In Flight USA Article Categories
In Flight USA Articles
The Aerospace Center for Excellence Will be “Aligning the Stars for Students” Thanks to GiveWell Community Foundation
Unmanned and Sunny Drone Education Event
Unmanned and Sunny Drone Education Event
Aerospace Center for Excellence will host Unmanned and Sunny on Wednesday, July 13, 2016 from 1 – 4 p.m. at Aerospace Discovery at the Florida Air Museum, located on the Sun ‘n Fun Expo Campus 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland, Fla.
Unmanned and Sunny is a free drone education and awareness event for the public to learn about safe drone operation and the upcoming career opportunities that exist in the drone industry.
Editorial: Airshows
By Ed Downs
Let’s set the scene. It is probably Thursday evening, and you know that Friday means it will be time to figure out where to fly for the weekend. In other words, where will the expectation of a $100 burger take you this time? Can you encourage the kids or wife to go with you? Will the experience be enough fun to keep your young teenager engaged (good luck!). Maybe you will just stay at home and finally clean the belly, you know, the side of your plane that nobody sees? Sound familiar? Well, dear reader, get your head out of your exhaust manifold, log on to www.milavia.net/airshows/calendar/showdates-2016-north_america.html and stop your whining.
The airshow season is upon us, and it might surprise you to know that there are more than 300 events each year that qualifiy to be called an “Airshow.” Additionally, there are hundreds of activities associated with aviation museums that are designed to entertain and educate, especially our young folks who think airplanes are simply fictional gadgets invented by computer gamers. To be sure, many shows are local events that may draw only 10k to 15K visitors, but there are the “monster” shows (like EAA AirVenture) that draw well over half a million visitors.
Patriotism Focus At Annual Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo
Historic aircraft from the the Tesas Flying Legends Museum will be at the 2015 Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo. Pictured here (and on the cover) are Little Horse, their P-51DMustang andAleutian Tiger, a P-40KWarhawk. The Texas Flying Legends Museum is dedicated to honoring past generations through active displays of WWII warbirds. (Courtesy of Texas Flying Legends Museum)Mark your calendar for the 41st Annual Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo presented by Visit Florida April 21-26, 2015 in Lakeland, Florida. Proceeds from all events are returned to aviation-based STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) curriculums through year-round programs and activities at Sun ‘n Fun’s Aerospace Center for Excellence. Agreeing to help make attendance soar for the major annual fund-raising event on the Sun ‘n Fun Convention Campus, two jet teams will appear:
- The prestigious Breitling Aerobatic Display Jet Team, that illustrates the brand’s cherished values: performance, precision, aesthetic sophistication and innovation, is the first and largest of its kind. Comprised of seven L-39 C Albatros jets reaching speeds of up to 435 mph with up to 8G accelerations while flying within 10 feet of each other, the Breitling pilots embody the very essence of daring, speed and audacity.
Editorial: Good News in 2015?
By Ed Downs
This writer thinks we will see an uptick in aviation activity in 2015, along with improved air show participation (by both vender and aviation enthusiast) and passage of important aviation regulations. Hopefully, we will also see more new and used aircraft sales in the GA market as increased training results in new pilots looking for flying machines. Without a doubt, sales in the corporate sector of the U.S. aviation market will continue the strong trends we have seen in 2014. So why do we all of this optimism after years of complaining?
In short, what was once the greatest nation on earth may have a functioning government for the first time in many years. Well, maybe that is a tad on the euphoric side, but at least the legislative side of things will improve. To be sure, the executive side of our government will most certainly continue with its focus on social reconstruction and expanded social services, remaining as hostile as ever to America’s aviation and science community. We will continue to see purely political appointments to federal agencies as the existing leaders of these posts start handing in resignations, a typical trend as the term of any president comes to a final end.
The Pylon Place: January 2015
2014 Year in Review
By Marilyn Dash
Team Ruby – Getting Ready for the Big Race (Anthony Taylor /Warbirdfotos.com)Another year is in the books with some great highs and some devastating lows. I wanted to take the time to look back and celebrate the good and memorialize the losses.
Red Bull Air Racing was Back!
If you read this column regularly, you know that I love Air Racing of any kind–especially the Closed Pylon racing like we do at the National Championship Air Races in Reno. But I also have a great affection for the Red Bull Air Racing Series.
After a three-year hiatus, the series came back stronger than ever, finishing the season at their Home-Drome with the Championship being decided on the last flight. Amazing year–congrats to all, especially Nigel Lamb, the 2014 Series Champion!
Florida Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Share-A-Flight – Need A Ride? Have A Seat?
Editorial: A New Year
By Ed Downs
Okay, it is February and this should have been in the January issue, but sometimes dates just get away from us. We still have eleven months to go, and it is worth taking a short look at the past year (2013, just in case you lost track) and project what may be ahead.
Our editorial comments in 2013 included concern about expanding UAV operations, some points about professionalism and a lot of talk about the “sequester” and later, the government shut down. Sad commentary was needed regarding the dramatic effects of violent weather (the tornadoes of Moore, Okla.) and the contributions aviation has made in protecting folks in the “tornado belt.” Airshows became a topic as many were canceled due to the FAA’s refusal to provide safety service unless high fees were paid, remembering that such services are a part of the FAA’s basic charter. This amounted to the implementation of user fees (raising funds) by taking an end-run around the Congress. Sadly, we lost a leader in the way of Paul Poberezny, a veteran, leader and co-founder of the EAA.
The Pylon Place - January 2013
Aviation Events in 2013
By Marilyn Dash
Big things are happening this year in aviation. Before we get too far into the new year, I wanted to help you plan your vacation time. So, get out your Ruby Aviation calendar (www.cafepress.com/aviation_calendar) and a pen and let’s get started.
Reno Air Races
Reno Air Races action, where else can you see racing Mustangs. (Anthony D. Taylor/warbirdsfotos.com)Priority number one to air race fans will be the 50th Annual National Championship Air Races, which will be held Sept. 11-15, 2013. If you only make one event this year, I am pretty sure this is the one to make.
The planning has started to have many old-time racers in attendance. I will continue to include updates as plans become more solid throughout the year. But, circle this one, and consider coming for the entire week. Qualifying starts on Monday, Sept. 9, 2013.
With all the rumors floating around for the last few years about this being the final Reno, if your bucket list contains “Race at Reno,” you need to go to the Pylon Racing Seminar (PRS), aka Rookie School. This will likely be held the week of June 10. You need to attend PRS if you want to race, so in order to check off that box on your bucket list you will need to be here in June to be there in September.
I should also mention that I don’t believe the rumors; I didn’t believe the rumor about the Mayans either – and they were wrong too.
Knight Named Sun ‘n Fun Board Chair Succeeding Eickhoff
he chairmanship, vacated by the retirement of Bill Eickhoff, who served for the past 28 years as steward of the Sun ‘n Fun organization and its development as a highly respected not-for-profit enterprise within both the greater Lakeland area and the national and international general aviation communitThe Sun ‘n Fun Board of Directors elected Bob Knight, President of Knight Industrial Equipment, Inc. of Lakeland, Fla., as its chairman at their January board meeting. Bob assumes t
Bob Knight assumes the Sun ‘n Fun chairmanship after serving on the board for the past 10 years and most recently as its vice-chairman. He has been a highly engaged member of the board serving, among many duties, as the chairman of the board’s Master Site Planning Committee. The committee has overseen significant development in Sun ‘n Fun’s educational mission culminating last year in the dedication of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy (high school) on its year-round campus and the current construction of the Piedmont Aerospace & Technology Laboratory addition to its Florida Air Museum’s Tom Davis Educational Center.
USAF Thunderbirds to Perform at Sun ‘n Fun 2012
The United States Air Force Thunderbirds in the “Diamond Formation.” (Courtesy of the USAF Thunderbirds)The United States Air Force (USAF) Thunderbirds military jet demonstration team has announced that the Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo has been selected as a general aviation event venue on the 2012 Thunderbirds appearance schedule. The announcement was made at the International Council of Airshows (ICAS) Convention in Las Vegas, NV. The 2012 Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo will be held March 27-April 1 on its campus at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Fla.
Wild Weather at Sun 'n Fun
By Ed Downs
Photos Courtesy of EAA
(EAA Photo)This April edition of In Flight USA is going to press just as information is being received regarding a severe storm, now being reported as an F1 Tornado that hit the Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In and Air Show site at Lakeland’s Linder Regional Airport. It is now known that some 15 attendees and/or exhibitors received injuries ranging from minor scrapes and abrasions to broken bones. Forty to 50 aircraft were seriously damaged or destroyed. These aircraft included those on display by vendors and many visitor airplanes, including homebuilts and classics. Numerous vendor tents and displays were destroyed. The staff at In Flight USA wishes to extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery from personal injuries and a 
(EAA Photo)successful financial recovery from the enormous financial strain such a disaster places on all affected.
Our April cover, the Legend Cub, an S-LSA manufactured by American Legend Aviation of Sulfur Springs, Texas, represents a snapshot of the courage and tenacity of the vendors who have been hit hard by this storm. Dave Graham, Director of Marketing for American Legend, commented, “We knew storms were on the way and secured everything the best we could. When it did hit, there was little warning. Our team rushed inside our display tent and hung on for dear life. I can now say that I have soloed a tent!”
The Official Word From Sun 'n Fun: All Safe, Property Damage Extensive
As of In Flight USA’s deadline on Friday, April 1, there were only minor injuries suffered by people on the ground, however, damage to aircraft and property was extensive following a severe weather system that ravaged the Lakeland area on Thursday, March 31.
US Navy “Blue Angels” to Perform at Sun ‘n Fun
(Courtesy of U.S. Navy Blue Angels)The United States Navy’s (USN) “Blue Angels” military jet demonstration team will be the featured air show performers at this year’s Sun ’n Fun International Fly-In & Expo, which will be held March 29 - April 3 on its campus at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Florida.
“Sun ‘n Fun is honored and excited to host one of the world’s most recognized military jet teams – the Blue Angels – and to recognize the 100th anniversary of Naval aviation during our 2011 event,” said Sun ’n Fun President John Burton. “Their participation will add to the exciting array of aircraft and activities already planned for Sun ’n Fun’s 37th annual celebration. We’re excited about having the Blue Angels take to the skies over Lakeland, especially as they perform their aerial magic for our attendees and area guests.”
F-22 Raptor Returns to Perform at Sun 'n Fun
Lt. Col. James Hecker flies over Fort Monroe before delivering the first operational F/A-22 Raptor to its permanent home at Langley Air Force Base, Va., on May 12. This is the first of 26 Raptors to be delivered to the 27th Fighter Squadron. The Raptor program is managed by the F/A-22 System Program Office at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. Colonel Hecker is the squadron’s commander. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Ben Bloker)The world’s only operational fifth-generation fighter aircraft – the F-22 “Raptor” – will return to the Sun ’n Fun International Fly-In & Expo, which will be held March 29 to April 3 on its campus at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Florida. Considered the U.S. Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, the F-22 Raptor utilizes a unique combination of supersonic speed, stealth technology, a “see-it-to-believe-it” maneuverability, integrated avionics and improved supportability that represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities.
“We were honored to be the first civilian aviation event to host this amazing fighter jet and we are honored to welcome it back to Sun ’n Fun this year,” said Sun ’n Fun President and Convention Chairman John Burton. “Whether or not you’ve seen the Raptor fly before, it will be well worth the effort to see it fly at Sun ’n Fun. Fighter jets are capable of some pretty amazing things but this aircraft exceeds even the highest expectations. We can’t wait to see it fly again!”
Sun 'n Fun Recognizes 20th Anniversary of Operation Desert Storm
The 20th anniversary of “Operation Desert Storm” will be recognized during the 37th annual Sun ’n Fun International Fly-In and Expo. This year’s Fly-In will take place March 29 to April 3 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Fla.
United States Army Brigadier General Rhonda Cornum and her husband, United States Air Force Brig. Gen. Kory Cornum, both served in Desert Storm and will provide their unique perspectives on the military strategies and their successful conclusion during the First Persian Gulf War.
“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since Desert Storm,” said Sun ’n Fun President and Convention Chairman John Burton. “We are honored to have these two high-ranking military veterans who so honorably served in Desert Storm and who remain in service to our country to this day. Their program will be one that Sun ’n Fun participants and guests will be talking about for a long time.”
Homebuilder's Workshop - June 2010
Watch Out for Loopholes and Potholes
By Ed Wischmeyer
Here’s one that you should not be happy about. The government charting office, whatever they call themselves these days, has decided that they need to make more/lose less money. So they will no longer sell charts to outlets that sell less that $5,000 worth of charts per year, and, they’ve tightened up their policy on returned charts. What this means, then, is that you probably can’t get up to date charts at your local airport. I can’t. Or maybe at any airport nearby.
Sun 'n Fun: Thunderbirds Return
2010 Spring Break for Pilots
Headlining the Sun N Fun Fly In for only the second time, the United States Air Force Flight Demonstration Team Thunderbirds managed to pull in significant crowds despite less than ideal conditions over the weekend. (Richard VanderMeulen)Story by Richard VanderMeulen
As the first major air show of the season—and one of the friendliest and laid-back you’ll ever attend—Sun ‘N Fun in Lakeland, Florida kicked off the air show season with their 34th annual event, “The Aviation Year Starts Here” during the week of 13-18 April with the USAF Thunderbird’s second Sun ‘N Fun appearance.
Befitting the event’s name and Florida location, the sun certainly did shine on the event during a week of warm breezy, although the remnants of storms to the north remained a minor obstacle for some incoming visitors. An incoming weather system on the final days of the show cleared many fly-in visitors earlier than usual, but despite some rain on Sunday a considerable number of locals took advantage of a special reduced price two-day weekend “locals” special.
Sport Flying With In Flight USA - April 2010
The LSA’s of Sun ‘n Fun
By Ed Downs
Many readers will be at the 2010 Sun ‘n Fun Airshow, or will be following reports of this event over the next few months. With more than 100 S-LSA offerings now available, trying to decide which of these great airplanes will be best for personal use or flight training is challenging. You may be asking yourself, does this S-LSA really meet the industry consensus standards (referred to as “ASTM Standards”) and is the manufacturer ready to support the plane, long term? The concern of continuing support is especially important for S-LSA’s being imported from distant lands.