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What's Up?! - September 2010
So here’s the thing!
By Larry Shapiro
Larry ShapiroI know as you read this you will be thinking, has Shapiro gone nuts again? Naaah, it’s just that I have said this so many times I keep hoping it will stick. Semi-crashed or destroyed airplanes are worth more when parted out rather than fixing and trying to sell them.
I feel the same way about tired, worn out high-time trainers. When you pass 10,000 hours as a trainer, it might be time to head for the junkyard. The doors and wings are worth lots and as a rule, we won’t accept an airplane that old to sell and especially to a zero-time buyer. If some high-time dude wants one, that’s a different story. He’ll know what he’s getting into. As the saying goes, “Ya gotta know when to fold them” before they fold.
Pancho Barnes Legend is Committed to Film With Pancho Barnes and The Happy Bottom Riding Club
By S. Mark Rhodes
The great Pancho at the peak of her profane glory. (Courtesy of the Pancho Barnes Trust Estate)If there was ever a figure worthy of cult status in the aviation world, that individual must be Florence “Pancho” Barnes. Barnes is probably best known as a character in Tom Wolfe’s The Right Stuff as well as the film version (played by Kim Stanley). The time frame of the book and especially the film pick up at a point in Barnes’ life where she is the owner and operator of the “Happy Bottom Riding Club.” The HBRC was basically a saloon out in the middle of the Mohave Dessert, which catered to the flyers at Muroc Field (later Edwards Air Force Base) who happened to be some of the finest and most legendary test pilots of the time like Chuck Yeager, Scott Crosffield and Buzz Aldrin. Barnes held court at this raucous bar and “dude ranch” for many years helping provide emotional and libational support to this elite group of aviators.
The recently released Pancho Barnes and the Happy Bottom Riding Club (Nick Spark Productions) helps give a full picture of Barnes that has only been hinted at in The Right Stuff. Barnes grew up in a kind of blue blood family in Pasadena, California where she was expected to become a society lady like her mother. This was not to be as the young Florence showed an adventuresome streak that was at considerable odds with her mom’s idea of how a young woman should conduct herself in public.
Thunder Over Michigan 2010: A Fast Flight Back In Time
By Mike Heilman
Texas Raider was one of the eight B-17Gs to fly at the Thunder Over Michigan air show. (Mike Heilman)The ramp is full of B-17s waiting to launch for their next mission. It sounds like August 1944, but it is August 2010. There were eight B-17G Flying Fortresses that took part in the Yankee Air Museum’s 12th annual air show, “Thunder over Michigan.” The two-day event was held Aug. 7-8 at the Willow Run Airport, Ypsilanti, Michigan.
The theme for this year’s show was “Gathering of Fortress & Legends.” Show organizers billed the event as the world’s largest gathering of World War II heavy bombers and veteran aircrew and maintainers since the end of the war. The B-17, B-24 and B-25 heavy bombers all were a part of the show. Also, the show hosted several former World War II crewmembers. The veterans were available for air show spectators to meet and thank for their service.
How to Maintain Your Engine
By Bill Middlebrook
(Bill Middlebrook is President and CEO of Penn Yan Aero. He is the third generation Middlebrook to own and operate the 65-year-old independent aircraft engine facility. Bill is an expert and authority on Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines.)
If you take care of your engine, your engine will take care of you. Here’s what you need to do and why:
First, take a look at your engine and its surroundings under the cowl. Is it clean? If not, clean it up so that you can properly evaluate what you have. Is there evidence of leaking oil or carbon deposits from leaking exhaust gaskets? Are there blue stains around fuel components or intake pipes? Are there any noticeable cracks? Does the baffle seal look worn or is it pliable and sealing correctly? Is there any loose hardware or loose components? Are there any frayed cables or wires? Make a list of issues and concerns. Whether you do the service, or not, this will help you keep track of who is responsible to resolve issues.
Fly with a Snowmobile Engine?
Rethinking the Rotax 912
By Ed Downs
Long used in U. S. experimental aircraft and many certified European aircraft, the Rotax 912 has become the almost-standard engine of choice for S-LSA aircraft designers. But, ask most American pilots about flying behind a Rotax, and you get the “What, me fly with a snowmobile engine?” question followed by a wide-eye look of horror when told that the 912 delivers its maximum rated 100 horsepower at 5800 rpm. Most simply equate the name Rotax with the famed two stroke engines of the Ski-Doo snowmobile and Sea-Doo watercraft. Many conclude that the Rotax 912 is simply a variation of its well-known two-stroke counterparts. Nothing could be further from reality.
Astronaut For A Day: STS 132 and the Ship Atlantis
By Pete Trubucco
From Left to right MS Garrett Reisman, Shuttle Pilot Tony Antonelli, Pete Trabucco, Commander Ken Ham, MS Michael GoodAs a pilot and space fanatic, I have always followed our NASA space program closely and secretly hoped that one day that I would be able to work with these astronauts in space. Of course this could never really occur but a funny thing did happen to me on my way to Houston (and Johnson Space Center) not too long ago. As we all know, the end of the Space Shuttle program is right around the corner. Due to budget cuts, it looks like after the final mission is scheduled for next June and the program will truly be concluded. However on a faithful day in March, I did get to play “astronaut in training” with these star voyages and I can tell you, not many things that I have done can top this experience.
As the Space Shuttle Atlantis was scheduled for its last flight, I got a call from the NASA front office saying if I were able to get down to Houston, I would be in for a real treat. The flight that was up next was designated as STS 132 and the ship Atlantis was scheduled for liftoff (from pad 34A) on May 14, 2010. This flight marked the 32nd and (at the time) final flight for Atlantis closing almost a quarter century of service for NASA and our manned space program.
Sport Flying With In Flight USA - August 2010
LSA’s Sprout Technology
By Ed Downs
Most readers of this column know by now that the S-LSA category of airplane evolved from the low tech world of ultra light designs. Some 6 years after the birth of LSA, one has to look hard to see the simplicity of its origin. Airframes have become increasingly sophisticated, and avionics packages are beginning to challenge big buck machines. A first timer renting or buying the typical S-LSA will be surprised upon entering a cockpit that looks more like an F-22 than single engine sport plane. Now, that sounds pretty exciting, but let’s take a look at who that “first timer” might actually be.
What's Up!?
Let’s start with some thing really nice, again!
July has passed and the sound of fireworks has ceased, but the lingering aroma of dirty diapers is still wafting around my home and office. It takes a little getting use to, but in the end (no pun intended), it was worth it. Two glorious weeks of unanswerable questions, bibs, pacifiers and a mountain of dirty formula bottles and fingerprints on my glasses; this would be the joy of grandparenting. And to think I thought maintenance hangars were dirty… no more.
It’s about time!
Inspiration Chino Air Museum: Evolution Of The Mustang
At Planes Of Fame you can view their rare airworthy P-51A 43-6251 named Mrs. Virginia, while A-36A 42-83731 has just been restored to flight for owner Tom Friedkin by Fighter Rebuilders.
The Pylon Place - June 2010
Chino, Madera and PRS Preview:
Planes of Fame Does it Again
By Marilyn Dash
Mustangs and more Mustangs. (Jason Fisher)The Planes of Fame Airshow gets better every year. Each year we turn to each other at the end and say, “That was the best ever, how will they ever outdo that!” But, the following year, they do.
This year was the salute to “The Greatest Generation” and it was quite a salute. Jonna Doolittle Hoppes led panel discussions with the following veterans: Maj. General John “Johnny” Alison (the “father” of Air Force Special Operations, WWII ace, and Korean War veteran); Clarence “Bud” Anderson (P-51 “Old Crow” triple ace in WWII); Col. John Doolittle (WWII and Korean War veteran); Bill Holloman (Tuskegee Airman P-51 pilot); Huie Lamb (P-47 and P-51 pilot); Wilbur Richardson (B-17 ball turret gunner, Purple Heart recipient); William “Bill” Spengler (P-51 “Buzzin Cuzzin”). This panel discussion was broadcast over the speaker system while many of the visitors walked the Airshow grounds to see the aircraft.
What's Up!?
Don’t Assume
By Larry Shapiro
As a child I remember folks telling me to never assume anything because it makes an ass out of you and me! Now, a ton of years later it still holds true. I hear “I assumed this and that” time after time and no one seems to heed the words and learn the lesson. Drum role please … I’m as guilty as I’m sure many of you are. How many times have you asked for directions, whether or not the food is good at the Road Kill Café, or whether the dude wrenching on your bird of paradise is a licensed and insured mechanic. One more assumption that’s a real pain … don’t assume you don’t need to get it in writing; you do!
Sport Flying With In Flight USA - May 2010
PiperSport – In For the Long Haul?
In Flight USA Exclusive Interview
By Edward S Downs
Piper’s new Light Sport Aircraft, the PiperSport. (Courtesy of Carl Miller)The recently completed Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In and Airshow certainly underscored the ever-growing popularity of Light Sport Aircraft. High on the list of exciting announcements made this year was introduction of the new PiperSport. Piper Aircraft’s entry into the S-LSA market re-kindled this writers desire to learn more about how the “big guys” are dealing with ASTM type certification challenges. Typically, my columns are written in the third person, keeping personal views and comments out of the story. This time is different. My quest to interview Cessna, and now Piper, about their decision and commitment to enter the S-LSA market has a personal side that I need to share.
What's Up? - May 2010
As I Was Saying…
OK, Casablanca it is… A Screenplay by Larry Shapiro
(Second Draft) Playback… Roll ‘em!
The place: (the time: 10:15 p.m. PDT)
It was still a dark and very foggy night. Boggy and I put out our smokes and headed inside:
Note: As I was completing this column I experienced and suffered a terrible personal loss. My loyal and loving companion “Katana” died in my arms. With that said I am just unable to complete this column now, but I will next month.
One person is standing near the runway.
It’s quiet and not well lit:
Senior:
He is speaking to you:
Now it’s next month and I’m back and so is “Katana”. She now resides in a beautiful mahogany box with her picture on it and we are very happy to have her home.
A Different View of Haiti
Landing at PAP - Toussaint Louverture Airport Port au Prince, Haiti. (Susan Terrell)By Susan Terrell
In March I was privileged to spend five days in Port au Prince as the guest of native Haitian Cessna pilot, Reg Auguste. Reg and I met last year through the online forum board of the Cessna Pilot Society. As a student pilot as well as a writer who enjoys stories about interesting people involved in aviation, I appreciated the sense of humor and positive attitude consistently apparent in his posts, as well as his tales of renovating his 172 which reflected a genuine love and enthusiasm for flying.
Sport Flying With In Flight USA - April 2010
The LSA’s of Sun ‘n Fun
By Ed Downs
Many readers will be at the 2010 Sun ‘n Fun Airshow, or will be following reports of this event over the next few months. With more than 100 S-LSA offerings now available, trying to decide which of these great airplanes will be best for personal use or flight training is challenging. You may be asking yourself, does this S-LSA really meet the industry consensus standards (referred to as “ASTM Standards”) and is the manufacturer ready to support the plane, long term? The concern of continuing support is especially important for S-LSA’s being imported from distant lands.
The Pylon Place - April 2010
A Loving Tribute to a Dear Friend…
By Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing
Where he belonged, flying low, fast and turning left. (Victor Archer)The Warbird and Air Racing Communities lost a great friend last month. Al Goss was flying his beloved T-6, Warlock, with his crew chief, Steve Ballard, when tragedy struck.
Alfred Fredrick Goss Jr., or “Papa Goss” or “Al” to all that knew him, was born Dec.16, 1941 in Shenandoah, Idaho, to Alfred and Lucille Goss.
At 18, Al started flying and soon found employment as a crop duster flying for Pat Tomlinson of M & W Flying in Porterville, Calif. After several years, he migrated to Northern California and flew for several different organizations. Twenty-two years ago, he took a job in the Bakersfield, Calif., area with Old River Crop Dusting, owned by dear friend and fellow air racer, Eddie Van Fossen.
A crop duster by day, his real passion was Warlock and the people who surrounded him and supported him while he raced the pylons at Reno. Two sons, Randy and David, and a daughter, Sandra, survive him but he adopted the rest of us and made everyone feel like family.
What's Up?! - April 2010
M O R E W O R D S!
Larry Shapiro and KatanaBy Larry Shapiro
The first thing that came to mind as I began to write this column was exactly what you would think I would write about and you’d be wrong. There will be no IRS jokes, no April Fools jokes, instead, and I might add, highly inspired by the recent Academy Awards Show, a short/brief attempt at a screenplay description of what has transpired since my March column. Remember, no jokes but a reminder that life itself can be very funny.
This will be a short story about the aftermath of a plane crash and how it affected a small community, the airport community, and an even larger community. The communities will be named at a later column but for now we will refer to them as: PA, East PA, and MP. There, now that takes care of that.
First we need a working name for this S-Play. Let’s see, Post Mortem, naaah, to morbid. Miracle on Beech Street, I think that’s been used before. How about Casablanca? I’ve always loved that name and it hasn’t been used for years, plus, it really works here and I can spell it. Okay, Casablanca it is.
Sun 'N Fun Opens New Exhibit Hanger
The Popular “Parts Exchange” Moves Nearby
The campus of the Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo will have a slightly different look for this year’s 36th annual event, which will be held April 13 – 18 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Fla.
Sun ‘n Fun officials announced this past fall they would be opening a new Exhibit Hangar for this year’s International Fly-In & Expo and this month announced that the popular “Parts Exchange” aviation consignment operation would be relocated adjacent to the newly commissioned exhibit facility.
You Can't Tame a Raptor
The invasion of the Raptors is coming to the California Capital Airshow. (Staff Sgt. Michael B. Keller, USAF)By Karen Storm
In the wild, birds of prey are very distinctive in their attributes: a sharp, pointed beak; strong feet with razor-sharp talons; keen eyesight, and animals —even other birds— are their food source. Another name used to describe these birds is derived from the Latin word —Rapere— which means to plunder. They are smart, aggressive, cunning, and lethal. Such a bird is called a Raptor.
It is also the name of the United States Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, a designation made both appropriately and without apology. The F-22 Raptor, manufactured by the team of Lockheed-Martin, Boeing, and Pratt & Whitney, is the world’s only operational fifth-generation fighter, and it is absolutely masterful at conducting its stated mission of Air Dominance.
The Battleship North Carolina's Kingfisher is a One of a Kind Aircraft Rarity
By S. Mark Rhodes
The handsome grandson of the author, Jackson Perkins surveys the deck of the Battleship North Carolina. (Papa Rhodes)In the early 1960’s, the people of North Carolina raised $330,000 (much of it from lunch money from NC school children) to buy the decommissioned USS Battleship North Carolina. The result? The birth of one of North Carolina’s most striking and iconic attractions and a great artifact of US military history. One memorable day in 1961, it chugged up the Cape Fear River and tucked into a conspicuous area across the way from downtown Wilmington, North Carolina where it’s mass and gravity dominates the landscape of this port city.