohol, flying, and the eight-hour window.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 3, 2005 Anonymously honest? This week, AVweb wants to know if you've ever partaken of alcohol before taking a flight. PLUS: Results of last week's question on sticks and yokes, lefties and righties, tigers and bears ...
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 27, 2005 This week, an AVweb reader wonders which cockpit flight control configuration private and light sport pilots would prefer if given a choice. "I've never figured out why light aircraft designers configured single-pilot flight controls for the right hand while two-pilot cockpits usually require the pilot in command to fly left-handed," he writes. PLUS: Results of last week's question on flying through MOAs (Military Operation Areas).
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 20, 2005 This week, AVweb wants to get an honest assessment of the level of caution you exercise when flying through MOAs (Military Operation Areas). PLUS: Results of last week's poll on "doctored" (digitally altered) images in our "POTW" contest.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 12, 2005 This week, AVweb wants your input on our "Picture of the Week" contest. PLUS: Results of last week's question on tsunami aid.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 5, 2005 The tsunami -- this week, AVweb wants to know if you've done anything to help. PLUS: Results of last week's question on WAAS approaches.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 30, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know if (and how often) you use WAAS approaches. PLUS: Results of last week's question on mandatory retirement ages for pilots and controllers.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 23, 2004 This week, AVweb looks at some numbers and posits a logical deduction: Air traffic controllers suffer mandatory retirement at 56 because scientific data suggests there's a sharp decline in sight, hearing, and other necessary skills as people hit their mid-50s; and science offers no evidence to justify relaxing the retirement age. "It's a function of physiology," according to National Air Traffic Controllers Association President John Carr. At the same time, airline pilots suffer mandatory retirement at 60 (and in many countries, 65). This may suggest that, in the eyes of regulators, pilots have the less physiologically demanding job. In very simple black-and-white terms, what do you think? PLUS: Results of last week's question on biometric identifiers for mechanics.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 15, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think about the use of biometrics in the fight against terror. A bill intended to fight terrorism is making its way through the halls of legislation and may soon introduce biometric parameters to pilot certificates. What about mechanics? PLUS: Final tallies for last week's question about the hours you logged in 2004.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 8, 2004 Year-end is upon us — just as soon as we all plow through the holiday season. This week, AVweb wants to know how many hours you flew in 2004. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the outsourcing of FSS.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... December 1, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know what you think of the FAA possibly outsourcing FSS. PLUS: Results of last week's question on your eyesight.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 24, 2004 This week, we want you to read below the giant "E" and tell us — how good is your vision? PLUS: Responses to last week's question on the new Sport Pilot/LSA Rule.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 17, 2004 This week, we want to know if you (or anyone you know) will be taking advantage of the new Sport Pilot rules. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on how much trust our readers put in the FAA.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 10, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know how much you trust the FAA in its role as protector and police for the commercial aviation industry. PLUS: Results of last week's Presidential election poll.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... November 4, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know how you voted in the election and whether your candidate's stand on GA was a factor in your decision. PLUS: The results of last week's question on very light jets.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 28, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know which very light jet is your pick to be a major force in the marketplace. PLUS: Results of last week's pilots-vs.-controllers question.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 20, 2004 Pilots. Controllers. Safety. This week, AVweb asks: Given an above-average pilot or an above-average controller, who do you think is more important to safey? PLUS: Results of last week's question on aviation conventions.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 14, 2004 Would you rather go to a large aviation event, like EAA AirVenture, the NBAA convention, or AOPA Expo, or read about it online?
AVweb's Question of the Week ... October 6, 2004 Controllers. If you've been reading AVweb recently, then you've seen that there are some differences of opinion regarding what controllers do all day and whether or not a shortage is imminent. Were you appalled by Jane Doe's letter to AVweb? Were you appalled by NATCA President John Carr's public response? Register your opinions in our "Question of the Week." PLUS: Results of last week's question about the X Prize.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 29, 2004 Scaled Composites' SpaceShipOne made another successful launch into the upper atmosphere on Wednesday morning — the first of three attempts at winning the Ansari X-Prize. Does SpaceShipOne have the competition sewn up, or is there still a chance for a dramatic turn of events? PLUS: Results of last week's question regarding our readers' ... um, reading habits.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 23, 2004 This week, we'd like to know a little bit about how and where you prefer to get your regular dose of AVweb. Do you rely on our AVflash newsletter, read the NewsWire on AVweb.com, or use some combination of the two? Chime in with your reading preferences and help us out!
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 8, 2004 This week, AVweb asks the easiest (or most difficult?) question of all: Why do you fly? PLUS: Results of last week's hotly-debated VFR-on-top question, including an official word from the FAA!
AVweb's Question of the Week ... September 1, 2004 We all know what constitutes a VFR flight, right? This week, AVweb reader Steve Biddle challenges our assumptions with an interesting question about VFR about the cloud cover. PLUS: Results of last week's question about spin training and Sport Pilots.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 25, 2004 This week, one of our readers recalls his Private Pilot lessons and wonders if spin training should be required for Sport Pilots: "When I acquired my Private Pilot License in 1946 I was required to have spin training and demonstrate spin recovery. Most of the training planes were Aeronca 7ACs or J-3 Cubs. Because of their straight wing design they were prone to spin if air speed was low and controls were crossed, as in landing configuration close to the ground. In 1949 the rule was changed. Many of the planes that qualify for the Sport Pilot License are the same old planes that were used in the late 1940s." Chime in with your opinions. PLUS: Results of last week's question on aviation insurance.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 19, 2004 Aviation insurance: What's in your wallet? PLUS: Results of last week's poll on LSA and the inevitable "first bad accident."
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 12, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to hear your predictions about LSA — and what will happen when the first major accident occurs in a Light Sport Aircraft. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on new high-tech instrument panels.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... August 5, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know if you're happier with the round analog gauges on older instrument panels, or just more familiar with them. Flat panels are taking over, but because most of us don't buy or fly new airplanes, most of us aren't all that familiar with them. These incredibly capable boxes are out there right now — but is it a good thing for you? PLUS: Results of our pre-Oshkosh "QOTW," "Are CFIs overpaid?" (Hoo-boy, wait until you see the results of this one!)
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 22, 2004
A couple of weeks ago, AVweb asked the loaded question, "Are professional
pilots overpaid?" (About 2/3 of you said "no.")
This week, just to be fair to everyone in the aviation industry, we want to know
what you really think about the salaries of CFIs:
Are flight instructors overpaid? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the looming Sport Pilot rules.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 15, 2004 The magic 8-ball says Sport Pilot rules may be coming around the corner any day now. Tell us how you feel in this week's "Question of the Week." PLUS: Results of last week's QOTW on professional pilot salaries.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 8, 2004 This week, we want to hear your opinion on pilots' salaries, so we're asking the question, "Are professional pilots overpaid?" Step up to the plate and share your opinion. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on joint-use airports, like those in the FAA's MAP program.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... July 1, 2004 The FAA recently selected five new airports to participate in their Military Airport Program (MAP). As part of the program, the airports will receive funding in exchange for growing their joint-use facilities — in theory, alleviating pressures on overloaded GA airports. Will it work? AVweb wants to hear your opinion. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on SpaceShipOne.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 23, 2004 This week, AVweb would like to hear your thoughts on Monday's successful launch of SpaceShipOne. Tauted as "historic" by the engineers at Scaled Aircraft (and by much of the media), the launch is being called "no big deal" by detractors. In your opinion, did we witness history being made, or just masterful hype? PLUS: Results of last week's question on aviation lawsuits.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 16, 2004 Aviation lawsuits — keeping us safe, or making aviation unpalatable and (even more) expensive? This week, AVweb wants to hear your opinion on aviation litigation. PLUS: Results of last week's question on the usefulness of TFRs.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 10, 2004 This week, in response to the June 9 TFR violations in Washington, D.C., we'd like to know what you think of Temporary Flying Restrictions (TFRs). Love 'em or hate 'em, tell us how you feel. PLUS: Results of last week's "QOTW" about lost flying comrades.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... June 2, 2004 Flying can be a dangerous business. Sometimes recognition of that notion heightens our vigilance and helps keep us safe. This week, AVweb would like to know how many friends you've lost to flying. PLUS: We report on last week's question, "Does ATC always know best?"
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 26, 2004 In July of 2001, the words of a controller may have directed a Russian passenger jet into the path of a DHL 757. The results were fatal. Two weeks ago, a PA-44-180 impacted ridge after complying with an ATC instruction to descend to an altitude below the ridgeline, according to an NTSB report. This week, AVweb asks: How often do you invoke your discretion to defer the suggestion of a controller in the interest of your own safety? PLUS: Results of last week's question on the dwindling supply of 100LL.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 20, 2004 What does the future hold for 100LL? Tell us what you think in AVweb's "Question of the Week." PLUS: Results from last week's poll on the FAA.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 12, 2004 This week, AVweb would like to hear your opinion of the FAA. PLUS: Results of last week's LASIK eye surgery poll.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... May 5, 2004 Focus your peepers on AVweb's "Question of the Week" — we want to hear your opinions on LASIK eye surgery. Is it really a miracle, or do you have doubts? PLUS: Results from last week's poll on the "Boeing Comeback."
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 28, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to hear your thoughts on the "Boeing comeback." Chime in with your opinions on the new 7E7. PLUS: Results of last week's poll on the much-anticipated Sport Pilot rating.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 21, 2004 Sport Pilot. It's been a long time coming, but that doesn't mean it will ever come to pass. This week, AVweb wants to hear your thoughts on the Sport Pilot initiative. PLUS: Results of our poll on terrorism in the skies.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 7, 2004 Which niche of aviation do you think is most likely to be used in a future terrorist attack? Do we focus too much on the role of aviation in the War on Terror? Weigh in with your thoughts on this week's "Question of the Week." PLUS: The results of last week's question on air shows.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... April 1, 2004 AVweb wants to know which air shows you'll be attending in 2004. Plus: Results of last week's question on bird strikes and wildlife hazards in the air.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 24, 2004 Bird strikes — are they a nuisance or a genuine hazard in our airways? Take this week's poll to register your opinion. Plus: Results of last week's AVweb poll on aircraft storage costs.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 17, 2004 This week, AVweb wants to know what our readers are paying for hangar and storage costs. Plus, results from last week's poll on the widening gap between technology and training.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 10, 2004 This week, AVweb would like to hear readers' opinions on the widening gap between technology and flight training. Can training keep pace with new technologies? Plus: The results of last week's poll on the Age-60 Rule.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... March 4, 2004 Last week, AVweb polled readers about recent innovations in general aircraft design. Will GA improvements make used aircraft prices drop, or will rising prices continue to be the trend? According to our respondents, the demand for used aircraft will remain steady, and prices will continue to rise — just as they always have. 60% of you (227 voters) said the market forces will continue to drive those prices up. A few of you (4%) even felt that the increasing rarity of traditional metal planes will continue to drive the prices of used aircraft into the sky. A very small percentage of our readers suggested that plane prices are inflated and alternatives such as fractional ownership are a better investment. This week, AVweb would like to know your thoughts on older pilots and the Age-60 Rule. How old is too old to fly?
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 25, 2004 Last week, AVweb and TSA polled aircraft owners/operators about the safety of their personal planes. Half of those who responded (220 AVweb readers) were very confident about GA safety, telling us their planes were kept locked in secure hangar when not in use. 34% of respondents had some concerns about the safety of their aircraft, but felt reasonably comfortable with the level of protection in place at their airport. And only 33 AVweb readers told us their airplanes were kept in a low-security environment with no auxiliary locking at all.
This week, we'd like your thoughts on the ever-rising pricing of aging used aircraft.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 18, 2004 Last week, AVweb asked you if the much-tauted ''bonus depreciation'' provision in last year's tax bill was responsible for the upswing in General Aviation. We discovered that AVweb readers are well-grounded and not quick to make snap judgements — just over 50% of you said that while it is an upswing, we shouldn't think that financial troubles are entirely behind us. Another 25% of respondents said the improvements in GA are a clear indicator that better economic times are on the horizon.
This week's Question was submitted to AVweb directly from a government agency -- Click
here to answer this week's Question and weigh in with the TSA.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 11, 2004 Last week, we polled AVweb readers about the missing funds that were supposed to be allocated to General Aviation in the wake of 9/11. Almost 40% of you thought the government pulled the rug out from under legitimate businesses, but another 33% said simply that it was "business as usual" in Washington.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the GA economy.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... February 4, 2004 While the number of airports in the U.S. continues to shrink, Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta talks about tripling the airspace capacity. Last week, we asked AVweb readers what they thought about the GA closing crunch. An overwhelming 67% of respondents felt the FAA should intervene to protect airports. The other 30% of QOTW respondents thought the responsibility for these airports lay elsewhere — with local governments, residents, and individual pilots. Despite the differences, almost everyone (except five readers) thought that someone should take action to save our GA airports. This week, we'd like your thoughts on the missing $100 million for GA businesses in the wake of 9/11.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 29, 2004 Nearly three quarters of more than 350 AVweb readers responding to last week's question would prefer no privatization of Flight Service -- 33 percent felt the move could impact a pilot's safety. While the FAA considers taking the leap, only a quarter of our poll's respondents indicated that they were open to any change at all ... and three percent think the tasks performed by Flight Service could just as easily be performed by monkeys.
This week, we'd like your thoughts on airport closures.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 21, 2004 Security at general aviation airports is a big concern for readers of AVweb: We received almost 500 responses to our question about GA security last week! The vast majority of you (59 percent) think that GA security is already pretty tight. 120 respondents said their GA airport is more secure than Ft. Knox, and 143 readers thought their airports needed only improve security in specific areas.
AVweb's Question of the Week ... January 14, 2004 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on security-based airline cancellations. The majority (53 percent) indicated the rash of flight delays might have been justified depending on the reasons why this action was taken. On the other hand, 18 percent felt the UK/US governments were justifiably acting in the name of security, while 20 percent claimed there were totally unnecessary and a pure knee-jerk reaction by the various federal agencies.
To respond to this week's question, click here.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on security at your local general aviation airport.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... January 7, 2004 Due to technical difficulties, last week’s question could not be viewed by our readers. We apologize for any inconvenience.
To respond to this week's question, click here.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on security-based airline cancellations.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... December 31, 2003 We received over 270 responses to our question last week on winter flying. The majority (56 percent) of those responding indicated they enjoy flying in all four seasons. About 15 percent said smooth air is what makes winter a preferred flying season, while 9 percent claimed engine performance was the major benefit. Nearly one-tenth (8 percent) simply enjoyed flying over the white landscape, and of course, who can blame them?
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, click here.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the year 2003 in review.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... December 24, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week in review of the Countdown to Kitty Hawk/Centennial Of Flight celebration. A bit over one third (38 percent) of responding readers felt the series of events were a great way to celebrate the Wright’s accomplishments, while 15 percent were disappointed by the December 17, 2003, failed flight attempt. Not surprisingly, about one-quarter (24 percent) felt the Countdown To Kitty was more of a marketing ploy than anything else.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the overall Countdown to Kitty Hawk/Centennial 0f Flight celebration.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... December 17, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on attending this week’s Kitty Hawk event. Nearly half (48 percent) of those responding advised they will not be attending the event, as the hassle of getting there is too much to deal with. Only five percent of respondents said they would attend, while 8 percent advised they could care less about the event.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the overall Countdown to Kitty Hawk/Centennial 0f Flight celebration.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... December 10, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Nearly a quarter (24 percent) of those responding flew within heir local area during the holiday weekend, while 26ercent flew a GA aircraft for a holiday trip. Only two percent indicated TFR’s restricted them from flying this Thanksgiving.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the upcoming Kitty Hawk event.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... December 3, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on the passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill. We asked our readers to pick out what they felt where the major benefits to the recently passed FAA bill and 23 percent thought the allotted money to keep the FAA operating was the main issue. Only 5 percent felt the return of general aviation operations to Ronald Reagan National Airport was key, while 12 percent thought all of the issues we listed were equally important.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on flying during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... November 27, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on joining in aviation organizations. About 38 percent of those responding were members of AOPA, while only 6 percent belonged to the EAA. A larger group (38 percent) indicated they belonged to more than one of the organizations listed in our QOTW, while 6 percent did not belong to any such group.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... November 19, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on flying personal jet aircraft. About 14 percent of those responding felt those pilots transitioning to these aircraft should have previous turbine experience, at least 1,000 hours flight time and a Commercial certificate. About 31 percent felt some of these skills sets were necessary, while 27 percent felt none were applicable.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on joining aviation organizations.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... November 12, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on our readers’ preferred aircraft to fly. Over 80 percent of those responding fly certified fixed-wing general aviation aircraft (Piper, Mooney, Cessna etc), while only 6 percent said they fly homebuilts (plans or kits). On a smaller scale, only one percent of the respondents indicated they flew ultralights with the same result for our rotorcraft subscribers.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on flying personal jet aircraft.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... November 5, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on panel-mounted GPS units. The vast majority (72 percent) of respondents welcome a higher level of standardization between brands, especially of the basic GPS functions needed for VFR and IFR navigation. About 10 percent of those responding normally use only the Direct To mode, while 9 percent felt transitioning from one GPS to another has always been easy for them, regardless of brand.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the aircraft AVweb readers fly.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... October 29, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the Concorde’s retirement. About one third (34 percent) felt the Concorde was never economically viable and never should have entered service in the first place, while 37 percent agreed its caused many financial difficulties but they also felt the supersonic airliner is an engineering marvel. About 12 percent of the respondents thought the Concorde should have not been retired.
To check out the complete results or respond to this week's question, go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on panel-mounted GPS units.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... October 22, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on unusual attitudes training. Over half (54 percent of those responding said they had received unusual attitudes training as part of their primary flight-training curriculum. Fourteen percent indicated they have participated in specialized course, while 18 percent have not but would like to do so. Only three percent said they had no interest in this type of training.
To check out the complete results go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week we would like to know your thoughts on the Concorde.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... October 15, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on business aviation’s recovery. Over half (56 percent) of those responding felt business aviation, lime all segments of the aviation industry, have greatly suffered since 9/11 from an economical standpoint and with the numerous flight restrictions sill in place.
To check out the complete results go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week we would like to know your thoughts on unusual attitude training.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... October 8, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the public’s support of general aviation GA). Approaching half (44 percent) of those responding felt many people don’t understand the many benefits GA offers the community, while 309 percent said general aviation is perceived as an annoyance. Only 1 percent indicated the public supports GA and clearly understands how beneficial this segment of the industry is.
To check out the complete results go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw
This week we would like to know your thoughts on business aviation’s recovery.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... October 1, 2003 We received over 200 responses to our question last week on federal aviation funding. Over half (54 percent) of those responding felt small reliever airports are an area where urgent federal funding is needed. Almost a quarter (22 percent) indicated air traffic control as the necessary recipient of federal money, while only 1 percent cited certification as the primary area of needed funding.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the public’s perception of general aviation.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... September 24, 2003 We received over 100 responses to our question last week on the pending FAA Reauthorization Bill. The vast majority (75 percent) of those responding felt the ongoing delays of this legislation are a result of the usual play of politics on Capitol Hill. Less than one-tenth (8 percent) mentioned the need to understand how the legislative process works, while only 3 percent expressed any interest with this bill.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on federal funding for aviation. Please go to http://www.avweb.com/qotw to respond.
AVweb's Question Of The Week September 17, 2003 We received over 100 responses to our question last week on The Two-Year Anniversary of 9/11. When asked how has aviation recovered from the tragic events of September 11, 2001, 39 percent of those responding felt the airline dilemma was developing well before the attacks but 9/11 was truly devastating, and still greatly affects, general aviation. About one-third (30 percent) of our respondents felt the industry, as a whole, has continued to suffer greatly after the attacks, while 13 percent felt general aviation is fairing better than the airlines.
We received over 100 responses to our question last week on Flying during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Nearly half (47 percent) of those responding did not fly during the holiday weekend, as money, time and other personal issues were to blame. ABout a quarter (25 percent) did fly out of town for the weekend while only three percent claimed the ongoing TFR's made it impossible to do so.
We received over 400 responses to our question last week on AVweb's online coverage. Just over half (53 percent) of those responding felt we (AVweb) should provide more coverage on homebuilts, lighter than air aircraft, hang gliders and ultralights. About 16 percent said more new products and technology should be covered and reviewed, while 20 percent are happy with our coverage just the way it is. Many thanks for your feedback and for keeping us on our toes!
AVweb's Question Of The Week August 27, 2003 Best that we can tell, we received over 4000 responses to our question last week on contract ATC towers. That's about 10 times our normal response rate (and may suggest a technical error ... or union participation.) The overwhelming majority (80 percent) of those responding felt contracting out additional towers would only worsen a developing safety problem. About 12 percent indicated the FAA will maintain better oversight over its own facilities.
AVweb's Question Of The Week August 20, 2003 We received over 300 responses to our question last week on noise-abatement procedures. Half of those responding indicated they normally follow airport noise-abatement procedures, while 32 percent claim they are "somewhat observant" of these policies. Only 3 percent of our respondents seemed to show a total disregard for the noise level produced by their overflying aircraft.
We received over 200 responses to our question last week on the overall AirVenture experience. The results were quite mixed with 27 percent of our respondents enjoying every aspect of the event, while 18 percent felt the food prices seemed higher than ever. Nearly one-third (29 percent) indicated AirVenture's commercialism is getting way out of hand, while 2 percent didn't enjoy the event at all.
We received over 100 responses to our question last week on AVweb's AirVenture coverage. About a quarter (26 percent) of our respondents enjoyed the new product release coverage, while 8 percent picked our new streaming video as a their favorite feature. Many (26 percent) couldn't single out a best feature, so they chose the "I can't pick a favorite because it's all great!" category.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the overall AirVenture experience. Please go to http://www.AVweb.com/qotw to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to qotw@AVweb.com. Note, this address is ONLY for suggested QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... July 29, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on foreign air carriers. More than half (59 percent) of those responding felt their level of safety onboard foreign airliners is directly related to the specific carrier being flown. About 19 percent felt comfortable flying aboard US-based airliners, while 4 percent actually felt more comfortable flying via non-US carriers.
To check out the complete results go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week we would like to know your thoughts on AVweb’s AirVenture coverage. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Please remember that the email address is ONLY for suggested QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... July 23, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). Approaching half (46 percent) of those responding felt WAAS will provide all of the benefits promoted by the FAA, while 43 percent said they won't fully believe the system works until actually seeing it operational. Only 5 percent had no faith nor trust in the FAA's promises.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on foreign air carriers. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
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QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... July 16, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on flying during the July 4th holiday weekend. Nearly a third (31 percent) of those responding indicated they did fly during the holiday weekend but strictly within their local area. Following behind, 28 percent did not fly due to money, time and other personal issues, while only 2 percent did not fly due to TFRs and other flight restrictions.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on WAAS. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
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AVweb's Question of the Week... July 8, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on using anti-depressant medication. The majority (62 percent) of those responding never have taken an anti-depressant before flying and think it is unwise to do so. About 20 percent indicated they don't take this type of medication, but don't see a problem if someone does. Only 3 percent of our respondents say they do take anti-depressants quite frequently before flying.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on flying during the July 4th holiday weekend. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... July 2, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 700 responses to our question last week on cell phone use in airplanes. Approaching half (44 percent) of those responding felt there might be some risk of interference when using cell phones in the air but were not totally sure of that fact. About 28 percent don't see a problem with their use and have done so on GA and airline aircraft alike. Only 8 percent felt using cell phones in the air compromises everyone's safety.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on using anti-depressants before flight. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... June 25, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the Paris Air Show. The largest group (39 percent) of those responding felt the American boycott of the event was necessary and it was time for the U.S. industry to show its collective power. Following behind, 30 percent thought the holdout did the U.S. more harm than good, while 4 percent felt the American aerospace industry's image was tainted in the process.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on cellphone use in airplanes. Thanks to Jim Bender for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
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AVweb's Question Of The Week... June 18, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 500 responses to our question last week on factory built versus kit aircraft. The largest group (31 percent) of those responding said factory aircraft was their best choice, as they don't have time to construct. Nearly a third (28 percent) of those responding cited several reasons for constructing a kit aircraft, including the fun of building and flying one's own machine and the educational aspect of learning the inner workings of an airplane.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the Paris Air Show. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... June 11, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 500 responses to our question last week on ATC facility tours. The majority (65 percent) of those responding felt these visits are very important, as they gained valuable insight into the operation of these facilities. About 34 percent felt pilots should try to visit these facilities at least once in their lifetime. Only two people indicated didn't see the usefulness of these visits.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on factory built versus kit aircraft. Thanks to Robert McCoy for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... June 3, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on flying during the Memorial Day holiday weekend. About 30 percent of those responding flew during the period, but only within their local area. However, 22 percent did fly out of town, while 27 percent did not fly at all due to money, time or other personal reasons.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on ATC facility tours. Thanks to Matt McNelley for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
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AVweb's Question of the Week... May 28, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the delayed release of Sport Pilot. So far, 31 percent of those responding indicate the delay of Sport Pilot does not cause them any concern, as the FAA has other priorities (national security, etc.) to deal with. About 21 percent believe it is awfully strange for this certification process to take so long. Only six percent weren't sure as of yet.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on flying this holiday weekend. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... May 21, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 400 responses to our question last week on GA Glass Cockpits. Approaching half (42 percent) of those responding indicated the benefit of a GA glass cockpit package depended more on their currency rather than the equipment installed. Only five percent did not like the use of this high-tech platform, while 19 percent stressed the actual equipment installed would be the deciding factor.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the delayed release of Sport Pilot certification. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... May 14, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on the Centennial Of Flight Celebration. The vast majority (69 percent) of those responding indicated the Wright Brothers' work should be celebrated via this yearlong project. Only 1 percent felt it is an all-around bad idea to commercialize this historic event. In addition, 11 percent indicated this celebration should have more of a global perspective.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on GA glass cockpit packages. Thanks to Austin D. Nixon for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
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QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... May 7, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 300 responses to our question last week on STOL kits. The majority, 34 percent of those responding, felt these modifications have been quite effective in reducing their takeoff/landing speeds and distances. Only 6 percent said STOL kits have helped to some extent but not as expected, while 10 percent felt these modifications are a waste of time.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the Centennial of Flight Celebration. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... April 30, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 400 responses to our question last week on arming airline pilots. The majority (55 percent) of our respondents felt armed pilots should have been introduced a long time ago. The next largest group of respondents (22 percent) think the arming of airline pilots is a terrible idea. This group feel guns have no place in the airline cockpit. Only 2 percent of those responding hadn't made up their mind on this issue.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on STOL kits. Many thanks to George McKee for suggesting this week's QOTW topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
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AVweb's Question of the Week... April 22, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 400 responses to our question last week on the Concorde's pending retirement. A large group (35 percent) of those responding felt it was time to retire the supersonic airliner, as it is not economically feasible to operate. On the other hand, 27 percent of our respondents felt the airplane is an aeronautical marvel.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on arming airline pilots. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... April 16, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 400 responses to our question last week on Sun 'n Fun. A large group (41 percent) of those responding indicated they have attended Sun 'n Fun on several occasions. Following that group, 27 percent have never attended but plan to go sometime soon. It is interesting to note that 19 percent of our respondents don't ever plan on attending the event.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the Concorde's upcoming retirement. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... April 9, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 900 responses to our question last week on the Meigs airport closure. Almost half (47 percent) of those responding weren't sure if Mayor Daley's destruction of Meigs' runway would permanently close the airport, but they did feel his actions would surely be heavily contested. A slightly smaller group ( 37 percent) felt Daley has found legal loopholes to shut Meigs down forever. Only six percent of our respondents wanted this closure to remain permanent.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on Sun 'n Fun. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... March 26, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 200 responses to our question last week on the Airport Watch Program. Almost half (46 percent) of those responding felt this program partially deters the use of GA aircraft in terrorist and other illegal activities. Only 9 percent indicated it absolutely meets this goal.
To check out the complete results, including comments, go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on air shows. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to
. Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... March 19, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 700 responses to our question last week on War's Effects On General Aviation. Almost half (42 percent) of those responding felt a war with Iraq would definitely be a negative event, however, GA will fare better than the airlines. A smaller group (27 percent) indicated the GA industry will experience another large economic hit with this kind of armed conflict. Only 2 percent of those responding felt a war would actually boost GA sales.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the new Airport Watch program. Thanks to Dave McClurkin for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
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AVweb's Question of the Week... March 12, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 1,200 responses to our question last week on crosswind landing techniques. About one third (29 percent) of those responding prefer to hold a crab during final approach and just before the flare. On the other hand, 26 percent prefer slipping the aircraft on final approach.
To check out the complete results go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week we would like to know your thoughts on the effects of war on the GA industry. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Please remember that the email address is ONLY for suggested QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... March 5, 2003 This week, we would like to know your thoughts on crosswind landing techniques.
AVweb's Question of the Week... February 26, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 1000 responses to our question last week on arming GA pilots. The vast majority of our respondents (76 percent) indicated that GA pilots should arm themselves, as they have the same right to protect themselves as anyone else. Only 15 percent of those responding felt that firearms have no place in the general aviation cockpit and thought they would be hazardous to any phase of flight. Our current AVmail discusses some comments we received via e-mail on this subject.
To check out the complete results, please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw >.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on non-towered airport traffic-pattern entries. Thanks to Jack Kenton for suggesting this week's topic. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... February 19, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 500 responses to our question last week on the new D.C.-area ADIZ. The vast majority (76 percent) of our respondents felt this ADIZ is a useless idea, as the terrorists will always find a way to carry out their attacks. Only a few (3 percent) of those responding felt this is a necessary step to protect our nation's capital. A slightly larger group (5 percent) were not sure if this is a good security measure or not.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on arming GA pilots. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to . Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
AVweb's Question of the Week... February 12, 2003 *** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***
We received over 600 responses to our question last week on CFI certificate applicants. Nearly half (41 percent) of our respondents felt that no amendment was needed to the current set of CFI requirements, as the CFI is a demanding certificate with a high level of training already in place. Only 22 percent of those responding felt that some changes may be necessary, but emphasized that careful thought should be placed on what areas need to be redone.
*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the new D.C. area ADIZ. Please go to <http://www.avweb.com/qotw > to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to
. Note, this address is ONLY for suggested
QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers.
We received over 600 responses to our question last week on the TSA's new rule regarding the revocation of airmen certificates. Nearly half (46 percent) of those responding felt the TSA continues to show its ignorance with regards to aviation security. Following that group, 35 percent felt that, well-intended or not, the new rule is still a violation of basic civil rights. Only 3 percent of our respondents felt this action by the TSA is a necessary tool to weed out possible national security risks.
We received over 600 responses to our question last week on personal jet aircraft. The majority (43 percent) of our respondents felt that these types of airplanes are great for those who can afford these aircraft, but a moot point for the others who can't. The second most popular response -– as indicated by 27 percent of those responding -- indicated that these new aircraft models are always a good sign for industry. Only two percent of our respondent base felt that this is the wrong time to introduce these jet aircraft to market.
This week we would like to know your thoughts on the new TSA rule regarding airmen certificates. Please go to AVweb's QOTW page to respond.
Have an idea for a new QOTW? Send your suggestions to qotw@avweb.com. Note, this address is ONLY for suggested QOTW questions, and NOT for QOTW answers or comments.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... January 22, 2003 By Arturo Weiss We received over 1000 responses to our question last week on airport curfews. The majority (54) percent of our respondents feel that curfews do nothing but disrupt vital air traffic and if residents don't like living near an airport, they should move. Following that group, 32 percent of those responding felt that while effective in some instances, curfews can be abused and actually negatively affect an airport's valuable operations. Only 2 percent haven't made up on their minds on whether curfews are beneficial or not.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on personal jet aircraft.
We received over 1000 responses to our question last week on GA airport security. So far, the majority (88 percent) of our respondents feel that no additional security measures need be implemented at GA airports because events like those seen in Germany last week aren't a serious security concern. Only two votes indicated that security guards and/or law enforcement should patrol GA airport ramp areas. Also in the minority, only 2 percent of those responding felt all ramp access gates should be locked, forcing people to check in at airport businesses or with law enforcement prior to entry.
This week, we would like to know your thoughts on airport curfews.
AVweb's Question Of The Week January 8, 2003 We received over 400 responses to our question last week on the biggest aviation story of 2002. So far, 33 percent of our respondents feel that the crippling of the airline industry, including United’s bankruptcy, was the biggest aviation story of 2002. The economic downturn and its effect on general aviation was cited by 28 percent of our readers as being the main story. Following that, 20 percent said threats to airports and airspace was the big story of 2002.
AVweb's Question Of The Week... January 1, 2003 This week, we would like to know your thoughts on the Aviation Year In Review.
