Alabama Aviator - Aviation News

Snoopy Soars with NASA at Charles Schulz Museum

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Astronauts To Open Exhibit- The Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, Calif., is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 10 mission with an exhibition highlighting the connection between NASA's pioneering astronauts and Peanuts' barnstorming beagle.

In May 1969, Apollo 10 astronauts Gene Cernan, John Young and Thomas Stafford traveled all the way to the moon for one final checkout before the lunar landing attempt.

Because the mission required the lunar module to skim the moon's surface to within 50,000 feet and "snoop around" scouting the Apollo 11 landing site, the crew named the lunar module "Snoopy." Naturally, the Apollo command module was labeled "Charlie Brown."

-Detail from a space-related Peanuts strip from March 13, 1969. Courtesy United Media Apollo-

The astronauts carried paintings of the duo on their spacecraft, with Charlie Brown in space coveralls and Snoopy in his Flying Ace scarf. They used the paintings to calibrate the cameras used for the first live color telecasts from space.

Apollo 10 astronauts Cernan and Stafford will join recovery team members Chuck Smiley and Wes Chesser at the museum on Jan. 31 to kick off the exhibition. Also on hand: Jamye Flowers Coplin, a NASA secretary who was photographed giving the crew a special Snoopy send off.

Snoopy's connection with NASA actually began before Apollo 10. In 1968, NASA chose the beagle as an icon who would "emphasize mission success and act as a 'watchdog' for flight safety."

-Headed for the launch pad, Apollo 10 commander Tom Stafford pats the nose of a stuffed Snoopy held by Jamye Flowers (Coplin), astronaut Gordon Cooper's secretary. Photo Credit: NASA-

Established that same year, the agency's "Silver Snoopy Award" is considered the astronauts personal award, given for outstanding efforts that contribute to the success of human space flight missions. Award winners receive a sterling silver Snoopy lapel pin flown in space, along with a certificate and letter of appreciation from NASA astronauts. Fewer than 1% of the workforce is recognized with a Silver Snoopy annually, making it one of the most prized awards in the industry.

The exhibit will feature a one-third scale model of the Apollo command module from the Johnson Space Center, an Apollo-era flight suit, the actual image of Charlie Brown that was flown aboard Apollo 10, and a special children's area for creative play.

The exhibition runs through July 20, 2009. For more information, visit the Schulz Museum online. - NASA

Historic Agreement for Virgin Galactic's World HQ

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

New Mexico- Virgin Galactic has signed a 20 year lease agreement with the state. Virgin Galactic's world headquarters will be established in New Mexico and its operations will be located at Spaceport America, the nation's first purpose-built commercial spaceport.

"The signing of this agreement is a momentous day for our state and has cemented New Mexico as the home of commercial space travel," Governor Bill Richardson said late last month.

The signing of the lease agreement comes just days after the Federal Aviation Administration issued a launch license to the New Mexico Spaceport Authority. The lease agreement with an anchor tenant was the final requirement set by the state legislature to release the next level of funding for Spaceport America and it has cleared the way for construction to begin early this year.

"This is a historic moment for New Mexico, Spaceport America and Virgin Galactic. A lot of very dedicated people have been working long hours to secure this lease agreement," said Spaceport America Executive Director Steven Landeene. "Like several other companies, Virgin Galactic has realized the outstanding advantages offered by Spaceport America and the State of New Mexico."

"We are really looking forward to making Spaceport America and New Mexico the home and worldwide headquarters of Virgin Galactic," said Jonathan Firth, Virgin Galactic Projects and Operations Director. - Spaceport America

DVD Review: �The Gathering” Commemorative Video

Sun, 4 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

September 27 through 30, 2007 in Columbus, Ohio a historical event happened called the Gathering of Mustangs & Legends- the Final Roundup. The location, Rickenbacker Field-celebrating a 65^th Anniversary, transformed to host the largest number of P-51 Mustangs and celebration of legendary Aces possibly since WW II. It had been 65 years since the last combat mission of the P-51.

A mammoth undertaking, successfully produced by the Gathering Foundation, Event Staff and Volunteers drew over 100,000 visitors from the US and around the world. Efforts to capture this historic event also drew the world's finest media professionals. Still receiving accolades and highly awarded, "The Gathering" will not soon be forgotten.

90 minutes in length, produced and directed by Steve Purcell, SLP Productions and the Gathering Foundation, Inc., this commemorative DVD is the one every aviation aficionado must have. The movie premiered at the ICAS Convention 2008 in Las Vegas and is now available.

First, the documentary represents a wonderful balance of highlights including great airshow footage, beautiful aerials of P-51s, and personal accounts from the Legends who flew and supported P-51s.

Second, one-on-one comments from US military demonstration pilots personalize meeting the Legends and taking part in the event.

Third, you just have to see how the logistics worked on getting the P-51s and their pilots launched to perform the aerial number "51" display and more great behind the scene footage.

Lastly, whether or not you attended the Gathering, the incredible amount of activity and number of simultaneous events made it impossible to experience it all. The quality of amazing sights, sounds and history included in this fast paced documentary leaves you wanting still more. Considering the number of heroes, stories and P-51 and owners attending, hopefully, sequels will be forthcoming from the Foundation. BRAVO again to Lee Lauderback, Angela West and to all those who made history at the Final Roundup!- Betty Meyer
FMI: http://www.gml2007.com/merch-video.asp

LAMA Salutes Tom Gunnarson and Earl Lawrence

Sun, 4 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, salutes two key figures in the success of the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) movement, on their recent career enhancements.

- Tom Gunnarson, recent President and Board Member of LAMA assumes FAA position in the Light Sport Aircraft Office-

Tom Gunnarson, former president of the United States Ultralight Association and most-recently President and Board member of LAMA, has accepted a position with the Federal Aviation Administration, in the Light Sport Aircraft office. Tom was instrumental in guiding the formation of the LSA Rule and, at LAMA, was a key figure in developing the industry audit system, which aids manufacturers in self-policing compliance with the industry consensus standards that made the new category possible. Dan Johnson, Chairman and President of LAMA, said, "Though we'll certainly miss Tom's daily participation, we know that his dedication to our industry continues within the FAA. The FAA's gain is not our loss - it is our gain, as well."

- Earl Lawrence, recent EAA vice president of industry and regulatory affairs will fill Gunnarson's seat among LAMA's Board of Directors-

Earl Lawrence, vice president of industry and regulatory affairs at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), has filled Gunnarson's former seat on LAMA's Board of Directors, adding his insight and experience in dealing with both the technical and political sides of regulation, and reinforcing LAMA's preeminent position in the LSA industry. Johnson was pleased with Earl's acceptance of the Board position. "Earl Lawrence has long been a source of both energy and wisdom in his advocacy and understanding of the role of Light Sport Aircraft. His addition to our Board will have immediate and long-term benefits to our industry."

The LAMA Board of Directors includes Johnson and Lawrence, Chairman Emeritus and LAMA Founder Larry Burke, Cessna Chairman Jack Pelton, Jo Konrad, chairman of the German Ultralight Association, abbreviated as DULV (Deutscher Ultraleichtflug Verband) and founder of the European Microlight Foundation, former Kitplanes magazine editor, naval aviator and aircraft builder Dave Martin, and aircraft designers, pilots, and business leaders Phil Lockwood and Tom Peghiny, who is a member of the EAA Ultralight Hall of Fame. - LAMA, FMI: http://www.lama.bz/board1.htm

LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, is the light aviation industry's trade association. Founded in 1984, LAMA represents nearly 100 members of the Light-Sport Aircraft business community including airframe manufacturers; producers of engines, avionics, and components; suppliers, distributors; flight schools; and other aviation businesses. LAMA provides the LAMA Compliance Audit to producers wishing to demonstrate third party oversight and the organization uses the LAMA Label on compliant Light-Sport Aircraft to convey this verification to consumers.

Aviation Technical Test Center Breaks Ground on Combined Test Facilities

Sat, 3 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

REDSTONE ARSENAL AL- Aviation Technical Test Center broke ground Dec. 17 at Redstone Arsenal for their two Combined Test Team buildings, situated next to the airfield, which will integrate ATTC and Program Executive Office for Aviation.

ATTC is a subordinate unit of the U.S. Army Develop-mental Test Command and the Army Test and Evaluation Command and is currently headquartered at Fort Rucker, Ala. As part of the Base Realignment and Closure movement, ATTC is scheduled to move its headquarters to Huntsville in the next two years. Merging these two organizations will improve communications with the product and project managers regarding airworthiness, development testing, system safety, and enable them to accelerate materiel funding.

-Brig. Gen. Tim Crosby, COL Christopher Sullivan, Adam Joiner and Chris Pegues break ground on the two new combined test team buildings at Redstone Arsenal, Madison Record image-

"These buildings will enable PEO personnel and aircraft manufacturer's flight test personnel to work alongside ATTC to enhance flight test coordination and execution," said Brig. Gen. Tim Crosby, Program Executive Officer for Aviation. It will also house the facilitation of government and contractor test team personnel moves from their various locations around the country to a centralized flight test site on Redstone Arsenal.

"In under two years, we will also merge with Redstone Technical Test Center to form the new Redstone Test Center," says Keith Darrow, deputy commander for ATTC.

In late spring of 2009, ATTC will conduct a much larger groundbreaking to celebrate the initiation of their BRAC funded flight support center.

Both of these non-BRAC funded, 7,100 sq. ft. buildings will be ready for occupancy by summer or fall of 2009. FMI: The Madison County Record

Astronaut Peggy Whitson to Speak at WAI Conference

Fri, 2 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Peggy Whitson, called NASA's most experienced astronaut with 377 days in space, will be a keynote speaker on Saturday, February 28, 2009, at WAI's 20th Anniversary conference in Atlanta.

-Astronaut PeggyWhitson, NASA image-

Whitson is a biochemistry researcher who made her first space mission in 2002, with an extended stay aboard the International Space Station as a member of Expedition 5. In 2007, she became the first female commander of the International Space Station when Expedition 16 was launched on October 10, 2007. During Expedition 16, as commander, Whitson oversaw the first expansion of the station's living and working space in more than six years.

These two long-duration stays aboard the Space Station make Whitson NASA's most experienced astronaut. She has accumulated 377 days in space between the two missions, the most for any U.S. astronaut and 20th among all space veterans.

In addition, Whitson has performed a total of six career spacewalks, adding up to 39 hours, 46 minutes, more than any other woman.

With the theme "A New Approach to Your Tomorrow," the WAI Conference will also include a private tour and reception at the world-famous Georgia Aquarium, seminars, workshops, networking events, speakers, and commercial exhibit area. The Conference concludes on Saturday evening, February 28 with WAI's traditional banquet where many scholarships are awarded and the 2009 group of Aviation Pioneers is inducted into WAI's Aviation Pioneer Hall of Fame. The closing banquet is sponsored by UPS.

Registration is available on line at www.wai.org/09conference, and the discounted Conference rate is available at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency through February 2, 2009. For more information about the Conference and about WAI, contact WAI at 3647 State Route 503 South, West Alexandria, OH 45381, Phone (937) 839-4647; Fax (937) 839-4645 or through http://www.wai.org/.

Goose Strike Brings Down UND Plane

Fri, 2 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

An NTSB report reveals a goose strike is the probable cause of a 2007 crash of a University of North Dakota airplane that killed two people. Student Adam Ostapenko, 20, of Duluth, Minn., and instructor Annette Klosterman, 22, of Seattle, died when the twin-engine Piper Seminole crashed near Browerville, Minn in central Minnesota on Oct. 23, 2007. They were on a routine training flight at night from St. Paul, Minn., to Grand Forks when the plane went down. The NTSB's probable cause report, dated Sunday, said DNA from a Canada goose was found on the PIPER PA-44-180 left tail.

Data recovered from the airplane's flight display system indicated that the airplane was in stable flight on a 320-degree magnetic heading, at 4,500 feet msl, and approximately 160 knots true airspeed prior to the accident, when it abruptly departed from controlled flight. The airplane rolled approximately 20 degrees left wing down, yawed to the left about 30 degrees, and simultaneously pitched nose-down about 40 degrees. It then reversed and immediately entered a descending, right roll for the duration of the flight. The airplane impacted a bog within 30 seconds of the upset.

-Piper PA-44-180 file image-

In addition to the accident investigation, the report included additional information on bird strike accidents. Analysis of bird strike data from 1990 through 2004 by the United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services, determined that 74 percent of bird strikes occurred within 500 feet of the ground, 19 percent between 500 feet agl and 3,500 feet agl, and 7 percent above 3,500 feet.

Of the 26 percent of bird strikes that occurred above 500 feet, about 7 times more strikes occurred at night than during daylight hours. This was due to the fact that about 61 percent of the reported strikes above 500 feet agl occurred at night while only 18 percent of aircraft movements occurred at night. In addition, a proportionally higher incidence of strikes occurred between September and November, and between April and May, as compared to the number of flight operations.

Further review of the data indicated that the probability of a bird strike decreased by 32 percent for every 1,000-foot increase in altitude. Outside of the airport environment, the altitude zone from 500 feet agl to 3,500 feet agl was the most hazardous, especially at night.

Canada geese were attributed to 668 strikes with civil aircraft between 1990 and 2002. Of those strikes, 112 resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. The average mass of a Canada goose is 9.2 lbs for a male and 7.8 lbs for a female, with a maximum mass of 13.8 lbs. This species exhibits strong flocking behavior.

The University of North Dakota provided additional pilot training regarding bird strike hazards and mitigation. In addition, they recommended to all of their pilots and flight instructors that when possible higher cruise altitudes should be selected, especially on night cross-country flights, in order to minimize the probability of a bird strike. FMI: NTSB

Mission Possible: Pilots Saving Furry Friends

Fri, 2 Jan 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Do you want more substance from flying than a $100 hamburger? This might be just the reason you need to get out and fly, Pilots N Paws. Pilots are donating their time, planes and fuel to transport dozens of dogs a month from overcrowded shelters where they face almost certain death to rescue groups and shelters several states away that are committed to finding them homes.

The mission-of-mercy relocations are flown by general aviation pilots who have signed on with the recently formed Pilots N Paws, a Web-based message board where pilots can access information about animals in need.

Once the electronic connection is made, dogs plucked by rescuers from death row - mostly in the South where sterilization rates are low and pet overpopulation is rampant - are loaded onto small planes and flown one, two or six at a time to rescue groups and shelters that have available space.

"These are wonderful dogs that simply had the bad luck of winding up in a place where there are too many pets in shelters," says Pilots N Paws co-founder Jon Wehrenberg of Knoxville, Tenn. The retired manufacturing executive and weekend pilot has flown scores of dogs from high-kill shelters this year. Lately his mission involved six small mixed-breed dogs from Knoxville's Young-Williams Animal Center.

Pilots n' Paws streamlines distance rescues by reducing the number of people needed to coordinate between destinations. It also provides animals who are victims of their location with a second chance. Sometimes pilots scroll through the "Transport needed" section of Pilots N Paws and find a plea to fly an animal to a town or city they already were planning to visit. Most times, however, they study the requests, see a need that touches them and offer their services.

Wehrenberg said he wants more pilots to get on board with Pilots n' Paws for the simple reason that more animals could be saved from more locations. FMI: http://www.pilotsnpaws.org/ , PDF Flyer

Happy Holidays from AlabamaAviator.com

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Fairhope Festival of Flight on Hiatus in 2009

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

FAIRHOPE AL- During their monthly meeting last week, the Fairhope Airport Authority determined that the air show would be on hiatus for 2009 with a desire to return in 2010 according to local sources. The factors for this decision are all economic. The Festival is supported by City, County, and Corporate donations, with no charge to the public. According to the Authority, this was not the time to be asking for funds from those entities. All governmental bodies are looking for places to cut budgets and this is an obvious choice.

Teledyne Continental Motors which is a major supporter unfortunately had recent lay offs of some employees at their manufacturing plant in Mobile. The decision not to have the show in 2009 will give the Airport Authority an opportunity to consider alternative funding sources to place the next show on a firmer financial footing.

The original concept of the show was an airport open house to celebrate the completion of the new runway in 2006. Fairhope Festival of Flight held the third weekend in May on Armed Forces Days for three years in a row, quickly became a premiere Alabama Aviation event. Drawing a crowd of about 6,000 for the first one-day show, the last year's two-day event grew to over 15,000 people, according to officials. "We feel very fortunate to have it grow in such a short time into an event that people all over the south looked forward to attending, and to have it run for 3 years," says one event organizer. -Betty Meyer

Project 53 Aims for Sun N Fun Video

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

GADSDEN AL- Discovered in Gadsden at the Northeast Regional Airport, Project 53 is now standing on its own legs. Last October, International Jets owner Richard Hess introduced a fuselage, painted with the number "53", surrounded by pieces including a wing set and tail. He identified these parts as an Albatros, the well-known L-39 warbird. Hess estimated the restoration project would take about five months. Rough parts and barely recognizable as an aircraft, he appeared to be a real optimist at the time.

-International Jets L-39 Project "53" in October '08-

Not so, said Zac Hachem, IJ General Manager, "the warbird will be standing on its own legs by Thanksgiving," and so it was.

-Project "53" in December '08-

Although, IJ has a world class niche in award winning L-39 restoration, maintenance, parts and training, number "53" is uniquely special to one IJ staff member. The destiny of this aircraft is to have the livery of the Slovak Military Demonstration Team. Specialist Igor Zitnan, who graduated Slovak Air Force Academy, will proudly help restore this L-39 in his native country's colors to show plane quality.

With the first flight on 4 November 1968, the L39 Albatros is a widely flown trainer/light attack aircraft. The design is Czechoslovak, though there was significant Soviet input. The aircraft is in service with various former Soviet allies. While newer versions are now replacing older L-39s in service, thousands remain in active service as trainers, and many are finding new homes with private owners in the US and all over the world.

-Listen to IJ owner Richard Hess and watch General Manager, Zac Hachem talk about the progress on Project "53"-
Click to View Video

Each part on "53" has been painstakingly removed, cleaned, restored, repainted and is now being reassembled as a show winner. Hachem says,"We are looking to take this aircraft to both Sun N Fun and Oshkosh in '09 and hopefully take the Silver Wrench [award] at both airshows."

According to Hachem, the maintenance will be completed in March with the final touch- the all important Slovak Military Demonstration Team paint scheme- done in time for Sun N Fun on April 21^st.

-Piper prepped for paint at IJ-

Repainting in their own new cutting-edge facility however is not limited to jets. Since operational in September, single engine prop aircraft are also in line for an ultimate "make over".

Although "53" will keep its roots, the next visit to IJ will show you the completed beauty of a potential prize winning restoration. -Betty Meyer, See Related Story - FMI: International Jets

White Knight Two Makes Virgin Flight Video link

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Mojave Airport, from Space.com- Designed by Scaled Composites, the huge and unique White Knight Two mothership rolled down the runway and muscled itself into the air today using four Pratt and Whitney PW308A turbofan engines according to space.com. The White Knight Two flew for about an hour, departing the runway at roughly 8:17 a.m. PT, safely touching down at the Mojave airport at approximately 9:17 a.m. PT. The carrier aircraft designed to be the first stage of a commercial spaceline system made its maiden test flight Sunday at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California.

-White Knight Two completes maiden flight, Virgin Galactic image-

After a number of additional test flights, the White Knight Two is to be outfitted with the now-under-construction SpaceShipTwo. That rocket plane is also being built by Scaled Composites of Mojave, Calif. Ultimately White Knight Two is to carry the space plane to altitude, where it will then detach and head for suborbital space flights.

- Sir Richard Branson, right, and his mother, Eve, about to christen the Virgin Galatic mothership "Eve" at Scaled Composities in Mojave, Calif. on July 28, 2008. Branson named the aircraft in honor of his mother, Virgin Galactic image-

The White Knight Two / SpaceShipTwo combo is to serve as the backbone of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic suborbital spaceline operations.

Virgin Galactic has on order five SpaceShipTwo rocket planes and two of the carrier craft, with options on more. Given a progressive roster of test evaluations at the Mojave Air and Space Port, the spaceline system is to be commercially operated at the now-under-construction Spaceport America in New Mexico. The price tag per seat on the two-pilot / six-passenger suborbital SpaceShipTwo is $200,000.

-Click to View VIDEO-

One witness to the flight was Dick Rutan, who in December 1986 piloted the Voyager aircraft around the world nonstop with the assistance of Jeana Yeager states Space.com. He is brother of Burt Rutan, chief technology officer and chairman emeritus of Scaled Composites.

In 2004, a smaller White Knight carrier plane cradled SpaceShipOne - a launch system that made possible the first non-governmental piloted rocket ship to fly to the edge of space. Back-to-back flights of SpaceShipOne that year earned the Scaled Composites team $10 million in Ansari X Prize money.

The New Mexico spaceport authority is expected to have a signed lease agreement with Virgin Galactic later this month. The authority currently projects vertical launch activity at Spaceport America to increase in 2009 and construction to begin next year on the terminal and hangar facility to be used for Virgin Galactic operations. Those structures would be completed by late 2010. FMI: Space.com , Virgin Galactic, Scaled Composites

FAA Could Oust Meteorologist from ARTCC Facilities

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

The National Weather Service is set to deliver recommendations next week on the future of the FAA's use of government meteorologists at its air route traffic control centers. The Bush administration seems eager to make a final decision before Inauguration Day, after trying for years to change the FAA's use of government forecasters in an effort to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The move is opposed by Weather Service employees who say the move would risk the safety of air passengers.

The FAA has 21 regional air route traffic control centers nationwide responsible for safely moving air traffic across the country. Each control center has at least four NWS meteorologists working side-by-side with air traffic controllers and managers to provide aviation-based forecasting as part of an interagency relationship that started in the late 1970s.

One cost-cutting proposal discussed would move NWS meteorologists from the 21 control centers to two forecast centers at College Park, Md. and Kansas City.

The FAA contends that sharing information more inexpensively can be done by teleconference and technology.

Others disagree however, concerned that communicating with air traffic controllers via teleconferences and e-mail could sacrifice quality forecasting and safety.

"I think for this administration to attempt to implement this kind of policy this close to the end of the administration is not fair to the American people," said Rep. Nick Lampson (D-Texas), the outgoing chairman of the House Science Committee's Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment. "If you want to do something right for the country, then make the recommendation, but then pass it on to President-elect Barack Obama. Let that administration make the decision."

The Weather Service's proposed solution is still being developed, according to Christopher J. Vaccaro. It is due by Dec. 23 and then will be submitted to the FAA, which will have to accept or decline the proposal. If the proposal is accepted, it's expected to face a nine month testing and evaluation period. The final proposal also requires the approval of the NTSB, the same agency that recommended the NWS-FAA interagency relationship 30 years ago. FMI: Federal Eye

Last Chance to Holiday Shop at Southern Museum of Flight

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

BIRMINGHAM AL- Looking for the perfect pilot or kid aviator gift? Last chance for Christmas shopping at Birmingham's Southern Museum of Flight after today is TUESDAY, December 23. Browse a great inventory of quality aviation gifts and apparel including kid size flight jackets, models and books at great prices. The best assortment of gifts for your favorite pilot or aviation aficionado is right here in town. Plenty of stocking stuffers to choose from including a membership in the Museum of Flight is sure to please.

-Southern Museum of Flight Gift Shop, SMF is located 1 ½ mile form the Birmingham International Airport. Note: The museum is CLOSED every Sunday and Monday. Click here for directions-

Take a break from holiday stress and visit the new exciting museum exhibits. Learn about Alabama's rich aviation and military heritage. See the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame. Get up close and personal with airplanes from the past and present. Don't miss out this Tuesday on the last chance to holiday shop the Southern Museum of Flight! -Betty Meyer, FMI: SMF , call 205/833-8226 for special holiday hours.

Space Station Crew Marks 40th Anniversary of First Human Moon Trip Video Link

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

HOUSTON -- The International Space Station crew, paving the way for NASA's return to the moon, will honor the first humans to journey there 40 years ago with a special message.

Expedition 18 Commander Mike Fincke and Flight Engineers Sandy Magnus and Yury Lonchakov will pay homage to that bold December 1968 voyage in a message that aired on NASA Television as part of the daily Video File, beginning at 11 a.m. CST, Friday, Dec. 19. The video also will be broadcast in high definition on the NASA TV HD channel at 10 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 23.

-Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin standing on moon, with astronaut Neil Armstrong & lunar module reflected in helmet visor, during historic 1st walk on lunar surface, July 20, 1969, LIFE image-

Apollo 8 astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders roared into space on the first flight of the massive Saturn V rocket on Dec. 21, 1968. They became the first humans to circumnavigate the moon on Dec. 24, 1968, and returned safely to Earth three days later. Their mission demonstrated the ability of the Saturn V and the Apollo command and service modules to cross the 238,000-mile gulf between Earth and the moon, and set the stage for the first human lunar landing six months later. See Three NASA Apollo Videos
For more about the space station and the Expedition 18 mission, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/station.

NASA Looking for New Home for Retiring Space Shuttles

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

NASA is currently sending out notices to museums and educational institutions on ways to purchase the Atlantis, Discovery and Endeavour space shuttles. The space agency wants to acquire a storing facility to put the shuttles on public display before the vehicles retire in 2010.

"These are national assets, national treasures and something that NASA feels the public would want to see displayed publicly for years to come," NASA spokesperson Michael Curie said in a statement.

The space shuttle program was first introduced in 1972 to build and develop a recyclable space vehicle. The first space shuttle to launch into orbit was Columbia on April 12, 1981.

-Huntsville Space and Rocket Center has the nation's only full scale Shuttle Display. Rocket Center image-

"NASA recognizes the interest by educational institutions, science museums, and other appropriate organizations in the acquisition of NASA Shuttle-related property following the last flight of the Space Shuttle," NASA said in a statement.

Space shuttle Discovery will be donated to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington. The museum already displays several national treasures including other NASA related space vehicles and materials used during the Apollo missions.

"NASA is interested in identifying whether potential recipient organizations are capable of bearing the full cost of Space Shuttle Orbiter safing and final display preparation, SSME assembly and final display preparation, and transportation," the space agency said.

Displaying a space shuttle for exhibition comes with a hefty cost of $42 million. Most of the funding will go to draining hazardous materials from the vehicles and the cost to transport it to location.

The Alabama rocket museum in Huntsville would like to have one of the shuttles to display. However, the organization can't afford the expense to move one of the vehicles. The museum would be one of the more acceptable places to put a space shuttle on display. FMI: NASA

Samson Motorworks SkyBike™ Invited To Essen Motor Show

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

RENO NV- Samson Motorworks President, Sam Bousfield announced today that the Essen Motor Show, Europe's most prestigious automobile show, has invited Samson Motorworks to display the Motorworks SkyBike^TM at the 2009 event.

Bousfield, who recently returned from Swift Engineering, San Clemente, California, where the team launched a trade study on side-by-side versus tandem seating, stated "Interest in the SkyBike^TM project has been phenomenal. We are very excited to be a part of this great auto show and we're looking forward to showcasing our unique fly-drive solution at this event".

-Samson SkyBike image-

Called "Germany's version of SEMA", Essen will be shipping the SkyBike^TM prototype in October to be displayed at the prestigious show in late November.

The Samson Motorworks/Swift Engineering team will continue work through the holiday season to stay on target for the initial fight testing of the remote control model and building the prototype from the final design.

Samson Motorworks -Samson Motorworks was formed to introduce, and make popular, fun new means of transportation, such as the SkyBike^TM, that entail fewer negative impacts on the environment than currently found, while maintaining or increasing the ease and speed of overall transportation. Samson is working to create the future through intelligent design, effective management, and clever marketing of our product line.

Essen Motor Show -The Essen Motor show is Europe's most important automobile exposition. Similar to the United States SEMA show, "Essen", held annually, brings car fans "who set great store by the temperament, power and individuality of their vehicles congregate here every year. At the same time, this sole large motor sport fair is the most important meeting place of the racing scene and its fans." FMI: http://samsonmotorworks.com/

Special Santa Skylanes Mean No Delay for Santa's Sleigh

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

DOT- Santa Claus will enjoy special express lanes in the skies over the United States to help him make speedy deliveries to good girls and boys on Christmas Eve, U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters announced today.

By using the special "Santa Skylanes," Santa will have access to the same military airspace that President Bush announced would be made available to civilian flights during the holiday period.

-Santa and Col. Steven Shepro look on while U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters signs off on special "Santa Skylanes," Santa will have access to the same military airspace that President Bush announced would be made available to civilian flights during the holiday period. Photo Credit: US Dept of Trans/James Kim Photography-

"We know Santa Claus must adhere to a really tight schedule to get to every house on his list," said Secretary Peters, as she presented Santa his Christmas Eve flight certificate at Andrews Air Force Base. "Allowing him to use military airspace will ensure that crowded skies won't mean empty stockings on Christmas morning. It just wouldn't do to have the gridlock Grinch stealing Christmas."

Secretary Peters said the temporary use of military airspace for civilian flights, made available by the U.S. Air Force, significantly reduced travel times during last year's holiday period. Last year's "Holiday Express Lanes" allowed some East Coast flights to trim 100 miles off their trip, while 4,800 flights used California military airspace to save over 99,000 miles.

This year, Holiday Express Lanes have been expanded to help Santa and commercial aircraft navigate over busy areas of the Midwest, the Southwest, and the West Coast, including the skies over Phoenix and Los Angeles. Over the Thanksgiving weekend, the lanes were used by almost 2,400 flights and were especially helpful in routing around bad weather on Nov. 30, the busy Sunday after Thanksgiving. -DOT

AOPA Says TSA Needs to Re-examine Security Directive

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

AOPA- AOPA has requested that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) re-evaluate a recent security directive (SD) that could affect tens of thousands of general aviation pilots who are based at air carrier airports.

The directive expands the requirement for background checks and security badges to more pilots based at airports served by airlines. In 2009, pilots based at air carrier airports must undergo a background check and receive a security badge, if they haven't done so already, in order to continue to have access to the airport. Transient pilots are unaffected by the directive. However, they will continue to be subject to the current escorting and monitoring requirements.

"Pilots have long operated without incident on these airports, and it is surprising that the TSA appears to have implemented such a significant new mandate with no notification or discussion," said Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs. "It will have a significant impact on pilots and airports in many small communities across the country."

AOPA has expressed its concerns directly to the TSA.

"Based on information from a number of TSA-regulated airports, it is clear that compliance with this SD will necessitate the badging and performance of security threat assessment on tens of thousands of general aviation pilots who operate from these airports," wrote Cebula in a Dec. 16 letter to the TSA. "While the TSA consulted with representatives from the airport industry prior to issuing the SD, no one from the general aviation community was contacted. This is unfortunate because we could have provided important insight into the effects of such action."

The TSA is preventing AOPA from reviewing the entire SD, but information from airport managers indicate that it is inconsistent with other security requirements, such as those for security identification display areas at air carrier airports.

"I respectfully request that you re-examine this security directive and allow the general aviation industry to work with the TSA to develop acceptable alternatives that will not impose unreasonable burdens on airports or general aviation pilots," Cebula concluded. -FMI: AOPA

Four Legends of Flight and Apollo Crews to be Honored by NAHF in Dayton

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Dayton, Ohio - Tonight the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) will reveal the names of the four individuals elected for enshrinement this July along with the recipient of its 2009 Milton Caniff "Spirit of Flight" Award. The announcement is a special presentation at a dinner celebrating the 105th Anniversary of the Wright Brothers first powered flight.

The Class of 2009 is: Eileen Collins, USAF test pilot and first female Shuttle commander; Russell Meyer, Jr., former Chairman and CEO of Cessna Aircraft Company; the late James M. Stewart, WWII bomber pilot, award winning actor and airpower advocate; the late Edward H. White, II, West Point grad,USAF test pilot, and Gemini and Apollo astronaut. Collins and Meyer will personally accept their honors. The daughter of Stewart and son and daughter of White will attend, accepting enshrinement on behalf of their late fathers at the July 18^th dinner and ceremony in Dayton, Ohio.

The 2009 Milton Caniff "Spirit of Flight" Award recipient will be the Apollo Astronaut Crews, honored for their role in enabling man to walk on the lunar surface and return safely to earth. The award, bestowed annually upon a group or organization in recognition of its achievement in advancing aviation, will be presented at the NAHF President's Reception & Dinner in Dayton, Friday, July 17^th - three days before the 40^th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. All surviving Apollo astronauts have been invited to accept the honor in person and attend the enshrinement ceremony the following night, which includes the induction of their fellow crewman, late Ed White, II, who lost his life in the Apollo 1 launch pad fire in 1967.

The NAHF Learning Center and the adjacent National Museum of the United States Air Force will serve as the venue for the annual first flight anniversary dinner and announcement. Tonight's event is hosted by Dayton-based Aviation Trail, Inc. (ATI), a non-profit organization promoting over forty regional partnering aviation sites and venues.

Each year, the NAHF Board of Nominations, a voting body comprised of over 130 air and space professionals nationwide, selects the handful of individuals to be recognized for their aviation achievements through enshrinement into the NAHF. Making the announcement tonight will be Chairman of the NAHF Board of Trustees, retired Air Force Colonel Garald K. "Robbie" Robinson.

Often referred to as "America's Oscar Night of Aviation," the NAHF enshrinement celebration in July will attract hundreds of industry leaders, government and defense officials, former enshrinees, and aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

The formal enshrinement ceremony will take place in Dayton - The Birthplace of Aviation - on Saturday, July 18, 2009, where the four will join the 199 legends of flight previously so honored by the National Aviation Hall of Fame. Advance reservations for the NAHF's 48^th Annual Enshrinement Dinner & Ceremony on July 18, 2009, may be placed by calling 937-256-0944 ext.10. Seats are $150 per person and a portion of each seat purchased is deductible as allowed by law. For more information visit the NAHF website at http://www.nationalaviation.org/ or call 937-256-0944 ext.10.

ICAS Convention Unofficially Launches 2009 Air Show Season

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

ICAS- Although the results won't be apparent for several more weeks, the 2009 North American air show season got off to a spectacularly successful start last week as nearly 1,500 air show professionals gathered in Las Vegas for the annual convention of the International Council of Air Shows.

Widely recognized to be both the end of one air show season and the beginning of the next, the ICAS Convention has served as an industry planning and business meeting for 42 years. Event organizers, performers and support service providers gather each year during the first full week of December to make plans, sign contracts, learn from one another, and begin the process of piecing together more than 300 air shows throughout the United States and Canada.

Despite a struggling economy, the tone of this year's convention was upbeat with most shows reporting that their attendance figures did not suffer during the 2008 season and that they expect strong crowds for their 2009 events, as well.

"Air shows are always an inexpensive, family-oriented entertainment opportunity," says ICAS President John Cudahy. "And history has demonstrated that they are particularly popular during economic hard times. Many air shows set attendance records in 2008 and we expect similar trends for 2009."

The 2008 ICAS Convention got off to a particularly successful start on Tuesday, December 9, when the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and Canadian Forces Snowbirds released details on their 2009 performance schedules. Collectively, the three North American military jet teams will perform nearly 300 times in 100 different locations between March and November of 2009. Convention Highlights:

Royce Named 2008 Recipient of ICAS Sword of Excellence- Ralph Royce was presented with the 2008 Sword of Excellence by the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) at an awards ceremony in Las Vegas.

Soucy Takes Home Scholl Award- Air show performer Gene Soucy was named 2008 recipient of the Art Scholl Showmanship Award during the Chairman's Banquet held in conjunction with the 42nd annual International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Convention, in Las Vegas.

RING is 2008 Schram Award Recipient- The Rhode Island National Guard (RING) Air Show was recognized as the 2008 recipient of the prestigious Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award during an awards ceremony at the annual convention of the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS).

ICAS Board Presents Poe with Special Achievement Award- To recognize his invaluable contributions to the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) and the entire air show industry during a three-year term as chairman of the Aerobatic Competency Evaluation (ACE) Committee, the ICAS Board of Directors presented air show performer Greg Poe with the ICAS Special Achievement Award during an awards ceremony at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

"Greg agreed to become chairman of the ACE Committee at a particularly critical time," said outgoing Board Chairman Jim Peitz. "He did an excellent job and stayed on for a full year longer than planned. He really did more for the ACE program and ICAS than anybody could have reasonably expected." Poe recently stepped down as chairman of the ICAS ACE Committee and was replaced by air show performer Bud Granley, a long-time member of the ACE Committee.

Bishop, Bowen, Coleman Inducted into Air Show Hall of Fame- Air show legends Bobby Bishop, Paul Bowen and Bessie Coleman were inducted into the ICAS Foundation Air Show Hall of Fame during the ICAS Chairman's Banquet.

Marketing Competition Winners Announced- The winners of the 2008 ICAS Marketing Competition were announced on Wednesday, December 10 during an awards presentation luncheon held in conjunction with the 2008 ICAS Convention in Las Vegas.

Four ICAS members - the Vectren Dayton Air Show, Blue Ash Airport Days, Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival, and Franklin's Flying Circus -- each took home two first place awards in this year's competition.

First place winners included...

Best Newspaper Advertisement (Large Show): Vectren Dayton (OH) Air Show
Best Newspaper Advertisement (Small Show): Cape Girardeau (MO) Regional Air Festival
Best Radio Commercial (Large Show): Naval Air Station Jacksonville (FL) Air Show
Best Radio Commercial (Small Show): Dawson Creek (BC) Air Show
Best Television Commercial (Large Show): Marine Corps Air Station Yuma (AZ)
Best Television Commercial (Small Show): Blue Ash (OH) Airport Days
Best Event Brochure (Large Show): Royal International Air Tattoo (UK)
Best Event Brochure (Small Show): Faribault (MN) Airfest
Best Event Poster (Large Show): Vectren Dayton Air Show
Best Event Poster (Small Show): Thunder in the Valley (GA) Air Show
Best Event Program (Large Show): Canadian International (ON) Air Show
Best Event Program (Small Show): Chico (CA) Airfest
Best Sponsorship Package (Large Show): Marine Corps Air Station Miramar (CA) Air Show
Best Sponsorship Package (Small Show): Cape Girardeau Regional (MO) Air Festival
Best Website (Large Show): Fort Worth (TX) Alliance Air Show
Best Website (Small Show): Blue Ash (OH) Airport Days
Best Performer Magazine Ad: Franklin's Flying Circus
Best Performer Marketing Video: US Army Golden Knight Parachute Team
Best Performer Poster: Tora Tora Tora
Best Performer Press Kit: Rob Harrison, the Tumbling Bear
Best Performer Website: Paul Lopez Air Shows
Best Air Show Photograph: Marc St. Pierre
Best Exhibit, Support Service Provider, Single Booth: Lee Production Services/Live Air Show TV
Best Exhibit, Support Service Provider, Multiple Booths: FedEx Express
Best Exhibit, Performer, Single Booth: U.S. Navy Leap Frogs
Best Exhibit, Performer, Multiple Booths: Franklin's Flying Circus
Best of Show Exhibit: Franklin's Flying Circus

FMI: http://www.airshows.aero/

First A-12 Blackbird Test Pilot Makes Return Visit to Birmingham

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

BIRMINGHAM- "There can be only one," the first of the fastest, highest flying pilots ever - Bob Gilliland made a return visit to Birmingham this week. In town to speak at an evening holiday gathering of the Birmingham Aero Club, he has special ties to the city. Displayed in the Southern Museum of Flight's collection is one of the famous Blackbird aircraft he flew.

-Bob Gilliland-

Alabama is also home to the last Blackbird pilot, Ed Yielding, who delivered the Blackbird while breaking a speed record to the Smithsonian Museum. Yeilding is an Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee.

Bob Gilliland's ties to the Blackbird began when he was invited to join the Lockheed Skunk Works by founder Kelly Johnson. He test piloted the fastest and highest flying airplanes ever built, including the A-Il, A-12, YF-12A, and the SR-71. Bob was the first man to fly the SR-71A, the SR-71B, and YF-12A #936, which was later modified into the SR-71C.

-SR-71 Blackbird "Untouchable" by Dru Blair-

On 22 December 1964, Lockheed Test Pilot Bob Gilliland flew the first flight of SR-71 #950 at Palmdale, Calf, flying for 1 hour and over 1000 mph. As the SR-71 program continued to grow, Gilliland continued to be the first pilot to fly each Blackbird as it became operational, logging more experimental supersonic flight test-time above Mach 2 and Mach 3 than any other pilot. Bob logged more flying time at Mach 3 then any other man. This flying time would only be exceeded by a few operational pilots and only over the long operating career of the Blackbird.

Gilliland made a stop by the museum today for an autograph session. He said it was good to be back in Birmingham and had a special story to tell his friends tonight. -Betty Meyer FMI: ALAv Story

Antique Plane Hits Cow During Emergency Landing Video

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

From the UK: A British pilot has become an internet star after his aircraft hit a cow while attempting to land in Devon. More than 250,000 people have watched the clip on YouTube of pilot Rob Wotton hitting the cow, which escaped unharmed, near Dunkeswell Airfield in Honiton.

Wotton, 43, a commercial pilot and flying instructor based at Exeter International Airport, said it was the first cow he hit in his 22-year flying career. The incident was captured by the onboard camera of the vintage two-seater Tiger Moth plane.

Wotton said he had just taken off when the plane suffered engine trouble and he decided to land in a nearby field. The field contained a number of cows standing together with one separate from the herd.

"It was then that the silly cow decided to sprint across to join her mates on the other side of the field," says Wotton. "I clipped her and she went rolling away. She seemed unhurt and got up and carried on grazing. "I have to say it is the first cow I have ever hit in 22 years' flying and I think I may paint a cow on the side of the plane to mark the event."

A report released by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch states the accident happened when the plane lost power shortly after take-off in September. FMI: Sleaford Standard

NBAA Announces Public Meetings for TSA's LASP Proposal

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Washington, DC - The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has scheduled five official public hearings in early 2009 for the business aviation community to provide the agency with feedback on its proposed Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP).

"We appreciate this effort by the TSA to hear from the people in our industry whose operations stand to be greatly affected by this proposal," said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. "NBAA Members have been understandably frustrated by the proposal because it seems to lack a true understanding of how a general aviation airplane fits into a company's operations and security culture. I strongly encourage anyone able to participate in these meetings to mark their calendars and plan to attend."

The meetings - which will each begin at 9 a.m. local time (with registration starting at 8 a.m. local time) - will be held at the following locations:

 White Plains, NY, Jan. 6, 2009: Winchester County Airport (HPN), Building 1 Airport Road, White Plains, NY 10604

 Atlanta, GA, Jan. 8, , 2009: Renaissance Concourse Hotel Atlanta Airport, One Hartsfield Centre Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30354

 Chicago, IL, Jan. 16, 2009: Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel & Convention Center, 5440 North River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018

 Burbank, CA, Jan. 23, 2009: Burbank Airport Marriot Hotel & Convention Center, 2500 North Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505

 Houston, TX, Jan. 28, 2009: Hilton Houston Hotel-North Greenspoint Conference Center, 12400 Greenspoint Drive, Houston, TX 77060

Bolen will attend the meetings in White Plains and Burbank, and NBAA staff will be on-hand at each of the meetings. The Association is exploring the feasibility of whether a recording of one or more meetings would be possible, for later online broadcast to NBAA Members who are unable to attend.

"NBAA has been working in Washington to explain to TSA officials the industry's concerns about the LASP program," Bolen continued. "But as with other policy proposals, it is important that input on the TSA plan be provided by our Members, who will be directly impacted by the government's decisions. It is appropriate that TSA has provided these venues for our Members, and I trust the information provided by our Members will be compelling."

The TSA unveiled the 260-page LASP on October 9 to strong response from the business aviation community. The plan would cover all Part 91 operations and operators of any aircraft over 12,500 pounds maximum takeoff weight (MTOW).

The original, 60-day period for comment on the proposal was doubled after NBAA and other industry groups told the TSA that the plan appeared so broad in its potential implications, and raised such a large number of questions, that acquiring a full understanding of the document, and providing a complete response within the traditional 60-day period would not be feasible. Public comment on the proposal must now be received by February 27, 2009. FMI: NBAA

100th Anniversary of Passenger Flight Also Celebrated at KILL DEVIL HILLS

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

North Carolina- Low cloud cover kept planes grounded at the 105th anniversary of the Wright brothers' first flight on Wednesday, making it a rare occasion where the annual flyover had to be canceled. Many audience members clustered around the stage to chat with Herb Kelleher, the founder of Southwest Airlines Co. whose portrait was unveiled earlier in the morning.

Kelleher, Southwest's chairman from 1978 to May 2008, started the airline in 1971 with three planes. Today there is a fleet of 527 airplanes, flying more than 3,400 flights a day. The company, one of the first low-fare, no-frills carriers, says it has been profitable for 35 consecutive years and has never laid off an employee.

-Herb Kelleher, SWA image-

"Like Wilbur and Orville, Herb is a true pioneer who blazed a path for others to follow," said James C. May, president and chief executive officer of the Air Transport Association, when introducing Kelleher.

Because 2008 is the 100th anniversary of the first passenger flight, May said, it was most appropriate to honor Southwest's founder. Wilbur and Orville Wright each had a successful flight with passenger Charles Furnas on May 14, 1908. Kelleher got the inspiration to start Southwest Airlines while talking to a friend at a local bar. The company has since risen, May said, "from a doodle on a cocktail napkin to the nation's most successful airline."

Kelleher, 77, who lives in San Antonio, attributed his success to his employees, several of whom were in the audience. Punctuating his remarks with a rolling laugh that filled the room, the former CEO called himself "somewhat of a charlatan, maybe a fraud."

Kelleher's portrait will hang with other aviation pioneers in the Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine at the Wright Brothers visitor center. Created in 1966 by the First Flight Society, the group that has organized the anniversary event for 80 years, the shrine has honored nearly 80 people. In 1928, the society, then the Kill Devil Hills Memorial Association, held the first celebration at the site to mark the 25th anniversary. More than 200 people participated, including Orville Wright and Amelia Earhart. -FMI: Hampton Roads , SWA

Rep. Ray LaHood Selected Transportation Secretary

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

WASHINGTON -The U.S President-elect has selected retiring U.S. Rep Ray LaHood as his transportation secretary, which would make him the second Republican in the Obama Cabinet, a senior Democrat said on Wednesday.

Obama has offered LaHood of Illinois the post and the lawmaker is expected to accept the position, with a formal announcement by the president-elect within days, the senior Democrat said.

LaHood, 63, served 14 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing an area that encompasses Peoria, IL. He is considered a centrist member of the GOP. LaHood would join Defense Secretary Bob Gates as the second Republican in Democrat Obama's Cabinet.

-Rep. Ray LaHood (R- Ill)-

If confirmed, LaHood would become the 16th secretary of the agency created by Congress and President Lyndon Johnson in 1966. It has a $70 billion annual budget and nearly 60,000 employees.

Sen. Jay Rockefeller is appointed chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Sen. Rockefeller had been calling for more stringent security regulations for general aviation, in his role as chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation's Subcommittee on Aviation Operations. -Staff report

Cessna Delivers First Retail Citation XLS+

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

WICHITA, KANSAS- Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. company, yesterday completed the first Citation XLS+ retail delivery to an undisclosed customer based on the East Coast of the United States. The XLS+ is the latest version of the world's best-selling business jet model.

First announced in October 2006, the Citation XLS+ achieved Federal Aviation Administration certification on May 30; European Aviation Safety Agency certification is in process and expected to be complete in early 2009.

-Cessna image-

The order book exceeds 200 for the XLS+, an upgrade of the mid-size XLS. The original Citation Excel was delivered in July 1998, followed by the Citation XLS in July 2004. The series has accumulated a global fleet of nearly 680 planes and more than 1.5 million flight hours.

"With the XLS+, Cessna continues the tradition of the Excel and XLS as the most affordable stand-up cabin business jet," said Roger Whyte, senior vice president of Sales & Marketing. "We've incorporated "Voice of The Customer" throughout the design of the XLS+, including increased serviceability. This aircraft has the most advanced diagnostic system on any Cessna Citation to date." FMI: Cessna Aircraft Company at http://www.cessna.com/ .

Huntsville Author Recalls the Startup of Pan American Airways Flying Boats Video

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Huntsville, AL -Recently Jamie Dodson visited Birmingham's Southern Museum of Flight during their 1^st Aviation Art Expo. While there, he introduced his newly published work at a book signing. Historically based, it is a fascinating tale of character Nick Grant and his inadvertent entry into espionage and intrigue between the U.S. and Japan in 1935.

-
-Jamie Dodson, Intelligence Officer with Redstone Arsenal's Aviation and Missiles Lab, released his first historical fiction novel, Flying Boats & Spies, A Nick Grant Adventure-

"The story is about building Pan American Airways flying boat bases across the Pacific during a vicious cold war that existed between Japan and America." Dodson said. "The animosity between the two nations was very similar to the recent cold war between the former Soviet Union and the Unites States. However, it's less well known."

"In the 1930s, Pan American's flying boats represented the pinnacle of aerospace technology. Like today's NASA space shuttles. The Japanese not only wanted to wreck a planned route between China and the west coast, they wanted to steal the technology."

-Listen to Jamie Dodson talk about the 1930s PanAm China Clippers -

Dodson knows a great deal about technology and protection. "I've been involved in most facets of intelligence work. After I retired from the Army, I worked in industry for three years as a System Engineer. Then the Army approached me with an offer I couldn't refuse. For the last four years, I've been protecting U.S. technology from other nation's spies."

The new author has received praise from well known masters of the techno-thriller and historical fiction genre. Ralph Peters, author of bestseller, Wars Of Blood And Faith said, "Delightful! ... this well-told tale of international intrigue should appeal to every generation in a family." Homer Hickam, Rocket Boys, The Red Helmet and the Ambassador's Son said, "Flying Boats and Spies is a marvelous tale of the men and women who pioneered the sky during an adventurous era. Susan Rosson Spain, Author of THE DEEP CUT, a 2006 Marshall Cavendish Award Winner, said, "In Nick Grant, the reader gets a taste of Mickey Spillane, a young Chuck Yeager, and Charlie Chan, all rolled into one."

Jamie Dodson started writing novels in 2001. He has over 25 years of experience in Counter Intelligence, Special Intelligence, Signals Intelligence and Intelligence Analysis for the US Military. He's served with Special Operations, Army Aviation, Airborne Infantry, and Military Police.
FMI: http://www.nickgrantadventures.com/

Northrop Grumman Reveals First Navy Unmanned Combat Aircraft

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

PALMDALE, Calif - Northrop Grumman Corporation today unveiled the first of the U.S. Navy's new unmanned combat aircraft at a ceremony here attended by Navy officials, state and local government representatives, suppliers and Northrop Grumman employees. The new aircraft, designated the X-47B Navy Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS), is the first of two aircraft Northrop Grumman will produce for the Navy to demonstrate unmanned combat aircraft operations from the deck of an aircraft carrier.

"Unveiling the first X-47B UCAS aircraft signals a sea change in military aviation, made possible through the Navy's vision and leadership," said Scott Winship, Northrop Grumman vice president and Navy UCAS program manager. "I'm extremely proud of the Northrop Grumman-led industry team for its tireless dedication and hard work accomplishing this important milestone."

The Navy awarded the demonstration contract to Northrop Grumman in 2007 and aircraft assembly was completed in just over a year.

"The X-47B will demonstrate how unmanned combat aircraft can operate from aircraft carriers and is a necessary first step toward extending the aircraft carrier's reach and power projection from anywhere in the world," said Capt. Martin Deppe, the U.S. Navy Unmanned Combat Aircraft System Program Manager. "We look forward to a time when we can introduce a new long range, persistent, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) -- strike capability to the carrier decks of tomorrow."

-Northrop Grumman unveils the X47B UCAS-D air vehicle one at its Palmdale, Calif., manufacturing facility. Photo by Jeff Swann-

The aircraft will now undergo subsystem and structural testing in preparation for first flight in fall 2009. UCAS CV Demonstration sea trials are planned to begin in late 2011.

The second X-47B aircraft is in initial assembly at the Palmdale, Calif., facility and is expected to be completed in 2009.

The X-47B UCAS is produced by Northrop Grumman and industry teammates including Dell, Eaton Aerospace, GE Aviation, GKN Aerospace, Goodrich, Hamilton Sundstrand, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Moog, Parker Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Rockwell Collins and Wind River. -Northrop Grumman

NASA's Top Science, Exploration and Discovery Stories of 2008

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

NASA landed on Mars, photographed distant worlds, added to the International Space Station, took part in a lunar science mission with India and made major progress toward returning astronauts to the moon as the agency celebrated its 50th birthday in 2008.

Here on Earth, NASA researchers recorded the continued decline of Arctic sea ice, won awards for aviation breakthroughs, discovered the cause of storms that brighten the Northern Lights and helped create state-of-the-art swimsuits worn by Olympic gold medalists. Here are ten of the top accomplishments of America's space agency in its golden anniversary year from NASA :

ISS 10th Anniversary

Happy 189th Birthday Alabama Video

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Alabama became the 22nd state admitted to the Union on Dec. 14, 1819. Comprised of 67 counties, Alabama was the 22^nd state to achieve statehood. There is a lot of progress and achievement to celebrate. The first of a kind in the nation birthday bash once again was held in Montgomery. Governor Bob Riley kicked off 2009 as the Year of History during the state's 189^th birthday party at the Department of Archives and History. A 168-page book showcasing the state's colorful heritage was released December 12 at the Year of Alabama History ceremony.

Happy Birthday "Sweet Home Alabama"! The Leningrad Cowboys is a Finnish rock and roll band famous for its humorous songs and concerts featuring the Soviet Red Army Choir. - YouTube

From the mountains to the shore, from cotton fields to rocket engines, Alabama has it all. Rich in history, the Alabama Tourism Department and Birmingham News partnered to produce and publish "Historic Alabama" in conjunction with the 2009 Year of Alabama History campaign and is available at Books-A-Million stores across the state. It is a companion piece to the "Historic Alabama" brochure released in October. The 2009 Alabama Vacation Guide will place special emphasis on historic attractions and the 2009 Calendar of Events will highlight more than 1,600 events and festivals.

Strong in aerospace and aviation, the FAA lists 288 airports, heliports and landing facilities for Alabama. Military facilities and surrounding technology gives Alabama wings! The sky is the limit for Mobile may soon be the home of the new tanker assembly for the US Air Force. -Betty Meyer, FMI: Alabama Tourism

D.C. ADIZ Becomes Federal Regulation

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

AOPA- Despite congressional inquiries, economic studies, pilot opposition, and AOPA's all-out effort to convince officials that the Washington, D.C., Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) was an unreasonable, burdensome security restriction, the FAA on Dec. 15 announced its permanence as a special flight rules area (SFRA). The government created the SFRA despite overwhelming opposition from general aviation pilots. More than 22,000 pilots wrote to the FAA opposing the rule.

"It's extremely disappointing that the ADIZ-something that was hastily implemented as a temporary measure-has become federal regulation," said Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs. "We never gave up trying to eliminate the ADIZ, working with security officials, members of Congress, the White House, and the FAA."

The 30-nautical-mile-radius ADIZ remains the same, extending from the surface up to 18,000 feet msl, as does the 60-nm speed ring.

The notam will go away, but pilots flying through the SFRA will need to comply with the same rules as they have for years. Incorporating current policy, anyone who willfully violates the SFRA will still be subject to criminal penalties. Special procedures at Leesburg Executive Airport in Leesburg, Va., are not included in the rule and will continue to be controlled by notam.

"Operationally, nothing changes for pilots," Cebula said. "But issuing an ADIZ final rule is a concern because a temporary flight restriction was imposed, without consulting airspace users, and later made 'permanent' with no documented justification."

FAA and security officials have never provided a specific, intelligence-based threat assessment to justify to Congress or the pilot community the design of or procedures required in the ADIZ. Congress had called on security officials numerous times to testify about the ADIZ, whether it was necessary, and what economic impact it was having on airports in the area.

AOPA commissioned an economic study in 2005 that showed that 10 of the 13 airports analyzed inside the ADIZ were losing about $43 million in annually in wages, revenue, taxes, and local spending.

The association was successful in getting the size of the ADIZ reduced from its original "Mickey Mouse" shape that encompassed the Baltimore-Washington, D.C., Class B airspace to its current 30-nm radius. However, AOPA had also lobbied that it be further reduced to a 20-nm radius or outright eliminated because the government has never provided evidence that the ADIZ has resulted in any measurable increase in security.

"While this is a final rule," Cebula said, "circumstances and conditions evolve, and rules can be changed." - FMI: AOPA

Cessna CEO Marks Wright Brothers 105th Anniversary

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Wichita KN- On the eve of the 105^th anniversary of the first powered flight on Dec. 17, 1903, Cessna Aircraft Company Chairman, President and CEO Jack J. Pelton paid tribute to the Wright brothers' world-changing feat.

"As we wrap up a year in which Cessna - and the general aviation industry as a whole - delivers more business jets than ever before, we'd be remiss if we did not pay tribute to Orville and Wilbur. Not only did their 12-second flight on Dec. 17 transform the world by giving us the power of controlled flight, but their application of scientific methodology displayed the passion needed to make the most of flight as a tool," Pelton said.

The Wright Brothers, Pelton said, inspired many others at that time who went on to make great contributions to aviation, including Wichita's Clyde Cessna, who taught himself to fly a few years after the Wright's North Carolina flight. Cessna Aircraft Company took its present form in 1927 and has since produced nearly 200,000 aircraft, more than any other aircraft maker in history.

"The Wrights' legacy lives on today by inspiring our engineers, who continue to design and develop aircraft based on new ideas and technologies," Pelton said. "General aviation - business aviation - will continue to play a vital role in rebuilding the global economy by enhancing productivity - by continuing to shrink the world.

"While the mainstream media often portray general aviation as an extravagant perk only available to the wealthy, it's clear to those of us in the industry that general aviation provides an incredible productivity tool that allows unequaled capabilities and access to the world," Pelton said.

Pelton said that general aviation aircraft make possible scores of medical, agriculture, utility and community service activities across the globe. This is a business value now being realized around the world, with the development of the global business aircraft market as evidence. Pelton believes that these global transportation needs will only continue to increase.

"Like many others, I marvel at what our industry has accomplished in just 105 years of powered flight, and I can only dream of what we might achieve in the next 100," Pelton said. "There's no doubt general aviation faces many near-term challenges. But in taking a long-term perspective, my outlook for the industry is positive and my vision is that the best is yet to come for the businesses, communities and families benefiting from general aviation." -Cessna Aircraft

EAA 822 Captures the Spirit of an Aviation Christmas

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

WETUMPKA AL- Included with the December meeting of Wetumpka EAA Chapter 822 was their annual Christmas party. Member David Ramsey hosted the event that included food, beverage and his beautifully decorated antique collection of aircraft and vehicles. An estimated 75 members and guests attended.

-Wetumpka EAA Chapter 822 members Dan Horton, David Ramsey, Herb Sloan and Bill Johnson-

EAA Officer Bill Johnson gave a wrap up of many Chapter activities held during 2008. In his report was the announcement of the grand opening of the new Wetumpka Airport Terminal building scheduled for this January.

EAA 822 based at Wetumpka Municipal Airport is home to almost 90 aircraft. Chapter members include an Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame inductee, an FAA Flight Instructor of the Year and the first five Wright Brothers Master pilots recognized in Alabama by the FAA. Members of 822 have individually flown hundreds of Young Eagles and hosted several community Fly In events. Many members are active in additional aviation associations including the United Flying Octogenarians.

-In addition to amazing decorations, dozens of Christmas door prizes and old jukebox music entertained the guests-

-An estimated 75 members and guests attended, Betty Meyer-

Airboss Ralph Royce Awarded 2008 ICAS Sword of Excellence

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Las Vegas- The highest honor of the International Council of Airshows, the Sword of Excellence was awarded to Air Boss Ralph Royce in a ceremony at their convention on Thursday night. With perhaps an entire lifetime devoted to aviation, pilot, warbird driver, airshow expert, safety advocate and just plain miracle worker Ralph Royce received the award.

-Ralph Royce-

Since 1981, the International Council of Air Shows Sword of Excellence has been synonymous with air show excellence. Given each year to recognize outstanding service and personal contributions to the air show industry, the Sword is widely considered to be the single highest honor an individual air show professional can receive. Over the last 25 years, 31 different Sword recipients have been honored for their leadership, service, innovation, vision, commitment and selfless contributions to the air show business.

The single common characteristic of these air show performers, event organizers, military representatives, government officials and air show industry activists is their selfless commitment to improving and contributing not just to their own air show businesses, but to the entire air show industry

A third generation aviator, Royce served as CEO of the Lone Star Flight Museum and Texas Aviation Hall of Fame for 15 years. A commercial pilot with extensive warbird and airshow credentials, he achieved and perfected the role of Airboss. He has coordinated many of the nation's largest airshows, safely and on time. Putting the comfort level of the performers first, his legendary pre-show briefings includes the reminder that, "gravity always wins". Serving as an ICAS board member and Safety Committee chair he has been a strong advocate for safety over showmanship and helped authored policy to raise the bar on airshow safety practices. -Betty Meyer, FMI ICAS

Gene Soucy Receives 2008 ICAS Art Scholl Showmanship Award

Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Las Vegas- Part of the annual International Council of Airshows Convention is the exciting awards ceremony during the Thursday night banquet. Legendary performer Gene Soucy was honored as the recipient of the Art Scholl Showmanship Award.

-Gene Soucy-

Art Scholl was killed while filming a flying sequence of Top Gun off the coast of California on September 16, 1985. A long-time and active ICAS member, he was a renowned aerobatic pilot and consummate air show performer. He flew his Penzoil Chipmunk aircraft before an estimated audience of 80 million people over 20 years and appeared in more than 200 motion picture films, documentaries and television commercials. He left behind an enormous aviation legacy which still inspires other pilots and airshow performers.

To commemorate this legacy, the International Council of Air Shows presents the Art Scholl Showmanship Award every year to an air show flying, ground or announcer act which best exemplifies his tradition of creative, exciting and engaging entertainment.

Gene Soucy is one of the most well-respected and proficient airshow pilots in American aviation. He is a former member of the record-setting Eagles Aerobatic Flight Team, he has been a member of two World Champion U.S. Aerobatic Teams, and he has won more awards than any other active airshow pilot. Innovation and versatility are Gene Soucy's style. It is no wonder as to why he has rightfully been nicknamed "Mr. Airshow."

Career Highlights

Recipient - ICAS Sword of Excellence Award
Bill Barber Award for Showmanship (two time recipient)
Clifford L. Henderson Achievement Award
J. R. Wiedekind Achievement Award
Embry Riddle Crystal Eagle Award for Lifetime Achievement
Bill Adams Showmanship Award
FAI Achievement Award (1996 with Eagles Team)
Rolly Cole Memorial Award
3-time US National Aerobatic Champion (1^st three time winner)
3-time Canadian National Aerobatic Champion
Winner - Hilton "Masters of Aerobatics" World Competition
National Advanced Aerobatic Champion (1969)
World Aerobatic Champion Team Member - 2-times
Bronze Medal winner, World Aerobatic Championships
25 Years as a pilot with the famous Eagles Aerobatic Team and Red Devils Aerobatic Team
Performed airshows in 14 different types of aircraft

Whether Gene is performing in his Extra 300S, flying his wingwalking act with Teresa Stokes, performing a spectacular night aerial pyrotechnic display in the Showcat, flying jets, or setting records with his formation aerobatic flying, there is no doubt that he can do it all. And Gene Soucy definitely has done it all! -Betty Meyer, FMI: Gene Soucy

Final Flight for WASP Organization Leader Betty Jane Williams

Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

Los Angeles CA- Betty Jane Williams, who joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots, an elite group that flew noncombat missions during World War II, and served as a test pilot in Texas, has died at age 89. Williams, of Woodland Hills, died Monday at Providence Tarzana Medical Center of complications related to a stroke, her family said.

She earned her pilot's license six months before the attack on Pearl Harbor. In January 1944 she joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots. The women flew 78 types of military aircraft. But they had to wait until 1977 when recognized to be eligible for veterans benefits.

About 25,000 women applied for the program, but only 1,830 were accepted. She was one of 1,074 women who successfully completed the flight training in Sweetwater, Texas, as part of the WASP program, established during the war to cope with the domestic shortage of military pilots.

-Betty Jane Williams, Stephen Osman image-

The war effort "needed everybody," Williams, a retired lieutenant colonel, told The Times in 1996. "An airplane doesn't respond to sex. It only responds to skill, and I was bitten by the aviation bug."

After the war, Williams became a commercial pilot, flight instructor and head of instrument ground school for New York airports in the late 1940s. She also produced and hosted an early TV program in 1946 about aviation that aired on CBS and NBC. During the Korean War, she served in the Air Force as a writer-producer for a video production squadron. She went on to serve in Air Force Reserves and Marine public affairs for nearly 30 years before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1979. In California, she worked for North American Aviation and spent 20 years at Lockheed Aircraft as a technical writer and in-house filmmaker.

A founding organizer of the postwar WASP national organization, Williams served in several leadership roles and remained active in the group.

In January, she helped launch a planned aviation and aerospace library at James Monroe High School in North Hills by donating hundreds of her flight-related books, photographs and paintings to the campus. FMI: LA Times

First Annual 'Let's Go Flying' Award Presented to Boyer

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

AOPA- Retiring AOPA President Phil Boyer is the first recipient of a perpetual award named in his honor, the "Phil Boyer Let's Go Flying Award." "One of Phil's driving passions since arriving at AOPA 18 years ago has been encouraging more people to learn to fly. There is nothing Phil cares more about," said Bill Trimble, Chairman of the AOPA Board of Trustees. "This year under Phil's leadership, AOPA launched its biggest initiative yet, Let's Go Flying, which will live on long after Phil departs Frederick."It is only fitting that we honor Phil's legacy in a new award, the Phil Boyer Let's Go Flying Award, to be presented to the individual or organization that best exemplifies Phil's commitment to the future of general aviation. "And it is only natural that the first recipient of this award be Phil Boyer himself."

Trimble presented the Phil Boyer Let's Go Flying Award during a dinner gathering of industry and political leaders in Washington, D.C., to recognize Boyer's accomplishments during his 18 years in the left seat of AOPA.

"I can think of few greater honors than this," said Boyer. "Nothing is more important to GA's future than sharing our passion for flight with new generations." FMI: AOPA

Endeavour Touches Down in Florida

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 CDT

NASA- Space shuttle Endeavour and the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft shimmered in the Florida sun Friday afternoon as the shuttle returned to its home spaceport at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Florida's Atlantic coast. The modified 747 provided the muscle to lift and fly Endeavour from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., to Kennedy. The ferry flight began Wednesday and made overnight stops in Texas and Louisiana on its way to Florida.

-Image above: The Shuttle Carrier Aircraft carries Endeavour back to its home base at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett-

The 747 touched down at 2:44 p.m. EST on the Shuttle Landing Facility's runway 33. The 3-mile-long runway is the same one used by shuttles when they return from space. Endeavour will be taken to the gantry-like Mate-Demate Device to be removed from the top of the 747. Then Endeavour will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility where it will be readied for a future flight. Endeavour, flying STS-126, landed at Edwards on Nov. 30 because weather conditions at Kennedy were not acceptable.

The next shuttle mission is STS-119, targeted for launch on Feb. 12, 2009, on a flight to install the fourth set of solar arrays on the International Space Station. -NASA