New On

February 28, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• On Tuesday, EAA hosted 125 sport aircraft manufacturers, alphabet-group reps and government officials at a conference in Oshkosh, Wis.
• Europe's National Air Traffic Service (NATS) was forced to close a 400-mile-wide corridor of airspace across England and the North Sea Saturday and Sunday night, delaying trans-Atlantic flights, because one air traffic controller called in sick.
• Last weekend, after five and a half months, two of the three still-closed GA airports in the Washington, D.C., area were allowed to open.
• Late last week, Garmin issued a Safety of Flight Installation Alert that applies to Ryan TCAD 9900BX systems interfaced with Garmin GPS systems.
• One of the FAA's own has accused the agency of covering up information about security lapses at the nation's airports prior to 9/11, according to a report in USA Today on Monday.
• If you're planning to travel to Jamaica anytime soon, maybe you should go by boat.
• Both hijacked airplanes that hit the World Trade Center (WTC) towers were traveling at speeds well over the established federal limits for altitudes below 10,000 feet, according to a report published Saturday by The New York Times.
• Aviation record-setting may seem like a yawnfest sometimes, but the National Aeronautic Association likes to remind us that, yes, some amazing stuff still happens.

AVMAIL

Reader mail about wake-turbulence spacing of AA587 behind the preceding 747 heavy, A-300 rudder-pedal force, stupid pax tricks at PHX, stun guns in the cockpit, whether a recovery parachute is required equipment on the Cirrus SR20/SR22, and more.

BRAINTEASERS: Quiz #52: Rules of Thumb

Rules of thumb help to cut pilot workload by substituting a simple rule for what could be a complex calculation. Irv Siegel's latest quiz is based on a number of such very useful rules. You should be able to answer these questions without resorting to your electronic calculator, or even pencil and paper ... and if you can't, the quiz answers will teach you how.

KLYDE MORRIS

Salt Lake City may be done with the Olympics, but in Klyde's world, the competition is just getting started...

SAFETY: Far From Proficient

When airplane systems fail in IMC, extraordinary piloting skills will be required to sort out the problem and maintain control of the flight. As Brian M. Jacobson reported in IFR Refresher, if you cut short your training, you may fall short of your intended destination.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 40 pictures last week. Congratulations to this week's winner, David Webber, of Lancaster, Calif. David's picture shows a Van's RV-6 flying off into the sunset after takeoff from Montgomery Field (MYF), San Diego. The airplane was built and flown by Gary Sobek. Great picture, David! Your AVweb prize is on the way.

To check out the winning picture, or to enter next week's contest, go to AVweb's POTW page.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 1,000 responses to our question last week on the cost of general aviation flying. The overwhelming majority (93 percent) said general aviation will never be as affordable as other forms of personal transportation. The majority (81 percent) also said cost was the greatest obstacle to getting more people involved with GA, and liability was cited by 41 percent as the costliest factor. Interestingly enough, some respondents supported the high cost of GA flying. One said, "If everyone could afford to fly, enormous changes would have to take place to efficiently manage all these aircraft in the sky at once."

To check out the complete results, including comments, go to AVweb's QOTW page.

*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***

This week we would like to know your thoughts on the safety design of general aviation aircraft. 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.

SHOPPING DEALS

YOU COULDN'T GET THERE FROM HERE MONDAY. HERE'S THE CORRECT LINK TO TCM!
Teledyne Continental Motors is taking orders for the Powerlink (TM) FADEC system for both Continental and Lycoming engines. Power up for your aircraft's 21st-century flying needs. For more information, go online.

TRADE-A-PLANE HAS FREE VALUE ESTIMATES FOR PRINT OR ONLINE SUBSCRIBERS
This service of the National Aircraft Appraiser's Association and Trade-A-Plane (TAP) will help you generate an "estimated aircraft value." It does not constitute an appraisal but will help in estimating what the aircraft you want to sell may be worth. Go online for a TAP print or online subscription.

PACIFIC COAST AVIONICS HAS THE BENDIX/KING KMD-150 COLOR GPS AND MFD
A great GPS value at Pacific Coast! With an internal GPS receiver, 5" diagonal full-color display with terrain, Victor airways display, and WX-500 Stormscope capability, the KMD-150 is a true winner! System includes mounting tray, connector kit, and GPS antenna for only $2,850. Call Pacific Coast Avionics at 1-800-353-0370, send an email, or simply go online.

TEST-DRIVE "FLIGHT EXPLORER AVWEB EDITION 3.1" WITH A FREE DEMO MODE using simulated data, plus enhancements including airport traffic graphs, one-minute position updates (refreshed every 10 seconds), and more. Anyone can track aircraft with Flight Explorer AVweb Edition 3.1 for only $9.95 a month. Join thousands of satisfied Flight Explorer users by subscribing today.

DON'T RISK HYPOXIA! USE A LOW-COST PULSE OXIMETER FROM AEROMEDIX.COM
Pulse oximeters measure oxygen saturation in the bloodstream. Simply clip on your fingertip and get a continuous digital readout of your hypoxia level. The low-cost Nonim "FlightStat" and Palco "Aero" are designed specifically for pilots. Choose your oximeters and also view the other medical and safety products at Aeromedix.com. Just go online.

AVSHOP HAS THE INDUSTRY'S HOTTEST PILOT PRODUCTS PLUS SPECIAL HOT DEALS
For Hot Deals send an email, or go online.

MARV GOLDEN SELLS FOR LESS WITH GREAT PRICES ON DAVID CLARK, TELEX AND Sennheiser headsets. Marv has the new Icom A-5 Sport handheld radio and a special Icom offer: buy an Icom A-23 and receive a FREE Leatherman Juicer. Marv also has the new Flightline headsets. See these and more online.

SAVE $100 ON ALL FOUR MODELS OF AIRSPORT ALTITUDE ALERTERS.

SPONSORS

GARMIN'S NAVTALK PILOT IS THE ONLY AVIATION CELLPHONE WITH GPS BUILT IN
Make and receive calls from the cockpit, your car, home, anywhere with GARMIN's NavTalk Pilot, eliminating the need to use two separate cellphones. The unit's cellphone has an electronic phone book, numeric paging, and ground-to-air, air-to-air, and air-to-ground calling capabilities. The NavTalk Pilot's GPS receiver technology and software configuration are the same found on the GPS III Pilot, complete with an extensive internal basemap including cities plus millions of roads and highways. For more details, and to find the right GARMIN quality GPS for your needs, go online.

FLYING WITH THOSE OLD HEADSETS 'CAUSE THEY'RE LIKE OLD SHOES?
The design of headsets has come a long way in the past five years. Don't be stuck with the same old headsets just "because." Look at the various LightSPEED models, from the affordable QFR series headsets to the wonderfully comfortable XL series. They are all online to view. Find the right model for your type of flying. You'll FEEL the difference!

OREGON AERO: GENERAL AVIATION REAPS SAME BENEFITS AS MILITARY
All U.S. military branches use Oregon Aero products because the products are painless, quieter, safer, more durable and require less maintenance. These same benefits are available in products Oregon Aero designs and manufactures for general aviation. Check out the headset and helmet upgrades, custom seat-cushion systems, interiors, shoe inserts and other products.

NEVER HEAR, "SORRY, WE'RE ALL OUT OF THOSE CHARTS" AGAIN. ORDER A CHART subscription from VRotate to always fly safely with updated charts. Go online.

IFR PILOTS! IFR REFRESHER MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU ARTICLES YOU NEED TO KNOW
From piloting skills to changes in regulations and airspace, IFR Refresher magazine keeps you up-to-date. Subscribe online.

NTSB REPORTER SHOWS HOW PILOT'S HOURS DON'T MEAN HE'S SAFE!
Like most pilots, you probably point with pride to each hour added in your logbook. Hours aren't everything. The two ATPs out for a pleasure flight each had 18,000+ hours of flight time and a list of type ratings. Nevertheless, control of the Bonanza was lost. Details in the February issue of NTSB Reporter. Order your subscription online today.

KNOW OF A COMPANY THAT SHOULD BE ADVERTISING ON AVWEB?
Have them go online for full information.

February 25, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• Ballistic Recovery Systems (BRS), which makes the parachutes installed in Cirrus airplanes, said Saturday it has discovered that the parachute could fail to activate in an emergency, and Cirrus recommended that operators of SR20s and SR22s not fly until a field repair is completed.
• The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) new rule requires that operators of aircraft weighing 12,500 pounds and over must implement a security program including background checks on flight crews and accounting to U.S. Customs of flight manifest inventories.
• Perhaps it shouldn't surprise anyone that the Allied Pilots Association (APA) has requested further guidance on pilot training regarding rudder use on transport-category aircraft.
• AOPA last week petitioned the FAA on the subject of pilot photo IDs, suggesting that the mission could be accomplished by requiring that pilots be in possession of a current government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license or a passport, while acting as pilot in command.
• The FAA mandated that U.S. carriers install bulletproof cockpit doors by April 2003, and Reuters reports that 1,672 aircraft from five major U.S. carriers have contracted with Boeing for installation.
• Under agreements with Rockwell Collins Commercial Systems, Honeywell Aerospace Electronic Systems and Avidyne Corp., the FAA will partially fund development of VHF Digital Link Mode-3 (VDL-3) avionics.
• We'll start this simple: Southwest Airlines is the only large U.S. airline making money.
• Privatization proponents have kept an eye on Britain's part-privatized National Air Traffic Control Services (NATS).

AVMAIL

Reader mail about continued restrictions on banner-towing, proposed ID cards for airport workers and airline passengers, the "Dream Flyer" being built by N.J. elementary school students, firearms aboard airliners, Klyde Morris on "sport mechanics," Kevin Garrison's "CEO of the Cockpit" column, and more.

COLUMNS: The Pilot's Lounge: Road Rage On Unicom

There are those who sound off on the CTAF like New York cab drivers lay on their horns. Is it ever appropriate to use the air waves to communicate opinions about another pilot's actions? That was the topic of the day in The Pilot's Lounge. AVweb's Rick Durden was there and reports on their discussion.

MAINTENANCE: Walk Away Or Fix?

If you encounter significant corrosion during an annual or pre-buy, fixing it may be an option. However, as Coy Jacob reported in The Aviation Consumer, you'll need to exercise care in estimating the repair costs.

KLYDE MORRIS

As you get comfortable with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and enjoy the Olympics, don't overlook the security-screener events ...

SHOPPING DEALS

AVIONICS WEST'S DEEP DISCOUNTS END MARCH 3 ON GARMIN GPSMAP 295 package deal with accessories, Lowrance Airmap 300, and much more. For too-low-to-advertise prices, send email, call 1-805-934-9777, or go online. Check out the 2002 training class schedule for Garmin 430/530. Dates and details online.

PACIFIC COAST AVIONICS HAS NEW LOWER PRICES ON SENNHEISER HEADSET models. For the guaranteed lowest pricing on Sennheiser ANR and passive headsets Pacific Coast Avionics is the place. The Bendix/King KMD-150 color GPS and MFD is the best GPS value available! With an internal GPS receiver, 5" diagonal full-color display with terrain, victor airways display, and WX-500 Stormscope capability, the KMD-150 is a true winner! System includes mounting tray, connector kit, and GPS antenna for only $2850. Call Pacific Coast Avionics at 1-800-353-0370, or send an e-mail, or just go online.

TELEDYNE CONTINENTAL MOTORS TAKING ORDERS FOR THE POWERLINK (TM) FADEC system for both Continental and Lycoming engines. Power up for your aircraft's 21st Century flying needs. For more information, go online.

GOOD NEWS GA! DESSER HAS TWO NEW PREMIUM TIRES & A SPECIAL OFFER
Desser Tires, one of the world's leading suppliers of aircraft tires and tubes, now carries Goodyear's Flight Custom III, and Aero Classic's new premium tire with the classic diamond design resurrected from the 50s and 60s. Desser is offering HALF off the inner tube on selected purchases. See these new tires and the special inner tube offer.

AEROPLANNER PREMIUM NOTAM SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE INCLUDES UPDATES TO THE National Airspace System via email throughout the day. Services like this would normally cost hundreds of dollars per year alone, but it comes as part of the Premium Subscription service for $12.95 per month or $119.95 per year. Get details on AeroPlanner's NOTAM email service online. For information on Aeroplanner.com service and a listing of their products, go online.

NO SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR SOFTWARE TO BUY WITH TIME SYNC'S SCHEDULE Master. Use any touch-tone phone or any web browser for 24/7 access to clubs, partnerships, schools, and/or FBO aircraft. Avoid hassles and improve aircraft utilization with Time Sync's Schedule Master scheduling service. A FREE online demonstration is available for your viewing.

DON'T BE CAUGHT WITHOUT YOUR "GREEN" ON ST. PATRICK'S DAY! ORDER PHOTON green lights. These powerful micro lights are small and long-lasting. Till March 31, a set of Green, White, & Yellow Photon 3 lights are $67.85, save $10. Prefer Photon's Covert lights for cockpit use? Order the same set with Covert versions for only $6 more! Order yours today.

REMINDER...
LAST WEEK TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GLEIM'S FEBRUARY SPECIAL, 10-percent discount on all FAA Test Prep software. Gleim is the standard in pilot training. Order online. Offer ends February 28.

SPONSORS

NEW SPONSOR: FLY SAFER AND SAVE MONEY WITH APPROACH AVIATION'S VIDEO Series. Approach Aviation, the leader in aircraft owner education, has introduced another video in "The Educated Owner Video Series" for those interested in aircraft ownership. Vol. III - Introduction to Aircraft Ownership covers the ownership experience, step-by-step, from finding the right plane and negotiating the deal, to owning and maintaining new aircraft. This video joins the highly successful Vol. I -- Preventive Maintenance, and Vol. II -- The Annual Inspection. Find the entire Educated Owner Series online.

TRAINING FOR AN AIRLINE PILOT CAREER? THINK PAN AM INTERNATIONAL Flight Academy. Pan Am International Flight Academy guarantees every graduate of the "ACE" airline transition course an airline job within six months or their MONEY BACK! The "ACE" course is a comprehensive airline operations and jet transition course taught in a CRJ-200 Canadair Regional Jet FTD. The curriculum was developed with cooperation of Pan Am's Airline Advisory Committee, including the chief pilots of Comair Airlines, ASA, Mesa Airlines, Mesaba Airlines, American Eagle, Continental Express and 10 other airlines. To put your airline career on the fast track, call Pan Am International Flight Academy at 1-800-83-PILOT, and for more information on the ACE program, go online today.

DON'T THINK ABOUT BUYING LIFE INSURANCE WITHOUT AN OFFER FROM PIC
Before you pay another life insurance premium, compare your rate and coverage with Pilot Insurance Center (PIC). In addition to a quick and easy application, PIC offers big savings to pilots on full-coverage life insurance. Take advantage of the best life insurance program available to pilots through PIC. Receive a FREE quote by calling 1-800-380-8376 or go online.

ADAM AIRCRAFT'S CARBONAERO WEB SEMINAR WAS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS!
Adam Aircraft thanks those that participated in their February 13th interactive seminar. For those that missed this seminar go online for a recorded audio PowerPoint presentation. The next interactive seminar, "An Inside Look At The CarbonAero," is scheduled for April 3. Watch AVflash for registration information. If you want to see the CarbonAero up close and personal check the Web site for events where this amazing aircraft can be seen.

FALCON INSURANCE & THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS (NAFI) are meeting the needs of flight instructors facing difficulty obtaining insurance. The plan is available to all NAFI members. Falcon: Over 20 years covering the aviation industry's insurance needs. Go online for details.

IT'S A HOOT -- OR WAS THAT A MOO -- PLAYING AEROSHELL'S AMOOLIA Airheart Game. AeroShell, the world's leading manufacturer of aircraft oils and lubricants for singles, turbos and helicopters, presents the Amoolia Airheart game. You say that cows can't fly. Well, this one can!

AVWEB'S SHOPPING DIRECTORY!

February 21, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• December 17, 2003, marks the 100th anniversary of a 12-second flight -- manned, powered, "sustained" and controllable in three axes -- that in one way or another, got us all into this business.
• Every now and then we see projects develop around the creation of an aircraft through the hands of schoolchildren, but in recent memory we can't remember a project that involves children so young.
• Yesterday, the FAA released air traffic control audiotapes associated with American Airlines Flight 587, the Airbus A300-600 that crashed soon after takeoff from JFK Airport in New York on November 12.
• The Transportation Security Administration is now requiring charter operators and others flying aircraft with a maximum gross takeoff weight of 12,500 pounds or more to implement a security program that includes fingerprint-based criminal history record checks for all flight-crew members.
• When a Cape Air pilot reportedly passed out at the controls over Cape Cod last week, leading to an emergency landing by a student-pilot passenger, it wasn't immediately apparent that follow-up would reveal such a colorful history of the pilot.
• Investigators with the NTSB have found that Missouri Gov. Mel Carnahan's aircraft did not have defective instrumentation when it crashed on a stormy night in October 2000, the Associated Press reported Sunday.
• The National Air Transportation Association announced last week the launch of its National Air Transportation Security Identification System.
• A statement released by United Airlines on Monday said a tentative deal had been reached with some 13,000 mechanics and aircraft cleaning staff who haven't had a pay raise since 1994.

AVMAIL

Reader mail about the Tipton (Md.) airport, California Highway Patrol officers packing while pax, Sen. Kohl's characterization of GA as "a ticking time bomb," the takeover of Mooney by AASI, Airbus tails, and more.

NEWS: Business/Corporate Aviation Update

AVweb's expanded coverage of business/corporate aviation continues with news of strong bizjet sales, a milestone for Gulfstream, smatterings of ADs, squabbling over government financing, new discount incentive programs, mobile training for flight crews, and more.

KLYDE MORRIS

What's the difference between an A&P and a sport-plane repairman? Klyde listens in as the FAA mulls it over...

PROFILES: John Baker

John Baker spent most of his career on Capitol Hill. He never ran for office, but he never ran from a fight. Baker flew in the Air Force, graduated from law school, became the first air-crash attorney at the Department of Justice, and handled congressional relations for the FAA. But he's best known for his 13 years battling Congress and the FAA as president of AOPA. In this month's Profile, AVweb's Joe Godfrey talks with John about pilots and politics.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 50 pictures last week. Congratulations to this week's winner, Frank Paul Bogensic, of Lake Orion, Mich. His picture shows us what the inside of a B-17 looks like. This unique perspective will surely bring back memories for WWII veterans. Great picture, Frank! Your AVweb prize is on the way.

To check out the winning picture, or to enter next week's contest, go to AVweb's POTW page.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received about 600 responses to our question last week on rudder training. The majority (59 percent) of respondents said the NTSB's recent Safety Recommendation on rudder training missed the mark, and the airplane -- not training -- is the problem. About 43 percent said the proposed rudder training should not apply to general aviation, but 38 percent said they'd like to see a closer examination of GA accident data to find out if there is an issue. Comments covered a range of topics, including aircraft design and training, but many noted there was no single right answer. For example, one person wrote: "Is this [Safety Recommendation] another attempt to fix a complex problem with a simple solution?"

To check out the complete results, including comments, go to AVweb's QOTW page.

*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***

This week we would like to know your thoughts on the cost of GA flying. 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.

SHOPPING DEALS

COMM1 OFFERS FREE COMMUNICATIONS REFERENCE CARD WITH ALL ORDERS
Comm1 Radio Simulators let you experience real flight situations through high-quality audio and graphics, practicing ATC communication from the safety and privacy of your desktop. Whether you're training for VFR or IFR, need additional practice with IFR clearances, or just a refresher, there's a Comm1 program right for you. Order yours before March 15 and receive a FREE VFR or IFR Communications Reference Card. It's only online.

SAVE $22 ON AVIATION CONSUMER'S USED AIRCRAFT GUIDE
The ninth edition of Aviation Consumer's Used Aircraft Guide will pinpoint the plane that best fits your needs and budget, resulting in savings of thousands when you buy and thousands more when you sell, and help minimize maintenance and operating costs. Order your copy today.

ATTENTION YAESU HANDHELD USERS! TRANS-PLATA HAS YAESU POWER ADAPTERS at a close-out price of $29.95. This is the perfect Power Adapter for Yaesu Pilot Transceivers and Yaesu Aviator Pilot Pro IIs. Micro-electronic circuitry is built into a lighter plug to run with any input voltage from 28 to 12 volts, providing a safe, regulated and protected output voltage. Offer good while supplies last, plus all Trans-Plata products have FREE shipping. Order yours today! Order online.

SPONSORS

GARMIN'S GNS 530: SO REVOLUTIONARY IT'LL CHANGE HOW YOU LOOK AT AVIONICS
The GARMIN GNS 530 is a WAAS-upgradeable IFR GPS, comm, VOR, LOC and glideslope with color moving map all rolled into one. A TSO'd VHF comm offers a choice of 25-kHz or 8.33-kHz spacing for 760- or 3040-channel configuration respectively. A Jeppesen database, which can be updated with front-loading data cards, contains all airports, VORs, NDBs, intersections, FSS, approaches, SIDs/STARs and SUA information. The brilliant colors of the GNS 530's five-inch display make pilot-critical information easy to read and interpret. The GNS 530's intuitive software and logical layout prove that this is a system built for pilots, by pilots. Go online to see this and other quality GARMIN products.

"ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION" IS WHAT? ANSWERS FROM LIGHTSPEED'S PROS
LightSPEED, makers of the world's most popular headsets, have written a tutorial for pilots who don't quite understand the ANR technology. Understand the role active noise cancellation can have on your flying safety, comfort and overall enjoyment. Go online and read for yourself.

CESSNA OPERATORS! ONLY MEMBERS OF THE CESSNA PILOTS ASSOCIATION ARE KEPT up-to-date on everything "Cessna"! Find out why over 15,000 Cessna owners worldwide think the Cessna Pilots Association is the greatest thing since Wilbur said to Orville, "Let's give this flying thing a try!" Check out the CPA online.

FOR AVIATION PROFESSIONALS WHO WILL WORK WITH YOU, CONTACT CS&A
CS&A Aviation Insurance combines one of the most knowledgeable teams of aviation insurance professionals with the industry's most-respected aviation underwriting companies. Go online for a no-obligation quote.

CEE SHADES REFLECT OVER 96% OF RADIANT HEAT COMING THROUGH AN AIRCRAFT'S cabin acrylic, leaving interiors cooler, preserving interior fabrics and safeguarding avionics. Cee Shades are hand-cut from windshield and window patterns to guarantee a perfect fit, and hand-sewn and bound with supple, protective acrylic cloth to support the friction wedge fit. 100% USA-made, available in full sets or windshield only, for most general aviation and corporate aircraft. See these and other quality Cee Bailey products online.

IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW IT ALL, BETTER CHECK OUT "AVIATION SAFETY" BEFORE you crow! Aviation Safety magazine takes on those issues that may save your life and that of your passengers someday. February's issue covers: descent training, a guide to non-radar approaches, owner-driven maintenance, and tailwinds. Order your subscription today.

PICK YOUR KING COURSE FORMAT: CHOOSE DVD OR CD-ROM
Although a set-top DVD allows you to study with your TV and provides some advantages over VHS, true interactivity requires the use of a computer. If interactivity, progress tracking, and reports are important to your learning, choose King's exclusive DVD or CD-ROM for use with your computer. Details on this, all King courses and first-rate pilot gear is available online.

ACE YOUR NEXT CHECKRIDE WITH "CHECKRIDE TIPS" AUDIO CASSETTE TAPES BY Howard Fried, AVweb columnist and a designated examiner for many years. Nothing gets by Howard, as you'll see in the stories he tells in his own words. Howard's advice will help you show your examiner your very best. Order online.

PILOT GETAWAYS MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU GREAT SPRING DESTINATIONS!
In time for spring flying, Pilot Getaways' Spring 2002 issue features airports from coast to coast! Fly to the closest airport to Crater Lake, stay in a historic B&B, and visit our nation's oldest National Park -- all in the cover story on Prospect, Ore. In Colorado's Rocky Mountains, board the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gage Railroad, pass a resort that's only accessible by helicopter or railroad. Eastern Readers! Pilot Getaways has expanded eastward. Naples, Fla., is the first Eastern destination, offering elegance, glamour, and the Everglades' beauty. Soak in soothing mineral springs at two hot springs destinations just minutes from the airport: Carlsbad, Calif., and Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, a private airport where the owner welcomes Pilot Getaways readers. Don't miss these and more exciting destinations! Subscribe online today.

SUPPORT AVWEB AND AVFLASH SPONSORS, SO THE NEWS WILL REMAIN FREE TO YOU!
Check out our list of sponsors, and then view our list of products and sponsors who carry those products.

February 18, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• Helicopter operations were hard hit by the restrictions put in place over the past five months, but if last week's Heli-Expo 2002 in Orlando, Fla., is any indication, the industry is at least holding its own, if not already on the rebound.
• Authorities have explained that explosive teddy bears could be used as terrorist weapons at the Olympic Games venues in Salt Lake City ... and at our nation's airports.
• Project planners at Miami International airport will still get a fourth runway and new North and South Terminals, but some $600 million will be removed from the $5.4 billion improvement plan.
• The Nimbus Group last year announced an amazing order for 1,000 Eclipse 500 jet aircraft.
• The FCC has authorized the marketing and operation of certain types of new products incorporating ultra-wideband (UWB) technology in the same frequency range used for GPS.
• Cessna recently announced that it may be forced to lay off Wichita-based workers if things don't improve for the company anytime soon.
• A state bill that that facilitates the state's Aeronautics Commission issuance of statewide pilot photo registration cards is making its way through South Dakota's legislative process.
• What good is a banner-advertisement if it's not flown over a large group of people?

AVMAIL

Reader mail about the Mooney/AASI deal, the 30-minute "no potty" rule (and Mr. Bizarro's violation thereof), Ken Cubbins' article "Fatally Flawed," Joe Godfrey's interview with UAL pilot Stayce Harris, Don Brown's "Say Again" columns, hitchhiking via GA, and more.

COLUMNS: The CEO Of The Cockpit: Retirement

There's another side to the Age 60 Rule. Long before you've served six decades on spaceship Earth and are required to step aside to make room for the up-and-coming, it claims your closest friends and flying companions. Ride along with AVweb's Kevin Garrison as the CEO Of The Cockpit takes his final flight with an old buddy.

NEWS: HAI 2002: A Sign Of Getting Back To Normal?

Last week's annual gathering of the helicopter faithful in Orlando, Fla., was pretty normal all around, and to most observers, that was quite extraordinary. After five months of learning to live in the post-9/11 world, the rotorcraft and their operators seem to be doing okay. Here's an inside look at last week's Heli-Expo 2002, straight from Orlando, by AVweb's Dave Higdon, with an image gallery by Bob Kaputa.

KLYDE MORRIS

Airport security screeners on break find there's more to life than they ever learned in high school ... oh wait, they didn't *go* to high school ...

SHOPPING DEALS

AVIONICS WEST POSTS SPECIALS FOR FEBRUARY 18 - MARCH 3!
For the next two weeks, Tom offers deep-discount specials on these items: a great package deal on the Garmin GPSMAP 295 with accessories; Lowrance Airmap 300; DRE-201 and -404 portable intercoms; PDC-100 flight data computer; CO Guardian carbon monoxide detector; JRC's JHP-520 and JPH-550 VHF handheld transceivers; and flashlights from LED-1, Pelican and Gemlite. For too-low-to-advertise prices, send an email, call 1-805-934-9777, or just go online. Check out the online 2002 training class schedule for Garmin 430/530. Full class dates and details.

TELEDYNE CONTINENTAL MOTORS' GLOBAL TCM LINK'S FBO SERVICES PROGRAM offers Internet & CD-ROM-based maintenance, service and parts information to FBOs 24/7. Call one of Continental's technical reps via the toll-free line with any question. FBO mechanics can attend the Aviation Technician Advanced Training Program, tuition-free. The FBO Services Program includes sales incentives, free advertising, technical assistance, Service Bulletins, parts catalogs, ADs, checklists, and direct links to Aviator Services members and TCM Distributors. Register your FBO online.

FEBRUARY SPECIAL FROM SUMMIT AVIATION'S COMPUTERIZED REFERENCE LIBRARY
Order a monthly or bimonthly subscription and receive a FREE site license PLUS 50% discount for multi-users. This is the time to order online. To be an exceptional pilot, proficient instructor, skillful maintenance technician, information is the one thing that is indispensable. Summit's Library gives you that up-to-date information. Offer ends February 28.

SAFETY DOESN'T HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE WITH AIRSPORT ALTITUDE ALERTERS
Now through March 20, save $100 on any of the four models. Portable AirSport Altitude Alerters work by listening to everything your transponder and encoder are reporting to ATC, both Mode A and C. Details and order information are available online today.

GLEIM EXTENDS $5 OFF PRIVATE PILOT REFRESHER COURSE TILL FURTHER NOTICE to AVweb subscribers only. Get ready for your flight review with Gleim's online PPRC. Gleim's PPRC will not only prepare you for the flight review, but will enhance your overall safety and competence. Check out a FREE Lesson One and refresh your knowledge of Aeronautical Decision Making today!

SPONSORS

DON'T LET INSURANCE AGENTS TAKE UNFAIR ADVANTAGE OF YOU
Add a boost to savings by purchasing your life insurance from the Pilot Insurance Center (PIC). PIC works closely with leading insurers to develop life insurance policies specifically designed for pilots. Most important to you, this allows PIC to offer full-coverage life insurance to pilots at preferred rates. In fact, these low rates are not available from other agents. PIC calls it the Pilot Advantage Policy. Don't pay another life-insurance premium without getting the advantages available to you through the Pilot Insurance Center. Visit PIC online or call 1-800-380-8376.

OREGON AERO'S MILITARY CONNECTION: SAME BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO GA
All US military branches use Oregon Aero Inc. products because the products are painless, quieter, safer, more durable and require less maintenance. Oregon Aero's products have been featured in the Los Angeles, San Diego, and Portland newspapers and military publications for the quiet, non-lethal niche they are filling for the U.S. military. These same benefits are available to general aviation. The military uses Oregon Aero aviation helmet and headset upgrades; ground troops military helmet liner upgrades and a chin strap retention system; custom military aircraft seat cushion systems, including ejection seat cushion systems; shoe insole inserts; and complete seat systems for military land vehicles. Check out Oregon Aero's web site to learn about similar products for general aviation!

POWER FLOW TUNED EXHAUST STC'D FOR GRUMMAN AIRCRAFT, $150 DISCOUNT OFFER
Power Flow Systems has received FAA approval to install tuned exhaust systems on the Grumman Tiger, Cheetah and Traveler. These systems provide enhanced performance benefits for Grumman owners including a 30-150 rpm gain during takeoff, climb and cruise flight translating into a 3-6 second reduction in the takeoff roll and a 125 to 250 feet per minute rate of climb increase resulting in a time-to-climb reduction. The aircraft reduced their fuel burn and showed a top speed increase of 4-7 mph with cylinder head temperatures and EGT extremes reduced, oil temperatures cooler in climb and cruise, and improved performance of cabin and carburetor heat. Power Flow's tuned exhaust system comes with all hardware and can be installed by an A&P in four to six hours. For a limited time, the first 100 customers will receive a $150 discount. For more details on this system -- and to order -- just go online today.

PLANE & PILOT MAGAZINE'S MARCH COVER SHOWS THE NEW CESSNA SKYHAWK SP
Inside, Plane & Pilot's Bill Cox reports on the world's most popular airplane that now has a little something extra. The March issue also reports on Piper's Twin Comanche, Doing Your Own 50-Hour Checkup, Sending Less to the IRS, and more with columns written by trusted experts like Dave Gwinn and Peter Katz. Go online and order your subscription.

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING AVIATION? GO TO AVWEB'S SHOPPING DIRECTORY!

February 14, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• The events of 2001 may have made a shambles of the U.S. helicopter industry, but you'd never know it from the goings-on in Orlando this week.
• The U.S. business jet market grew for the fourth year in a row in 2001, helping to set a new record in billings overall for general aviation airplanes, according to a report by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) that was released last night.
• Pay attention, pilots -- those airspace restrictions surrounding the Winter Olympic Games in Utah may be aggravating, time-consuming, etc., but if you try to ignore them you can expect an F-16 escort to the nearest landing site.
• The FAA on Monday released an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD) that requires the replacement of the crankshaft within 10 hours of operation on certain turbocharged Lycoming engines rated at 300 hp or higher.
• Texas bankruptcy court Judge Ronald King this week approved an interim budget that will allow the Mooney Aircraft Corporation (MAC) to keeping running for 90 more days.
• The FAA said yesterday it has completed the Special Federal Aviation Regulation that will allow the reopening of three Washington, D.C., area airports that have been closed since September 11.
• Things seemed a little off track for student pilot Melanie Oswalt, 24, during a Cape Air flight from Martha's Vineyard to Hyannis, Mass., last Friday night.
• A program to train line-service personnel is to be expanded by the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), which recently acquired Aviation Training Institute.

AVMAIL

Lots of reader mail about Airbus rudders and the latest NTSB warnings about the vulnerability of transport aircraft to aggressive rudder inputs. Also mail about Sen. Herb Kohl's (D-Wis.) characterization of GA as a security threat, the latest ATC privatization initiative, Chino's fossilized warbirds, stupid airport security tricks, AASI's takeover of Mooney, and more.

COLUMNS: Eye Of Experience: Staying Out Front

The math is simple. If the airplane is moving along at two or three miles per minute and the pilot's thought processes are lagging behind at half that pace, circumstances will overtake reasoned responses, and adverse consequences will result. According to AVweb's Howard Fried, "staying out front" is crucial for all pilots, no matter what equipment they're flying.

KLYDE MORRIS

The new federal security screeners working at our airports have a tough job to do, and Klyde's TV offers a peek inside their world...

SAFETY: Fatally Flawed

The question of the day following the events of September 11 became the question of the hour after an enraged passenger recently gained in-flight access to the cockpit of a United Airlines 777: Should airline transport pilots carry weapons? Like many of us, Ken Cubbin -- a career flight crewmember -- has some strong feelings on the subject.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 60 pictures last week. Congratulations to this week's winner, Christopher Nesin, of Bangor, Maine. His picture shows a beautiful yellow J-5 Cub in the middle of a winter wonderland on Beech Pond, Maine. Christopher borrowed the ski-plane from a friend and also points out that a Cessna 185 can be seen, in the background, on approach for landing. Great picture, Christopher! Your AVweb prize is on the way.

To check out the winning picture, or to enter next week's contest, go to AVweb's POTW page.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 600 responses to our question last week on the proposed Sport Pilot certificate. The overwhelming majority (68 percent) of our respondents felt that there is a need for this new certification. Interestingly, respondents were split over whether less-stringent training requirements would compromise safety: 53 percent said yes and 47 percent said no. While some comments expressed concern over safety issues, many felt the new cadre of pilots would revitalize aviation. For example, one person wrote: "Many new people will be introduced to the discipline and beauty of flying. Let's welcome them to the sky."

To check out the complete results, including comments, go to AVweb's QOTW page.

*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***

This week we would like to know your thoughts on the NTSB's recent recommendations regarding rudder training. 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.

SHOPPING DEALS

AEROMEDIX INTRODUCES ITS MOST SENSITIVE, ACCURATE CO DETECTOR EVER!
Priced at $124.95, the just-released CO Experts 2002 is the most sensitive carbon monoxide detector you can buy under $500. It displays exact CO concentrations from 5 to 70 PPM, and levels as low as 1 PPM are available via memory recall. It has three alarm levels (10/25/50 PPM), a six-second update rate (10 times faster than other detectors), a fail-safe self-test, and other sophisticated features. The CO Experts 2002 is perfect for in-cockpit monitoring and other applications where high sensitivity and fast response are essential. This and many other health and safety products can be found online. Just take a look on the Web or call 1-888-362-7123.

MARV GOLDEN HAS ALL-NEW LOWER 2002 PRICES ON SENNHEISER HEADSETS, PLUS great prices on David Clark and Telex. Keep out winter's cold with an Alpha Industries flight jacket. Check out other money-saving specials.

TEST DRIVE "FLIGHT EXPLORER AVWEB EDITION 3.1" WITH A FREE DEMO MODE using simulated data, plus enhancements including airport traffic graphs, one-minute position updates (refreshed every 10 seconds), and more. Anyone can track aircraft with Flight Explorer AVweb Edition 3.1 for only $9.95 a month. Join thousands of satisfied Flight Explorer users by subscribing today.

ANY "TIME" OR OCCASION IS A GOOD REASON FOR A FINE CHASE-DURER WATCH
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DOWNLOAD A FREE, COMPLETE, FULLY WORKING DEMO OF FLIGHT LEVEL 2000
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ORDER HOWARD FRIED BOOKS SEPARATELY OR IN COMBINATION AND SAVE UP TO $29
Eye of Experience, More Eye of Experience, and Violation: The Aero-Legal Resource Guide, are on sale.

SPONSORS

GARMIN'S GTX 320A TRANSPONDER IS SOLID-STATE, FULL-FEATURED, COMPACT & panel-mounted. The GTX 320A transponder is solid-state, providing 200 watts nominal power output, eliminating a cavity tube with no warm-up time, and reduced power consumption and heat for longer service life. GARMIN's GTX 320A will operate at 14 or 28 volts without the requirement for external voltage converters or dropping resistors and fits into existing installations of select Narco and King transponders using optional adapters for simple, cost-effective upgrading. A modular design allows for ease of serviceability and simple, standard, four-knob tuning. An extensive one-year warranty is included. See this and other GARMIN quality products online.

BUY. SELL. FLY. WITH TRADE-A-PLANE
Trade-A-Plane has the largest selection of planes, products and services on the planet. Subscribe to the print version (which also includes the online service) or just the online service with daily updates. They're available online.

FLYING WITH THOSE OLD HEADSETS 'CAUSE THEY'RE LIKE OLD SHOES?
The design of headsets has come a long way in the past five years. Don't be stuck with the same old headsets just "because." Look at the various LightSPEED models, from the affordable QFR series to the wonderfully comfortable XL series. These and other models are available online. Find the right model for your type of flying. You'll FEEL the difference!

SMITHSONIAN AIR & SPACE MAGAZINE'S FEBRUARY/MARCH 2002 ISSUE FEATURES articles on Australian Aardvarks (the flying kind), Operation Skyshield, sky marshals, and how to build an aerospace library. Order your subscription online.

DON'T LET SUMMER'S HEAT CATCH YOU UNPREPARED AND BAKE YOUR AIRPLANE
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RECURRENT TRAINING CENTER FOCUSES ON GENERAL AVIATION PILOTS
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WHAT MAINTENANCE DOES AN EXCURSION PAST REDLINE REQUIRE? PRE-PURCHASE Strategy, Prop Life Extension, and Slow Cranking Engines are the items covered in the February issue of Light Plane Maintenance magazine. Order your subscription today right online. Just go to the Web.

KNOW A COMPANY THAT SHOULD ADVERTISE ON AVFLASH AND AVWEB?
Have them go online for all the information.

February 11, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• Advanced Aerodynamics & Structures Inc. (AASI) has made official what AVweb told you last week. They have purchased the position as Mooney Aircraft Corporation's (MAC) senior secured creditor from Congress Financial Corp. for $13.7 million.
• They don't yet know why the American Airlines A300 that was Flight 587 shed its vertical stabilizer, but as they continue their efforts to find out, the NTSB says that a pilot is capable of ripping the fin free with a little toe-tapping.
• Within two days of the FAA's publication of its new Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft proposal, the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) raised a red flag about some of its details (wherein the devil has long been reputed to be skulking).
• Pablo Moreira of Uruguay, a 28-year-old banker, was on a United Airlines Boeing 777 Thursday out of Miami for Buenos Aires, Argentina, when he elected to gain access to the cockpit to "talk to the captain" ... perhaps about his desire to "destroy everything."
• A taxiway construction project at Chino Airport has turned up a warbird graveyard -- it seems that Chino was one of the nation's main facilities used for the disassembly of aircraft following World War II, and now pieces of WWII aircraft are being found in earth excavated for the taxiway project.
• U.S. Senator Herb Kohl (D-Wis.) has won himself the close attention of AOPA and EAA after suggesting that general aviation represents a security threat akin to a "ticking time bomb."
• Monday, a Delta Air Lines 737 en route to Salt Lake City, Utah, returned to Denver International after finding a note that said there was a bomb on the plane.
• Air Force chief of staff Gen. John P. Jumper last Wednesday ordered all units across the globe, including Afghanistan, to take a hard look at their operating procedures with an eye on safety.

AVMAIL

Reader mail about airport baggage scanning, questionable aviation reporting in the popular press, TFR violations in western wilderness firefighting areas, life of composite structures, Col. Francis Gabreski's obituary, the recent B777 cockpit break-in incident, continuous preheating of piston engines, more comments on the Control Vision AnywhereMap, United Airlines' financial condition, the Italian suspected unapproved parts scandal, Don Brown's "ATC 102" column, and more.

HOMEBUILTS: Sun 'N Fun's Winter RV Fly-In

As the mercury languishes below freezing, the approaching air show season may seem a long ways away in some locales -- but not in Lakeland, Fla. Down at Sun 'n Fun, they kicked off the year with an RV Fly-In that may become an annual event. Jamie Beckett was there and shares his observations (and photos) with us.

MAINTENANCE: Prop Life Extension

Vitamin E won't do the job here but, as Kim Santerre explained in Light Plane Maintenance, there are simple things you can do that can have salutary effects on your prop's life span. Here's what you can do to keep it spinning like a top.

KLYDE MORRIS

The friendly folks at the FAA are always happy to hear from you ... but that doesn't mean they will listen...

SHOPPING DEALS

AVIONICS WEST'S SPECIALS ON ICOM A23 AND A5 HANDHELDS, JPI FS-450 FUEL scan system, PS Engineering "Muse" personal music device, Lowrance Airmap 100 and 300 GPS, and much more end on February 17. For too-low-to-advertise prices, send email, call 1-805-934-9777, or go online. Check out the online 2002 training class schedule for Garmin 430/530. Dates and details online.

BIG SAVINGS ON TELEDYNE CONTINENTAL MOTORS (TCM) EXCESS INVENTORY
TCM's new online FlyMarket is a clearinghouse for excess inventories of TCM factory-original parts suitable for field overhauls and repairs. TCM's FlyMarket inventory consists of inventory overstock with selection and availability that is constantly changing. Inventory is sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Click on "FlyMarket Bargains".

PACIFIC COAST AVIONICS ANNOUNCES FEBRUARY SPECIALS WITH NO SALES TAX!
For the entire month of February, Pacific Coast Avionics is offering Super Specials on Sennheiser passive and ANR Headsets, Garmin GPS-295 ColorMap GPS, Bendix/King KDM-150 Color GPS/MFD, JP Instruments EDM700 Engine Monitors and FS-450 Fuel Computers, ICOM Handheld Radios, and PCA-6T Headsets. For guaranteed low pricing, no sales tax, and fast shipping, email your request, go online, or call 800-353-0370.

CONVERT YOUR SUNGLASSES TO BIFOCALS WITH OPTX-20/20 HYDROTAC LENSES
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REMINDER...
GLEIM'S $5 DISCOUNT ON THEIR PRIVATE PILOT REFRESHER COURSE and the $10 discount on Gleim's Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) located online end on February 15th.

SPONSORS

COMPARE AND SAVE AT THE PILOT INSURANCE CENTER (PIC)
Why should you pay more for your life insurance coverage just because you fly? Before your next premium payment is due, call Pilot Insurance Center (PIC) to find out how much they can save you on the same policy. PIC is a group of pilots that specialize in providing pilots, from student to ATP, with premium rates that are not available through other agents. A+ rated carriers. No Aviation Exclusions. Quick and Easy Application Process. Call 1-800 380-8376 or go online.

FALCON INSURANCE HAS THE CAPABILITY, COMMITMENT AND RESOURCES TO HANDLE all pilots' aviation insurance needs. Falcon will carefully tailor and customize coverage to your specific needs. Falcon is one of the largest independently owned aviation insurance specialists in the country representing all the aviation insurance markets, both domestic and foreign. As an independent agency, Falcon shops the market on their client's behalf for the best coverage at the best price. Falcon: Over 20 years covering the insurance needs of the aviation community.

"SPEAKING OF FLYING" OFFERS 44 AVIATION CELEBRITY STORIES OF HEROISM, humor, skill and terror.

DON'T THROW AWAY YOUR OLD HEADSETS BECAUSE THEY AREN'T NOISE CANCELING!
Add active noise canceling to your headsets with a Headset Inc. kit to save money and get the noise canceling you need and deserve. Order online.

WHAT'S THE PURPOSE OF THE AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM?
The controller who was handling two airplanes that collided while on approach to an airport was asked that question by investigators. His answer, and the FAA's official definition of what ATC is all about, may surprise you. The February issue of NTSB Reporter has all the findings. Order your subscription today.

FIRST SOLO, BIRTHDAY, ROMANTIC FLIGHT, ANNIVERSARY - ALL REASONS TO purchase a remembrance from the Port-to-Port jewelry collection. From costume jewelry to 14k gold, find the perfect gift today online.

A VROTATE CHART SUBSCRIPTION PUTS CURRENT CHARTS IN THE COCKPIT
Never fly with outdated charts, especially in these days of changing area restrictions. With a VRotate chart subscription, charts are delivered to your door immediately as they become available. VRotate also offers some unique gadgets, gizmos, reference books, and good reading.

AVWEB'S SHOPPING DIRECTORY!

February 7, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• Whatever incarnation it takes on in its final form, the proposed Sport Pilot rule -- which was published in the Federal Register on Tuesday -- will invariably open up a world of possibilities for the manufacture and marketing of Light Sport aircraft.
• The Department of Transportation on Monday released its budget request for 2003, and already the wagons are circling around the nation's air traffic system.
• Mooney Aircraft Corporation (MAC) and Advanced Aerodynamics & Structures Inc. (AASI) were back in court yesterday.
• While the world crashed around us, and new rules and regulations rose to prop up a shattered sense of public security by stifling our freedom to fly, the ever-popular BE A PILOT program's push for recruits stayed steadfast to the cause.
• As officials continue their investigation of Panaviation, an Italian company that allegedly sold aged Airbus A300 parts with false documentation, some 1,200 aircraft worldwide may be required to undergo inspections.
• Amid parts scandals and a failed vertical stabilizer, the A300 is having a hard time finding friends.
• Boeing's next-generation barely subsonic airliner design, the Sonic Cruiser, was due for first deliveries in 2006 -- not anymore.
• Prior to American Airlines' acquisition of TWA, United Airlines was the largest commercial passenger air carrier in the world.

AVMAIL

Reader mail about Lycoming's TIO-540 crankshaft recall, the SFO explosive-residue-on-shoes incident, continued gripes about those !@#$%* TFRs at the SLC Winter Olympics, a "PAXREP" on the Bombardier CRJ-700 regional jet (hint: thumbs down), American Airlines' withdrawal of Airbus A300s from its trans-Atlantic routes, and more.

COLUMNS: Say Again: ATC102 -- Blue Sky IFR

ATC101 covered some of the elementary aspects of pilot-controller communications. ATC102 picks up where the the last class ended, building on the topics, exploring new subjects and offering more Do's and Don'ts. Don Brown, the NATCA Safety Representative at the Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center, fills us in.

KLYDE MORRIS

Klyde discovers there's a coping strategy for every situation ... even getting furloughed ...

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 40 pictures last week. Congratulations to this week's winner, Scott Henderson, of Boulder, Colo. Scott sent us a beautiful shot of the Wings Over the Rockies Museum's DC-3. This elegant, polished aircraft was seen at the Broomfield Jefferson County Airport (BJC) just outside Denver. Great picture, Scott! Your AVweb prize is on the way.

To check out the winning picture, or to enter next week's contest, go to AVweb's POTW page.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

*** PREVIOUS RESULTS ***

We received over 600 responses to our question last week on runway incursions. When asked what the primary cause of runway incursions were, 43 percent of our respondents blamed inadequate or confusing airport signs/markings. Close behind, 40 percent cited pilot distraction as the main culprit. The majority (71 percent) of those responding indicated that flight crews should be held responsible in the event a runway incursion should occur. Several comments supported these results. One in particular said, "A pilot has the sole responsibility of the operation to his aircraft. If you are not sure of your taxi instructions, ask ground control for assistance. That's why they are there."

To check out the complete results, including comments, go to AVweb's QOTW page.

*** THIS WEEK'S QUESTION ***

This week we would like to know your thoughts on the proposed Sport Pilot certificate. 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.

SHOPPING DEALS

GARMIN PORTABLE GPS DATABASE UPDATES AVAILABLE ONLINE FOR $35
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PACIFIC COAST AVIONICS IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS & SERVICE PROVIDER
With guaranteed lowest pricing, large inventory, and unbeatable service, Pacific Coast Avionics is your first call for all avionics, instruments, and pilot-supply needs. Pacific Coast Avionics' goal is to provide the best possible value and service. If not 100-percent satisfied with any product, return it for a refund. Check out Pacific Coast Avionics' full e-commerce Web site online. For weekly specials, send an email or call 1-800-353-0370/503-678-6242.

COMM1 OFFERS A FREE COMMUNICATIONS REFERENCE CARD WITH ALL ORDERS
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GET READY FOR YOUR FLIGHT REVIEW WITH GLEIM'S ONLINE PRIVATE PILOT Refresher Course (PPRC). Sign up through AVweb and receive $5 off till February 15. Gleim's PPRC will not only prepare you for the flight review, but will enhance your overall safety and competence. Check out a FREE Lesson One and refresh your knowledge of Aeronautical Decision Making today!

SAVE $22 ON AVIATION CONSUMER'S USED AIRCRAFT GUIDE
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ATTENTION YAESU HANDHELD USERS! TRANS-PLATA HAS YAESU POWER ADAPTERS at a close-out price of $29.95. This is the perfect Power Adapter for Yaesu Pilot Transceivers and Yaesu Aviator Pilot Pro IIs. Micro-electronic circuitry is built into a lighter plug to run with any input voltage from 28 to 12 volts, providing a safe, regulated and protected output voltage. Offer good while supplies last, plus all Trans-Plata products have FREE shipping. Order online.

SPONSORS

WHAT IS "ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION"? ANSWERS FROM LIGHTSPEED'S PROS
LightSPEED, makers of the world's most popular headsets, has written a tutorial for pilots who don't quite understand ANR technology. Understand the role active noise cancellation can have on your flying safety, comfort and overall enjoyment. The tutorial is available online.

RYAN OFFERS ACTIVE TCAD WITH AUDIBLE POSITION ALERTING
"Traffic! Twelve o'clock, same altitude. One mile!" is what you will hear -- loud and clear -- from Ryan International's TSO-certified 9900BX TCAD with "Audible Position Alerting" (tm). Don't take risks by not having this safety device aboard. Locate a dealer to receive a FREE informational CD.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE'S SOUTHERN REGION USES FLIGHT EXPLORER, the world's leading provider of Internet-based real-time flight-tracking information, to determine how weather patterns impact aviation traffic. Flight Explorer gives NWS forecasters a higher aviation awareness quotient and enables them to see, in real time, the complete air traffic picture around airports and anywhere along the southern U.S. air routes. You too can have personal access to Flight Explorer by ordering your subscription online.

CESSNA OPERATORS! CESSNA PILOTS ASSOCIATION'S TECHNICAL STAFF ANSWERS members' questions in this week's CPA newsletter, such as: Problems with Sterling Paint?, Experience with the New Champion Vacuum Pump?, and queries on 150 ELT mount, 172 prop cruise, 180 heavy engine mount, and much more. Find out why over 15,000 Cessna owners worldwide think the Cessna Pilots Association is the greatest thing since Wilbur said to Orville, "Let's give this flying thing a try!" Check out the CPA online.

CS≈A INSURES ALL TYPES OF AVIATION RISKS INCLUDING ROTORCRAFT
CS&A Aviation Insurance professionals represent all of the major aviation insurance markets and are correspondents with overseas insurers. Accounts range from individually owned aircraft to FBOs, regional airlines and large corporate accounts. Go online for a no-obligation quote.

FLYING MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS "THE ROBINSON R22 -- A SERENDIPITOUS SUCCESS" in the March issue, along with "Getting Wet in the Aviat Husky," "Cessna P210/Malibu Mirage Safety Report," and columnists you have come to know. Flying, the world's most widely read aviation magazine for 75 years. Order a subscription today.

TIRED OF DRY AND BORING INSTRUMENT TRAINING MANUALS? TRY "FLYING ON THE Gages" by Brian Jacobson, an aviation writer with a practical style. "Flying on the Gages" has tips, tricks, and techniques for any instrument pilot. It's an easy read for the newly rated or as a refresher. Order online.

AIRPLAN FLIGHT-PLANNING SOFTWARE ADDS MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR SUPPORT
Razor's Edge Software, a supplier of economical flight-planning and moving-map software, announced that the latest edition of Airplan will support Microsoft Flight Simulator, allowing real and virtual pilots to plan and follow their flights in real life and in simulation. Pilots can now use the same tool for both types of flying and dedicated simulation pilots now have a complete flight-planning tool and following. For more details on this software and to order, go online.

IF YOU KNOW A COMPANY THAT SHOULD ADVERTISE ON AVFLASH AND AVWEB, HAVE them go online.

February 3, 2002

  NEWSWIRE: AVweb's in-depth illustrated aviation news coverage.

• At least four crankshaft failures in big turbocharged Lycoming engines -- at least two of them in new Cessna T206H airplanes -- have prompted Textron Lycoming to issue a recall of TIO- and LTIO-540 engines rated 300 hp or higher.
• After a few spits, starts, almost-offers and near-misses, last week Congress Financial Corporation -- the company calling the shots in the Mooney Aircraft Corporation (MAC) bankruptcy -- got an offer they could live with.
• The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission has warned that terrorists might be planning to attack a nuclear power plant with a hijacked airliner, so the alphabet groups are cautioning GA pilots to fly with extra care or risk another airspace shutdown.
• AVweb previously reported Eagle Aircraft's impending Australian plant closing, which seems to be progressing -- with complications.
• Renaissance Aircraft celebrated its first step toward a much-anticipated new 48,000-square-foot manufacturing facility to be built at the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport in Missouri.
• The Associated Press reports that mega-company Enron execs admit to using the company's jets for several trips since filing for bankruptcy last year.
• Last July, Milo John Reese was told to circle once around the Marathon airport on his first solo flight, but ended up on a marathon solo flight to Cuba instead ... the law has since passed judgment.
• Call it coincidence or precautionary action, but American Airlines has announced that it will pull all of its A300-600s off of its trans-Atlantic routes.

AVMAIL

Reader mail about the new Sport Pilot NPRM, Airbus tail structure, the explosion in special-event TFRs, the Air Transat fuel leak, the proposed booze ban on British airlines, TCM's AMT training course, and whether or not a DUATS briefing is still an acceptable method of obtaining relevant NOTAMs.

COLUMNS: Pelican's Perch: The C-131 Emergency Checklist

John Deakin's last column about the normal-procedures checklist he developed for the CAF's C-131 (Convair 340) produced such an enthusiastic response -- and so many good suggestions -- that John decided to devote this month's column to the plane's emergency checklist. If you've ever wondered about what goes on in a complex radial-engine transport aircraft cockpit when the kimshee hits the fan, wonder no longer.

INSURANCE: War Risk Insurance -- Misunderstood And Under Appreciated

The aftermath of September 11 will affect all of us, sometimes in ways that we might not expect. One of the ramifications that is sure to be felt throughout the aviation community is the restricted availability of insurance coverage for losses resulting from terrorist acts. Commonly referred to as "War Risk Insurance," the coverage was once available at little or no additional cost. Times have changed. Tom Chappell of CS&A Aviation Insurance discusses the nature of these risks, the availability of applicable insurance, and the prudence of purchasing such coverage in today's insurance market.

KLYDE MORRIS

Klyde learns that in the aviation world, things aren't always what they seem to be...

SHOPPING DEALS

AVIONICS WEST POSTS SPECIALS FOR FEBRUARY 4 - 17!
For the next two weeks, Tom offers deep-discount specials on these items: ICOM A23 and A5 handheld transceivers; JPI FS-450 fuel scan system; PS Engineering "Muse" personal music device; Lowrance Airmap 100 and 300 GPS; DRE-6000 ENR headset; Yaesu VXA100/16, VXA120/ProII and VXA-200/16-64B handheld transceivers; Flightline FL-HS-60 passive headset; Bose X ANR headset (portable or panel-mount); Maycom AR-108A scanner; JRC JHP-500 and -520 handheld transceivers; and more. For too-low-to-advertise prices, just send an email, call 1-805-934-9777, or go online. Check out the online 2002 training class schedule for Garmin 430/530. Full class dates and details are online.

WIN A BRAND-NEW TELEDYNE CONTINENTAL MOTORS "0-TIME" ENGINE
Sign up for TCM-Link (tm) Aviator Services online customer care program between now and July 15, 2001 and be entered to win a brand-new Continental engine. The drawing will be held on July 27, during AirVenture 2002. TCM's Aviator Services program provides personalized customer service FREE to all TCM engine owners. Go online for full details.

AVSHOP HAS THE INDUSTRY'S HOTTEST PRODUCTS FOR PILOTS PLUS SPECIAL "SNOW day" Hot deals on all old favorites. Add NEXRAD surface weather radar and Moving Map GPS to your in-flight toolbox with Anywhere WX. Also new this month: clear cockpit communications and 46 dB of hearing protection in a 1-ounce package with the new Panther CAT system. For all of the details or an instant price quote on these products, just send an email. You can also see them online.

REGISTER FOR ADAM AIRCRAFT'S CARBONAERO WEB SEMINAR ON FEBRUARY 13
Adam Aircraft's owner, Rick Adam, will introduce an interactive seminar presenting a primer about aircraft manufacturing entitled "Making the CarbonAero." He'll also give an update on the company's progress and latest developments. Go online to register for this event, or call 866 232-6247. If you call be sure to tell them you saw this event in AVflash!

DESSER TIRE & RUBBER HAS THE RIGHT TIRE FOR YOUR AIRCRAFT
Desser Tire & Rubber Company is one of the world's leading suppliers of aircraft tires and tubes providing over 100,000 aircraft tires and tubes in over 80 countries annually. Dresser features Goodyear, Michelin, and Specialty (McCreary) as well as aircraft tires and tubes from Aero Classic, Bridgestone, and Dunlop. See all Desser products and services online.

FREE ONLINE DEMONSTRATION OF SCHEDULE MASTER FROM TIME SYNC
This computerized network service can optimize aircraft utilization in a partnership, club, flight school or FBO with trouble-free scheduling available 24/7.

POWER FLOW TUNED EXHAUST STC'D FOR GRUMMAN AIRCRAFT $150 DISCOUNT OFFER
Power Flow Systems has received FAA approval to install tuned exhaust systems on the Grumman Tiger, Cheetah and Traveler. These systems provide enhanced performance benefits for Grumman owners including a 30-150 rpm gain during takeoff, climb and cruise flight translating into a 3-6 second reduction in the takeoff roll and a 125 to 250 feet per minute rate of climb increase resulting in a time-to-climb reduction. The aircraft reduced their fuel burn by 1.0 to 2.2 gallons per hour and showed a top speed increase of 4-7 mph with cylinder head temperature and EGT extremes reduced, oil temperatures cooler in climb and cruise, and improved performance of cabin and carburetor heat. Power Flow's tuned exhaust system comes with all hardware and can be installed by an A&P in four to six hours. For a limited time, the first 100 customers will receive a $150 discount. For more details on this system and to order go online.

INFORMATION IS CHANGING FASTER TODAY THAN EVER
Not having current information can have severe consequences. Order Summit Aviation's Reference Library online today and receive 25 percent off a single CD. Summit Aviation's Reference Library not only provides current information, but presents it in a user-friendly, accessible format. Offer ends February 28.

GLEIM'S FEBRUARY SPECIAL: 10 PERCENT DISCOUNT ON ALL FAA TEST PREP software. Gleim is the standard in pilot training. See them online today.

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR RENEWAL SPECIAL: IF IT'S TIME TO RENEW YOUR CFI
NOW is the time to renew with Gleim's Flight Instructor Refresher Course. Sign up through AVweb and receive a $10 discount. Go online and start today! Gleim pioneered online CFI refresher training with the FIRST FAA-approved FIRC. Sign up with the best, Gleim, the standard in pilot training. Special offer good through February 15.

SPONSORS

BEFORE YOUR NEXT INSURANCE PAYMENT IS DUE, CALL PIC TO COMPARE RATES
Everybody knows that the most dangerous part of flying is the drive to the airport. So why should you pay more for your life insurance? Compare your current rates with the Pilot Insurance Center (PIC) and see how much PIC can save you on the same coverage. PIC is a group of pilots that specialize in providing pilots, from student to ATP, with premium rates that are not available through other agents. A+ RATED CARRIERS. NO AVIATION EXCLUSIONS. Quick and Easy Application Process. Call 1-800-380-8376 or visit them online.

NOT ALL AIRCRAFT HULL & LIABILITY INSURANCE IS CREATED EQUAL
Not all owners and renters are created equal. So customize your needs with the right insurance package from CS&A Aviation Insurance. Go online for a free quote. Non-owned aircraft liability insurance forms are also available on the site.

SUPPORT AVWEB AND AVFLASH SPONSORS, SO THE NEWS WILL REMAIN FREE TO YOU!
Check out our list of sponsors, and for a list of products and sponsors who carry those products, visit our Shopping Directory.

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