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We speak with a KC-135 pilot and licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic who runs a business specializing in aircraft maintenance, avionics upgrades, and aircraft management. In the news, budget cuts at NOAA's Oceanic and Atmospheric Research Office, a ruling in the so-called “toxic uniform” lawsuit against American Airlines, wildlife hazards, the Swiss Global 7500 aircraft, ATC retirement age, and Air Force restrictions on pregnant pilots. A KC-135R Stratotanker taxis down the flight line in an alert response during a Nuclear Operational Readiness Exercise (NORE) at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, April 6, 2025.(U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Jesse Hanson) Guest James Spearman is an aviation entrepreneur who owns James Spearman Aircraft LLC, an FAA Part 145 Repair Station specializing in aircraft maintenance, avionics upgrades, and aircraft management. He is also an active KC-135 Stratotanker pilot with the Tennessee Air National Guard who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in December 2024. James holds a CFI, A&P with Inspection Authorization (IA), and Seaplane ratings (ASES, AMEL, ASEL). He has over 1,000 flight hours in a range of aircraft, from the KC-135 Stratotanker to a Cessna 140, and holds type ratings in the Boeing 707, Boeing 720, Beechjet 400, and Mitsubishi MU-300. James graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Maintenance Management. In our conversation, James describes flying the KC-135 Stratotanker in a night-time combat mission and experiencing a loss of electrical power. He and his crew managed to compensate and return safely to base. We also look at how he started his aircraft maintenance business, the type of work performed, and his commitment to a high-level white-glove service. James' aircraft maintenance company works primarily on Cirrus airplanes, and he is also a Diamond Aircraft authorized service center, an Epic service center, and a Garmin avionics dealer. Seaplane discovery rides and ICON A5 training are offered through Iconic Air & Sea Adventures. James also produces the The James Spearman Show podcast. Eleven Airmen from the 134th Air Refueling Wing receive the Distinguished Flying Cross on December 7, 2024 at a ceremony on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Knoxville, Tennessee. The ceremony highlighted the critical role played by the recipients during a coordinated defense effort in response to one of the largest missile and drone attacks in history, when Iran launched a massive assault on Israel involving over 300 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Ben Cash) Aviation News Stand Up for NOAA Research – The Time to Act is Now A Statement from the American Meteorological Society, in partnership with the National Weather Association, says “The administration's 2026 budget passback plan, currently under consideration, eliminates NOAA's Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Office and its 10 research laboratories and 16 affiliated Cooperative Institutes, and moves the few remaining research efforts to different NOAA departments. If enacted, the passback would close all of NOAA's weather, climate, and ocean Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes.” The organizations are asking concerned citizens to reach out elected representatives and share concerns. Find Your Representative Find Your Senator Judge Throws Out ‘Toxic Uniform' Lawsuit Against American Airlines After Nearly Eight Years Of Litigation The class action lawsuit, first filed in 2017, alleged that uniforms given by American Airlines to pilots, flight attendants, and other employees caused rashes, hives, breathing difficulties, and headaches. After nearly eight years, the federal judge threw out the lawsuit against American Airlines and former uniform manufacturer Twin Hill in a summary judgment,
Airline retailing with ATPCO CEO Alex Zoghlin, IATA's New Distribution Capability, Offers & Orders, and the Elevate industry conference. In the news, AI transformation of the airline industry, cyber criminals stealing United FA login credentials, shark skin riblets on Delta 767s, first flight of a prototype hydrogen-powered helicopter, China's tailless 6th generation fighter jet, and a fatal helicopter crash in the Hudson River. Guest Alex Zoghlin is the CEO of ATPCO, a neutral industry partner that provides airline management tools, pricing data, and solutions that support airline retailing. Owned by the airlines, ATPCO blends data and systems with technology to create value for hundreds of commercial airlines around the world. The company turned 60 this year. IATA describes Airline retailing as a customer-centric approach in the airline industry that focuses on enhancing the shopping experience across various channels. It is enabled by the New Distribution Capability (NDC), which allows airlines to offer more personalized services and products directly to consumers. This modern retailing model emphasizes frictionless, intuitive, and personalized shopping experiences for travelers. The transition to this model provides airlines with opportunities to innovate their distribution strategies and create additional value. Alex explains how ATPCO provides value to airlines. We talk about continuous pricing and dynamically generated fares as well as some of the factors airlines use in their pricing strategies. He describes how airlines can have fixed price points for different offerings, then turn specific offerings on or off depending on the circumstances. We look at curated ticket pricing that can create the specific travel experience the customer wants - extra baggage, type of seat, lounge access, etc. With this capability, airlines could potentially compete for the flyer's travel business. ATPCO's Elevate 2025 airline industry conference was held April 7-10, 2025, in Chicago. Alex says the conference theme this year was data and AI: How airlines can use the wealth of available data and some AI tools to make win-win offerings for both the airlines and the consumers. In our conversation with Alex, we consider several other airline industry topics such as the 2050 industry carbon reduction goals and the current tariff situation in the United States. Alex is a long-time airline/travel industry veteran. He co-founded Orbitz, sold a distribution startup to Travelport, and worked as a VP at Hyatt for 6 years. Alex has several aviation-related pursuits: He's a pilot and a flight simmer, he has a Part 107 drone license, and he participates in launching large amateur rockets, specifically the LDRS (Large, Dangerous Rocket Ships), an annual gathering of rocket enthusiasts organized by the Tripoli Rocketry Association. Aviation News How AI is Transforming the Airline Industry The Promise of Travel in the age of AI, a 32-page Skift & McKinsey report (2023), claims that AI could generate an estimated US$45bn in potential value for the airline industry globally through operational efficiencies, revenue optimization, and customer service improvements. AI is already impacting the airlines through organizational changes, predictive maintenance from aircraft health monitoring, AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots, personalized in-flight entertainment options, and voice-cloning technology to provide a multilingual IFE system. In the future, look for flight path optimization for increased fuel efficiency, refined dynamic pricing models, and even autonomous aircraft. Cyber Criminals Are Going After The Paychecks Of United Airlines Flight Attendants Using Fake Websites That Look Legit Criminals are using website spoofing to steal the login credentials of United FAs. In addition to paychecks, Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are at risk.
Challenges faced by charter operators in deportation flights, the NTSB's new online accident reporting portal, rising military aviation accident rates, the uncertain future of Air Wisconsin, and the merger of regional carriers Republic and Mesa. Also, findings from the NTSB regarding Boeing evacuation slides, the impact of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) on businesses, innovations in helicopter technology, and the legacy of women in aviation, particularly the WASPs during World War II. Aviation News Inside ICE Air: Flight Attendants on Deportation Planes Say Disaster Is “Only a Matter of Time” Miami-based Global Crossing Airlines (operating as GlobalX) is a Part 121 operator and the primary contractor for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation flights. (Known as “ICE Air”). Seven current and former GlobalX flight attendants spoke with ProPublica and expressed concerns about the safety of the deportation flights. Courtesy GlobalX. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics In fiscal year 2024, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) reported conducting over 1,000 charter deportation flights. Avelo ripped for plan to fly ICE deportation charters as Tong suggests pulling state support: 'Deeply disappointing' Avelo Airlines plans to begin flying deportation flights for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security out of Arizona. Connecticut local and state officials are expressing displeasure with the airline. The mayor of New Haven suggested that the state consider pulling its "support" for Avelo. NTSB introduces new online portal for accident reports The new online Form 6120.1 supplements the paper version. The overall process for reporting an accident remains the same: Step 1: Preserve the scene. Step 2: Provide an Initial Report to the NTSB 24-hour Response Operations Center (ROC). Step 3: NTSB determines if they will investigate the accident. Step 4: Complete 6120.1 form after the NTSB Investigator contacts you. See: Report an Aircraft Accident to the NTSB You can complete the form by either downloading the PDF version or using the interactive digital form, which you can access through a unique link that the investigator will email to you. If you witnessed an aircraft accident and would like to provide the NTSB with a statement of your observations, prepare a statement and email it to witness@ntsb.gov. U.S. Military Records Highest Aviation Accidents In A Decade; What Is The Major Cause Of Rising Incidents? The EurAsian Times says, “FY2024 was one of the worst aviation safety years for the US Army in a decade.” They cite statistics from the Aviation Division of the Directorate of Analysis and Prevention at the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center showing a “steady decline in mishap rates per 100,000 hours beginning in 2006.” FY2022 saw a record low of 0.50 Class A mishaps per 100,000 hours, but that rate doubled in 2023 and the FY2024 Class A mishap rate (1.90) was almost four times greater than FY2022. Air Wisconsin Halts Scheduled Flights, Future Uncertain American Airlines' 5-year contract with Air Wisconsin for regional capacity has ended. The April 3, 2025 breakup was announced last January, when Air Wisconsin President and CEO Robert Binns noted that the airline is making a “strategic shift” to focus on government-subsidized Essential Air Service flying and charter operations. To date, the airline has been unsuccessful in winning any EAS contracts. Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group to Combine, Creating America's Regional Airline of Choice Republic Airways Holdings Inc. and Mesa Air Group, Inc. announced that they have a definitive agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction. If the merger succeeds, the combined company would be renamed Republic Airways Holdings Inc. Bryan Bedford, Republic's President and Chief Executive Officer, said "We're thrilled to combine the Republic and Mesa teams to create one of the wo...
The founder and managing director of 123Carbon explains carbon insetting, SAF certificates, and SAF registries. In the news, we look at the Safer Skies Act of 2025, KC-135 Stratotanker service life, Airbus future single-aisle technologies and design, and injuries after a mid-air TCAS alarm sounds. Also, the first COMAC 909 delivery outside China, ATC privatization around the world, security theater, and introducing women to aviation. Guest Jeroen van Heiningen is the founder and managing director of 123Carbon. The company works with fuel suppliers and carriers to issue transparent and externally verified environmental attribute certificates, including SAF certificates, used by airlines and cargo operators to reduce their transport-related Scope 3 emissions. Jeroen discusses the sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) market, focusing on carbon insetting, the role of SAF registries, and the importance of transparency and standardization in the industry. He explains how carbon insetting differs from carbon offsetting, emphasizing the need for companies to invest in their value chain de-carbonization. The discussion also covers the digital certificate process, the collaboration between 123Carbon and IATA, and future trends in the SAF market. 123Carbon's registry is integrated with other IT systems and allows an airline to upload documents and manage its inventory of digital certificates online. It's a multi-modal agnostic platform that can be branded. With the use of sustainable bio-fuel growing in the land and sea modes of transportation, the accounting needs to be integrated with air. 123Carbon recently introduced Carboninsets.com, a free service for forwarders and cargo owners that connects them with issuers on the registry. Jeroen set-up and led Accenture's Sustainability Services Benelux and wrote the CDP NL 50 report in 2010. He has 15 years of experience with multi-modal carbon insetting programs, covering both Air (KLM corporate biofuels Program) and Marine (the GoodShipping Program). He holds a master's in business administration from Tilburg University. Takeaways: Carbon insetting is a more effective long-term approach than offsetting. Companies are increasingly linked to net-zero targets managed by SBTi. (Science Based Targets initiative) Standardization in the SAF market is crucial for transparency. Digital certificates are essential for tracking SAF transactions. Collaboration between registries helps prevent double counting of SAF. The SAF market is evolving with a focus on multimodal transportation. Demand and supply must be connected to stabilize SAF prices. New services like CarbonInsets.com facilitate connections between issuers and buyers. The aviation industry is leading in SAF adoption compared to other transport modes. Future initiatives will focus on integrating various transportation modalities. Resources: ICAO Global Framework for SAF: Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) IATA SAF Handbook [PDF] Developing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). IATA estimates that Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) could contribute around 65% of the reduction in emissions needed by aviation to reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. IATA and 123Carbon to Collaborate on Interoperability for SAF Registries. A strategic collaboration to develop interoperability between their respective SAF focusing on three key elements: A unique identifier and alignment of the relevant data points to exchange between registries. A process for the exchange of information to avoid any potential double issuance. A dispute resolution process. IATA SAF Registry. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it will establish the SAF Registry to accelerate the uptake of SAF by authoritatively accounting and reporting emissions reductions from SAF. SAFc Registry. Sustainable aviation fuel certificates (SAFc) can help drive demand for sustainable avi...
Political campaign charter aircraft, tariffs and the aerospace industry, Boeings NGAD fighter contract, the adaptive cycle engines to power it, corrosion issues on A220 jetliners, the shutdown of Heathrow, and the resilience of airports to power outages. Guest Jonathan Tasler is Vice President at Advanced Aviation Team. He manages charter aircraft for political campaigns and high-net-worth VIPs. We learn what is involved in transporting presidential and other political candidates, and Jonathan tells us some interesting stories. Jonathan describes how he ensures that a political campaign charter is flown safely to the intended destination on time. We learn that the charter requirements can change as a campaign progresses and presumptive candidates emerge. For example, larger dedicated planes with special campaign livery can become necessary. Jonathan explains how critical it is that candidates do not miss major events. Sometimes he even arranges backup planes and standby crews. We also discover why some charter airlines don't want to be involved in political campaigns and others are happy to be part of a campaign. Jonathan also tells us about campaign security and how the Secret Service may participate in some flights. Jonathan is a veteran of political campaign charters. He grew up in the industry as his father coordinated all the charters for the Bush/Quayle campaign. Over the years, Jonathan has worked with both Republicans and Democrats, including George W. Bush, John Kerry, Mitt Romney, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Joe Biden, and many others. He coordinated aircraft charters for a major party candidate in every US Presidential Campaign cycle since the Bush/Cheney campaign in 2000. Find Advanced Aviation Team at their website, on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Some political campaign charter incidents: John Edwards' Campaign Plane Makes Emergency Landing - John Edwards' Boeing 727-200 had to make an emergency landing after a press member's battery exploded in the overhead bins. Ann Romney's Plane Makes Emergency Landing - Ann Romney had electrical fire and smoke in the cabin of Challenger 600 and made an emergency landing in DEN. John Kerry's Boeing 757-200 developed a crack in the windshield in flight. This subsequently developed into a complete spiderweb. Obama plane incident could have been disaster - Barack Obama onboard Midwest Airlines MD81 had control surface issues after an inflatable slide opened in flight. ‘Several failures' led to 2016 plane crash with Vice President Mike Pence, investigation says - Mike Pence's Eastern Airlines B737 overran the runway at LGA. (Not an Advanced Aviation Team contract.) Aviation News Trump's Tariffs Could Deal a Blow to Boeing and the Aerospace Industry The aerospace industry is concerned that tariffs on aluminum and steel will raise manufacturing costs. There is particular concern about tariffs on Canadian and Mexican products since the North American aerospace supply chain is highly integrated. At a recent investor conference, Boeing's chief financial officer said the direct effects of the tariffs on Boeing would be limited, however, they could impact companies further down the aerospace supply chain. Those suppliers have struggled with material and labor shortages. Kevin Michaels, a past guest and a managing director of the AeroDynamic Advisory consulting firm, said the tariffs could raise costs for the aerospace industry by about $5 billion annually. Boeing wins Air Force contract for NGAD next-gen fighter, dubbed F-47 The U.S. Air Force has awarded the contract to develop the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter. Lockheed Martin competed with Boeing for the F-47 sixth-generation fighter, while Northrop Grumman dropped out of the competition in 2023. The Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract is thought to be worth about $20 billion.
We look at Spirit Airlines exiting bankruptcy, fundamental changes at Southwest Airlines, the non-functional CVR in the Philadelphia Learjet crash, helicopter route restrictions around DCA, a bill permitting property owners to shoot down drones, the JetZero blended wing body (BWB), Sikorsky's “blown wing” VTOL, and countries looking beyond the F-35 for 5th-generation fighters. Aviation News Spirit Airlines exits bankruptcy 4 months after filing for Chapter 11 protection Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024. The airline continued operations through the proceedings. Spirit has reorganized its corporate structure, converted $795 million of debt into equity, and received $350 million in new equity from existing investors. Spirit changed its fare product structure with several tiers of premium seating. Southwest Airlines Threw Away Its Biggest Selling Point—And That's Exactly Why It Had To Start Charging For Bags Gary Leff writes, “Southwest is going to charge for checked bags, start expiring flight credits, and introduce no seat assignment basic economy.” Gary says this will end Southwest's product differentiation. Also that people are going to be bringing on a lot more carry-on bags, slowing down boarding. More carry-on bags means full overhead bins and customers having to gate-check bags. NTSB - Black Box from Plane in Deadly Philly Crash Never Recorded Audio On January 31, 2025, at 1807 eastern standard time, a Learjet 55 airplane, Mexican registration XA-UCI (call sign MTS056) was destroyed when it was involved in an accident in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The two pilots, two medical crewmembers, and two passengers were fatally injured. One person on the ground was fatally injured, 4 people were seriously injured, and 20 people incurred minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 129 air ambulance flight. The airplane was equipped with a cockpit voice recorder (CVR). The CVR was recovered from the initial impact crater under 8 ft of soil and debris and was sent to the NTSB Vehicle Recorders Laboratory, Washington, DC, for processing and readout. The recorder displayed significant impact-related damage as well as liquid ingress. After extensive repair and cleaning, the 30-minute-long tape-based recording medium was auditioned to determine its contents. The CVR did not record the accident flight and during the audition it was determined that the CVR had likely not been recording audio for several years. NTSB: Aviation Investigation Preliminary Report, Learjet 55, Philadelphia, PA Helicopter Route Permanently Closed After Deadly Black Hawk Collision with Plane After the NTSB highlighted the number of close calls in the DCA area, the FAA has permanently restricted helicopter flights. Excluded from the helicopter restriction are presidential flights, law enforcement flights, and lifesaving missions. The FAA is looking at other airports where different aircraft types share the same air space, including Boston, New York, Baltimore-Washington, Detroit, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and Los Angeles. NTSB urges ban on some helicopter flights at Washington airport where 67 people died in midair crash The NTSB recommended a ban on some helicopter flights in the DCA area. Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said in just over three years, there were 85 close calls when a few feet (meters) in the wrong direction could have resulted in the same kind of accident. Tennessee congressman proposes allowing property owners to shotgun low-flying drones Tennessee Congressman Tim Burchett has sponsored HR1907, the Defense Against Drones Act [PDF] that would allow a property owner to use a shotgun to shoot down drones flying 200 feet or lower over their property. The bill also requires the property owner to report the aircraft and its registration number to the FAA within 60 days of the drone shooting. Related: S.F.
The aerospace supply chain with the co-founder and CEO of a manufacturing startup, the Airbus A350 production outlook, GE Aerospace Catalyst turboprop certification, a Senate bill to boost the ATC workforce, a call for retired controllers to return to the job, and KC-46 tanker cracks. Guest Vishal R. Sanghavi has been a leader in the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry for nearly two decades. He co-founded Jeh Aerospace in 2022 with his long-time colleague Venkatesh Mudragalla. This US-based company manufactures aerospace and defense components. Vishal describes the reasons for the current aerospace supply chain problems and the demand/supply gap. He notes structural issues such as the difficulty obtaining and retaining workers, inflation, and lack of supply chain transparency. Easing these problems can partly be addressed by viewing supply relationships strategically rather than transactionally. Vishal tells us why OEMs don't vertically integrate more than they do, and how quality is assured throughout the supply chain. Vishal is on a mission to build Jeh Aerospace into a technology-driven manufacturing company that will deliver quality parts 10x faster, better, and cheaper. Jeh looks to transform the field with talent and technology creating a digitally native organization that provides data for advanced analytics. Vishal explains factors that influence geographic locations for manufacturing facilities, such as access to talent, cost efficiencies, where the large markets are. Vishal's entrepreneurial journey began at the Indian business conglomerate Tata Group, where he built and led large multimillion-dollar businesses and became one of the youngest Chief Experience Officers for the group. He spearheaded numerous aerospace businesses during his tenure, including the Tata Boeing Joint Venture (JV), Tata Sikorsky JV, and Tata Lockheed JV, which manufactures large and complex aerospace systems. Before that, Vishal honed his skills at TCS, where he consulted Fortune 100 companies on business processes and technology. Vishal is an electronics and telecommunication engineer educated at RAIT, Mumbai University, and is currently pursuing the Smart Manufacturing Program at MIT. Vishal was selected for the TAS program, Tata Group's premium leadership cadre, and nominated by Boeing for its Organizational Leadership Program at the Boeing Leadership Center (BLC) in St. Louis. He is a certified Gold Assessor of the Tata Business Excellence Model, based on the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award. Aviation News Supply Chain Challenges Limit A350 Production to Six Aircraft Per Month, A350F Deliveries Delayed to 2027 Airbus had originally intended to produce about nine A350s per month in 2025. Now it looks like six per month is the most that can be expected. Also, the A350F launch is pushed out to 2027. Supply chain disruptions, including those from component supplier Spirit Aerosystems, are cited as the problem. Airbus reports that the A350 family has 1,363 firm orders from 60 customers, with 644 aircraft delivered as of January 2025. Firm orders for the A350F stood at 63. GE Aerospace Catalyst Turboprop Engine Gains FAA Certification The new GE Aerospace Catalyst turboprop engine was announced in 2015 and is planned to power the Beechcraft Denali. The Catalyst Data Sheet [PDF] says the engine family is aimed at the 1200-1400 SHP range; includes integrated digital engine and propeller control; and automatically optimizes fuel flow, prop pitch and speed, bleed valves, and variable stators. As much as 18 percent lower fuel burn and 10 percent higher cruise power compared to competitors in the same size class is claimed. 60-second promotional video: The Catalyst engine for Beechcraft Denali https://youtu.be/1NUVXdeihCE?si=YaAXIIUIFAZUbH86 Transportation Secretary supercharges hiring, Senate bill to bolster workforce Senators proposed the The Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Ac...
Southwest Airlines and the pressure from Elliott Investment Management, the Asiana Airbus A350 that triggered a Low Altitude Alert at SFO, the Turkish KAAN fighter jet export opportunities, and the possibility that India may become an F-35 customer. Also, boomless cruise, the Philadelphia Learjet crash, and aircraft mechanic classifications. Aviation News Image courtesy Southwest Airlines Southwest caves further to Elliott as chief transformation officer steps down Southwest Airlines has amended its agreement with Elliott Investment Management that allows Elliott to increase their ownership of the airline to 19.9%. Previously the cap was 14.9%. Elliott wants to make strategic and operational changes, as well as changes at the airline's executive level and board of directors. Chief financial officer Tammy Romo is retiring April 1, 2025 and Southwest named former Breeze Airways president Tom Doxey as Romo's replacement. Southwest announced that chief transformation officer Ryan Green would be leaving the company. Other executive positions are said to be at risk. 2 Southwest Airlines Board Members Stepping Down Due To Elliott Investment Management The airline is shrinking its board from 15 members to 13 as part of an agreement with activist investor Elliott Investment Management. Two more Southwest board members will step down in April. Southwest Airlines Announces Reduction in Corporate Overhead Workforce Recently, Southwest announced a 15% layoff (1,750 positions), the company's first-ever layoff, “focused almost entirely on corporate overhead and leadership positions.” Southwest said the move is expected to save the company $300 million annually. Asiana Airbus A350 Triggers Low Altitude Alert at San Francisco Airport After Dropping to 275 Feet With 3 Miles Still To Go The alert was triggered in the control tower after the Asiana plane dropped as low as 275 feet while flying at 174 knots. The pilots were notified and then performed a go-around. UAE Plans to Develop New Fighter Jet Based on Turkey's KAAN The Turkish Aerospace Industries KAAN fighter is being developed with sub-contractor BAE Systems. The stealthy, twin-engine jet is planned to replace the Turkish F-16s and be exported to others. UAE has expressed interest and Saudi Arabia has a deal for 100 fighters. Video: KAAN İLK UÇUŞUNU GERÇEKLEŞTİRDİ [KAAN trailer] https://youtu.be/ZhgCXY1E5vs?si=UV-SzFyKCLD_LMCz India Could Be America's Next F-35 Customer President Donald Trump offered to sell Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Russia has offered to build the Sukhoi Su-57 fighter in India with locally sourced components. The Russians have only produced a small number of the aircraft and have not yet demonstrated the ability to fully support them. Over 1,000 F-35s have been produced and sales have been made to 20 different countries. Mentioned Video: The Incredible Sounds of the Falcon Heavy Launch (BINAURAL AUDIO IMMERSION) - Smarter Every Day 189. (Binaural recording. Must use good quality over-the-ear headphones for proper effect.) https://youtu.be/ImoQqNyRL8Y?si=7UnvVuWvJguGiv1f Sonic Boom: Six Decades of Research - NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS) recommended by listener Andy. Aircraft maintenance licence (Part-66) in Finland. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Max Trescott, and David Vanderhoof.
We discuss recent aviation accidents, explore potential litigation, and consider changes to the U.S. Air Traffic Control system. Guest Erin Applebaum returns as our guest for this episode. Erin is a Partner in the aviation practice of Kreindler & Kreindler LLP, a New York law firm. She specializes in litigation for passengers who were injured or killed in general aviation accidents and commercial airline disasters. Erin previously joined us in Episode 831 Advocating for 737 MAX Crash Victims and Episode 777 Aviation Accident Litigation. We discuss the Delta Air Lines CRJ-900 regional jet crash at Toronto's Pearson Airport. Because this occurred the same day the episode was recorded, few verified facts were available. Erin also helps us consider the Washington National midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Blackhawk helicopter. We look at the U.S. air traffic control system, including staffing needs, outdated systems, and alternatives such as privatization such as that used by other countries. Along the way, Erin explains litigation under the Montreal Convention and how aviation attorneys obtain clients. We look at the quality of communications between controllers and pilots, the types of altimeter types and implications for safety, traffic screens, the current status of the B737 MAX litigation, and the Federal Tort Claims Act. We also have thoughts on how to respond when people outside the industry ask, “Is it safe to fly?” Erin has devoted her career to advocating for justice and fighting for the advancement of aviation safety. She serves on the Plaintiffs' Executive Committee for the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Boeing 737 MAX litigation. Erin is part of the legal team representing the 737 MAX crash victims in the federal criminal case against Boeing. Aviation News We used the following sources for our conversation. Note that some are behind a paywall and others require free registration. Black Hawk crew might not have heard crucial tower instruction, NTSB says Pilots got 100 collision warning at DCA From 1920s Thinking to Digital Autonomy: After 100 Years, It's Time To Rethink How Air Traffic Control Works US senators call for increased funding, staffing for air traffic control How Elon Musk Will Bring ATC Under Control, By Robert Poole, Reason Foundation. Victims' Families of Boeing Crash Ask New US Attorney General for Meeting on Criminal Plea Agreement Elon Musk Vows To Cut FAA's "Senseless" Supersonic Boom Noise Regulation Mentioned Hosts this Episode Max Flight, Rob Mark, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Max Trescott.
UAP safety risks with Todd Curtis, a troubling wave of US Army aviation accidents, the impact of aviation accidents on public perception of safety, the Flexjet order for Embraer jets, and Boeing's worries about the future of the Space Launch System. Guest Todd Curtis Todd Curtis is a risk consultant who systematically uses data to understand and reduce aviation incidents. He is also a co-host of the Flight Safety Detectives podcast, which evaluates accidents, incidents, and risks from all areas of aviation. Todd explains that UAP safety risks are not separate and distinct from other safety issues, and lessons learned from UAP encounters may carry over to one or more other aviation risks. The recent interview with the Flight Safety Detectives about the UAP's close encounter with a sailplane (Hair-Raising UAP Encounter Shared by Pilot – Episode 252) illustrates a key crossover between UAP and other aviation risks. Todd argues that the key challenge is to develop a fundamental understanding of UAP and a set of shared goals and definitions that will serve to support processes that will identify, reduce, or eliminate UAP-related aviation risks. Todd has spent most of his aviation career focusing on aviation safety. After earning electrical engineering degrees at Princeton University and the University of Texas, he served as a flight test engineer in the U.S. Air Force. After earning master's degrees from MIT, one in policy and another in management, he was a safety engineer at Boeing, where he supported accident investigations and conducted safety analyses during the development of the 777. His 2000 book, "Understanding Aviation Safety Data," described his approach to analyzing aviation risk and evaluating accident and incident trends. See: AIAA UAP Integration and Outreach Committee 767 Encounters UAP – Episode 256 Flight Safety Detectives on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube. Aviation News For The Army, the D.C. Crash Is the Latest In A Wave Of Troubling Accidents [Paywall] The Army had 15 Class A flight accidents in fiscal 2024 that claimed 11 lives. In 2023 there were 9 Class A flight accidents that killed 14. Army crash investigators say 82% of the accidents over the past five years were primarily caused by human error. The Army has acknowledged that inexperienced aircrews are a problem. Recent aviation disasters cause fears about the safety of flying Public concern about air safety is growing with news of the fatal crashes in Washington, DC, Philadelphia, and Alaska, as well as other incidents such as the wing of a Japan Airlines 787 striking the tail of a stationary Delta Airlines 737, and a United A319 with an engine fire during takeoff. Experts point out the overall safety of the system, but is it enough to influence perception? Flexjet signs $7bn order for 182 aircraft with Embraer Global fractional ownership provider Flexjet announced the order for 182 Praetor 600, Praetor 500, and Phenom 300E models to be delivered over the next five years. The deal includes 30 options and an enhanced services and support agreement. Boeing has informed its employees that NASA may cancel SLS contracts Boeing's vice president and program manager for the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket announced to employees at an all-hands meeting that Boeing's contracts for the rocket could end in March. Boeing was planning for layoffs of about 400 in case the cost-plus contracts were not renewed. Boeing is the primary contractor for the Space Launch System rocket. The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (or WARN) Act requires US employers with 100 or more full-time employees to provide a 60-day notice in advance of mass layoffs or plant closings. Memorable Flybys Listener Tom describes a low-level flyover by a pair of F-84 jets. Mentioned Asking Why After an Accident? Consider the Source Boom or No Boom could determine overland operations
Boom Supersonic's first supersonic flight with the XB-1, the Jeju Air crash in Korea, final NTSB report on United Airlines hard landing, and a hydrogen-steam hybrid cycle engine for single aisle aircraft. Also, small DJI drones, the upcoming FlightSimExpo, personal flying devices, SAF for supersonic aircraft, a mid-air collision final report, and a waterbomber damaged by a drone. Aviation News Boom Supersonic XB-1 first supersonic test flight The first supersonic flight of the XB-1 demonstrator occurred January 28, 2025. The Boom XB-1 is the first independently developed supersonic jet, and the first civil supersonic jet built in America. The XB-1 first flew in March of 2024 and has been through a rigorous program of 11 test flights at steadily increasing speeds. Video: XB-1 First Supersonic Flight https://www.youtube.com/live/-qisIViAHwI?si=MZlE45Otsf0X81Z4 The Starlink Connection: XB-1 Flight Tests Harness Satellite Internet Streaming The XB-1 team used a Starlink Mini to live stream XB-1 flight tests from the Northrop T-38 chase plane. Boom worked with SpaceX to pair the Mini with an aviation data plan. The Mini fits into the T-38's rear cockpit, allows for an occupant of that seat, and does not impede the safe operation of the aircraft or the ejection seat. Korean Airport Exec Dead Of Suicide After Jeju Air Crash The executive was president of the Korea Airports Corporation from 2018 to 2022 and in charge of the 2020 renovation of Muan International Airport in South Korea. He was found dead at his home of an apparent suicide. Last December, a Jeju Air Boeing 737 ran off the runway and into a concrete support surrounding the localizer antenna, killing 179 of the 181 on board. South Korea has mandated the removal of concrete barriers at seven airports. NTSB Faults United Airlines Pilot For Hard Boeing 767-300ER Landing That Cracked Fuselage United Airlines flight 702, a Boeing 767-300ER (registered N641UA) flying from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Texas, experienced a hard landing. The First Officer had control of the plane as the mains touched down but the nosewheel hit hard and bounced a total of three times. The fuselage skin was buckled and fractured, and the underlying stringers and frames were damaged. The aircraft was repaired and eventually returned to operational service. In its report [PDF], the NTSB found that the FO made nose-down inputs, contributing to the nosewheel abnormally impacting the runway, and were contrary to United Airlines' procedures and training. In addition, the NTSB believes that deployment of the speed brakes and thrust reversers while the nosewheel was still in the air likely contributed to the second runway contact of the nosewheel and the subsequent damage to the airplane. Simple Flying Video: NTSB: United Airlines Pilot At Fault For Boeing 767 Hard Landing That Cracked Fuselage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BF3_m7hBmrk Pratt & Whitney Unveils Details Of Hydrogen-Steam Hybrid Engine Cycle Pratt & Whitney has unveiled details of their Hydrogen Steam Injected Intercooled Turbine Engine (HySIITE) concept. Although much more work remains to be done, the concept could lead to commercial geared turbofans with zero carbon emissions and vastly reduced nitrogen oxides (NOx). Neil Terwilliger, technical fellow for advanced concepts at Pratt, said “HySIITE is about us imagining if there were going to be hydrogen and that it was a viable decarbonization pathway, what kind of engine would take the best advantage of it? Should it look like engines do today, or should we do something different?” The steam injection increases mass flow, improves efficiency, and—Pratt says—dramatically lowers NOx emissions. Pratt & Whitney Hydrogen Steam and Inter-Cooled Turbine Engine (HySITE) HySIITE was studied under a two-year $3.8 million U.S.
The SpaceX Starship explosion causes airline flight diversions, DJI changes its geofencing feature for drone flights, synthetic aviation fuel eyed for military aircraft, Boeing resumes 777X certification flight tests. Aviation News SpaceX Starship Explosion Causes Flight Diversions The January 16 launch of the SpaceX Starship was successful, and the launch tower caught the returning booster with its “chopsticks,” but the spacecraft was lost about 8 minutes into the flight. According to data from FlightRadar24, multiple aircraft, including those flying routes for American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, were placed in holding patterns or landed prior to reaching their final destination. SpaceX Starship booster returning to the launch pad. (Screen grab courtesy SpaceX.) The impact of space launches on airline operations and the FAA notification process: FAA: Airspace Integration FAA Safely Keeps More Airspace Open During Most Florida Space Launches Impacts of Space Launch Operations on Florida East Coast Airspace Users Impact of Commercial Space Launch Activities on Aviation [PDF] Video: Safe Integration of Space Launches https://youtu.be/bTfEykjnbek?si=RiIaUCqefR6SwCbi DJI will no longer stop drones from flying over airports, wildfires, and the White House and DJI Updates GEO System in U.S. Consumer & Enterprise Drones DJI drone control software includes a geofencing feature called Geospatial Environment Online (GEO). It's designed to preventing drones from flying in restricted or sensitive areas. DJI's geofencing will now use FAA data instead of DJI datasets. What was previously defined as a Restricted Zone (also known as No-Fly Zone) will be called Enhanced Warning Zones with a warning that the operator can dismiss. DJI says “this shift puts more responsibility on drone operators to comply with airspace regulations and avoid restricted areas.” The company also notes that Remote ID solutions make detection and enforcement “much easier.” Lockheed Martin Approves Use of Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuels for F-35 Fleet See: Sustainable aviation fuel approved for Boeing-built military aircraft The Air Force partners with Twelve, proves it's possible to make jet fuel out of thin air Twelve Announces $645 Million in Funding Led by TPG to Transform CO2 into Jet Fuel and Electrochemicals at Scale Twelve to produce 50,000 gallons of SAF annually at pilot plant, CEO says From Twelve: “E-Jet® SAF jet fuel made from air with up to 90% lower emissions than conventional fuel. It's a Power-to-Liquid e-fuel made from CO2, water, and renewable energy.” $645M in funding was announced in September 2024 to support the development of future AirPlants, which will supply Twelve's E-Jet fuel to customers like Alaska Airlines and International Aviation Group (IAG). Boeing Set To Resume 777X Certification Flight Tests During flight testing, technicians discovered cracks and failures in the engine thrust links of the 777X test aircraft. This issue was first detected in mid-August 2024 on the aircraft registered as N779XY, after a five-hour test flight in Hawaii. The problem led to the grounding of the entire 777X test fleet, halting the certification campaign. The thrust link is a critical component that connects the engine to the aircraft's wing, and its failure posed a significant safety risk. Boeing engineers replaced the faulty thrust links and conducted thorough inspections of the other test aircraft. The issue was resolved, and certification flights resumed in January 2025. Mentioned On Jetwhine: Flying Aero: One Passenger's Experience Video: CES 2025 Keynote with CEO of Delta, Ed Bastian https://youtu.be/CV8V6oqP4pw?si=wCmRL4RucL8eqD2D Remos Crop Duster's Wings Collapse During Flight Jeppesen FliteDeck Advisor and FliteDeck Pro From the Flight Safety Detectives podcast, Video: Hair-Raising UAP Encounter Shared by Pilot -...
We speak with a Partner at an aviation practice who advocates for 737 MAX crash victims. In the news, we look at the Azerbaijan and Jeju crashes, Boeing's safety and quality-control plan update, Delta's plan for an AI-rich future, and V-22 Osprey catastrophic failure risks. Also, favorite flybys from listeners. Guest Erin Applebaum is a partner in the aviation practice at Kreindler & Kreindler LLP, specializing in high-stakes litigation for passengers injured or killed in general aviation accidents and commercial airline disasters. Erin has devoted her career to advocating for justice and fighting for the advancement of aviation safety. She serves on the Plaintiffs' Executive Committee for the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Boeing 737 MAX litigation. Erin is part of the legal team representing the 737 MAX crash victims in the federal criminal case against Boeing. Erin updates us on the status of the 737 MAX crash civil litigation. The criminal case is ongoing but likely nearing an end. Boeing was found in violation of the deferred prosecution agreement but the judge rejected the negotiated plea deal. The families of the victims are unhappy because the criminal case focuses on the single charge of defrauding the FAA, and not on those who lost their lives. Erin maintains a robust practice of litigating tort claims governed by the Montreal Convention, the global treaty governing international commercial flights. She teaches a popular aviation CLE course for other attorneys on how to litigate personal injury claims for international airline passengers. Erin has published a comprehensive update on the law governing international aviation claims in the highly respected legal journal of McGill University, “Annals of Air and Space Law.” Erin serves as Co-Chair of the New York City Bar Association's Aeronautics Committee, Vice Chair of the American Bar Association's Aviation and Space Law Committee, and is an active member of the American Association for Justice and the International Aviation Women's Association. Aviation News Russian Air Defence System Caused Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines ERJ-190 flying from Baku Azerbaijan to Grozny in Russia's Chechnya crashed in Aktau Kazakhstan leaving 38 people dead. The plane diverted from Grozny due to dense fog and ultimately made an emergency landing an hour later in Grozny. On final approach, the Embraer lost altitude and impacted the ground off the runway. Twenty-nine people, including the cabin crew, survived. Thirty-eight, including the flight crew, did not IATA Statement on Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 says, in part: "Civil aircraft must never be the intended or accidental target of military operations. The strong potential that Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 could have been the victim of military operations, as indicated by several governments including Russia and Azerbaijan, places the highest priority on conducting a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation. The world eagerly awaits the required publication of the interim report within 30 days, in line with international obligations agreed in the Chicago Convention. And should the conclusion be that this tragedy was the responsibility of combatants, the perpetrators must be held accountable and brought to justice." See also: Accident: Azerbaijan E190 near Aktau on Dec 25th 2024, lost height and impacted ground after being shot at EU issues new alert for planes flying in Russian airspace Boeing Shares Details of Safety Plan One Year After Door Plug Incident Boeing provided an update of its plan to address systemic safety and quality-control issues, which included: Reducing 737 fuselage assembly defects at Spirit AeroSystems through increased inspection and a customer quality approval process; Addressing more than 70% of the action items from employee feedback Managing traveled work at final assembly with "mo...
A flight review of the luxury airline Aero, and a product review of the Bose A30 Aviation Headset. Aero Brian Coleman took a media flight on the luxury airline Aero from Van Nuys, California, to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Brian discussed the airline with Liz Mazzei, Aero's Head of Marketing, and Mikael Pelet, Aero's COO. He then shared his experiences with our Main(e) Man Micah. Aero Embraer Legacy 600 Aero is a luxury airline based at Van Nuys airport in Southern California. The airline operates a fleet of 16-seat Embraer ERJ135 jets and Legacy 600 jets that accommodate 10 passengers. The company offers a seamless booking process and a concierge service. Cabins are spacious and comfortable with gourmet food and drink offerings. Aero provides an alternative for discerning travelers looking for a premium flying experience. Service started in 2021 with flights from Van Nuys, CA to select destinations, including Aspen, Sun Valley, Palm Springs, Las Vegas, Napa Valley, and Cabo San Lucas. Bose A30 Aviation Headset At EAA Airventure Oshkosh 2024, Bose Corporation provided an A30 Aviation Headset to Hillel Glazer, our Innovation and Entrepreneurship Correspondent. Hillel is a pilot who owns and uses an A20 headset, so he was eager to try the new model as he flew home from Oshkosh. The Bose A30 is a high-performance, comfortable around-ear aviation headset for pilots. It combines comfort, audio clarity, and active noise cancellation. In his report, Hillel describes the headset and its new features. He comments on the lighter clamping force, the easy mic side change, and the now-standard Bluetooth. Hillel has many positive things to say about the A30, and he also offers a few opportunities for improvement. The Bose A30 kit. Bose A30 battery compartment and switches. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, Brian Coleman, and Hillel Glazer.
A longtime educator discusses getting an aviation education. In the news, companies partner to address corporate aviation safety and security, an A321 engine shutdown after a birdstrike, a proposal to remove ATC from the FAA, and when pigs fly. Also, notable flybys, AI flight controls, taking care of business on long flights, and an aircraft incident investigation on another planet. Guest Dr. Stanley Harriman is the Department Head of Aviation Science at Orange Coast College (OCC) in Costa Mesa, California. OCC focuses on getting students certificates that allow them to move into the workforce. The College partners with flight schools for those who want to become pilots and with Southern Illinois University to earn a bachelor's degree in Aviation Management. In our conversation with Stanley, we looked at aviation education, what students should look for in a school, and a tip for getting into the industry. Degrees and Certificates offered by OCC: Aircraft Dispatcher, Certificate of Achievement Airline Transport Pilot, Certificate of Specialization Aviation Science, Associate in Science Degree Aviation Science, Certificate of Achievement Commercial Pilot, Certificate of Specialization Flight Operations, Certificate of Achievement Instrument Pilot, Certificate of Specialization Private Pilot, Certificate of Specialization Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Certificate of Achievement Stanley earned a Master's in Aviation Safety and a Doctorate in Aviation Education from Purdue University. During his time at Purdue, his research focused on cognitive learning styles, scenario-based training, and aviation human factors. Following his graduate studies at Purdue, Stanley joined the Aviation Department at Lewis University near Chicago, Illinois. He continued his aviation safety research by investigating nano-particle coatings and their application on aircraft windshields to minimize environmental effects on pilots. He also led a team to design infrared warning systems to prevent airport runway incursions. Along with his research, Stanley's teaching experience involved many facets of aviation. He taught courses in the Professional Pilot program, Aviation Maintenance program, and the Master's program as the Director of Graduate Research. Stanley sits on national aviation committees providing aviation curriculum ideas and reform, aviation scholarships, and aviation safety research. He has been a safety research consultant and has traveled the country implementing these organizational and cultural changes within various aviation institutions, airlines, and maintenance facilities. Aviation News Aviation Safety Solutions and Corporate Aviation Security International Join Forces to Fill Needed Gap in Aviation Safety and Security Aviation Safety Solutions is a Safety Management Systems (SMS) consultant, and Corporate Aviation Security International (CASI) provides specialized security services for business aviation. The two companies have created a strategic partnership to address security shortfalls in the corporate aviation industry by integrating advanced safety and security services. Bird strike disables a jetliner engine and forces an emergency landing at JFK airport American Airlines flight AA-1722 departing from New York La Guardia to Charlotte, NC, an Airbus A321-200 (N133AN), experienced a bird strike that disabled one of the engines. The Aviation Herald reports the plane “was in the initial climb out of La Guardia's runway 31 when the right-hand engine (V2533) ingested a bird and suffered stalls. The crew stopped the climb at 5000 feet, shut the engine down, and diverted to New York JFK Airport for a safe landing on runway 31L about 20 minutes after departure.” See Wildlife Strikes to Civil Aircraft in the United States 1990 - 2023 from DOT/FAA and U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services. The report presents an analysis of data from the National Wildlife ...
The U.S. Senate hearing on airline fees, a Boeing employee surveillance program, the judge rejects the 737 MAX plea deal, Airbus floats a cockpit idea for Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO), and a study will look at how high-G flying might affect Naval fighter pilots. Also, ticket sales for EAA Air Venture Oshkosh and FlightSimExpo, Brian's 2024 travels, fly-by-wire airplanes and smuggling Cessnas into Russia. Airline executives testify at a Senate Subcommittee. (Screen capture courtesy PBS NewsHour.) Aviation News US senators grill airline officials about fees for seats and checked bags The U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations held a hearing on December 4, 2024 about airline fees charged for baggage, seat selection, and other services. Executives representing American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines testified. Testimony included: Airline fees - Committee Chairman Sen. Richard Blumenthal consistently referred to these as “junk fees.” In opening remarks, airlines characterized fees as allowing the consumer to create and pay for the experience they want - unbundling. “Bag bounty” programs - Sen. Hawley was quite antagonistic. Frontier removed their program September 30 that paid gate attendants for checking carry-on bags. Pricing - The Senators wanted to know why personal information is collected before the ticket price is given and the use of dynamic pricing based on the personal data. They also (unsuccessfully) probed the airline executives for the cost of the services covered by fees, assuming that price is related to cost. Family seating - Sen Hassan and others argued for fee-free family seating and sometimes confused a fee and the ability to accommodate. See the DOT Airline Family Seating Dashboard. DOT Airline Family Seating Dashboard Loyalty programs - Sen Marshall characterized credit card programs as being about “voodoo miles” and the revenue to the airlines as a “kickback.” Competition - Spirit Airlines Matthew Kline was very critical of legacy airlines saying Spirit is at a competitive disadvantage over slots. Also that the majors paid pilots to retire during Covid, then poached Spirit pilots when demand returned. Overall, there was bipartisan demand that the airlines change junk fee practices, and two people should not be charged different prices for the same service on the same flight. It was evident that AI was on the minds of all, with airlines starting to think about applications and Senators afraid of what the technology could do. Speaking for their respective airlines were Steve Johnson, vice chair and chief strategy officer, American Airlines; Peter Carter, chief external affairs officer, Delta Air Lines; Andrew Nocella, EVP and chief commercial officer, United Airlines; Robert Schroeter, SVP, chief commercial officer, Frontier Airlines; and Matthew Klein, EVP and chief commercial officer, Spirit Airlines See also Airline executives blasted at Senate hearing over carrier fees Video: Airline executives testify on junk fees before Senate committee https://www.youtube.com/live/jYNbu7E8gj8?si=VygQRsTGV7J-BvLD Boeing cancels its workplace surveillance program, will remove sensors Boeing had started to install sensors “in ceiling tiles above workstations, conference rooms, and common areas.” The sensors included motion detectors, cameras, and light, heat, and noise detectors. Boeing the data on building use for “managing energy and space usage.” According to Boeing, the cameras could take only blurry photos and AI would analyze the occupancy of the space. Only aggregated data would be presented to management. After details of the program appeared in the Seattle Times, Boeing employees reacted as expected. Within a day, a Boeing email stated the program “has been canceled, and we are removing the sensors that have been installed.
An AI governance framework for aerospace and defense, airlines pad flight times and improve on-time performance, record numbers of travelers over the Thanksgiving holiday, stowaways on airline flights, and executive-level cost-cutting at Boeing. Guest Tim White is the Vice President of Engineering and Technology at the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), where he advocates for the technical workforce to policymakers. In this role, he leads AIA staff and members in identifying, developing, and executing consensus programs and activities aimed at enhancing cost savings, performance, and efficiency within the aerospace and defense industry. AIA Unveils AI Flight Plan Documenting Best Practices for AI Governance in Aerospace The AIA released the AI Flight Plan, Best Practices for AI Governance in Aerospace, a first-of-its-kind document outlining comprehensive best practices for the governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) use for aerospace and defense. The framework outlines the elements of an AI governance program that targets three primary usages of AI in aerospace: Business operations enhancement Generative systems design and development Integration into customer-delivered products, software, and services. Tim has over 20 years of experience in operational and consulting roles within the aerospace and defense industry, having worked for companies such as Raytheon, Honeywell, and Bechtel. Throughout his career, he has contributed to commercial and defense products and held leadership positions in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality. Most recently, he has collaborated with advanced technology companies like Interos and Mosaic Data Sciences, focusing on delivering cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and digital transformation. Tim holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA from Brigham Young University, and a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from George Washington University. He is also certified in Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis, and Change Leadership. Related articles: UK CAA announces new AI strategy for aviation sector IAG: How AI is Impacting the Aviation Industry GE Aerospace Develops AI Maintenance Records Tool Aviation News Airlines Are Padding Flight Times. It's Not Your Imagination According to a NYT Upshot analysis of Bureau of Transportation Statistics data, airlines strategically add extra time to their flight schedules, effectively "padding" their flight durations. This leads to a higher percentage of flights arriving on time or early even if the actual flight time hasn't significantly changed. This improves airline on-time performance metrics. Jammed Thanksgiving Flights Push U.S. Air Travel to Record The Transportation Security Administration said it screened about 3.09 million people on Sunday, the peak of the busy Thanksgiving travel period. The previous record set in July was 3.01 million travelers. The TSA reports that their 10 busiest days were recorded in 2024. Stowaway caught after getting aboard Delta flight from New York City to Paris The woman, a U.S. resident, boarded a Delta flight from JFK to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and was discovered midair. She had been hiding out in the lavs and the flight attendants noticed the strange behavior. The TSA said the woman passed through a body scanner at JFK, evaded the document and ID check portion, had her bags scanned, proceeded to the gate, and snuck onto the flight. The Delta Paris Stowaway Incident Keeps Getting Stranger - The stowaway was a 57-year-old woman living in the Philadelphia area. She's a Russian national who holds a US Green Card. She requested asylum in Paris, which was rejected. The woman was placed on a return flight but pulled off after a disruptive outburst. Is Delta the Official Airline of Stowaways? - This was not the only stowaway incident involving Delta Air Lines...
We talk to a youngster who sells the Polish Ekolot Special Light-Sport Aircraft. In the news, the Spirit Airlines CEO gets a retention bonus, an FAA review board will look at smoke in the cockpit after bird strikes, JetBlue plans to reduce the number of pilots, and a United Airlines captain delights passengers with pizza. In listener mail, we look at jet emissions and what the industry is doing. Guest Ethan Lin is a 13-year-old who sells the Polish Ekolot Special Light-Sport Aircraft. His family purchased an Ekolot Topaz (N717KM) S-LSA in December 2022 after his father decided to switch careers and become an Air Transport Pilot. Ethan and his father started flying the Ekolot together, and because Ethan loved the plane so much, he contacted the distributor in December 2023 and asked about becoming a dealer. He's been selling Ekolots ever since. Because he is only 13 years old, his father has a role in the dealership, but Ethan handles customer service, selling the airplane, and coordinating meeting times. His father does the test flights with people who are interested in buying Ekolots, and he handles the financial side, including filing taxes. Ekolot Special Light-Sport Aircraft We discuss the difference between LSAs and S-LSAs and the proposed Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule, which would redefine the light sport aircraft category. Ethan explains why his family bought the plane and what he likes about it. He markets the plane with the Ekolot Texas Instagram. Also, Ethan and his father attend aviation events, such as Airplanes and Coffee, a monthly fly-in in the Dallas, Texas area at Addison Airport (KADS). Ethan tells us how he learned the Ekolot's specs, and about his plans to fly for an airline and sell planes “on the side.” He also offers his advice to other youngsters who have a passion. Video: Ekolot Topaz Walkaround https://youtu.be/ryNPVaMcBuY?si=VVIGcAXhFC63wreQ Aviation News Spirit Airlines CEO Gets $3.8 Million Bonus 1 Week Before Company Files Bankruptcy An SEC filing says Spirit Airlines, Inc. paid CEO Ted Christie a $3.8 million retention bonus the week before the airline filed for bankruptcy. The bonus is effective if Christie stays with Spirit for another year. Under the restructuring plan, Spirit bondholders would take a $350 million ownership position, erase $795 million of debt, and provide $300 million of debt-in-possession financing. The New York Stock Exchange delisted Spirit stock which now trades in the over-the-counter marketplace. FAA plans to review 737 MAX engine issue after bird strike incidents Two bird strike events in 2023 with Southwest Airlines aircraft (one in March and one in December) have caused the FAA to assemble a review board that will evaluate the safety of the CFM LEAP-1B engines. After the bird strikes, smoke entered the cockpit although the pilots landed the planes safely. The review board will assess safety data and suggest fixes for manufacturers or airlines. These might lead to mandates. A Seattle Times article suggests that any mandated modifications could delay further the certification of the MAX 7 and MAX 10 models. JetBlue Looks to Trim Pilot Workforce Captain downgrades and base displacements are coming to JetBlue late next year. The airline says it will cut 343 captain positions out of the airline's roughly 4,500 pilots. JetBlue lost $60 million in the third quarter and plans to ground more Airbus A220 and A321neo aircraft in 2024 as a result of ongoing Pratt & Whitney engine troubles. The airline is talking with the Air Line Pilots Association to offer early retirements. United Pilot Orders 30 Pizzas to Feed Passengers After Emergency Landing for Medical Care Pilot Scott Wardle was flying a United Airlines plane to Phoenix via Houston, but partway into the flight, a patient fell unconscious. By coincidence, three medical professionals were on board but Wardle felt it best to mak...
We visit the Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum in Maine and speak with the Vice President and Operations Manager, and the Executive Director. In the news, more furloughs and cost-cutting measures at Spirit Airlines, the FAA's final rule is out on powered-lift vehicles such as eVTOLS, a fuel top-off assumption leads to the loss of a Beechcraft B-60, the “doomsday plane” gets an official designation, and Boeing machinists vote again on a contract proposal. Guests At the Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum we spoke with Vice President and Operations Manager Jeff Smat and Executive Director John B. Briley. The Museum was founded in 2009 as a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation with a mission to preserve the rich heritage of NAS Brunswick (NASB) by honoring the tens of thousands of men and women who served here, educate the public about the history of maritime patrol aviation and NASB, and maintain a memorial for those NASB-based airmen who gave their lives in service to their country. The museum is located at 179 Fitch Avenue, Brunswick, ME 04011. Currently, the Museum and Memorial Gardens are open Wednesdays (10:00 am-4:00 pm) and Sundays (12:00 pm-4:00 pm). For more on SERE, see Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape. Jeff Smat on the flight simulator. Aviation News Spirit to Furlough More Than 300 Pilots as Losses Mount Spirit Airlines is experiencing financial difficulty and a second-quarter net loss of $158 million. More red ink is expected for the third quarter. Last month the airline furloughed 186 pilots and plans to do the same for 330 more pilots effective January 31, 2025. (Spirit has 3,500 pilots.) About 120 captains are to be downgraded. Spirit says it will sell 23 of its Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft next year. That's a fleet reduction of about 11 percent. Energy Reserves and Pilot Training For eVTOLs Addressed in FAA's SFAR Rules The FAA issued its final rule for powered-lift vehicles, such as eVTOLS. The Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes - Final Rule adopts permanent amendments and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for ten years to facilitate the certification of powered-lift pilots, clarify operating rules applicable to operations involving a powered-lift, and finalize other amendments which are necessary to integrate powered-lift into the National Airspace System (NAS). The Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes NPRM was issued in June 2023. Standing order to top off fuel tanks backfires on pilot In November 2022, the pilot of a Beechcraft B-60 (N51AL) assumed the FBO topped off the fuel tanks, per his standing fueling order, before hangaring the aircraft. But fuel was not added this time and the pilot landed in a cemetery when both fuel-starved Lycoming engines quit. The pilot and his wife sustained minor injuries. See Project Summary: Aviation Investigation - 3 Docket Items - ERA23LA050 from the NTSB. SNC Receives Second Boeing 747-8 for SAOC Conversion as Aircraft Gets E-4C Designation Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) now has the second of five Boeing 747-8s from Korean Air for conversion to “Doomsday aircraft,” which become airborne command centers during national emergencies. These provide critical command, control, and communication (C3) for the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Chairs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The E-4C will replace the current fleet of E-4B Nightwatch B747-200 aircraft. The contract notice says the award was for $13 Billion. SOC recently cut the ribbon for its Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) at its Aviation Innovation and Technology Center (AITC) in Dayton, Ohio. This 100,000 sq. ft. hangar is located near Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Boeing Machinists head to the polls in decisive vote that could end strike
We hear from participants at this year's Cranky Dorkfest, the U.S. Marine Corps flew the XQ-58A Valkyrie drone with four F-35B fighters, American Airlines flew a B787 from Dallas to Brisbane in a 15 hour and 44-minute flight, a pair of corporate flight attendants are suing their employer, airlines are reacting to flight restrictions over Russia, and the Portland Jetport is replacing the firefighting foam with something more environmentally friendly. Also, a self-propelling ionic thrust wing, an exploding satellite, and thoughts on DB Cooper from an expert parachutist. Cranky Dorkfest 2024 Brian Coleman recorded interviews at Cranky Dorkfest on September 14, 2024: Melissa - Why she keeps coming back. Her husband is former military mechanic. Benny - A first-timer with a unique Boeing airplane-related telephone number. Jvan - He took home last year's brick mosaic. This is his 3rd year participating. Matt Sauchelli - He's shooting with a Nikon mirrorless camera and a long lens. Ben Grenuchi and Heather - From NYCAviation. Ian Petchenik - Director of Communications at Flightradar24 the live, global flight tracking service. Also, the co-host of AvTalk podcast. Brett (Cranky) Snyder. The man behind it all. For Those Who Didn't Attend, Here's What You Missed at Cranky Dorkfest This Weekend Aviation News Marines score aviation firsts with F-35 squadron, drone test and more A Marine Corps XQ-58A Valkyrie drone completed a test flight last week at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Col. Derek Brannon, branch head for the Cunningham Group, deputy commandant for aviation said “The flight focused on the use of tactical data links to enable digital communication between the XQ-58A and an airborne four-ship of F-35Bs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214 and other joint aircraft.” XQ-58A Valkyrie, courtesy AFRL. The XQ-58A Valkyrie is a low-cost, high-performance, reusable unmanned air vehicle developed through an Air Force Research Laboratory partnership with Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. This vehicle is an example of an “attritable” aircraft designed to be used for several missions, but built at a cost that permits it to be a combat loss. American Airlines' longest flight set to be one of the most tracked in the world The American Airlines inaugural flight from Dallas to Brisbane in Australia was heavily followed on Flightradar24. Director of Communications Ian Petchenik said people worldwide “are especially keen to watch the livestream of the landing.” The Boeing 787-9 (N825AA), flight AA7, made the trip in 15 hours and 44 minutes covering a great circle distance of 13,363 KM. See Flight history for American Airlines flight AA7. Overworked Private Flight Attendants For Co-Founder of The Home Depot Claim ‘Inept' Colleagues Kept Their Jobs Because They Were in ‘Romantic Relationship' With Boss Two private flight attendants filed a lawsuit claiming they were overworked while working for the co-founder of The Home Depot, while “inept” co-workers had romantic relationships with their bosses. The two FAs, who quit their jobs, said they sometimes worked 26 days per month and around 90 hours per week. Why It's Harder Getting to China As a result of the war in Ukraine, non-Chinese airlines are no longer entering Russian airspace, so some are discontinuing service to China, or reducing frequency. Demand for flights to China is down, and the cost of avoiding Russian airspace in time and fuel is significant. Virgin Atlantic is dropping its flight connecting Shanghai to London, LOT Polish Airlines is suspending its Warsaw-to-Beijing flights, and SAS plans to stop direct flights between Copenhagen and Shanghai. Chinese airlines are adding capacity. PFAS-free firefighting foam coming to jetport The Portland (Maine) Fire Department plans to replace the AFFF firefighting foam used at the Portland International Jetport with PFAS-free foam.
Airline sustainability with the founder and CEO of the SimpliFlying aviation marketing, branding, and communications consultancy firm. Also, actions by Boeing, the outcome of the American Airlines vs. Skiplagged.com suit, US airlines performing poorly in a global ranking, United Airlines and passenger accessibility, and the U.S. Army looks for a new heavy-lift helicopter. Guest Shashank Nigam is the founder and CEO of SimpliFlying, one of the world's largest aviation marketing, branding, and communications consultancy firms. Shashank's new area of interest is airline sustainability. Shashank explains that airline brand experience and engagement are longer than other products and services, especially with long-haul flights. The branding fundamentals remain the same, but how airlines build trust has changed. In 2008 it was airline presence on Twitter and Facebook. During the pandemic, it was health and safety. Now, airline sustainability has grown in importance. The Sustainability in the Air podcast explores what airline, airport, and technology firm CEO innovators are doing. Shashank gives an example of how creative financing is needed for airline sustainability. We also consider what Boeing must do to restore trust and hear about the very interesting company culture at SimpliFlying. SimpliFlying was founded in 2008 and has worked with over 100 aviation clients in airline branding, customer experience, digital marketing, crisis communications, and sustainability initiatives. SimpliFlying's analysis and insights have been featured in leading international media outlets such as BBC, CNN, CNBC, Reuters, Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, and the New York Times. Shashank is the author of Soar: How the Best Airline Brands Delight Customers and Inspire Employees and Sustainability in the Air: Innovators Transforming Aviation for a Greener Future. Look for him on LinkedIn and join over 4,000 Sustainability in the Air subscribers which separates the signal from the noise in sustainable travel. Aviation News United teams with United Spinal to strengthen accessibility Under a new agreement, the United Spinal Association will help advise and support United Airlines to improve the travel experience for customers with disabilities. The United Spinal Association represents 5.5 million American wheelchair users. United Spinal Association CEO Vincenzo Piscopo said “This partnership demonstrates that accessible travel is a reality, and every step forward brings us closer to a more inclusive travel experience for the disability community. I hope to see continued improvements not only from United Airlines but also throughout the entire travel industry.” The Runway Girl Network reports that the FAA “is working to define the criteria necessary to allow someone to remain in their personal wheelchair during flight using a tie-down similar to what's used in the automotive industry, and as the US Department of Transportation prepares to initiate rulemaking in that regard.” Boeing's CEO Is Shrinking the Jet Maker to Stop Its Crisis From Spiraling With all its troubles and difficult financial position, some Industry insiders and analysts are thinking about a possible Boeing breakup or even bankruptcy. In a note to employees, new CEO Kelly Ortberg said Boeing has spread itself too thin: “We need to be clear-eyed about the work we face. We also need to focus our resources on performing and innovating in the areas that are core to who we are.” Boeing is exploring asset sales and pruning non-core or underperforming units. Boeing machinists to vote on new proposal with 35% raises that could end strike The new proposal includes 35% in wage increases over four years, a $7,000 signing bonus, increased 401(k) contributions, and guaranteed minimum annual bonus payouts. The ratification vote is scheduled for Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Why US airlines are loathed around the world - as they take up bot...
An aviator's journey from a former commercial airline transport pilot, flight instructor, flight examiner, and author. In the news, the SpaceX Starship first-stage booster returns to the launch pad, the NTSB reports on two B737s that were cleared for the same runway at the same time and the incident where an A350 clipped the tail of a CRJ-900. Also, navigating airline dress codes, an airport executive director resigns, and an air museum plans to expand. Guest Lola Reid Allin is the author of Highway to the Sky: An Aviator's Journey. She's a former commercial airline transport pilot, flight instructor, flight examiner, and SCUBA divemaster. Lola's work has appeared in national newspapers and publications, and in juried national and international shows. Her professional aviation affiliations include Women in Aviation International, The 99s: International Organization of Women Pilots, and the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. In her book, and with us, Lola shares personal aspects of her flying experiences and aviation career. She describes things she has learned from her student pilots, her relationships with others, the Cessna 150 she owned, and some particularly interesting flights she has piloted. Lola's story is about how learning to fly gave her wisdom and taught her to live her life. She had to defy the societal norms of the era, such as the notion that “women belong in the kitchen and the bedroom” and "they shouldn't take jobs from men who need to support their families.” An adventurer who lived with the Maya in Mexico and Belize for three years, Lola has explored more than sixty-five countries in depth. When she isn't backpacking Baffin Island, trekking the Andes or the Himalayas, forging deep into the Guatemalan jungle, summiting Kilimanjaro, or guiding a dogsled team in the Yukon, she lives with her husband of twenty-six years in a small community east of Toronto, Canada. She is a professional speaker and co-lead of the First Canadian 99s Education & Outreach Committee and for the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. Find Lola on her website, X, and Facebook. Aviation News Two planes cleared to use same runway in Nashville near-collision, NTSB says In September, Alaska Airlines Flight 369, a Boeing 737 MAX 9, was cleared for takeoff at Nashville International Airport. At the same time, Southwest Airlines Flight 2029 was cleared to cross the same runway. The Alaska Jet aborted the takeoff, which blew out the plane's tires. The NTSB said one ground controller cleared the Southwest jet, just 23 seconds before another controller cleared the Alaska plane. Pilot of larger plane was looking away from smaller plane in Atlanta airport mishap, report says A Bombardier CRJ-900 operated by Endeavor Air, a Delta regional subsidiary, was waiting on a taxiway. A taxiing Delta Air Lines Airbus 350 clipped the tail of the CRJ with it's wingtip, knocking the tail off the smaller plane. The NTSB preliminary report finds the CRJ stopped 56 feet (17 meters) short of the hold line painted on the taxiway. As the A350's right wing extends 106 feet (32.3 meters) from the center of the jet to tip, that 56-foot distance may have been the margin between a hit and a miss. Do Airlines Really Have Dress Codes? What to Know Every airline has a contract of carriage and these typically include a cause addressing attire. These leave a lot of discretion to the airline staff and each airline is different: Southwest Airlines: Wearing clothes that are lewd, obscene, or patently offensive. American Airlines: Dress appropriately; bare feet or offensive clothing aren't allowed. Delta Air Lines: When the passenger's conduct, attire, hygiene or odor creates an unreasonable risk of offense or annoyance to other passengers. United Airlines: Passengers who are barefoot, not properly clothed, or whose clothing is lewd, obscene or offensive. Spirit Airlines: Barefoot or inadequately clothed,
We talk with the Long Beach Airport Public Affairs Officer. In the news, watching racy movies on the inflight entertainment system, a fatal crash at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in New York, the competition for the main operating base for a fleet of Boeing KC-46A Pegasus air refueling tankers, and the AeroSHARK film that reduces fuel burn. Guest Kate Kuykendall has been the Public Affairs Officer at the Long Beach Airport (LGB) for over five years. She previously worked for the National Park Service and the Peace Corps. Our Main(e) Man Micah and Brian Coleman recorded a conversation with Kate covering various topics, including the airport's history, noise complaints, the new plane spotting area on private leasehold, and Corporate tenants at the airport, such as JetZero. Also, community outreach programs and tours, sustainability, and leaded aviation fuel for piston-powered aircraft. The airport's annual Festival of Flight is scheduled for Oct 19, 2024. Aviation News Passengers on Qantas flight to Tokyo endure ‘super uncomfortable' experience as racy movie is played on every single screen The IFE system was broken and the crew had to make a movie selection that would be seen on every screen. They chose Daddio from 2023 starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn. One passenger said, “Qantas played an inappropriate movie to the whole plane, there was no way to turn it off.” Another said, “It featured graphic nudity and a lot of sexting – the kind where you could literally read the texts on screen without needing headphones.” Experienced Aviator and Master Plane Craftsman Dies in Crash During Saturday Aerodrome Airshow Brian Coughlin, 60, died in a crash during an Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome show. He was flying a replica of a World War I Fokker D-VIII that he had helped to rebuild. A preliminary look at the accident indicated an engine fire during the airshow. Coughlin was a volunteer, an experienced pilot, and a mechanic craftsman who rebuilt World War I aircraft as a hobby. Bangor Air Guard Base Competing for New Refueling Tankers A competition is underway for the main operating base for a $1.3 billion fleet of Boeing KC-46A Pegasus air refueling tankers. The Bangor Air National Guard Base is one of the seven remaining finalists. The KC-46A tankers would replace the Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers operated by the Maine Air National Guard's 101st Air Refueling Wing, also known as the MAINEiacs. DAF announces seven candidate locations for KC-46A Pegasus MOB 7 The Department of the Air Force has selected seven bases as candidate locations to host the KC-46A Pegasus Main Operating Base 7. The candidate locations are: Bangor Air National Guard Base, Maine Forbes Field Air National Guard Base (Topeka), Kan. Key Field Air National Guard Base (Meridian), Miss. McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base (Knoxville), Tenn. Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio Scott Air Force Base, Ill. Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base (Birmingham), Ala. Lufthansa Technik Upgrades LATAM's Boeing 777 Aircraft With Fuel-Saving AeroSHARK Film LATAM Airlines Group S.A. will become Lufthansa Technik AG's first external customer in the Americas to equip its Boeing 777s with AeroSHARK film. Lufthansa Technik calls AeroSHARK “a durable bionic film that successfully mimics the skin of sharks and optimizes the airflow, thus enabling significant fuel savings.” The film was developed in conjunction with BASF. Lufthansa Cargo, SWISS, All Nippon Airways, and EVA Air have already adopted AeroSHARK, with promising results. Mentioned Northrop X-21 Operation Airdrop: Hurricane Helene Volunteer pilots are flying supplies to trapped Hurricane Helene victims Martin J. McNally – Part 1 Airways, Nov/Dec 2021, “Terror in the Air,” Clipper 93, September 6, 1970 Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, David Vanderhoof, Rob Mark, and Max Trescott.
The mystery of D.B. Cooper with the host of The Cooper Vortex podcast. In the news, automatic takeoffs from Embraer, Southwest's business improvement plan and the reaction by the activist Elliott hedge fund, the airship crash in Brazil, the Rolls-Royce electric propulsion unit, and the bad air travel decisions allegedly made by the Mayor of New York City. We also hear from Hillel and a listener about the Boeing Starliner, and from several listeners about executive jets. D.B. Cooper artist sketch. Guest Darren Schaefer is the host of the The Cooper Vortex podcast. Darren grew up in Woodland, Washington next to where D.B. Cooper is believed to have landed, and had been passionate about the mystery for a decade. In the podcast he started years ago, Darren interviews experts who have something to contribute to the conversation about the mystery, such as authors, pilots, aircrew, paratroopers, and skydivers. D.B. Cooper hijacked Orient Airlines Flight 305, a B727, on November 24, 1971. Cooper said he had a bomb and demanded $200,000 in ransom. Upon landing in Seattle, Cooper requested parachutes, released the passengers, and told the crew to refuel the aircraft and fly to Mexico City after refueling in Reno, Nevada. During that flight, Cooper opened the airplane's aft door and parachuted into the night over Washington state. He was never seen again. This remains America's only unsolved skyjacking. Darren helps us understand why the public remains intrigued with D.B. Cooper after decades have passed, how “Dan Cooper” became “D.B. Cooper,” and how that helped the FBI weed out those who claimed to be Cooper. Darren tells us about Cooper copycats, available physical evidence, and changes to commercial aviation made to reduce airliner hijacking. That includes the “Cooper vane” which locks the B727 aft stairs. (Darren wants one so contact him if you know a source.) He also describes how the three segments of the DB Cooper community (aviation people, skydivers, and true crime fans) view the mystery. We note D.B. Cooper's thoughtfulness toward the passengers and crew, and his apparent technical knowledge suggesting an aerospace background. Darren will be the master of ceremonies at CooperCon 2024 the annual DB Cooper Convention being held at the Seattle Museum of Flight November 15-17, 2024. Books of interest: The Skies Belong to Us, Love and Terror in the Golden Age of Hijacking by Brendan I. Koerner. Skyjack: The Hunt for D. B. Cooper, by Geoffrey Gray. See FBI Records: The Vault, D. B. Cooper and Key piece of evidence in D.B. Cooper investigation to be displayed at Tacoma museum. Aviation News Automatic takeoffs are coming for passenger jets and they're going to redraw the map of the sky Along with other improvements announced at Farnborough, Embraer is introducing the “E2 Enhanced Take Off System,” an automated takeoff system designed for the company's E2 jets. Embraer says “This automatic take off system produces a more precise and efficient rotation moment and flight trajectory, reducing the required field length and pilot workload; meaning more payload and more range from challenging airports. This gives the E2 best in class performance from airports like London City, Florence, and Santos Dumont. Adding 350NM in range from LCY for example.” Embraer has started flight testing and aims for approval by aviation authorities in 2025. Southwest Airlines to cut service and staffing in Atlanta to slash costs According to a company memo seen by CNBC, for the April 2025 bid, Southwest is planning to reduce service in Atlanta and cut as many as 140 pilot and 200 flight attendant jobs. Southwest will reduce Atlanta gates to 11 from the current 18. Activist hedge fund Elliott Investment Management continues to call for Southwest CEO Bob Jordan to resign. The CEO of Southwest Airlines called an activist investor's criticisms 'inane' Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said it is inane that Ellio...
A former Naval Aviator tells us about his life after Naval aviation, the content he's produced, and the pivot he's making. In the news, the optics of flying in a corporate aircraft, the Boeing Starliner is back to earth with a few problems, a new Navy policy for aviator sea tours, and noise complaints at Australian airports. Guest Rob Roy is a former Naval Aviator who produces a YouTube channel with over 100k subscribers. He's also the founder of the weekly Flybuyer newsletter with curated aviation news that focuses on general and business aviation. It targets people who fly airplanes, potential owners, and enthusiasts. Rob's YouTube channel currently includes videos of carrier landings and catapult launches made during his 2015-2016 deployment. We hear about some of Rob's Naval aviation experiences flying the C-2 Greyhound cargo plane and training for carrier landings. Not this Rob Roy… The big news is the pivot Rob has taken with his life after naval aviation. He's shifting his focus to making airplane walk-around videos full-time that will appear on his YouTube channel. Rob intends to create a large body of review videos for people who want to buy airplanes. If you'd like to have your airplane filmed by Rob, he's created an Airplane Filming Form form where you can express your interest. And be sure to sign up for the Flybuyer newsletter and visit Rob's YouTube channel. Here's the video Rob mentioned when talking about the arresting cable that snapped during an E-2C Hawkeye's landing in March 2016 aboard the USS Eisenhower: Video: Cable snaps on USS Eisenhower during landing https://youtu.be/r-EHwYOfY94?si=zO93Cjtq13exFr2X Aviation News Managing the Optics of Flying in a Corporate Aircraft Corporate executives, athletes, pop stars, and celebrities often travel by corporate or private aircraft. This sometimes brings them public scrutiny due to the perceived environmental impact of their wealth or fame. The optics can generate unwanted attention. This article looks at why private/corporate might be used, the financial case, and using executive time productively. A study says executives are productive for about 80 percent of travel time while using business aviation and 30 percent while flying commercial. It's a good thing NASA sent the Boeing Starliner back to Earth empty because it had even more problems The Boeing Starliner experienced problems on its crewed flight to the Space Station and returned to Earth without the astronauts. The capsule did stick the landing, but other problems surfaced. An additional thruster failed (5 of 28 had failed when Starliner docked) and the Starliner guidance system temporarily blacked out. The thruster failures were attributed to Teflon seals swelling under heat and blocking propellant flow. The helium leaks compounded the situation. A software glitch caused the temporary blackout of the Starliner guidance system during reentry. Boeing's space and defense chief exits in new CEO's first executive move New CEO Kelly Ortberg has removed Boeing's head of its space and defense unit, effective immediately. Steve Parker, the unit's chief operating officer, will assume the position until a replacement is named. Starliner has cost Boeing $1.6 billion in overruns since 2016, according to a Reuters analysis of securities filings. Navy will force aviators to remain in service to complete sea tours The US Navy wants to increase aviation community retention and will require naval aviators to serve a pair of two-year sea tours. The new policy applies to officers serving on their first shore tour with a projected rotation date of October 2025 and beyond. It is reported that about 25% of unrestricted line aviators want to leave the Navy after their minimum service requirement. Some even request to leave the Navy when their second two-year sea tour is underway. A Naval Air Forces spokesperson says the new policy will extend most officer's servi...
Aerospace workforce development with the CEO and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance. In the news, the Machinist Union votes to strike Boeing, the TSA looks to Real ID enforcement, United Airlines makes a deal with SpaceX for inflight WiFi from Starlink, and more aviation firefighting foam news. Also, interviews from the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast with the Southport Flying Club and Airport president, an Air Commodore with the RAAF, and a decorated Australian war hero. Washington state delegation at the Farnborough Air Show Guest Nikki Malcom is the CEO and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance (PNAA), a non-profit trade association that promotes the growth and global competitiveness of the Pacific Northwest. Nikki has spent many years in various roles dedicated to the aerospace industry and is obsessed with all things aviation and aerospace, including manufacturing. Nikki was previously our guest in Episode 741. We get an update on the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Cluster, the grant-funded initiative with the mission to make the Pacific Northwest a magnet for aerospace manufacturing. Nikki explains the focus on workforce development [PDF], specifically aerospace career awareness, and all the many different roles in the supply chain. Nikki tells us that the Aerospace From the Ground Up podcast will be launching on the Aerospace is for Everyone YouTube channel. It will mainly target the 18-25 age group, but not exclusively. We can expect to see interviews with and about the people in the industry. The PNAA is working to get more people into the pipeline. That includes launching a mentorship program and developing an online community. PNAA provides business development by representing aerospace interests at Farnborough and other trade shows. Nikki also describes events organized by the Association, including the PNAA Advance 2025 conference to be held February 3-5, 2025. We also hear about the Aerospace Futures Alliance which advocates for Washington state's aerospace industry. Aviation News Boeing Machinists reject contract as 96% vote to strike The International Association of Machinists membership voted to go on strike at Boeing, despite the union leadership recommending they accept the negotiated contract. 94.6% of the members voted to reject the contract and 96% voted to strike. The proposed contract offered a 25% wage increase over four years but also dropped the annual bonus, which some estimated to be about 4% each year. The union wanted 40% over 3 years. Boeing Commercial Airplane CEO Stephanie Pope told employees in a message that “we did not hold back with an eye on a second vote.” IAM Union Sends Message to IAM District 751 and W24 Members: Our Solidarity Will Win This Fight Boeing strike will be felt throughout the aviation industry Kansas aviation industry could be affected by machinists strike TSA announces proposed rule to provide necessary flexibility as federal agencies prepare to enforce REAL ID requirements beginning May 7, 2025 President George W. Bush signed the REAL ID Act [PDF] into law in 2005. It requires that an identity document, like a driver's license, show that the holder has had their identity verified. Real IDs would be necessary for accessing federal facilities and nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial flights in the United States. The TSA now wants to implement the program by May 7, 2025 and a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking has been published that would provide federal agencies with the necessary flexibility to begin enforcement of the REAL ID regulations on the May 7, 2025 deadline in a manner that takes into account security, operational risk, and public impact. The comment period ends October 15, 2024. See also: The TSA Now Wants a Phased Rollout of the Real ID Next Year — Here's Why. For more information on REAL ID, visit TSA.gov/real-id.
We speak with the Porto Aviation Group CEO who flew to Oshkosh from Italy, the ForeFlight Head of International Growth, the CEO and Founder of Airhart Aeronautics, airline Captain Dana, an Historical Restoration Consultant about the historic terminal building at the Long Beach Airport, and flight team interns from the California Science Center program. Porto Aviation Group Innovation and entrepreneurship correspondent Hillel Glazer met Porto Aviation Group CEO Alberto Porto at Oshkosh. He flew there from Italy in a Rotax-powered Risen airplane making just two stops. Alberto Porto and the Risen at EAA Airventure Oshkosh. Capt. Dana From Episode 80 of the Journey is the Reward podcast, Brian Coleman and Micah speak with Capt. Dana from Acme Airlines, a major U.S. carrier. Their conversation provides insight into the life of an airline pilot. ForeFlight Again at EAA Airventure Oshkosh, Hillel interviews Josh Tahmasebi, Head of International Growth at ForeFlight, a provider of flight planning software. He describes ForeFlight and its newest features and innovations. Airhart Aeronautics Hillel talks with Nikita Ermoshkin, the CEO and Founder of Airhart Aeronautics. The company seeks to build intuitive-to-fly GA airplanes that are fully fly-by-wire and more accessible. Airhart is working with Sling Aircraft to develop a safe personal aircraft that is easier to fly than others on the market. Airhart Sling Long Beach Airport (LGB) historic terminal building John Thomas, Historical Restoration Consultant, led the restoration team for the 1941 historic terminal building at Long Beach Airport. (The oldest municipal airport in the state of California.) See: Long Beach Airport's Historic Terminal Reopens Following Major Renovation, Restoration Effort. The historic terminal building at Long Beach Airport. California Science Center Interns Brian Coleman and Micah speak with seven flight team interns from the California Science Center. The students describe why they signed up for the six-week program and what they learned from the experience. These are great examples of the amazing results that can be achieved when students are exposed to aviation. Flight Team Interns. Courtesy California Science Center. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, with contributions from Hillel Glazer, Brian Coleman, and our Main(e) Man Micah.
A Martin Mars water bomber has a new home, the proprotor gearbox failure that caused the Air Force's fatal Osprey crash, the FAAs new endorsement requirement for flight instructor candidates, and a refueling incident that damaged a KC-46 and an F-15E. Also, an Australia Desk report where Brian Coleman joined Steve and Grant in Australia, and Micah called in. Aviation News The Hawaii Mars Water Bomber Finally Arrives At Its Forever Home, The British Columbia Aviation Museum The Martin Hawaii Mars water bomber is now at its new British Columbia Aviation Museum home. Public access is anticipated to start on September 28. Seven of the four-engine Martin JMR Mars were built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Four were converted to civilian water bombers for aerial firefighting by Forest Industries Flying Tankers in BC. The Marianas Mars crashed in 1961 during firefighting operations with all four crew members perishing. In 1962, the Caroline Mars was damaged beyond repair by a typhoon. The Hawaii Mars was operated until 2016 and is now at the BC Aviation Museum. The Philippine Mars is planned to go to the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona later this year. Video: FINAL FLIGHT! Martin Mars Low Pass and Landing in Patricia Bay https://youtu.be/Ol07yTMlM_c?si=-MDqJvr9FBeiMJx1 Flawed Metal & Failed Communication: Breaking Down the Air Force's Fatal Osprey Crash The Air Current reports that a persistent manufacturing problem is the cause behind ten previously unreported V-22 Osprey component failures, in addition to the fatal 2023 crash off the coast of Japan. Furthermore, the problem was well-known to Bell Boeing and the V-22 Joint Program Office (JPO), but pilots were not informed. The crash was caused by the failure of the left-side proprotor gearbox and the pilot's decision to keep flying. The gearbox failure was most likely caused by cracking in a high-speed pinion gear and its bearing cage. Inclusions in the steel alloy may be the problem. AFSOC CV-22B Accident Investigation Board Report [PDF] FAA Rolls Out New Endorsement Requirement for Flight Instructor Candidates Starting September 1, the FAA requires flight instructor candidates to have a CFI endorsement before taking the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exam. Many other pilot certificates require the applicant to have a "written statement or logbook endorsement from an authorized ground or flight instructor certifying that the applicant completed an applicable ground training or home study course and is prepared for the knowledge test, or a certificate of graduation issued by a part 141 school.” See the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exam sample questions. The FAA uses PSI Services LLC to provide the written exams. Audio Reveals Details Of KC-46 And F-15E Refueling Incident That Broke Off The Tanker's Boom Last week, a refueling operation supported a temporary flight restriction related to a presidential visit. During the refueling, the U.S. Air Force KC-46A Pegasus tanker and an F-15E Strike Eagle experienced some issues with the hydraulic system, damaging both planes and forcing them to make emergency landings. Air Traffic Control transmissions indicate that the KC-46 lost its boom. Australia News Desk The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast was held over the beautiful beaches of Surfers Paradise, Queensland from August 16-18, 2024 and Steve, Grant, AND Brian Coleman were there to capture all the action. It was the second year of the event, and crowds were noticeably larger than in 2023, with an enhanced and fully loaded flying program comprising local aerobatic performers, military contingents from Australia, the USA and UK, emergency services displays, and much more. With Micah also on the line, we quiz Brian on his experience travelling to Australia, flying domestic sectors here with Virgin Australia, and the reaction of local flight crews to his custom-made gifts,
The FAA roadmap for Artificial Intelligence in aviation, clean aviation fuel setbacks, aviation fire-fighting foam, blended wing body aircraft, and the new Sikorsky VH-92A Marine One helicopter. Also, a first-timer's experience at EAA Airventure Oshkosh. Aviation News FAA lays out 'roadmap' for AI safety in aircraft In Roadmap for Artificial Intelligence Safety Assurance [PDF], the FAA says Artificial Intelligence (AI) must demonstrate its safety before it can be utilized in aviation. This is a challenge because AI systems achieve performance and capability by learning rather than design with the absence of engineering principles that guide the traditional engineering design process. The document's primary purpose is to provide a path that ensures the safety of Artificial Intelligence in aircraft and related systems for inflight operations. The roadmap also recognizes significant opportunities to use AI for safety. A set of principles are identified as well as the next steps in five areas to enable safety enhancements and the safe use of AI. Clean Fuel Startups Were Supposed to Be the Next Big Thing. Now They Are Collapsing. The article describes headwinds that impede progress toward the broader use of clean aviation fuel. United Airlines plans to use jet fuel made from trash United Airlines partnered with about 30 other global firms to form an “Eco-Skies Alliance” to finance the use of SAF made from trash. The airline's initiative appears to have shut down. Leading hydrogen aircraft startup is suddenly grounded Startup Universal Hydrogen raised $100 million with backing from GE Aviation, American Airlines, and the venture capital arms of Airbus, JetBlue, and Toyota. Shareholders were recently informed that the company was shutting down. Universal Hydrogen could not raise additional financing from either new or existing investors. Oil majors back out of biofuel in Europe BP scaled back expansion plans for sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel in Europe. Chevron is furloughing workers at its Oeding, Germany biodiesel plant. Shell halted construction of a biofuel plant in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Air New Zealand becomes first major airline to scrap its 2030 climate goal The airline cited delivery delays of new fuel-efficient aircraft and the price of alternative jet fuels. The 2030 target had been to reduce carbon intensity by 28.9%, compared with 2019 levels. The airline is working on a new near-term target. Nearly 400 gallons of high-expansion foam fills Coast Guard hangar in Mobile Due to a fault in the fire alarm system at the United States Coast Guard Aviation Training Center, almost 400 gallons of high-expansion foam filled the hangar. Three HC-144 Ocean Sentry airplanes and four MH-60 Jayhawk helicopters were in the hangar. These aircraft are being cleaned and inspected to assess damage. WKRG Video: Nearly 400 gallons of high-expansion foam fills Coast Guard hangar in Mobile https://youtu.be/7s4SRMLF6OU?si=1mZuMIHycZ3tAnt2 Because the widely-used Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) contains dangerous PFAS (referred to as "forever chemicals"), the FAA and the Department of Defense (DoD) have engaged in a significant research project to test fluorine-free foam (F3). Fluorine-Free Foam (F3) Transition for Aircraft Firefighting In December 2022, Congress directed the FAA to prepare a transition plan to ensure an orderly move to MILSPEC F3 for aircraft firefighting. See: FAA Aircraft FireFighting Foam Transition Plan. In January 2023, DoD published an F3 military specification (MILSPEC), and foam manufacturers can now submit MILSPEC F3 agents for qualification by DoD. Once DoD certifies that a foam meets the new specification, it will be added to the Qualified Product List. FAA considers foams on the Qualified Product List as acceptable to use to satisfy the regulatory requirements of Part 139. Video: Fluorine Free Foam (F3) Transition Awareness We...
We speak with the Founder and CEO of Wright Electric, an aviation company with a goal to make all regional single-aisle flights zero-emissions. In the news, Boeing testified before the NTSB about the 737 door plug incident, American Airlines new standby rules are criticized, Space-X may bring the Boeing Starliner astronauts back from the International Space Station, and the impact on Delta Air Lines after the Microsoft/CrowdStrike global IT outage. We also have an Australia News Desk report. Guest Jeff Engler is the Founder and CEO of Wright Electric. The company develops ultra-lightweight electric motors, generators, and batteries for aerospace and defense. Wright is leveraging the company's megawatt-class propulsion system to transform a 100-passenger BAe 146 into an all-electric, zero-emissions aircraft. Wright and Columbia University are developing batteries that are up to four times lighter than lithium-ion. Jeff explains how the company all started with a newsletter and came to focus on flights with more than 100 passengers and shorter than 800 miles. He describes what distinguishes aircraft propulsion electric motors from other electric motors, and how the transportation market segments into different technologies for different applications. We consider the important issue of battery energy density and why Wright has decided to develop their lightweight batteries. Also, we discuss programs the company is involved in, the C-130/LM-100J and BAe 146 aircraft that support the technology development, and Wright's commercial, government, and academic partners. Jeff describes Wright's timeline targets for retrofitted and clean-sheet electric aircraft. Jeff started the company when he learned flying tripled his carbon footprint. He incubated Wright through a Harvard University fellowship and led Wright through the selective Y Combinator accelerator program. He previously co-founded Podimetrics, a medical device company that has raised $70M+ in venture funding. Jeff has undergraduate and graduate degrees from Columbia and Harvard. See: Wright Steps Up Ground Testing for 2.5MW Electric Motor Wright Electric assembling 2.5MW WM2500 electric propulsion unit Wright Electric & Columbia University Receive U.S. Department of Energy Award for Ultra-Lightweight Battery Development U.S. Air Force Backs Wright's Work On Rechargeable Thermal Batteries Surprise test flight heralds ultra-long-range electric aircraft by 2028 Samsung's EV battery breakthrough: 600-mile charge in 9 mins, 20 year lifespan Alliance for Zero-Emission Aviation (AZEA) - The Alliance is a voluntary initiative of private and public partners who share the objective of preparing the entry into commercial service of hydrogen-powered and electric aircraft. Other articles supporting our conversation: DOD Report: Consolidation of Defense Industrial Base Poses Risks to National Security [PDF] Reducing the Cost of Space Travel with Reusable Launch Vehicles - NSTXL. Aviation News NTSB chair: Boeing reassigning workers to Everett was retaliation NTSB chief rips Boeing over lack of 737 Max answers The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held an investigative hearing open to the public in the NTSB Boardroom on August 6-7, 2024. During the hearing, the NTSB gathered sworn testimonies about the Jan. 5, 2024, Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 door plug incident. This was a fact-finding step in the safety investigation and the testimonies became part of the public record. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy asked Boeing Director of Quality Hector Silva if he was “100 percent sure a defect will not occur tomorrow” and whether he was “100 percent sure there will never be an unauthorized removal” of a door plug. He replied, “No.” Boeing factory workers told the hearing they felt pressured to work fast and complete jobs for which they did not feel qualified. Videos of the hearing are publicly available.
Digital twins captured by aircraft, the new Boeing CEO is named, the airline fee disclosure rule hits a roadblock, the NGAD fighter is paused, the FAA approves BVLOS flights, Wheels Up continues to lose money, and the cause of the fatal CV-22 Osprey accident. Guest Ron Chapple is the VP of Global Strategic Solutions Digital Twins at NV5 Geospatial. He leads a team that works with clients worldwide to acquire, process, and analyze high-resolution lidar and imaging data to create digital twins for various industries and applications. The team uses leading-edge technologies and sensors to capture and visualize data. The digital twins created by NV5 are virtual representations of physical objects, processes, or systems that can be used for real-time monitoring, analysis, and simulation. Digital twins can have applications for many industries, including aviation, energy, education, manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and transportation. Organizations can also use them for training and emergency planning and response. Ron describes how geospatially correct digital twins are created using LiDAR, optical, and other sensors, typically with helicopters or drones, and sometimes with fixed-wing aircraft. We learn how multiple sensor data is combined for the digital twins and the requirement for precise piloting. Ron also illustrates aviation applications for digital twins by explaining some of the airport projects undertaken by NV5. These applications include obstruction analysis, real-time monitoring of ground traffic, and operations simulation. Ron has more than 10 years of experience in lidar and imaging. He founded GEO1, a company that specialized in electric utility, oil and gas, archaeology, and coastal and highway corridor acquisition projects. GEO1 was acquired by NV5 Geospatial in June 2022 and has expanded in scope to include virtual reality, virtual production, and digital twin creation. Ron got his start in aerial cinematography. He worked with USA Today and National Geographic on projects that won a Pulitzer Prize and several EMMY awards and traveled to remote and challenging locations, such as Patagonia, the Arctic Circle, Mt. Everest, Colombia, and Hawaii, to collect and document data that can help preserve and protect natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about digital twins, see Your Guide to Geospatial Digital Twins to request a free ebook. Aviation News Boeing Board Names Kelly Ortberg President and CEO The Boeing board of directors selected Robert K. "Kelly" Ortberg as the company's next president and CEO, succeeding Dave Calhoun, effective August 8, 2024. Ortberg began his career as an engineer at Texas Instruments, then joined Rockwell Collins as a program manager, eventually becoming its president and CEO. He steered the company's integration with United Technologies which then became RTX after merging with Raytheon. Ortberg served on the RTX Board of Directors and is the former Chair of the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) Board of Governors. U.S. appeals court blocks airline fee disclosure rule The U.S. Transportation Department's new rule requiring airlines and ticket agents to disclose service fees along with airfare has been temporarily blocked by a U.S. appeals court. The industry asked the court for a temporary block and the three-judge panel said the rule "likely exceeds DOT's authority and will irreparably harm airlines." The suit was brought by United, American, Delta, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, Airlines for America, and the International Air Transport Association. See also A4A, U.S. Airlines Sue DOT Over Fee Disclosure Rule. Air Force ‘taking a pause' on NGAD next-gen fighter The US Air Force pauses the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) stealth fighter program while taking a “hard look” at the jet's design. Boeing and Lockheed Martin are believed to be the primes competing for the NGAD contract. At the same time,
From EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, the GoAERO competition for emergency response aircraft, Bose headset technology, the Honeywell Anthem™ Integrated Flight Deck, and the Pivotal Helix eVTOL. In the news, Southwest Airlines changes its boarding process, will begin redeye flights, names a transformation executive, and comes under increased FAA scrutiny. Also, the FAA and NATCA come together on changes to address controller fatigue. Guest EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 Our Innovation and Entrepreneurship Correspondent Hillel Glazer attended EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 and captured many interviews. We hear four of them in this episode: GoAERO Prize CEO Gwen Lighter GoAERO is looking for teams to design and build the world's first-ever autonomy-enabled Emergency Response Flyer. The vision is a world where every first responder has life-saving aerial capability enabled by compact size and autonomous operations. With support from Boeing, NASA, Honeywell, RTX, and many others, teams will work will make emergency response aircraft accessible to all. Over $2 Million in prizes will be awarded. Video: Ready. Set. GoAERO. https://youtu.be/WwPBletov_s?si=Id26BnAg4fhouRXt Bose Product Manager Jason Brisbois Jason and Hillel talk about Bose aviation headsets and the noise-canceling technology they utilize. Honeywell Project Pilot Ed Manning The Honeywell Anthem™ Integrated Flight Deck is installed in a Pilatus PC-12 test aircraft which recently completed its first flight. This milestone demonstrated the system's safety and maturity and is a step forward on the certification path. Pivotal Director of Product Marketing Greg Kerr The Helix eVTOL is Pivotal's first aircraft to be produced at scale. The single-seat tilt aircraft employs fixed rotors and tandem wings. It is classified as a Part 103 Ultralight. The carbon fiber composite Helix weighs 254 lbs empty. Pivotal Helix at AirVenture Video: Pivotal | The World is Yours to Explore Aviation News Southwest Airlines Launches Enhancements to Transform Customer Experience And Improve Financial Performance Southwest Airlines will assign seats, offer premium seating options on all flights, and add 24-hour operation capabilities to introduce redeye flights. Southwest Officer Ryan was named Green to lead new efforts as Executive Vice President Commercial Transformation. The airline says that 80% of Southwest customers and 86% of potential customers prefer an assigned seat. Southwest expects roughly one-third of seats across the fleet to offer extended legroom. See also: The end of an era: Why I'm sad about Southwest Airlines saying farewell to open seating by Benét J. Wilson. Oversight may have led to Southwest Airlines flight using closed runway at Portland Jetport The NTSB preliminary report says that the flight crew of a Southwest Airlines plane that took off from a temporarily closed runway at the Portland Jetport did not realize the runway was closed on that day. FAA Investigation Continues Into Southwest Low Altitude Alert At TPA Southwest Airlines flight WN-425 descended to within 150 feet AGL about 4 miles from the end of the runway at Tampa International Airport. The aircraft should have been at 1,600 feet. The tower controller called a low altitude alert and the crew answered they were performing a go-around. The plane landed at Fort Lauderdale International Airport about 40 minutes later and then returned to Tampa International. Southwest under FAA audit after series of safety incidents The airline said “We recently formed a dedicated team of subject-matter experts and leaders from Southwest, our union partners, and the FAA to bolster our existing Safety Management System. This group is tasked with performing an in-depth, data-driven analysis to identify any opportunities for improvement.” FAA, Controllers Reach Agreement on Fatigue Mitigation FAA and NATCA Reach Agreement to Address Controller F...
Boeing's commercial market outlook, the AirVenture and Farnborough air shows, Airbus' A321XLR certification, funding for FAA infrastructure, Embraer's Eve flying taxi prototype, JetBlue's unpaid leave offer to flight attendants, and first officers decline to upgrade to captain. Aviation News Boeing Forecasts Demand for Nearly 44,000 New Airplanes Through 2043 as Air Travel Surpasses Pre-Pandemic Levels Boeing released its Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) for 2024-2043, including an interactive dashboard. CMO forecast highlights through 2043: The global commercial fleet is projected to grow 3.2% annually. The air cargo fleet will increase by two-thirds by 2043, to support 4.1% annual air cargo traffic growth. The number of global routes served by commercial airlines has returned to 2019 levels, even though nearly 20% of them are new, illustrating the adaptability of aviation in a dynamic market. Single-aisle airplanes will make up 71% of the 2043 fleet. The global widebody fleet will more than double, with twin-aisles comprising 44% of the Middle East fleet. It's Opening Week for Two of the World's Largest Airshows EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is July 22 – July 28, 2024. EAA has about 300,000 members worldwide. AirVenture sees more than 500,000 attendees over the week-long event they call The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration®. The Farnborough International Airshow is held every two years, alternating with the Paris Air Show. This year Farnborough is July 22 – July 26, 2024, and targets the global aerospace industry. See Farnborough Air Show 2024 - Preview from the Royal Aeronautical Society. Airbus A321XLR Receives EASA Type Certification The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued Type Certification for the Airbus A321XLR powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines. Airbus has a backlog of over 500 single-aisle A321XLR orders. Iberia is the launch customer and EIS is expected in November 2024. Airbus also has orders from Qantas, Icelandair, and IAG Group. Certification for the Pratt & Whitney GTF variant is to come next. Groups Push Lawmakers To Up FAA's ATC Equipment Budget Twenty-six industry associations sent a letter to the Appropriations Committees, the Senate Commerce Committee, and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee asking for more ATC modernization funding. The associations represent business and general aviation, airlines, air traffic controllers and specialists, pilots and flight attendants, and manufacturers. The groups note an uncommitted balance in the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF) that could be used for the FAA's Facilities and Equipment (F&E) account. “We… believe more must be done to not only maintain and sustain the ATC system but also to modernize it.” The Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF), also known as the Aviation Trust Fund, was established in 1970 to help finance the FAA's investments in the airport and airway system, independent of the General Fund. Embraer's Eve rolls out flying taxi prototype, cash needs covered until 2027 Embraer subsidiary Eve Air Mobility revealed their full-scale eVTOL prototype. The fixed-wing aircraft uses eight propellers for vertical flight and an electric pusher motor. The first prototype does not have a cabin or pilot. The final aircraft will seat four passengers and a pilot. Eve was founded in 2020 and plans to obtain certification and enter service in 2026. Five conforming prototypes are planned for 2025. The company says they have letters of intent for 2,900 eVTOLs that seat four passengers and a pilot. Investors include United Airlines, BAE Systems, Thales, and Rolls-Royce. Eve eVTOL protype. JetBlue to Offer Six Months of Unpaid Leave to Flight Attendants, Trim Number of Crew Members On Transatlantic Flights A Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) memo says JetBlue is taking steps to reduce costs. Flight attendants should expect “significantly reduced” flying sched...
The Joby hydrogen-electric eVTOL 523-mile flight, severe weather and the Southwest Dutch Roll, the danger of getting too close to an operating jet engine, excessive heat impacts on aviation, exploding soda cans that injure flight attendants, and turbulence and hot tea water burns. Aviation News Joby Aviation completes a 523-mile flight in an eVTOL powered by hydrogen-electric tech Joby Aviation, Inc. announced it has successfully flown a liquid hydrogen-electric eVTOL demonstrator 523 miles over California. The aircraft was based on a Joby pre-production prototype battery-electric aircraft fitted with a liquid hydrogen fuel tank and fuel cell system. Joby Aviation photo. The liquid hydrogen fuel tank was designed and built by Joby. It stores up to 40 kilograms of liquid hydrogen which feeds the fuel cell system that produces electricity, water, and heat. The electricity powers six electric motors on the Joby aircraft. Batteries provide additional power primarily during take-off and landing. Joby plans to start commercial operations as soon as 2025 with its battery-electric air taxi. Press release: Joby demonstrates potential for emissions-free regional journeys with landmark 523-mile hydrogen-electric flight Video: The Complete Flight Profile of Joby's eVTOL Aircraft https://youtu.be/cuJEf4v05Z0?si=5Lx3NWssz2LzpZ6I Airbus to freeze hiring as it battles cut-price Chinese rival In the face of competition from COMAC and a stronger Boeing, Airbus wants to cut costs. The company has a 6-year backlog of A320 family aircraft and is struggling to get production to the rate they desire. Aircraft owners who need narrowbody aircraft sooner are likely to look at Boeing and COMAC. So Airbus is seeking to focus its activity on an “improvement program,” although it may be years before the C919 is certified by Western regulators. For years, COMAC, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, has worked to establish a viable Chinese commercial airframer. They started with the ARJ21 regional jet and then proceeded to develop the C919 narrowbody in the B737/A320 class. Lately, they've been working on a C929 widebody jetliner. A Southwest jet that did a ‘Dutch roll' was parked outside during a severe storm Investigators looking at the Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max that experienced a Dutch roll say the plane had been parked outside during thunderstorms with wind gusts of up to 84 mph. After some routine maintenance, the pilots experienced “odd movements of the rudder pedals.” The NTSB hasn't determined when the observed tail damage occurred. The speculation is that the tail damage occurred during the storm when the rudder slammed back and forth in the wind. Safety consultant John Cox, a former airline pilot, said “I do not see this as a Max issue. I do not see this right now as a 737 issue. I see this as a one-off.” Airport Ground Worker Killed After Getting Sucked Into Engine of Boeing 737 When They Stepped Into the ‘Danger Zone' The accident happened in Iran during routine maintenance when the engines were powered for a test run. The worker was trying to retrieve a tool left near the engine. As extreme heat bakes the West, emergency helicopters struggle to fly Medical helicopter flights have been canceled in some areas due to high temperatures. Air temperature and tarmac temperature can be factors. Also, a confined area can require more engine power to land, which is affected by high temperatures. Amid Oppressive Heat, Broiling Airplane Cabins Add to Travelers' Woes Unusually hot weather is causing cabin air conditioning systems to struggle to keep up. The Department of Transportation is studying whether to set minimum standards for cabin temperatures. Southwest Airlines Flight Attendants Are Being Injured By ‘Exploding' Coca-Cola Cans as Summer Heats Soar The Southwest Airlines drink restocking process is different than the one used by other airlines.
The director of the Portland International Jetport explains airport surface detection and runway incursions, airport use restrictions, construction at the airport, the impacts of a power outage, and many other issues faced by airports. In the news, the NTSB reacts to a violation of its investigative regulations, Boeing plans to purchase Spirit Aerosystems, a resolution to the violation of the deferred prosecution agreement, the FAA's Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI), a home damaged by space junk, and a pilot caught working for two airlines at the same time. Guest Paul H. Bradbury is the director of the Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine. Since there have been many recent airport-related news stories, we asked Paul to join us and provide his insight. One timely topic is runway incursions and surface surveillance systems. The Jetport currently employs an Autonomous Runway Incursion Warning System (ARIWS) but we also look at the FAA's Surface Awareness Initiative and the new uAvionics deployments. We also discuss airport use restrictions, the different Part 135 and Part 121 requirements, and the financial, security, and safety impacts of service vs. on-demand operations. Other topics include airport expansions, construction, and renovation while maintaining operations in the face of runway closures and back-taxiing on a runway. Also, residential development near the airport and land use issues such as improper zoning. Paul explains the impact of a power outage and the Jetport's Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) backup project. We even talk about solar panel glare that impacts pilots, Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) requirements, and whether there should be a Gate 13. (See Airports having or skipping gate 13, based on airport size [OC]). Aviation News uAvionix enables ground surveillance for runway safety The uAvionix FlightLine system provides ADS-B surveillance and surface situational awareness for Air Traffic Control towers at U.S. Airports. The system is qualified through the FAA's Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI) program, a component of the FAA Surface Safety Portfolio. FlightLine is designed for facilities without existing surface surveillance systems. According to uAvionix, the FAA has identified over 230 airports that are potential candidates for an SAI solution. The first FlightLine deployments by uAvionix are for Indianapolis International Airport (KIND) and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (KAUS) towers. The systems were to be fully operational by June 30, 2024. Aircraft positions on the surface and in airport arrival and departure corridors are displayed on a surface map of the airport. ADS-B is the primary source of aircraft position. The Surface Awareness Initiative includes Approach Runway Verification and the Runway Incursion Device. Boeing Sanctioned for Sharing Non-Public Investigative Information With Media on 737 Max 9 Door Plug Investigation Boeing “blatantly violated NTSB investigative regulations” and the NTSB announced a series of restrictions and sanctions on the company. Boeing provided non-public investigative information to the media and speculated about possible causes of the Jan. 5, 2024 door-plug blowout. NTSB said Boeing will “no longer have access to the investigative information the NTSB produces as it develops the factual record of the accident.” Also, the NTSB will subpoena the company to appear at an investigative hearing into the case scheduled for Aug. 6 and 7, 2024 in Washington, DC. “Unlike the other parties in the hearing, Boeing will not be allowed to ask questions of other participants.” See also: NTSB rebukes Boeing after top exec discloses detail on Alaska Airlines blowout NTSB sends letter to David Calhoun, President and CEO of the Boeing Company [PDF] Boeing to buy supplier Spirit AeroSystems in $4.7bn deal Boeing plans to acquire Spirit AeroSystems in an all-stock transactio...
Boeing CEO testifies before Congress and prosecutors ask for criminal charges, investigators look into a low-altitude Southwest flight and an activist investor wants Southwest CEO out, NTSB released a close-call preliminary report, and Cirrus won't approve a certain 100LL fuel. Also, an Australia Desk report, the E-3 AWACS jet, and a Triphibian. Aviation News Boeing CEO grilled at Senate hearing: ‘The problem's with you' Boeing CEO David Calhoun testified at a two-hour Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations hearing. Calhoun admitted that whistleblowers were retaliated against. Subcommittee chair Sen. Richard Blumenthal stated “After whistleblower John Barnett raised his concerns about missing parts, he reported that his supervisor called him 19 times in one day and 21 times another day. And when Barnett asked his supervisor about those calls, he was told, ‘I'm going to push you until you break.'” Blumenthal said that in his opinion, the Department of Justice should criminally prosecute Boeing for violating its 2021 deferred prosecution agreement. The DOJ has until July 7, 2024, to decide how it will act. Video: Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun testifies before Senate committee on safety issues — 6/18/2024 https://www.youtube.com/live/2LNgce5vLLk?si=baqPzBhFJf8kOZCt Victims' Attorney Asks DOJ To Fine Boeing; Prosecute Executives In his 32-page letter to the DOJ, Professor Paul Cassell of the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City asks for $24 billion in fines, that part of the $24 billion fine should be used for “corporate compliance and new safety measures,” that a corporate monitor is appointed to review the safety measures and “to direct improvement as appropriate.” Also that the DOJ prosecutes former Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg and other “responsible corporate executives.” Exclusive: US prosecutors recommend Justice Dept. criminally charge Boeing U.S. prosecutors asked Justice Department officials to bring criminal charges against Boeing for violation of the deferred prosecution agreement. Federal officials are investigating a Southwest Airlines low flight over Oklahoma City suburbs A Southwest Airlines plane triggered an automated low-altitude alert nine miles out from the Oklahoma City airport. Flightradar24 shows the plane descending to about 525 feet AGL over Oklahoma City suburbs. Air traffic control asked, “Southwest 4069, low altitude alert. You doing OK?” The pilot responded, “Yeah, we're going around.” The air traffic controller responded telling the pilot to maintain 3000 feet. Federal officials are investigating. Southwest's Diehard Fans Don't Want Airline to Change Activist hedge fund company Elliott Investment Management has taken a $1.9 billion stake in Southwest Airlines and wants to oust the airline's CEO Robert Jordan. Elliott says Jordan “has delivered unacceptable financial and operational performance quarter after quarter and Jordan and former CEO Gary Kelly (currently the executive chairman) “are not up to the task of modernizing Southwest.” Elliott wants to replace Jordan and Kelly with outsiders and make “significant” changes to the board of directors with others who bring airline experience. NTSB Releases Preliminary Reports On Two Airline Close Calls In April 2024, a Swiss Air A330 aborted its takeoff from Runway 4L at JFK after they saw taxiing traffic on the runway. One controller cleared the Swiss flight for takeoff, and a ground controller cleared four other airplanes to cross the same runway. In February 2023, TCAS (traffic/collision alert system) issued “resolution advisories” over an inbound Mesa Airlines Bombardier CRJ900 and a SkyWest Embraer EMB-170 at Hollywood-Burbank Airport. The two aircraft came within 1,700 feet of each other. Cirrus: G100UL Use May Void Warranties GAMI Responds To Cirrus G100UL Service Advisory General Aviation Modifications Inc. has invested in developing an unleaded,
Innovations in Flight at the National Air & Space Museum, FAA preparing to address the public charter loophole, titanium components manufactured with improper paperwork, Southwest 737 MAX experienced a “Dutch Roll,” Lockheed Martin team receives Collier Trophy, and business jet found after 53 years. Innovations in Flight The annual Innovations in Flight was held June 15, 2024, at the Smithsonian Institution's National Air & Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, adjacent to Dulles International Airport. The outdoor fly-in features over 50 unique aircraft, flown in for one day only. Visitors explored the engineering and design innovations that have taken place during the last century of flight and talk with the pilots of vintage and modern aircraft on display. Again this year, Hillel Glazer flew his 1972 Piper Cherokee 180 to Innovations in Flight. He describes how aircraft are selected to participate, the process of arriving and departing from Dulles Airport, and the taxiway through the woods that connects the two facilities. Perhaps most notably, Hillel recorded conversations with some younger visitors, ages 7 to 13. In this episode, you can hear Johnny (Age 7), Alexandra (Age 8), Phoebe (Age 12), Luka (Age 12), and Jackson (Age 9). Jackson even has his own YouTube channel: Flight Pattern Talk with Jax. LIstener JD Gold (left) 777 Pilot for FedEx with Hillel (right). Reflections on the museum's architectural feature above the side door. Waiting in the conga line to depart behind the NOAA “P-3” Aviation News FAA Cracks Down On “Public Charter” Loophole, Bad News For JSX The so-called “public charter loophole” allows charter companies to operate from private terminals without some of the requirements that larger carriers are subject to, such as TSA screening and pilots with more than 1,500 flight hours. The FAA says they are now going to address this situation by issuing an NPRM that would amend the definitions of “scheduled,” “on demand,” and “supplemental” operations. Titanium in Boeing, Airbus jets lacks proper documentation, companies say Spirit AeroSystems used titanium that had counterfeit documentation and which found its way into both Airbus and Boeing aircraft. U.S. and European safety regulators are investigating, while the companies involved say the titanium is not a safety issue, only the documentation is deficient. US NTSB investigating 'Dutch roll' by Southwest Boeing 737 MAX The Dutch roll occurred at 34,000 feet on a flight from Phoenix, Arizona to Oakland, California. The lateral asymmetric movements of the roll were named after a Dutch ice skating technique. Pilots regained control of the plane which proceeded without additional incident, however, Southwest found damage to structural components and the NTSB and FAA are investigating. See: Yaw Dampers and video: What is a Dutch Roll? https://youtu.be/9Gt-IcCBiQ4?si=KgbVtTW57zTTswBc The National Aeronautic Association Recognizes Lockheed Martin with Prestigious Collier Trophy The 2023 Robert J. Collier Trophy was awarded by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) to Lockheed Martin for the team's work on NASA's OSIRIS-REx sample return mission which collected an asteroid sample in 2020 and returned it to Earth on Sept. 24, 2023. The OSIRIS-Rex team includes Lockheed Martin, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Johnson Space Center, the University of Arizona, and KinetX, among many others. A jet disappeared in Vermont over 53 years ago. Experts believe they've found it in Lake Champlain Air controllers lost contact with the Aero Commander Jet Commander 1121A ( N400CP) shortly after takeoff in 1971 over Lake Champlain in Vermont. It was only found after an underwater searcher located it recently at a depth of 200 feet. The NTSB will verify that this is the plane from 1971. Small plane crash-lands in Androscoggin River in Topsham
We take a look at the Boeing Safety and Quality Plan, the NTSB recommendations after the Southwest/FedEx near miss, the suspension of some ATC staff in India, Essential Air Service contracts, BARK Air's lawsuit over airport-use restrictions, the sale of a B-17, and the NTSB inspection of the USAirways flight 1549 engines. Aviation News Boeing Safety & Quality Plan Boeing had 90 days to deliver a comprehensive plan to the FAA to improve the company's safety management and quality assurance, including in the supply chain. We look at The Boeing Product Safety and Quality Plan Executive Summary [PDF, 11 pages.] The Plan includes the containment and mitigation actions Boeing took immediately after the accident. It also introduces Boeing's new Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of production system health and associated control limits for each KPI. Boeing intends that these metrics will provide “a continuous assessment of factory health and provide early warning of emerging quality and safety risks. They also will facilitate tracking of Boeing's improvement under the Product Safety and Quality Plan and guide decisions about system readiness for rate increases.” Boeing's Immediate Containment and Mitigation Improvements directed at the Boeing production system: Admiral Kirkland Donald Revised the build plans, training, maintenance planning, aircraft manual documentation, removal requirements and inspection criteria for the Mid-Exit Door (MED) plug; Instituted additional controls to prevent defects in the MED plug and similar structures and assemblies; Added conformance inspections to nine critical build points; Processed fleet and production inspection findings through Boeing's SMS and Quality Management System (QMS); Published alerts on removals and rework, signed by all factory employees; Hosted representatives from 737 airline customers to review Boeing's production and quality procedures, and to provide feedback; Appointed a recognized safety and quality leader, Admiral Kirkland Donald, to independently assess Boeing's production system; and Implemented a revised management and salaried compensation model focused on quality and safety, with aligned key performance indicators across all programs. Improvements directed at the Boeing supply chain: Instituted additional controls at Spirit to prevent defects in the MED plug and similar structures and assemblies; Added new inspections at Spirit, as well as pre-shipment approval requirements on fuselages prior to shipment to Boeing; Added competency assessments for all supplier mechanics doing structural work at Boeing sites; and Issued supplier bulletins to strengthen focus on conformance and reduce the risks of defects being shipped. Key Performance Indicators A significant component of the Product Safety and Quality Plan is the identification of six critical, safety-focused production health KPIs: Employee Proficiency (measures share of employees currently staffed to commercial programs who are proficient); Notice of Escape (NoE) Rework Hours (measures rework due to Fabrication and supplier-provided escapes to Final Assembly); Supplier Shortages (measures Fabrication and supplier shortages/day); Rework Hours per airplane (measures total rework hours per airplane in Final Assembly); Travelers at Factory Rollout (measures jobs traveling from Final Assembly); and Ticketing Performance (measures average escapes per ticketed airplane). Each KPI also has associated control limits and defined criteria that will trigger corrective action and SMS risk monitoring. Product Safety and Quality Plan Attention Areas Safety Management System three main initiatives: Streamlining employee reporting channels; [Submissions are up 500%] Addressing traveled work risk; [implemented a “move ready” process—737 airplanes may not move to the next factory position until identified build milestones are co...
Interviews and a tour of the Sullenberger Aviation Museum. In the news, Boeing delivers its quality improvement plan to the FAA, and United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby calls for more competition in the airline industry. Sullenberger Aviation Museum The museum at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport in North Carolina has been reimagined with new interactive experiences for visitors. The centerpiece is the “Miracle on the Hudson” exhibition featuring the jet that landed safely in New York's Hudson River in 2009 - US Airways Flight 1549. The Sullenberger Aviation Museum (an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution) tells stories of innovation, hope, and heroism throughout the history of aviation, It seeks to inspire visitors of all ages to pursue their dreams and goals. Sully Sullenberger next to Flight 1549 We spoke with: Katie Swaringen, Vice President of Collections, took us on a walking tour of the museum and explained some of the interactive experiences. Stephen Saucier, President and CEO of the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, describes the museum's vision, the master planning process, and experience design with Freeman Ryan Design. The result meets the needs of the community (STEM education, access to careers, workforce development), the many sponsors and contributors. Todd Giles, the CTO at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, describes the company's motivations for sponsoring the museum and the Maker Space. We talk about the Honeywell APU in Flight 1549 and touch on the SmartRunway and SmartLanding traffic awareness offerings to come, as well as new bizjet and eVTOL cockpits. Inspire, educate, and elevate: The Miracle on the Hudson – The Sullenberger Aviation Museum takes flight in Charlotte Video: The Sullenberger Aviation Museum takes flight in Charlotte https://youtu.be/FTPUgdipMi0?si=pXCW5NPmKpPlN-Ju Aviation News Boeing Gives F.A.A. Plan to Address Systemic Quality-Control Issues In response to an FAA order, Boeing delivered a “comprehensive action plan” to address the airframer's systemic issues. Boeing did not set a timeline to make changes. Boeing developed six metrics for tracking the plan's progress. Video: FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker holds a briefing to discuss Boeing's safety issues — 5/30/2024 https://www.youtube.com/live/_DmZrP50paI?si=br5w-tIMGzeOo3iv Scott Kirby Says It's Time to End the Big Jet Airline Duopoly United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says it's time for more competition. From The Air Current. Mentioned Whirlwind - Wikipedia Bristol Helicopters - Wikipedia Iran President's Crash Highlights Struggle to Upgrade an Aging Fleet - WSJ paywall Japan Air Lines Flight 123 - Wikipedia Hosts this Episode Max Flight, Rob Mark, David Vanderhoof, and our Main(e) Man Micah.
Airplane tail strike, miracle flights, 737 MAX Deferred Prosecution Agreement, the FAA Reauthorization Act, airport name changes, and fatal helicopter crash in Iran. Also, a report on the Valdez Fly-In and Airshow, and a scenic flight around Denali Mountain. Aviation News NTSB Releases Final Report Of United Airlines Boeing 737 Tail Strike In Houston The NTSB report of the January 2024 tail strike says the 737-900ER touched down three times while landing. The aircraft's aft fuselage "impacted the runway as a result of a delayed flare and subsequent nose-high pitch inputs." The initial touchdown force was 1.87G and the second touchdown was 2.87G. An article in SKYbrary states that “various studies by several of the major aircraft manufacturers have arrived at similar conclusions regarding the primary cause of tail strike. The most significant common factor is the amount of flight crew experience with the specific model of aircraft being flown.” Studies identified eight specific Causal Factors that greatly increase the risk of a tail strike: During take-off: Improperly Set Elevator Trim or Mis-Trimmed Stabiliser Rotation at Incorrect Speed Excessive Rotation Rate Improper Use of the Flight Director During landing: Unstabilized Approach Excessive Hold-Off in the Flare Crosswinds Over-Rotation During Go-Around Over 65% of tail strikes occur during landings, while only 25% happen during takeoffs. With One Simple Change, Southwest Airlines Will Deal Blow To Wheelchair Scammers, Unruly Passengers And Seat Savers Southwest Airlines is considering implementing assigned seating, eliminating the need for passengers to board early to get a good seat. The change would address “the phenomenon of passengers faking disabilities to board early, end the practice of seat saving, and make it easier to identify unruly passengers on board.” Currently, Southwest is the only airline that doesn't have passenger names and seat assignments on the flight's manifest. DOJ Takes Key Step to Hold Boeing Accountable for 737 MAX8 Crash Deaths The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has determined that Boeing breached the January 2021 Deferred Prosecution Agreement. The Clifford law firm (which represents families of the Boeing 787 MAX8 crash victims) says that Boeing could now face a criminal trial, although more action is needed from the DOJ. Bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Act Signed Into Law Senate passes sweeping FAA bill focused on safety and consumer protections Unions Notch Congress Win to Keep Pilots' Retirement Age at 65 H.R.3935 - Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act American Airlines Bus Service Connecting Wilmington Delaware Airport (ILG) to PHL to Start This Fall The Delaware River & Bay Authority announced that American Airlines and its partner Landline Co. plan to launch a bus service between Wilmington Airport (ILG) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Passengers flying out of Philly can park, check bags, and pass through security at the Wilmington Airport. Chicago-Bound United Airlines Boeing 767 Diverts to Ireland After Passenger Gets Laptop Wedged Stuck in Business Class Seat United Airlines flight 12 from Zurich to Chicago O'Hare was forced to make an emergency diversion to Shannon, Ireland after a passenger got their laptop stuck in a Business Class seat aboard the Boeing 767-300. Two More Airports Are Fighting Over Using a City Name, This Time in Canada Where a Lawsuit Is Already Underway Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is suing Saint-Hubert Airport after the smaller airport decided to rebrand itself as Montreal Metropolitan Airport. Valdez Fly-In and Airshow Listener Brian and Cora attended the 2024 Valdez Fly-In and Airshow in Alaska and provided a trip report. The couple also took a scenic flight around Denali Mountain and the report highlights the unique experiences and stunning views. ...
Korean Air 747s will become the new doomsday planes, the new ATC rest rules have been delayed by the FAA, Breeze flight attendants voted to join the union, a United jumpseat pilot has upset some Southwest pilots, the GA flyover in DC was a success, Boeing employees were found to have falsified 787 Dreamliner inspection records, Airbus hasn't leveraged an advantage in light of Boeing's woes, and airlines sue the DOT over a new rule requiring the disclosure of fees. Aviation News Former Korean Air 747s Slated To Become USAF Doomsday Planes Korean Air has confirmed the sale of five of its 747-8s to Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), which is building the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) aircraft, also referred to as “doomsday planes.” The USAF states: The E-4B "Nightwatch" serves as the National Airborne Operations Center and is a component of the National Military Command System for the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In case of national emergency or destruction of ground command and control centers, the aircraft provides a highly survivable command, control, and communications center to direct U.S. forces, execute emergency war orders, and coordinate actions by civil authorities. SNC acquired five Boeing 747-8s from Korean Air. The current E-4B aircraft are based on the 747-200. SNC specializes in aircraft modification and integration as well as space technologies. FAA Delaying the Start of ATC Rest Rules The new FAA ATC rest requirements require controllers to have at least 10 hours off between shifts and 12 hours off before a midnight shift. The rule was to have taken effect by mid-July. However, the FAA has delayed those requirements while it talks to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) union. FAA Air Traffic Organization Chief Operating Officer Timothy Arel hopes to reach a joint rest period agreement for the 2025 schedule "or sooner where feasible." Flight attendants at this Utah airline just voted ‘overwhelmingly' to unionize More than 76% of the roughly 600 Breeze Airways flight attendants voted to join the Association of Flight Attendants. AFA international president Sara Nelson said “We are inspired by their solidarity and thrilled to welcome them to our AFA family. Our labor movement is growing. Everywhere.” See: Breeze Flight Attendants Vote Overwhelmingly to Join the Flight Attendant Union. “Breeze Flight Attendants organized for a union and a contract due to ongoing issues with constantly-changing work rules, substandard pay for time on the job, inadequate hotel accommodations, insufficient work hours, and inconsistent and disrespectful treatment from management.” American Airlines is Issuing ‘Poverty Verification Letters' For New-Hire Flight Attendants Because Their Wages Are So Low Nearly One in Ten Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants Have Experienced Homelessness in the Past Year and Over a Third Have Been Forced to Use a Food Bank Poverty verification letters are being sent to some new-hire flight attendants based in expensive areas. Airline Feud Escalates: United Pilots Barred From Southwest Airlines Jump Seats After Controversial Incident This stems from an incident where a “relatively new” United pilot reported some “inadequacies” to the FAA after jumpseating on a Southwest flight. AOPA's General Aviation Flyover in DC Video: LIVE DC Flyover - AOPA's National Celebration of General Aviation https://www.youtube.com/live/vpSaYYcljIk?si=7eb13EFMVeUZUx4o FAA is investigating Boeing for apparent missed inspections on 787 Dreamliner Boeing voluntarily disclosed to the FAA that some B787 Dreamliner inspections may not have been performed, but were signed off as completed. The inspections are intended to verify adequate bonding and grounding at the wing-fuselage joint. In a statement to NPR, the FAA said it's also investigating "whether Boeing completed the inspections and whe...
Pilot training with guest Jason Miller from The Finer Points. In the news, more pilot downsizing, new DOT rules for canceled and significantly delayed flights, the FAA reauthorization bill, a general aviation flyover of the nation's capital, and airport vs. tornado.
FAA addresses controller fatigue, runway incursion, American safety issues, Boom SFA to exceed Mach 1, states can enforce airline consumer laws, bill to ban CLEAR.
Airline industry insights, Korean and JAL orders, Frontier pilot training, frequent flyer rewards, airport name change, Boeing 797.
SouthWings volunteer pilot organization, best-selling piston aircraft, student pilot stats, LearJet world flight, Las Vegas airport, skipping TSA, flight deck features, Spirit order deferral.
Stratolaunch Talon A2 hypersonic vehicle, COMAC C929, pilfering on Air Force One, Gulfstream G700, Spirit Airlines' credit boost, pilot therapy sessions, United pilot capacity, Frontier Airlines' prank.
U.S. Space Force, business aviation tax proposals, probable cause for the LATAM 787 dive, FAA production audit at Boeing, NTSB hearing on 737, JetBlue gets unfavorable response after a flight.
Airline ticket price components, Machinist's Union and Boeing contract, NTSB is unhappy with cooperation from Boeing, a large American Airlines order, Indonesian pilots fall asleep, Alaskan law enforcement use of aircraft, LATAM flight experiences a “technical event” with injuries.
Space Shuttle Endeavour at California Science Center, T-7A Red Hawk program delay, El Al communication takeover, infrastructure grants for US airports, Delta trading cards, Boeing immunity deal.
The Flying Tigers 69th DRS Association, GPS jamming and spoofing, 737 MAX 9 lawsuits, Boeing quality, SAF options, pilot retirement age, AV-8B Harrier.
Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems, lap babies, proposed JetBlue and Spirit Airlines merger, airline route growth, Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, B-21 Raider, more favorite aviation movies.
Inflight connectivity, B737 MAX 9 inspections, unleaded avgas, an Air Force officer crowned Miss America, more favorite aviation movies.
Two X-59 test pilots discuss the NASA Quesst mission, the design and technology of the X-59 aircraft, the role of test pilots, and the challenges of flying supersonic.
The experiences of a NASA astronaut, 737 Max 9 grounded, A350 collides with Dash-8, air rage, Smart Gating, 300 hybrid-electric aircraft buy.
This is a recap of the top 10 posts on Hacker News on January 7th, 2023.This podcast was generated by wondercraft.ai(00:41): GitUIOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38905019&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(02:28): iPhone that fell from hole in Alaska 737 MAX flight is found, still open to MailOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38907620&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(03:48): "LibreOffice is better at reading old Word files than Word"Original post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38906331&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(05:23): NHS to investigate Palantir influencer campaign as possible contract breachOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38902983&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(07:20): Irish State announce plan to build a porn preference register for most of the EUOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38902407&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(09:15): The immediate victims of a con would rather act as if the con never happenedOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38903145&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(11:09): Windows XP 2024 Edition is everything I want from a new OSOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38903314&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(13:11): What does the cerebellum do?Original post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38905898&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(14:56): Someone bought 26.9 BTC on Binance and sent it to Satoshi's dead walletOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38900049&utm_source=wondercraft_ai(16:37): The New York Times Launches a Strong Case Against Microsoft and OpenAIOriginal post: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=38900197&utm_source=wondercraft_aiThis is a third-party project, independent from HN and YC. Text and audio generated using AI, by wondercraft.ai. Create your own studio quality podcast with text as the only input in seconds at app.wondercraft.ai. Issues or feedback? We'd love to hear from you: team@wondercraft.ai
Flying Breeze Airways, getting into aviation, family holiday story, becoming an air marshal, Collings Foundation, getting to know Launchpad Marzari, 2023 year in review.
Aircraft leases, Southwest FAs must vote again, video stunt pilot stunt flying again, 737NG nacelle retrofits, PW1100G engine inspections, Southwest fined, museum for WWII crashes.
Moving to a multi-engine aircraft, a Southwest airport lounge idea, Best Restroom, hydrogen engine for GA, municipal airport challenges, GA deliveries.
$30 Billion Port Authority capital plan, unruly passenger fine, remote airport tower certification, public charter flights, possible AA strike, ATC graduates skip FAA training.
Why flying is miserable and how to fix it, NTSB on increase in near-misses, ARC will examine pilot mental health, preliminary Hawker/Cessna accident report, cargo pilots offered $250,000 to go regional, UA frequent flyer program.
The North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco, Van's Aircraft financial issues, DOT and Schiphol airport, Federal Flight Deck Officer threatens another pilot.
Success factors for small airports, bizjets collision at Houston Hobby, airline cockpit safety, the NBAA show, new FAA administrator, Spirit halts pilot and FA training.
Interviews from Cranky Dorkfest 2023, Micah on lighter than air vehicles, and a chance encounter at Costco.
The airline boarding process, Leap-1A engine compressor-stalls, the $19 billion Kennedy Airport transformation project, SpaceX Starlink Internet connectivity on planes, and an update on the oldest skydiver. Also, another Australia Desk report and great listener mail.
A transonic truss-braced wing X-Plane, air travel capacity, germs on airliners, B-17 crash victim settlement.
Xwing autonomous aircraft, Delta loyalty program, GPS spoofing, Schipol capacity, crash takes two lives, a 104-year-old woman goes skydiving.
Rigid airships and the fatal crash of R101, pilot medical conditions, Boom Supersonic XB-1, fatal military crashes, more air traffic controllers needed.
We speak with a Curtiss P-40 Warhawk owner and pilot, and with an Assistant Chief Pilot at United Airlines.
https://www.passrider.com/whit/episode-103ATC Issues On The U.S. East Coast. 717 Lands On Its Nose. Longest MAX Flight?Support the show
Drone Safety Day, shape-changing drone, jump-start your car, Florida bans DJI, sUAS decision-making, avoiding collisions, adding VTOL to fixed-wing, farmers save water, land a drone in Red Square.
Max Flight reports from the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held October 1-9, 2022. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Balloon Fiesta.
Returning all-star guest Max Flight helps me cover 17 ways to re-evaluate your podcast this summer, and we also discuss Max's latest podcast production workflow, equipment, software and more. Max has been producing aviation podcasts since 2008: Airplane Geeks (now over 700 episodes!) The UAV Digest (looking at unmanned aircraft or drones) Check out his main site — http://thirtythousandfeet.com/ He was previously on episodes 20 and 39 of this show Check out his equipment, software, services and more below... We discuss these 17 ways in which you can re-evaluate and improve your show this summer: Update your goals Change the format Start using chapters Personal focus on eliminating verbal crutches. (A short duration of intense focus will provide years of good results) Change and/or add equipment Sell old equipment Treat yourself to that mic you've always wanted Sound absorption and diffusers Add a new segment Cover new yet pertinent subject matter topics Publish in video format as well Publish better shownotes Revamp your marketing Evaluate the shows overall effectiveness Hire a VA Bring on a cohost Decide to end your show??? Perhaps decide you want to become a professional podcast engineer/producer and earn a great living producing podcasts for clients - from home?! And here's a lot more detail on Max's production: Big changes since PES 20 and PES 39 mostly involve a simplification of the signal path: Skype and cohost multi-enders replaced by Riverside.fm Behringer mixer (still going strong since 2009!) replaced with MixPre The MixPre handles all mic pre-amplification Sound clips and pre-recorded segments played through Riverside, replacing an iOS soundboard Backup recording is handled by the MixPre Current equipment: Sound Devices MixPre-6 Also use a MixPre-3 Gen 2 for field recordings Zoom H5 for field recordings, too Heil PR40 Sennheiser MD46 interview mic Dell XPS 16 and MacBook Pro 15-inch, 2018 model, 2.9GHz i9 32 GB laptops Audio Technica ATH-M50x headphones Yamaha HS5 monitors Software: Riverside.fm (was Skype then Squadcast) Hindenburg Journalist Pro Audacity (yep!) iZotope RX 8 Advanced ID3 Editor for tagging Services: Media hosting: Blubrry and Libsyn Website hosting: Bluehost and SiteGround Notes from Max: I'm retired and traveling more which makes weekly podcast production a bit more difficult. Biggest current problem: At the home studio I mix/master with my Yamaha monitors, which I love. I can't master properly with the Audio Technica headphones when traveling. Other Notes: If you ever have questions please reach out! You can sign up to receive Daily Goody's in your email a few times per week or a weekly roundup. Sign up here. The start date for the next PES semester is Sep. 13, 2022! (fyi, the course is delivered once per quarter) If you'd like to share this show with any of your podcaster friends, feel free to send them a message saying, “Btw, here's a show about podcast audio production you may find helpful” with this link: https://podcastengineeringschool.com/subscribe/) Let me know if you have any questions or need any help with anything, ~Chris
Welcome to the Instant Trivia podcast episode 399, where we ask the best trivia on the Internet. Round 1. Category: Your Days Are Numbered 1: Dies Martis is the Latin name for this day of the week. Tuesday. 2: Number of months with only 30 days. four. 3: Years that read the same upside down and right side up include 1881, 6009 and this year of the 1960s. 1961. 4: Title of the 1965 Beatles No. 1 hit song that is a calendrical impossiblity. "Eight Days A Week". 5: In the DD/MM/YYYY format, it was the most recent date in which all 3 were even numbers. December 30, 2006. Round 2. Category: A Spot Of "T" 1: It's what was showered down upon Charles Lindbergh at a parade in NYC in June 1927. ticker tape. 2: To write down words, especially from audio to written form. transcribe. 3: In 1998 a $15 million production of this opera was staged in its actual setting, the Forbidden City. Turandot. 4: Middle Caicos is the largest island in this British dependency in the West Indies. the Turks and Caicos. 5: This general came to power in Panama in 1968 and led the drive to end U.S. control of the canal. Omar Torrijos. Round 3. Category: "In" Places 1: In February 1994 an earthquake struck the island of Sumatra in this nation, killing 215 people. Indonesia. 2: Civilization in the valley of this Pakistani river dates back about 4500 years. the Indus River. 3: Technically, it comprises the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles. the West Indies. 4: This capital of Tyrol has hosted 2 Winter Olympic games. Innsbruck. 5: This Missouri city is headquarters to the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Independence. Round 4. Category: Wham-O 1: In 1997 Wham-O introduced a Max Flight version of this 1950s sensation that flew farther and was easy to catch. the Frisbee. 2: Wham-O owners heard about Australian kids using a bamboo ring for exercise; it became this 1958 fad. a Hula hoop. 3: Wham-O received its name from this first product; when a projectile hit its target, it made a "Wham-O" sound. a slingshot. 4: This 1962 Wham-O game named for a dance craze came with a moveable cross bar and 2 support stands. limbo. 5: Versions of this lawn toy to keep you cool in the summer include "Wave Rider" and "Bounce 'N Splash". a Slip 'N Slide. Round 5. Category: "Ez" Does It 1: It's the crime of stealing money that has been entrusted to one's care. embezzlement. 2: In its 1979 peace treaty with Egypt, Israel was guaranteed unrestricted use of this waterway. the Suez Canal. 3: "And a Voice to Sing With" and "Daybreak" are autobiographies by this famous folk singer. Joan Baez. 4: He was ruler of the Aztecs at the time Cortes came a-calling. Montezuma. 5: The name of this Indian tribe that lives in Idaho is French for "pierced nose". Nez Perce. Thanks for listening! Come back tomorrow for more exciting trivia!
The DGCA has issued an AIC dated 20th April 2021 which states that The operation of B737 Max aircraft will not take place from/to Indian airports & transit or enter Indian airspace effective 13th March 2019 till further notice. The Watchdog Faults FAA For 'Significant Misunderstanding' Of Flight System --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/safetymatters/message
In this episode, co-hosts Max Flight and Mary Kirby consider whether the aviation industry is poised for a faster-than-expected recovery given the extraordinary pent-up demand for air travel. They discuss IATA’s latest survey, which suggests that people will fly once they receive the COVID-19 vaccine.But has the pandemic reset our passenger experience expectations?Next, Cathay Pacific’s decision to let first and business passengers remove their masks when sleeping in the lie-flat position has generated a mixed response from readers. Some reckon that it makes common sense, others see it as classist and unfair. Mary and Max explore both sides of the argument.Finally, aviation seems to be largely in agreement that, in a post-COVID world, its eco-credentials must improve. Myriad new ideas have been tabled to date including new turboprops, blended wing body aircraft, hybrid electric aircraft, plus new turbofans and synthetic fuel, not to mention exploratory studies into hydrogen-powered aircraft. A former executive for Pratt & Whitney, Max shares some insight into the challenges of going green, and some of his favorite ideas.
Judge blocks expulsions of unaccompanied children under Trump's border rules. US lifts Boeing 737 MAX flight ban after two fatal crashes. Jeff Bezos announces first beneficiaries of his ten billion dollar climate fund. You can subscribe to Five Minute News on YouTube, with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. Subscribe, rate and review at www.fiveminute.news Five Minute News is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential world news, daily.
Toss the feathers with a great mix of Celtic music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Stringer's Ridge, Emerald Accent, Seasons, Plaid Menagerie, Christine Primose, Bua, Blame Not the Bard, The Homespun Ceilidh Band, IIsabeau Corriveau et Les tisseurs de rêves, Skeleton McKee, Highland Reign, Hugh Morrison, Brave the Sea, Jennifer Licko I hope you enjoyed this week's show. If you did, please share the show with ONE friend. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast is here to build our community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, buy the albums, shirts, and songbooks, follow the artists on Spotify, see their shows, and drop them an email to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Remember also to Subscribe to the Celtic Music Magazine. Every week, you will get a few cool bits of Celtic music news. It's a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Plus, you'll get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free, just for signing up today. VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. Just list the show number, and the name of as many bands in the episode as you like. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2020 episode. Vote Now! THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC 0:03 - "Mouth of the Tobique / Old French / De Saint Paul a Terrebonne" by Stringer's Ridge from Handmade 4:33 - WELCOME 5:33 - "Toss the Feathers/Oak Tree/Foxhunters" by Emerald Accent from The Oats Field 11:16 - "I Care Not For These Ladies" by Seasons from Seasons 14:56 - "Captain Horne/In and Out the Harbor/Dinky Dorian's" by Plaid Menagerie from Plaid Menagerie 18:23 - "An Gille Donn (The Brown-haired Lad)" by Christine Primose from Gràdh is Gonadh - Guth ag aithris (Love and Loss - A Lone Voice) 22:38 - CELTIC FEEDBACK 27:28 - "The Killashandra Lasses / Down the Green Fields" by Bua from Down the Green Fields 30:32 - "Johnny Jump Up" by Blame Not the Bard from Soundcheck 34:39 - "Nine Points of Roguery / Gravel Walk / The High Reel" by The Homespun Ceilidh Band from Demo 38:51 - "Are You Sleeping" by IIsabeau Corriveau et Les tisseurs de rêves from Leap of Faith Robert Tannahill 43:32 - CELTIC PODCAST NEWS 45:10 - "This Is the Life" by Skeleton McKee from Edinburgh Underground 48:32 - "Bonnie Eilidh" by Highland Reign from Bring Forrit the Tartan 52:41 - "Dance Hall Girl" by Hugh Morrison from The Other Side 56:50 - "Put Me On A Boat" by Brave the Sea from The Kraken 58:33 - CLOSING 59:55 - "Fill Iu O" by Jennifer Licko from Sing The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. To subscribe, go to Apple Podcasts or to our website where you can become a Patron of the Podcast for as little as $1 per episode. Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/. WELCOME TO CELTIC MUSIC * Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. My name is Marc Gunn. I am a Celtic musician and podcaster. This show is dedicated to the indie Celtic musicians. Please support these artists. Share the show with your friends. And find more episodes at celticmusicpodcast.com. You can also support this podcast on Patreon. CELTIC PODCAST NEWS THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Because of Your kind and generous support, this show comes out every week. Your generosity funds the creation, promotion and production of the show. It allows us to attract new listeners and to help our community grow. As a patron, you get to hear episodes before regular listeners. When we hit a milestone, you get an extra-long episode. You can pledge a dollar or more per episode and cap how much you want to spend each month over on Patreon. Your contribution also allows us to support the Middle Tennessee Highland Games & Celtic Festival in 2021 and the Texas Scottish Festival on October 16-18. A big special thanks to our newest patrons: Jeff, Brian M O, Joe H, Hiroki C, Kirk N and our newest Celtic Legend Samir Malak You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com. TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/ #celticmusic #irishmusic #celticpodcast I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? You can send a written comment along with a picture of what you're doing while listening. Email a voicemail message to celticpodcast@gmail.com Diana Stanley posted on the Facebook comments: "I listened to this show while exploring a remote park in Lawrence, Kansas. So basically, it was the perfect music choice." Woodland Folk emailed about the Women's song episode with one word: "Amazing" Mary Graham emailed: "Hi Mark, I’ve been listening to Celtic music since I was a kid, as it was a favorite of my dad, so I was thrilled when I recently discovered your podcast. I listen to podcasts a couple hours per day because the commute to my kids’ school is so long I spend a couple hours per day on my cargo bike. I can’t really take a selfie while riding so you’ll just have to imagine me rocking out or Singing along to your amazing compilations while whizzing through the beautiful Dutch dunes and woods on my electric cargo bike, often with two little girls in front in the cargo part...it makes my commute SO much fun so a big thanks to you! Greetings from the Netherlands, a great Place to be despite its deficit of Celtic music." Max Flight emailed: "I was listening to Libsyn's The Feed podcast and heard your immediately identifiable voice talking about chapters. Even though it takes more production time, I've started using chapters in my podcast. I overruled my co-hosts who thought it would make it too easy for listeners to skip content. My logic is whatever makes it easier for listeners to get value is good. If they skip a segment in an episode and concentrate on what they want to hear, great! That's better than them unsubscribing because they are tired of listening to stuff they don't care about. As for your show (which I'm very fond of, by the way), I've hoped for chapters because I could easily re-listen to songs. Sometimes I'm listening to an episode and I'd really like to go back and re-listen to a piece. Maybe it was so good I want it again. Maybe I was distracted and didn't realize until half way through that I've missed something wonderful. Chapters would make that super-easy. Anyway, just my thoughts." Brian McReynolds emailed a photo from episode #460: “Working on some edging for our fire pit/raised planter area in our yard. Your podcast makes a somewhat tedious job more enjoyable.”
Episode 15: Allan Tépper and Chris Curran of Podcast Engineering School present a new sniglet for all casters. Max Flight of Airplane Geeks joins the 48 kHz Alliance. Allan Tépper helps you create your online show. BeyondPodcasting resides at BeyondPodcasting.com … Continued
Welcome to Episode 065 of the #PaxEx Podcast, which tracks how the airline passenger experience is evolving in a mobile, social, vocal world.
Welcome to the Episode 061 of the #PaxEx podcast, which tracks how the airline passenger experience is evolving in a mobile, social, vocal world. In this episode, co-hosts Max Flight and Mary Kirby tackle a variety of issues that could have a very real impact on #PaxEx for economy class passengers and passengers with reduced mobility.
Miles to Go - Travel Tips, News & Reviews You Can't Afford to Miss!
Welcome to the first episode of Miles to Go! What better way to celebrate our inaugural episode then by talking to Gary Leff of View from the Wing about his experience on American Airlines' inaugural 737 MAX flight? We're also joined by Jen Yellin from Deals We Like on the current wave of hotel promotions you might not know about. Lastly, Jeanne Marie Hoffman from Le Chic Geek gives us her best tips and tricks when planning a trip to Las Vegas. Thanks to our Sponsors: Gogo In-Flight Internet Freddie Awards | Voice of the Frequent Flyer Timestamps: 0:23 - Meet your host, Ed Pizza! 5:50 - American Airlines' inaugural 737 MAX flight 21:55 - Current Hotel Promotions 28:56 - Las Vegas Tips & Tricks 42:13 - The Final Two Pennies/This week's Gogo secret phrase/Next episode sneak peek Links: Gary's 737 MAX Blog Post Deals We Like Homepage Le Chic Geek Homepage Gogo Secret Phrase Giveaway Page
My guest (for his 2nd appearance) is Max Flight, host of Airplane Geeks Podcast, co-host and producer of The UAV Digest and the #PaxEx Podcast. Max continues to amp up his production quality, equipment and workflow so I wanted to speak with him about his new toys and plugins. (check out his first appearance here) We covered: How Max and I eliminated some slight distortion from his signal just before recording this session Aston Microphones “Spirit" (A 20% coupon helped. Max likes it, though it's obviously different than his Heil PR40 in many ways. Certainly requires different EQ - mostly a 3 or 4db bump around 4K, to his ear) Warm Audio WA12 mic pre (Max saw it at a Guitar Center, "Look honey, it's orange!" and Googled the reviews, so he bought it at a really good price) Waves DeBreath plugin Spitfish de-esser (one of his guests on Airplane Geeks had a huge sibilance problem) Thanks again, Max! FYI, follow Max on Twitter @MaxFlight DID YOU KNOW........We exist for the purpose of helping you, so please comment below with any questions or remarks. Thanks for listening! Want to Start a Business or Have a Career as a Podcast Producer/Engineer? Listen and Subscribe in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, Android, RSS
My guest is Max Flight, host of Airplane Geeks Podcast, co-host and producer of The UAV Digest and the #PaxEx Podcast. We talked about all phases of his podcast production. This is an overview of what Max's engineering in his own words from an email he sent me: I'm involved with 3 podcasts, all aviation-related: Airplane Geeks: Co-founder (2008), host, and producer (since 2009). The UAV Digest: A spinoff from Airplane Geeks. I co-host and produce. The PaxEx Podcast: Co-host and I produce it up to the MP3, after which I hand it off. All shows are over Skype with co-host(s) and guest. Mix-minus, 2 laptops, record into both hardware and software, soundboard on iPad. I record in my home studio, in hotel rooms, at conferences and public events (annually at the Smithsonian's Air & Space Museum). So depending on the situation, I use the Heil PR40, Sennheiser e835, AudioTechnica ATR2100, and a Sennheiser MD 46 interview mic. Other gear: TritonAudio FetHead, Marantz PMD620 and Zoom H4n recorders, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, a bunch of Behringer UCA-2xx audio interfaces, Sennheiser A380 and Sony MDR V6 headphones, Monster Cable 3500, Yamaha HS5 monitor. I've used a Presonus Tube-pre in the past, but not lately. For software I use Audacity and Hindenburg Journalist Pro. I love Hindy. It's really a different model for a DAW. I like to record clean at proper levels with no effects (and little to no noise floor). Each person on their own track, EQ by track, global compression, loudness at -16 LUFS. Thank you for being a wonderful guest, Max! FYI, follow Max on Twitter @MaxFlight DID YOU KNOW........We exist for the purpose of helping you, so please comment below with any questions or remarks. Thanks for listening! Want to Start a Business or Have a Career as a Podcast Producer/Engineer? Listen and Subscribe in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, Android, RSS
The FAA created an advisory committee, permits educational institutions to fly UAS, and rescinded a proposed website for collecting reports of bad drone behaviour. UPS and Zipline partner for drone delivery of medical packages, and more interviews from the Drone Dealer Expo. Zipline International medical package delivery drone News FAA Administrator Makes Major Drone Announcements FAA Administrator Michael Huerta made two significant announcements at the AUVSI annual conference in New Orleans. Another advisory committee is being formed to provide advice on unmanned aircraft integration issues. Huerta said, "Input from stakeholders is critical to our ability to achieve that perfect balance between integration and safety. We know that our policies and overall regulation of this segment of aviation will be more successful if we have the backing of a strong, diverse coalition." Huerta also announced that students can operate UAS for educational and research purposes without going through the Section 333 process. This allows educational institutions to conduct activities that have been restricted in the past. UPS-backed Rwandan blood deliveries show drones' promise, hurdles The UPS Foundation announced a partnership with Zipline, a California-based robotics company, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance to “explore using drones to transform the way life-saving medicines like blood and vaccines are delivered across the world.” The UPS Foundation has awarded an $800,000 grant to support the initial launch of this initiative in Rwanda using Zipline fixed-wing drones. Zipline International, Inc. is a robotics company that works with governments to provide access to medical products at the last mile. Zipline is supported by investors such as Sequoia Capital, Google Ventures, SV Angel, Subtraction Capital, Yahoo founder Jerry Yang, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Stanford University. UPDATE: FAA Withdraws Request for Drone Reports Dubbed Witchhunt By Many Congress has directed the FAA to “assess the flight behavior of [drones] and enable the reporting of [drone] sightings that cause public concern for safety, national security, and/or privacy.” In response, the FAA planned to launch a website to collect “airborne and ground based observations by the public of drone behavior that they consider suspicious or illegal.” Now, however, the FAA has withdrawn the plan [PDF], citing that the proposal “contained errors, and needs further clarification.” Drone Dealer Expo Interviews More interviews by Tim Trott of Southern Helicam from the Expo: David Alamillo, Chief Pilot and Flight Operations Manager, Farm Solutions, which manages sensor output for agricultural applications, and integrates with drone manufacturers Mark Manson, Consumer Experience Lead for Academy of Model Aeronautics Videos of the Week Max and @dronemama Fly Away Dronie This “fly away dronie” of Max Flight and @dronemama was taken by Hover Solutions, LLC at the 2016 Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival at the Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, Maryland. Hover Solutions was at the Festival with their DJI Inspire 1 to film the festival for the organizers. Hover Solutions provides aerial photography and video for clients, UAV education, and industrial applications such as orthomosaic mapping and multisensor scanning services, including 3D modeling and NDVI overlays. Hover Solutions will be exhibiting at the 2016 Howard County Fair, August 6-13, 2016, at the Howard County Fairground in West Friendship, Maryland. They'll have a booth next to the main building. Stop by and say hello! Clash of epochs: Drone speared at history festival in central Russia A drone that was filming a historical reenactment in Russia was taken down by a spear thrown by a man dressed as an ancient Russian warrior. How often do you see that?
Welcome to the first episode of season two of The Podcast Producers. We'd first like to say thank you to Podcast Movement for sponsoring us. So, what's in store for season two? Well, we're taking a different direction to the second season than we did in the first. Our goal this season is to have fun and interview some 'old-timer' podcasters. We are kicking off this season with our first guest Dave Jackson, the host of School of Podcasting. He is funny, he has been podcasting for a long, long while, and he's working with Libsyn now! Key Takeaways: [0:06] Thank you Podcast Movement for sponsoring us! [0:50] Welcome to season two of The Podcast Producers! [3:45] Are we seriously going to do another ten episodes in two months? [4:10] Wait! Why are we doing this? What's the purpose of season two? [5:15] The most important part for us is to make this enjoyable and fun. [5:55] How did we choose these guests for the show? [7:55] Our guests have been podcasting for at least one year. [8:50] Today's guest is Dave Jackson from School of Podcasting. [9:55] Podcast Movement bought all of our ad space for season two. [12:45] Are you guys going to Podcast Movement? Call us at 347-480-1153 and leave us a message. [14:00] Welcome Dave! Sorry we had to reschedule twice. [19:00] Dave has helped more people at Libsyn than he did as a teacher. [20:45] What are review swaps? [23:20] At the end of the day, review swaps are hurting you more than helping you. [26:20] The number of reviews you have does not increase your audience size. [26:50] At the end of the day, it's really about delivering value to your audience. [28:10] The podcaster, Max Flight, started a Slack group for his audience. [29:15] Don't focus on the stats. Instead, focus on your target audience and create relationships with them. [29:50] What's the deal with iTunes' New and Noteworthy section? [32:45] You're actually not going to see a huge audience spike if you're in this section. [33:45] Don't make such a big deal about getting into New and Noteworthy. [35:35] Dave has a loud cat and his listeners can hear him in the background. [39:15] Which podcasts does Dave listen to? [41:15] Dave doesn't find the comedy category podcasts all that funny these days. [44:20] Did Dave receive comedy training? His timing is always on point. [46:50] Want to grow your audience? Find your competition and then start your show with them. [47:15] Corey talks about the elevator incident with Ray Ortega. [48:10] Dave Jackson is Corey's hero. Mentioned in This Episode: www.podcastmovement.com/ www.thepodcastproducers.com/ www.rhodestosuccesspodcast.com/ www.interviewconnections.com/ www.podfly.net/ www.schoolofpodcasting.com/ www.libsyn.com/ www.airplanegeeks.com www.shepodcasts.com/ www.podcastersroundtable.com/ www.podcastica.com/
in no particular order) 01:25 Exponent - the nuances of tech strategy - Submitted by Max Flight of AirplaneGeeks.com, TheUAVDigest.com, and PaxExPodcast.com 2:48 Up In Your Business - brings in inspiration to help you to create a business - Submitted by Chris Lewis of www.dadspotlight.com 4:33 School of Podcasting - All Things Podcasting - Submitted by Craig from inglespodcast.com and 08:06 Kenn from blackmanwithagun.com 09:53 Ask the Podcast Coach - Your Podcast Questions Answered - Submitted by Dan Lovallo from http://headlinehistory.libsyn.com/podcast 11:18 We Choose Respect - Teaches kids to be respectful - Submitted by Erik K Johnson from www.podcasttalencoach.com 13:35 You Must Remember This - Golden Age of Hollywood - Submitted by Emily and James of www.classylittlepodcast.com 16:40 Canada Land - A deep dive into the media world in Canada - Submitted by Francis McGrogan from www.standcurious.com 19:10 The Mentee - surround yourself with heavy hitting mentors - Submitted by Gretchen from www.alwaysalesson.com 20:10 Learning Leader - focuses on leadership in every field - Submitted by Gretchen (Schultek) Bridgers from www.alwaysalesson.com 20:40 Duncan Trussell Family Hour - have a good laugh every once in a while - Submitted by Harry Duran of www.podcastjunkies.com 21:56 Mat Men - I love wrestling and this network - Jeff Bradburry from www.teachercast.net 22:30 The Morning Stream - a great mix of humor, news, music, pop culture - Submitted by Jeremy Denise of transmissionspodcast.com 23:33 Bowery Boys - New York City history - Submitted by Jessica Bailey of www.funkyfitnessnow.com 24:34 Art of Manliness - Great advice for Men - Submitted by John Overall of Wordpress Plugins A to Z 26:18 Finding Christ in Cinema - tease out the bits of movies that relate to Christ - John Wilkerson of www.thewiredhomeschool.com 28:10 Grit and Hustle - full of interviews with startups who've had overcome all kinds of obstacles - Submitted by John Livesay of www.sellingsecretsforfunding.com 28:47 The Ferderalist Radio Hour - They talk politics. They talk policy. The host is is absolutely brilliant - Submitted by John Tsarpalas of www.commonwealthy.com 30:38 48 Days to the Work You Love - shows tough love to his listeners and doesn't sugar coat things for them - Submitted by Judy Graph of www.farmandranchcountry.com 32:04 Snap Judgement - great stories, music behind it, the history, and other off the wall stuff - Submitted by Ken Kastler -of www.bountifulproductions.com 32:55 Steal the Show - the most unorthodox marketing program - Submitted by Kim Kracji of www.onthetablepodcasts.com 33:53 Mac Power Users - their recommendations have never steered me wrong - Laura McClellan of www.theproductivewoman.com 36:30 Mad at Dad - If you're married and if you have kids, you probably go through the same thing - Chiaki Hinohara of www.metalmoment.com 40:19 $100 MBA - - the perfect combination of book smarts and street smarts - Submitted by Michel Nelson 0f www.byhyu.com 41:35 Art of Likability - educational podcasts that are also entertaining - Submitted by Michel Nelson 0f www.byhyu.com 42:45 Stacking Benjamins - interesting stories around the finances - Submited by Steve Stewart of No Debt, No Credit, No Problems 44:44 Writing Excuses - really gets deep into the craft - Submitted by Maya Good of www.literaryroadhouse.com 45:50 Podcast Talent Coach - amazing information that has really helped me improve my show - Submitted by Steave Stearns of www.outsidehealthandfitness.com 47:43 Security Now! - information that comes out is very timely and relevant to my day job - Submitted by Rich Warfield of www.loudpipes.net 50:05 Tim Ferris Show - He interviews top performing people from all different categories - Submitted by Scott Johnson -of Computer Tutor and Ultrafinishers 52:03 99% Invisible - Talks about all the obscure, unique things - Submitted by Sharon Marrel of www.uuperspective.com 53:25 Daily Tech News - excellent technology information that I find extremely interesting - Submitted by Al Holtz of thelastshippodcast.com & learntoselfpub.com 55:01 Thomas Jefferson Hour - life through the eyes of Thomas Jefferson - Submitted by Terry Noorda of discoveringamerica-history.com 56:05 New Media Show - Great Content You Can't Get Anywhere Else - Submitted by Dave Jackson (me) Have a Great 2016 Thanks to everyone for a great 2015. I look forward to watching the growth of podcasting in the future. If you'd like to have episodes of the School of Podcasting show up on your iPhone go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/itunes and subscribe today. If you're on an Android you can Subscribe on Android. If you'd like to get the show notes delivered to you for free, sign up for our newsletter. Check out Dave's Books More Podcast Money My Favorite Podcast 2014 My Favorite Podcast 2015 Join the School of Podcasting www.theschoolofpodcasting.com
There is a great saying, that those who learn from their mistakes are smart. Those who learn from other people's mistakes are wise. Marc Johansen sent in a voicemail stating how another podcasters who has been on the scene for almost to years stated that Apple created podcasting (they didn't) and many other obvious "untruths." It seems everyone who can press record has now dubbed themselves a podcast consultant. What is a person to do? Because of My Podcast: Marc Maron Marc Maron has already interviewed two of his childhood heroes in Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones and today he is releasing an episode where he go to interview The President of the United states. The President of the United States was on a podcast called WTF. Which makes me ask, WTF? Why Good Podcast Consulting is Expensive I occasionally get caught up with watching other consultants. I was listening to a Duo who just launched their podcast course explain how they had to record their episode four times due to a strange white noise they get when using Skype, I want to shout "Turn off the setting to let Skype adjust your volume." Now if they had hired me to troubleshoot their problem that call would have taken 5 minutes (and the way I work, they would billed for minutes - not 15). Currently a five minute call with me would be around $12.50. You might say, "How can that be it only took you a few minutes!" The truth is it's taken me 10 years of playing with technology and working with hundreds of people and their podcasts. My Podcast Dilemma If I start calling people out, I look like an egotistical jerk. If I say nothing, there is a chance you might fall prey to their crap. When in doubt, focus on making content that will inspire and impact your audience and let the chips fall. If you truly impact your audience, they will tell others about your show. Podcast Rewind I appeared on the Podcasters Roundtable with +Ray Ortega,+Daniel J. Lewis +David Jackson +Jerod Morris +Tawny Fineran and+Pilar Orti to discuss the ins and outs, ups and downs of having a podcast with co-hosts. You can hear it here. If you do interviews you HAVE To go listen to Erik K Johnson Podcast Talent Coach podcast. OMG! He has been doing a four part series on Interviewing that is just super cool and really gets me thinking. Check him out at www.podcasttalentcoach.com Follow Up On the Haters Episode: Last week we talked about dealing with negative comments and Max Flight had a great comment. He stated when someone sends you an email, tweet, etc that is negative. Ask them for their phone number of skype ID and ask them to have a live conversation. It will truly separate the men from the boys. In the end you may end up with a friend (who knows). Daniel J Lewis celebrated five years with his Noodle Mix network. He did an episode where he shared what he has learned in the past five years. A Strategy To Help Grow Your Audience: Say My Name I was driving to Michigan and my GPS had taken my the same way it always does. I looked up to see the see that the road I was supposed to take was closed. Oh no. I started following detour signs, but I was supposed to be going north, and instead I was going south. The sun would be going down, and I was getting stressed. Luckily, one of my favorite podcast from Moondog Marketing came across my playlist. John Buscal has been on this show, and I've been on his. I love the way John breaks down marketing concepts into wording that anyone can grasp. The bonus he was interviewing Andy "Dr. Pod" White. Both these guys rock, and to have them on the same show was like Ted Nugent doing a duet with Eddie Van Halen. The best part, was the stress of being almost lost subsided. I wasn't alone with just me and the woman in my GPS. My buddies John and Andy where with me and I didn't care if I was late getting to the hotel. Then it happened, they started talking about American Podcasters and before I knew it they were talking about ME. Later on the phone with my wife, I had to tell how stoked I was that my two buddies had said such kind words. I've shared the story before that when I was in Jr. High I had called a radio station and requested a song. They wouldn't play the song I wanted but instead asked me to ask them to play some Journey (or other non-metal band). Later, I heard myself on the radio. While the lack of authenticity some what ruined the moment, I WAS STILL ON THE RADIO! So I asked the members of the School of Podcasting if they had this type of experience. It's not a huge surprise, but many of us had had similar experiences. When you hear your name of a podcast its a rush. In one case John Bukenas from lets reverse obesity said he almost crashed his car. Nick Seuberling from spnt.tv told his wife who also got excited. My co-host Jim Collison from the Average Guy TV says he gets a holt every time I mention him on the show. I heard an episode of Ask Pat where the person who sent in the question stated he would "lose it" if he heard his voice on the show. Pat said that "losing it happens alot." Make it Authentic Does this mean you next podcast will just be you reading names? No. It's when someone mentions you, and they didn't have to that it maximizes the effect. I donate $10 to the Rock and Roll Geek show and every month Michael Butler reads me name. I am proud to support my friend, but its not the same jolt because he is supposed to read my name. TANGENT: Let's take a tangent shall we? It has been said that the favorite word people like to hear is their name. I get that, and this episode helps illustrate that. But I do hate the fake use of names when I'm interviewing someone. I ask the question, and they say, "You know Dave that's a good question (no it's not), and Dave when I ...." It's like keyword stuffing. You're saying my name over and over trying to stimulate me. It is a strategy used by telemarketers. Podcating is about being real, and trying to butter me up with my name? I can smell that a mile away. Contributors: Doris Smith of the Knit and Pearl Podcast Jason Bryant of Mat Talk Online Mike Dell of Podcast Help Desk Daniel J. Lewis of The Audacity to Podcast Jim Collison of the Average Guy Network Nick Seuberling of Podcasters Group Therapy (and others) John Bukenas of Let's Reverse Obesity Henry Jasper of Voices That Carry John Buscal of Moondog Marketing Andy White from the Podcasting Advisor Ready To Start Podcasting? Join the School of Podcasting and get step by step tutorials on topics such as planning your podcast, choosing the right equipment, plugging all your podcast equipment in, creating your podcast website, understanding Wordpress, Understanding RSS, Publishing Your Podcast, Growing Your Audience and so much more. You have 30 days to try it, and if you're not satisfied, you can get your money refunded. Sign up at www.theschoolofpodcasting.com
Hey there, welcome to Back-Up Stories! This week we talk a little bit about the Netflix Daredevil show and our weekly books. As usual we do get into spoiler territory. Some of this weeks titles that we discuss are Convergence #1 along with some of the Convergence Minis, Rebels #1, Southern Cross #2, S.H.I.E.L.D. #4, Howard The Duck #2, Max Flight #1, Descender #2.
What do you do when you notice your download numbers have stopped growing? Do you even notice? Do you care? Do you look for new ways to "get the word out?" Join myself (Ray Ortega)+David Jackson +Daniel J. Lewis +Jeffrey Powers +Max Flight +Christopher Gronlund and +Craig Wealand to discuss what to do, if anything, when your podcast stops growing. You can subscribe to the RSS mailing list to get new Rounds delivered to your inbox automatically. To view the chat archive which includes links, please visit the Event page for this Round. Circle Ray on Google Plus to be notified of future live recordings, to meet other podcasters and share your opinions in the chat! See ya at the next Round! Sign up to appear on a future Podcasters' Roundtable!
Join Carlos this week where due to Simon being unable to make the recording we have a special guest host on, We welcome on to the Podcast none other than Max Flight from the Airplane Geeks Podcast a real treat to all those especially me who loves the APG guys!. We chat about all the aviation news & Max has some interesting UAV news! Find him David & Rob at the Airplane Geeks Podcast each week.
Stuck Mic AvCast – An Aviation Podcast About Learning to Fly, Living to Fly, & Loving to Fly
Episode 61 is live and in living color with your favorite group of aviation drones – Carl, Victoria, Rick, Sean, and Len. We’ve got a special guest on the show today who’s going to talk about drones and unmanned aerial systems. From the in’s and out’s of regulatory concerns to privacy and security, we […] The post SMAC061 – Drones & Unmanned Aerial Systems With Airplane Geek Max Flight appeared first on Stuck Mic AvCast - An Aviation Podcast About Learning to Fly, Living to Fly, & Loving to Fly.
In today’s show we talk about the power of podcasting, as I talk about a person who purchased a fitness program after listening to one of my podcasts (and how integrity comes into play). I talk about some cool WordPress themes and some great insights into podcast promotion from Max Flight. Podcast Success Story I have been doing the Logical Weight Loss podcast for three years. I did some podcast consulting for David Greenwalt who turned out to be a fitness guru. He was nice enough to let me check out his Lifestyle University and I liked what he was doing. He just launched his once a year class Lifestyle 180, and I decide to join and have Dave on my show. It wasn’t a giant commercial, but instead we just provided some facts and let the audience decide if they wanted to join me. The good news is a listener heard my podcast, and immediately signed up (and I earned $56 commission). Cool WordPress Themes (One if Free) In the past, I’ve used Thesis until they updated to version 2 (and I feel they ruined it). I purchased iThemes Builder (which I used in the past) only to find their “Style Manager” had a problem. So I went in search of a drag and drop WordPress theme and I found Pagelines. This at is a free WordPress theme that is free (do a search in your WordPress install for pagelines). The free version has a ton of easy to customize features. The pro version is $139. The Builder Theme is $80 and it allows you to customize the colors, fonts, etc in their Style Manager. Then you can drag and drop your layout. It makes it super easy to design your website. Their are TONS of “Child Themes” that you can get access to and add to your website (A Child Theme is a premade layout and style that can save you time). Max Flight on Podcast Promotion Max flight produces the Airplane Geeks and Podcasting Passion podcasts. Today we talk about how new podcasters learn that creating the podcast is only part of the process. You need to get the word out about your podcast. Everyone always says, “Great Content” is the best tool for growing your audience. I always have said that you need to figure out who your audience is, figure out where they are, and go there and make friends. Then tell them about your podcast. Today Max provides some tips on how you can get your audience involved with helping to spread the word. We hear how he is using Facebook, Questions, and regular segments from his audience into his Airplane Geeks. Max also produces the Podcasting Passion podcast Speaking of podcast promotion, booktourradio.com and refocuspodcast.com to the podcastclicks.com website (a banner exchange program for podcasts only). We had over 14,837,913 impressions last year and we delivered 182,923 clicks to their websites. We ask the question “What is a better use of your time, creating great content or going out and telling people about your show?” Leave your answer in a comment
For those of us passionate about aviation there are a modicum of positions which allow us to foster our passion even if you don’t want to fly. As a matter of fact most aviation jobs are non flying positions. There is a wide variety of jobs available with the airlines and other businesses and government […] The post Episode 005 – Most Aviation Career positions are non flying; Interview with Max Flight a manager with a large aircraft engine manufacturer. appeared first on Aviation Careers Podcast.