Alabama Aviator - Aviation News

On the Verge of AirVenture 2010

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

It is the time of year that excites aviators worldwide, the opening of the 58^th edition of EAA AirVenture 2010. The ultimate fly in is without contest, "The World's Greatest" as Tom Poberezny, EAA chairman/president and AirVenture chairman often calls it. Nowhere on earth is the "Spirit of Aviation" more alive, active and well as in Oshkosh, Wisconsin during this annual pilgrimage.

-AlabamaAviator image-

To as many as 600,000 attendants of Experimental Aircraft Association members, visitors, airshow performers, volunteers, vendors and exhibitors, it is the ultimate reunion of the heart and soul of the fellowship of aviators. 10,000 aircraft will make their way to the area and more than 40,000 campers will sleep under the stars. And when you return this year, it is as if the event never ended. If it is your first time, it is like coming home to all you ever dreamed aviation could be. The lure of Oshkosh to pilots is magical.

-AlabamaAviator image-

Year after year AirVenture becomes bigger and better with more of what attracts those who love aviation. Volunteers numbering over 4,000 strong and logging over 250,000 hours during the year are credited for coordinating and running entire areas. Without them, it just would not be possible. A quintessential reunion that spans the globe will begin on Monday, July 26 through August 1.

-AlabamaAviator image-

This year's EAA Convention and Fly In as with all others in the past will include a number of "first" and highlights from a spectacular opening day to a grand finale. Just a few features include: Massive Hot Air Balloon liftoff, Advancements in Electric-powered Aircraft, Chicago Concert, Night Airshow, 75^th Anniversary of DC-3 Gathering, Salute to Veterans and the best of airshow performers. All the more reason to share the passion and enthusiasm, you just gotta BE THERE! -B Meyer FMI: http://www.airventure.org/index.html

Shelby Announces Transportation Funding for Alabama

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), a senior member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced subcommittee approval of the fiscal year 2011 Transportation, Housing, Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. Included in this bill is funding for several important projects throughout Alabama. Following today's action by the subcommittee, the bill will now go to the full Appropriations Committee for approval. Among the projects listed but not limited to these are:

Huntsville International Airport International Intermodal Center - $500,000
Phase IV of the International Intermodal Center expansion completes the funding of the Master Plan providing an additional air cargo apron for the operation of the previously funded air cargo facility. This project will benefit residents in the region through job creation, commerce expansion, and it will serve as an incentive to prospective businesses considering relocation to the area.

-Huntsville International, Airnav image-

"Madison County's unemployment has consistently been the one of the lowest in the State due to Huntsville's thriving business and research community," said Shelby. "Allowing for further airport expansion incentivizes further growth in the region."

Lanett Municipal Airport Runway Construction - $1.5 Million
This project is the second and final phase of the Lanett Municipal Airport runway expansion project. The existing runway length of 3,148 feet is inadequate to service the corporate air traffic needs of this area. A longer runway is necessary to support the growing aviation needs of the local area driven in part by the construction of the KIA Motors Corporation automobile manufacturing plant 4 miles away in West Point, Georgia.

-Lanett Municipal Airport, Airnav image-

"A longer runway is necessary for Lanett Municipal Airport to boost economic development in the area and attract tier one auto parts suppliers, who will need an adequate airport to support increased business," said Shelby. "If this airport is able to support greater air traffic it will be an incredible economic development and job creation tool for a region in Alabama that has recently lost numerous jobs."

In addition to airport improvement construction, details of other Housing and Urban Development Projects were announced. FMI: Office of US Sen. Richard Shelby

Maxwell Clicks 'Like' on Facebook

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE AL - Maxwell Air Force Base now counts itself among the scores of Air Force bases and Department of Defense organizations with a presence on Facebook.

The base, which last year became the first in Air Education and Training Command on Twitter, came online with a Facebook page July 12.

"As we did with Twitter, we're going to make sure people can see us in the tools they use every day to communicate with their friends and family," said Capt. Brad Kimberly, Air University Public Affairs chief Media Relations.

- Maxwell Air Force Base now counts itself among the scores of Air Force bases and Department of Defense organizations with a presence on Facebook.-

The captain worked to cross-feed news articles, photos and video among Twitter, Facebook and the base's official Web site, www.maxwell.af.mil.

"With Facebook and Twitter feeding content from our official Web site, users are sure to catch the latest news about the Intellectual and Leadership Center of the Air Force and the many other great things that go on here," he said. "We hope it results in more visitors to our Web site, where people can find out even more."

More than just a tool to more broadly disseminate news, visitors to Maxwell's Facebook page can comment on the posts and share the content with their online friends.

The launch of the Facebook page comes just two weeks after the base launched a series of podcasts.

Podcasting, a method of publishing broadcasts via the Internet, allows users to subscribe to a feed of video and audio files, listen to or watch them on their computer and load them on a portable media device.

"We produce two video podcasts and one audio podcast," said Capt. Ethan Stoker, AUTV chief. "Our flagship podcast is called 'Around Maxwell AFB' and features short video news stories about Air University, the 42nd Air Base Wing and the base in general."

The Maxwell Air Force Base Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/MaxwellAFB. The Maxwell Twitter site is www.twitter.com/MaxwellAFB. by Scott Knuteson, Air University Public Affairs

NEW from Chicken Wings: AVIATION HISTORY SLIDESHOW

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NEW from the Chicken Wings gang: We're sure everybody has a few friends that seem to do nothing but receive and forward fun emails all day. It took us amazingly long, but it finally dawned on us, that we should create something like that too. And so, ladies and gentlemen, without much further ado, please let us get right to the point, we proudly present:

Click to view : MOMENTS IN AVIATION HISTORY ...our little contribution to the world of circulating fun chain mails. Don't forget to send it to everyone in your contact list! Spread it to the four winds!

Announcing a NEW IPHONE APP- We also recently have released our newest iPhone App: Chicken Wings Comics - iPhone Apps. The second volume includes the second half of our latest book "Think Big", adapted to look great on your iPhone or iPod Touch.

Features easy navigation:
- Swipe to move from frame to frame within a strip
- Use the < > arrows to move to the next strip
- Tap "Continue" to glide from frame to frame through the whole book
- Tap the numbers to jump to another strip

Additional features:
- Email your favorite strips to friends without leaving the App (limited to 80)
- Pilot Lingo Encyclopedia to look up aviation terms

So, if you are one of the ever increasing crowd of proud iPhone owners, be sure to check it out! -Mike and Stef from Chicken Wings, FMI: http://www.chickenwingscomics.com/

SubSonex Jet Prototype Ready to Resume Testing

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Oshkosh WI- The SubSonex single-place jet aircraft is ready to resume testing after EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010. Following a series of initial high-speed taxi tests, the Sonex Aircraft Hornets' Nest Research and Development team determined that a review and modification of the aircraft design was necessary to achieve acceptable handling qualities for the average pilot. Due to the increased power offered by the new PBS TJ-100 engine selected for the SubSonex, it was determined that a tricycle gear configuration would be needed to increase yaw stability on the ground in the transition phase approaching takeoff speeds. The SubSonex will be on display with its new gear modifications at the Sonex Aircraft Homecoming and Open House Fly-In on Sunday, July 25, and at the Sonex Aircraft Hornets' Nest R&D AirVenture booth display: North Aircraft Display Area, booth 622.

Unveiled at AirVenture 2009 under the banner of the Hornets' Nest Research and Development program, the SubSonex jet was intended as an effort to study the feasibility and marketability of a small, single-place homebuilt jet aircraft. The SubSonex has attracted a tremendous level of interest from the public and aviation press, however, Sonex Aircraft, LLC has not yet decided if the aircraft will become an available homebuilt aircraft product. Following first flight of the aircraft and a full series of flight tests, Hornets' Nest designers plan to construct a second SubSonex prototype with a larger cockpit, enhanced landing gear system and other refinements to further evaluate the aircraft concept.

Sonex and AeroConversions product development is committed to providing simple, elegant and low-cost solutions for sport flying. FMI: http://www.sonexaircraft.com/ and http://www.aeroconversions.com/

CJS Bill Sustains Human Space Flight Says Sen. Shelby

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), ranking member of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee -CJS, today announced subcommittee approval of the fiscal year 2011 CJS Appropriations bill, which restores significant funding for NASA's human space flight program. Following today's action by the subcommittee, the bill will now go to the full Appropriations Committee for consideration.

-US Sen. Richard Shelby-

"The Administration cancelled the only realistic approach for the United States to return to low earth orbit and beyond," said Shelby. "The President's budget proposal surrendered our nation's leadership in space to the Russians, Chinese, and Indians and instead chose to set up an entitlement program for the so-called commercial space industry.

"This proposal was simply unacceptable. The overarching point is simple: No so-called commercial space company has ever carried anything successfully to the space station, much less safely launch and return a human being. We cannot risk human lives or the entire future of the space program by deploying an unproven commercial crew concept. The risk is too great.

"The Administration's plan was not a responsible or realistic approach to human space flight and was not approved by the subcommittee. Instead, the bill restores NASA to its historical purpose, a preeminent leader in space flight.

"The CJS bill solidifies American's human space flight program by funding a robust heavy lift vehicle based on demonstrated technological reality."

The Administration's Fiscal Year 2011 budget request terminated NASA's Constellation program. This bill reaffirms our nation's commitment to a robust human space exploration program by providing $1.9 billion to begin to build an integrated heavy lift launch vehicle system that will be designed, managed, and integrated by the Marshall Space Flight Center. This heavy lift rocket, when completed in 2016, will ensure that NASA begins to explore well beyond low earth orbit where we have been stuck for decades.

Senator Shelby was instrumental in increasing the $1.6 billion funding level recently proposed by the Senate Commerce Committee for a heavy lift rocket to $1.9 billion under this bill and specifying Marshall Space Flight Center as the lead NASA Center for the heavy lift vehicle. -Office of US Sen. Richard Shelby

Navy Training Field Extensions for Baldwin County

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

BAY MINETTE AL - U.S. Navy Whiting Field spokesman Jay Cope announced during Tuesday's County Commission meeting the recent decision to go forward with the runway project that stalled in February. Cost estimates to purchase land around the southeast Baldwin airfields were higher than expected.

Cope said studies on environmental, historical and noise impact of the expansions are ongoing and will be used in making the decision on which two Baldwin training facilities will get between 500 and 1,500 additional feet of runway.

The final plan is due sometime this month and will include the Navy's preference for airstrips, Cope said, as well as the plan to purchase property around the expansion areas. Cope encouraged residents near the outlying training fields in Silverhill, Summerdale and Barin in Foley to review information and post commentary at a publicly accessible website, www.navyolfextensions.com/index.html . Once the plan is posted there, he said, the public has 30 days to review and comment.

-Whiting Field Vicintiy Training Fields- Image www.navyolfextensions.com/index.html

Cope said Whiting Field with its eight outlying airstrips hosts training for about 60 percent of all Navy and Marine pilots as well as for aviators from the Coast Guard, Air Force and some students from allied nations. Six of those outlying fields are in southwest Alabama, four in Baldwin.

The Navy announced plans last year to replace its aging fleet of training planes, switching to T-6B Texan aircraft and phasing out the 1977 T-34C Turbo Mentor planes by 2015. Cope said the new planes fly faster, higher and farther, more closely resembling the flight characteristics of fighter jets, but they also need longer runways and larger obstruction-free safety zones around landing zones.

Some county residents protested the planned expansions, citing concerns about noise from the aircraft as well as intrusions into residential communities. Depending on which expansion plan the Navy chooses, officials said, the military will have to buy and remove between five and 23 structures, purchase between 12 and 43 acres, acquire land rights to hundreds more acres and move roads both private and public.

"We consider each comment carefully and are truly concerned about minimizing the affect this project will have on the local community," Thomas Currin, environmental assessment planner for the project, said in a news release. "However, this project is necessary to support the current and future flight training mission in Northwest Florida."

Last summer Whiting Field officials determined that the cost of expanding would exceed $1 million and would require approval by high-ranking officers in the Navy. Navy officials removed Wolf Field from consideration due to space limitations in Lillian caused by its proximity to Pensacola Regional Airport and Naval Air Station Pensacola. -Staff Report FMI: Navy Training Field Extensions by Connie Baggett

Aero Club to Host Alabama's First Lady of Flight Event

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

BIRMINGHAM AL- "How rare is it to be a women aviator at age eighteen and still be paid to fly at eighty..." The extraordinary life of Nancy Batson Crews will be honored with a new exhibit and program featuring acclaimed author Sarah Byrn Rickman at the Southern Museum of Flight Thursday, August 19 at 7:00pm.

Birmingham native Nancy Batson Crews' (1920-2001) place in the American experience speaks to the passion that filled her life and heart, soaring above the earth, earning her way for over six decades in an eclectic aviation career. Crews, a WAF, WASP, Congressional Gold Medal recipient (posthumously), first woman inducted into the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame, is a women worthy of emulating; a women who never stopped learning, never stopped discovering.

-Nancy Batson Crews, WASP- courtesy of National AF Museum-

Her remarkable story and those women of the WW II era who fell in love with flying by Sarah Rickman, author of biography, Nancy Batson Crews- Alabama's First Lady of Flight, will highlight the event. Rickman tells the story through her evolving friendship with Crews during the last part of her life.

Rickman, now a pilot herself, is the recipient of the 2009 Combs Gates Award, given by the National Aviation Hall of Fame. The award is for her work in telling the human side of aviation through her books about the WASP. Her latest work is available for purchase and signing after the program.

The Birmingham Aero Club and the Southern Museum of Flight invite you to spend an evening celebrating the life of Nancy Batson Crews, a new exhibit unveiling and Alabama's Centennial of Flight and 100^th Anniversary of Women Pilots. Refreshments will accompany the event catered by Hummingbird.

What: Alabama's First Lady of Flight Event
Where: Southern Museum of Flight- Birmingham, Alabama
Who: Author, Sara Byrn Rickman and distinguished guest speakers
When: Thursday, August 17, 2010- 7:00pm
Hosted by the Birmingham Aero Club

A tax deductable donation of $10 at the door is requested to benefit the Birmingham Aero Club's Flight Safety Foundation -501c3- and their Youth Programs. Limited event sponsorships are available.

Contact: Holly Roe 205-276-7341, Reservations are encouraged at couplandk@earthlink.net. FMI: BAC, SMF, Sarah Rickman

FAA Announces Changes to DC Special Flight Rules Area -SFRA

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

FAA announced several changes to the DC SFRA that go into effect Sept. 1, 2010. Among the most significant changes are those that affect pilots who lose radio contact with controllers while flying VFR after departing from an airport located within the SFRA (a circle of airspace extending 30 miles out from DCA). Under the current rules, those pilots must squawk 7600 on their transponders and immediately leave the SFRA by the most direct route. The new rule will allow pilots to return to their departure airport if it is closer than the SFRA boundary. Pilots who lose radio contact after departing from an airport located within the Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) -an inner ring extending 15 miles out from DCA- may return to that airport if it is within 5 nautical miles. If neither condition applies, pilots must leave the SFRA by the most direct route.

The FAA also clarified that aircraft flying within the SFRA must be equipped with a functioning two-way radio capable of communicating with controllers on the appropriate frequencies or UNICOM. The agency strongly recommends that pilots continuously monitor VHF frequency 121.5 or UHF frequency 243.0 for emergency instructions while flying in the SFRA. The online course on FAASafety.gov will be modified in the next few weeks to reflect these changes. -Staff Report

For more information, search NOTAMs 0/9477 and 0/9463 on http://tfr.faa.gov/.

New Raytheon Huntsville Missile Facility Unveiled

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

FARNBOROUGH, U.K. - An artist rendering provided by Raytheon Company shows the new missile facility the company will be building at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. Groundbreaking is expected for later this year on the project that will create 300 new jobs, said Governor Bob Riley.

Governor Riley, Senator Richard Shelby and Raytheon Missile Systems President Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence announced Alabama had won the new economic development project at a news conference on Monday at the Farnborough International Air Show outside London.

Visit http://governorpress.alabama.gov/pr/pr-2010-07-19-01-ALNewMissileProductionFac.asp for more details about the announcement. Staff Report

FAA Asks FCC to Halt Ban on 121.5 MHz ELT

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

In a letter to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the FAA requests that the Federal Communication Commission withdraw its notice that would prohibit the "certification, manufacture, importation, sale, or continued use of 121.5 MHz ELTs." The letter stated in part, the FAA studied the issue of Safety and cost associated with the termination satellite monitoring of 121.5 MNz ELTs and completed a cost-benefit analysis based on data from the years 1990-2005. That analysis showed that the cost of equipping the general aviation aircraft and taxi fixed-wing aircraft fleet (over 200,000 aircraft) with 406 MHz ETLs approached $500 million. While the cost of equipping the civil aircraft fleet is burdensome it is significant that over 38,000 406 MHz ELTs have already been voluntary installed in aircraft and over 9,000 emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) are carried by pilots.

The letter also stated: We (FAA) believe that the portion of the Third Report and Order that would amend section 87.195 of Title 47, Code of Federal Register to prohibit "the manufacture, importation, sale or use of 121.5 MHz emergency transmitters (ELTs)" is detrimental to the aviation community. For the reason stated below we are requesting that your office contact the FCC to request that Section 87.195 of the Commission's Rules not be modified. Complete correspondence may be viewed at : FCC comment Filing system page.

If the FAA is successful and the FCC notice is not published in the Federal Register, the notice cannot go into effect. There would not be an August 1 effective date and the ban on 121.5 MHz ELTS ends. B Meyer, FMI: AOPA

Details of New FAA Aircraft Re-Registration Revealed

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

What used to be a simplified process of a one time $5 registration fee for the life of the aircraft/owner has become a complicated and potentially expensive process that will now reoccur every three years. Due to security and law enforcement concerns a new aircraft registry rule enacted by the FAA will take effect on new aircraft registries beginning October 1, 2010.

Owners are urged to update all their aircraft registration information prior to October 1. This can be done at FAA.gov by selecting the line that applies to your situation, such as address change. Those owners with correct information prior to Oct 1 will be able to accomplish the process of the new re-registration online. Others will have to obtain a paper form from the FAA to update and then re-register after the rule takes affect.

AOPA has a most informative video explaining the re-registration process at: AOPA. -B Meyer

FAA Announces Recurrent Aircraft Registration Rule Finalized

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In an effort to create a more accurate aircraft registration database, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is requiring re-registration of all civil aircraft over the next three years and renewal every three years after that.

The rule establishes specific expiration dates over a three-year period for all aircraft registered before Oct. 1, 2010, and requires re-registration of those aircraft according to a specific schedule. All aircraft registration certificates issued on or after Oct. 1, 2010 will be good for three years with the expiration date clearly shown.

"These improvements will give us more up-to-date registration data and better information about the state of the aviation industry," said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt.

Current regulations require owners to report the sale of an aircraft, the scrapping or destruction of an aircraft, or a change in mailing address, but many owners have not complied with those requirements.

Re-registration of all U.S. civil aircraft by Dec. 31, 2013 will enhance the database with current data derived from recent contact with aircraft owners. The new regulations also will ensure that aircraft owners give the FAA fresh information at least once every three years when they renew their registration. The FAA will cancel the N-numbers of aircraft that are not re-registered or renewed.

The schedule for re-registration and registration expiration is:

Certificate issued Certificate expires Re-registration required
(Any year)

March March 31, 2011 Nov. 1, 2010-Jan. 31, 2011

April June 30, 2011 Feb. 1 - April 30, 2011

May Sept. 30, 2011 May 1- July 31, 2011

June Dec. 31, 2011 Aug. 1- Oct. 31, 2011

July March 31, 2012 Nov. 1, 2011-Jan. 31, 2012

August June 30, 2012 Feb. 1- April 30, 2012

September Sept. 30, 2012 May 1- July 31, 2012

October Dec. 31, 2012 Aug. 1- Oct. 31, 2012

November March 31, 2013 Nov. 1, 2012-Jan. 31, 2013

December June 30, 2013 Feb. 1- April 30, 2013

January Sept. 30, 2013 May 1- July 31, 2013

February Dec. 31, 2013 Aug. 1- Oct. 31, 2013

The final rule can be found at: http://www.ofr.gov/inspection.aspx#regular , FAA.gov

Mercy Flight Southeast Wants You to Win a Bose Headset

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Bose Corporation recently partnered with Mercy Flight SE to help raise needed funds. Mercy Flight SE will be giving away a headset to one lucky donor valued at $999. You could soon be wearing a new aviation noise-cancelling Bose X headset. Bose pioneered active noise reducing headsets nearly 20 years ago, and pilots continue to prefer the Bose Aviation Headset X today. For nine years in a row, it's been rated #1 in Professional Pilot's annual survey, claiming 2009's top honors for clarity, comfort and technical advancement.

-Bose X Aviation Headset-

For a donation of $10, a donor gets their name in the hat. Enter six times for $50 and 14 times for $100 donation. It's so easy you can donate to win online. 100% of the funds go to help coordinate free flights for those in need. The lucky winner will be announced after a drawing in September on the Mercy Flight SE web site. See: Mercy Flight SE for all the details. Staff Report

Pilot's Mission to Support Gulf Coast A Winner Video

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

A group of Birmingham area pilot's acted on an idea to make their weekend $100 Hamburger into a mission to support the Gulf Shores economy. In only a few days almost 30 airplanes signed on to make the 180 NM trip from Shelby County airport- EET to Jack Edwards airport -JKA only 3 miles from legendary Alabama beaches.

-Ed Wood and Johnny Barnes head the pre-flight briefing early Saturday morning-

Heading up the business end of trip planning and organization was local pilots Johnny Barnes and the Fun Flyers group. Participating pilots were required to attend a preflight briefing that began about 9:00am Saturday at Shelby County airport. Morning clouds hung low as the scheduled departure time began to slide. A good visual flight day would be necessary for a large gaggle of planes to depart all at once. Ed Wood and Johnny suggested some safety items and provided essential flight information in handouts for all. These organizers in addition handled arrangements for the group to arrive at Jack Edwards.

-Birmingham area pilots and their passengers gather outside the Shelby County airport terminal for the flight to the Gulf Coast-

Anticipation grew as timed passed for the clouds to break. While waiting, a small raffle was held for prizes. An oil change, fuel and discount shopping at the beach donated by area and gulf businesses as enticements to join the flight were awarded. But the objective of this mission was to show support and spend money to help Alabama's Gulf Coast in serious trouble since the oil spill; they really didn't want or need incentives. Being able to help has brought this group of pilots together many times in the past. They have a well documented history of community service and a big heart.

-Click here to View Alabama Aviator TV video- Pilots on a Mission Helping Alabama's Gulf Coast-

As soon as the official weather indicated: clear to go, the shuffle was on. Aircraft divided into five groups, according to speed; maneuvered to depart in order. The first group with the fastest ground speed was on their way after 10:00am. The mission was on.

-Click here to view link to FOX 10 video of Alabama pilot's arrival at Gulf Air Center, Gulf Shores- courtesy of FOX 10 News

Arrival at Gulf Air Center FBO at JKA began around 11:15am. The pilots and passengers were greeted by members of the Parrot Head Fan Club, who welcomed them in fine style. According to one pilot, the final count was 30 aircraft and 70 people. From our President to our Governor, all have said that what the Coast needs is their tourism dollars. That is the idea behind the pilot's mission.

-LuLu's seafood was the local favorite- image courtesy of Dawson Moore

Some members of the group spent the night, enjoying shopping and the beach, while others ate famous seafood from the Alabama coast and returned home. LuLu's Homeport was a very popular spot.

-The Kilgore's at LuLu's Homeport- image courtesy of Dawson Moore

Rick Kilgore, a Shelby County based pilot commented, we all donated our planes, our money for fuel, took friends and spent money on the Gulf. It shows the heart of our aviation community. I think the message was so much more important than the amount of money we could have spent. - B Meyer, FMI: SCAA , Help Our Alabama Coast

Third Shuttle Flight Added Next Year

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation unanimously approved an act today adding an additional manned shuttle flight before the end of the program next year. "NASA is an agency in transition. We've had to take a clear, hard look at what we want from our space agency in the years and decades to come. I've made my views on this matter very clear: NASA's role cannot stay static. It must innovate and move in a new direction," Chairman Rockefeller said.

The NASA Authorization Act of 2010 also extended the International Space Station's operation until at least 2020. The bill couples efforts to national and global needs and challenges; provides a sustainable exploration program with new technologies and in-space capabilities; and future exploration builds off of the workforce, assets, and capabilities of the Space Shuttle and other efforts.

The act was as a compromise between Congress and the White House. The bill moves up the goal to launch astronauts into space from Cape Canaveral to 2016. The Obama Administration's goal had been 2025.

-Atlantis, NASA image-

Earlier this month, the schedule for NASA's final two shuttle flights was pushed back. The two flights are scheduled to lift off from the Kennedy Space Center on Nov. 1 and on Feb. 26. The act passed by the Senate committee Thursday seeks to add a third flight next summer.

It is likely the space shuttle Atlantis - the current middle child of the U.S. orbiter fleet - will get a chance fly one more mission.

Atlantis flew its 32nd and final scheduled mission in May to deliver a new Russian room to the International Space Station. NASA is hoping to get a chance to launch the shuttle one more time in June 2011 to deliver cargo and supplies to the orbiting lab.

The additional flight will not prevent up to 1,000 layoffs in October or subsequent layoffs, but it would keep an undetermined number of workers on the job until after the last landing.

The committee also included plans in the bill to begin development immediately of a heavy-lift rocket. The bill will go to the Senate and into the House. B Meyer FMI: Commerce Committee

Two Alabama Businesses Honored by Disabled American Veterans

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

ENTERPRISE AL- Two Alabama businesses have been named employers of the year by the Alabama Department of Disabled American Veterans.

NavTech LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Navigator Development Group Inc. of Enterprise, was named the Alabama DAV Small Employer of the Year. The Alabama DAV Large Employer of the Year was Army Fleet Support at Fort Rucker, a joint venture of L-3 Integrated Systems Group and Helicopter Support Company Inc.

NavTech is a visual innovation company. Its highly skilled and experienced teams of interactive 3D developers, management subject matter experts and organizational developers have earned an exceptional reputation among educators, government and industry personnel.

-DAV-Disabled Veterans B-25 outreach-

Of the 16 NavTech employees, 10 are rated disabled veterans. NavTech's parent company Navigator, locally owned by Albert Patterson and Keith Gay, was named Alabama's DAV Small Employer of the Year in 2007.

Since 2003 Army Fleet Support has provided quality aviation maintenance support to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory and the U.S. Army Aviation Flight Test Directorate at Fort Rucker. Of the 124 veterans AFS has hired in the past 12 months, 40 have been disabled veterans.

With more than 1.2 million members, DAV is an organization of disabled veterans who are focused on building better lives for disabled veterans and their families. -Staff Report, FMI: Enterprise Now

SUPPORT THE GULF COAST FLY-OUT Details on New Web Site

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

A concerned group of Alabama pilots will leave early this Saturday morning following a mandatory pre-flight briefing from Shelby County Airport- EET to Gulf Shores- JKA. The organizer's operational plans to make the fly-out progress smoothly and safely from the uncontrolled airport are on a new web site. They have also enlisted a group of sponsors who are donating door prizes in a drawing at the morning preflight briefing. Among the prizes are tickets for rides on the historic Bird of Paradise biplane based at Gulf Shores.

Area pilots banded together to show support for our Gulf Coast by organizing a lunch FLY-OUT to Jack Edwards Airport (JKA) this weekend, Saturday July 17. Since many of them are going to fly somewhere for a $100 hamburger anyway, why not make it in Gulf Shores? The local economy will receive a needed boost from fuel sales at the local FBO, shopping and eating at local restaurants.

The group hopes that more pilots from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida will organize groups and fly out to Gulf Coast locations to support the afflicted Gulf Coast area. Read the details for participating in the SUPPORT THE GULF FLY-OUT at http://sgcflyin.wordpress.com/ -Staff Report

Maxwell's Air Park: From Discarded Idea to Distinguished Landmark

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE AL - Maxwell's Air Park almost didn't exist. The Air Park, on the Academic Circle, was founded in April 1983, and it has been a cornerstone of not only Air University, but Maxwell Air Force Base. By displaying static aircraft with historical facts and details, the Air Park has shared a piece of the Air Force story with thousands of people, military personnel and civilians alike.

Yet the Air Park, with all of its displays and history, was an idea first thought outlandish. Former Air University Commander retired Lt. Gen. Charles Cleveland brought it to life. When he became Air University commander in July 1981, he created an initiative requiring ideas from every unit on how to better the base.

Airmen and officers submitted ideas. Ideas deemed good by General Cleveland's staff were then submitted to him. The idea chosen, however, almost did not make it to his desk.

-Retired general becomes Air Force's newest fighter ace -Retired Lt. Gen. Charles G. Cleveland stands before a remake "Chris Craft" F-86A Sabre now a part of the air park at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. The "Chris Craft" named after General Cleveland's son, was the aircraft he used to shoot down five MiG-15s during the Korean War. General Cleveland was deployed to South Korea in March 1952, where he flew F-86s as a flight commander with the 4th Fighter Interceptor Wing at Kimpo Air Base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III)-

Written and presented by Lt. Col. Henry "Hank" Staley, the idea for an air park was initially rejected because General Cleveland's staff found it to be too costly.

The idea was disregarded almost immediately, but General Cleveland had a new request.

"There were some decent ideas presented, but I wanted to see all of them, not just the ones that made it through the chain of command," said General Cleveland, who still lives in Montgomery. "After sifting through thousands of ideas, including the third recommendation of installing an ice-cream machine in the dining facility, I finally found the idea I thought had the potential to be great."

General Cleveland took the idea and set it in motion, searching for planes he could use for the Air Park. He soon found the plane that would become the first display: the Republic F-105 Thunderchief.

General Cleveland also managed to bring the North American B-25 Mitchell, the Douglas C-47 Skytrain and the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress to the Air Park before his departure in August 1984.

-Maxwell's Air Park: From discarded idea to distinguished landmark- At the Maxwell Air Park, (clockwise from top) A B-52 Stratofortress lines the west side of the park. The B-52 is the only aircraft in the park that was flown to Maxwell. Then-Air University Commander Lt. Gen. Charles Cleveland speaks at the public dedication ceremony of the park July 7, 1983. General Cleveland stands before the "Chris Craft" F-86A Sabre 15 years after its dedication. The "Chris Craft," named after General Cleveland's son, was the aircraft he used to shoot down five MiG-15s during the Korean War. A World War II vintage B-25 Mitchell occupies the predominant space at the south end of Maxwell's Air Park. A statue of 1st Lt. Karl Richter, who was killed in action in 1967 in Vietnam, adorns the north end of the park and is surrounded by four vintage Air Force fighters. (Air Force illustration/Michael Paul)-

Further aircraft displays have been introduced to the Air Park over time, to include modern planes, a helicopter and even a replica of the original Wright Flyer.

General Cleveland said he wished he could have brought more displays to the Air Park during his time as commander. He cited the North American P-51 Mustang as a plane he would love to see displayed in the park.

Although the planes are great for display, there was meaning behind bringing them here, the general said.

"The Air Park is intended for more than just displaying aircraft," he said. "It is a reminder to servicemembers who go through Air University as to why they are here. They are either here to fly planes, or help support the mission, and it is important for everyone to see what they are fighting for."
-Airman 1st Class Christopher S. Stoltz, Air University Public Affairs FMI: http://www.maxwell.af.mil/

Solar Plane Set For Record Flight Attempt

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The manufacturers of an unmanned solar-powered aircraft are preparing the plane to fly non-stop for two full weeks, according to a BBC News report on Wednesday.

The Zephyr solar plane, which was conceived and constructed by a British defense firm known as QinetiQ, will be launching from the US Army's Yuma Proving Ground base, located in Arizona.

The Zephyr has already flown unofficially for more than 82 continuous hours. However, as previous flights were not witnessed by officials at the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), this will be its first official attempt at the endurance record of 30 hours, 24 minutes, currently held by the American-built Global Hawk.

According to Jonathan Amos of the BBC, "The latest version of Zephyr is now 50% bigger than its predecessors... The updated vehicle has a wingspan of 22.5m, and features a new wingtip and tail design that dramatically improve aero performance."

-Zephyr Solar Plane, QinetiQ image-

"It also has a wider configuration near the main body to accommodate more equipment," adds Amos. "In addition, the team has upgraded the avionics and power management systems on board."

"We now have an aircraft that we believe is capable of actually fulfilling missions for the military or the civil user," Zephyr project manager John Saltmarsh told BBC News on Wednesday. "We would offer it as a service. We would provide a 'hook in the sky' that you could put a payload on to, and we will guarantee to keep it up there 24 hours a day for a couple of months."

The roughly 110-pound Zephyr will be hand-launched by five individuals, and is expected to climb to a height of approximately 40,000 feet by the end of its first day. QinetiQ officials hope that it will be able to maintain a height of 60,000 feet during the day and 40,000 feet at night from the second day onward.

According to Amos, "During the day, Zephyr uses its state-of-the-art solar cells spread across its wings to recharge high-power lithium-sulphur batteries and drive two propellers. At night, the energy stored in the batteries is sufficient to maintain Zephyr in the sky."

The unmanned plane the Zephyr will look to dethrone the Global Hawk, which is a remotely-piloted aircraft that is currently used by the U.S. Navy and Air Force as a surveillance craft. It costs approximately $123 million to develop and build, and it is similar in design to the old Lockheed U-2 spy plane.

The Global Hawk can reportedly cover up to 400,000 square miles of terrain each day. It set the world unmanned flight endurance record in March 2001, while also establishing a new absolute altitude mark with a then-record height of 65,380-plus feet.

At QinetiQ's official Zephyr website, quotes attributed to Development Director Paul Davey discuss the long-term goals for the project. According to Davey, "At present long endurance is measured in terms of hours. Ultimately we are thinking in terms of months. The current development program has the potential to extend Zephyr's mission endurance to around three months, which could force a wholesale change to the way in which the industry thinks about UAV operations." FMI: QinetiQ , Zephyr - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) .

One-of-a-Kind Ford SR-71 Blackbird Mustang Auction EAA AirVenture 2010 Supports Young Eagles

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH - For the third straight year, the Ford Motor Company has created a unique, aviation-themed Mustang automobile to be auctioned with proceeds benefiting the EAA Young Eagles program. The one-of-a-kind 2011 SR-71 "Blackbird" Mustang will go to the winning bidder at the Young Eagles Auction during EAA AirVenture 2010, which will be held July 26-August 1 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.

Ford's continued, generous support for the EAA Young Eagles program is unsurpassed, having raised more than $1 million in recent years. Young Eagles, introduced in July 1992, has already flown more than 1.5 million young people at no charge, making it the largest youth aviation education program in history.

-Artist rendering of the aviation themed SR-71 "Blackbird" Mustang" design-

The aviation-themed design of the SR-71 "Blackbird" Mustang, which got its inspiration from the spectacular reconnaissance jet, is the result of the first-time collaboration between two automotive legends with deep passions for aviation - Carroll Shelby, a former U.S.

Air Force flight instructor, and Jack Roush, a long-time P-51 pilot. The SR-71 "Blackbird" jet first took flight in 1964, the year the Mustang was introduced.

"Ford is a long-time supporter of EAA and its mission to showcase the finest innovation and technology in flight," said Tom Poberezny, EAA chairman/president and AirVenture chairman. "The dedication shown by Carroll Shelby, Jack Roush and the SR-71 'Blackbird' Mustang team along with Ford's generosity will ensure EAA's ability to do some amazing things for our future aviation enthusiasts."

Shelby and Roush helped design, engineer, and produce the SR-71 "Blackbird" Mustang, which has many special and unique features including their embroidered signatures in the exclusive racing seats.

The Young Eagles Auction will take place at the EAA Gathering of Eagles presented by Cessna Aircraft Company, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 29 at the EAA AirVenture Museum. The Gathering of Eagles supports Young Eagles and other EAA programs that inspire young people to become the engineers, aviators, astronauts, scientists, and innovators - the aviation pioneers of tomorrow.

The SR-71 "Blackbird" joins the two other one-of-a-kind Mustangs created by the Ford Design and Engineering teams for the EAA Young Eagles Auction in recent years, each desired by both aviation and automotive enthusiasts alike. In 2008, the Mustang AV8R, with cues from the F-22 "Raptor," introduced the glass-roof canopy and delivered a record auction contribution of $500,000. In 2009, the AV-X10 "Dearborn Doll" auctioned was crafted in honor of WWII aircraft.

"The excitement around the 2008 AV8R, our first one-off Mustang ever produced, inspired us to push for another, first, the collaboration of Carroll Shelby and Jack Roush," said Edsel B. Ford II, a member of Ford's Board of Directors. "This year's SR-71 'Blackbird' is a special tribute to Ford's lineage of performance vehicles, as well as to the promising innovators of EAA's Young Eagles."

To participate in the auction, pre-qualify by contacting Matt Miller in the EAA Development Office at 800-236-1025 or email mmiller@eaa.org by Monday, July 26. Visit http://www.airventure.org/gathering for more information.

EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH is The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration and EAA's yearly membership convention. Additional EAA AirVenture information, including advance ticket and camping purchase, is available online at http://www.airventure.org, visit http://www.eaa.org.

EADS North America KC-45 Tanker Rally Celebrates Move to Mobile

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Mobile, Alabama - The greater Mobile region Monday held a community rally to celebrate the relocation of EADS North America's KC-45 Tanker program team to Mobile, Ala. On July 8 the company submitted its proposal in the U.S. Air Force KC-X aerial refueling tanker competition, and reaffirmed its intention to build the KC-45 in Mobile.

KC-45 production will take place at a new aircraft center of excellence to be built at Mobile's Brookley Industrial Complex, creating more than 1,500 direct jobs and thousands more in the greater Gulf Coast area. Nationwide, KC-45 production will create or support 48,000 American jobs across a supplier team of more than 200 companies.

-Hundreds of members of the Mobile community rallied to support EADS North America's KC-45 Tanker bid July 12 in Mobile, Ala. Photo courtesy of Airwind Creative.-

While a final decision from the Air Force is months away, EADS North America is ready to begin work in Alabama, and today began the transfer of its KC-45 program management team of almost 200 employees to its new Mobile offices.

"We're confident in our offering, and want to be ready to get to work right away when the Air Force selects the KC-45," said EADS North America Chairman Ralph Crosby. "Our fighting men and women have waited far too long for a new tanker, and the people of this part of the country have waited far too long for the jobs the KC-45 would bring."

Crosby was joined at today's rally by Alabama Governor Bob Riley, Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions, Alabama's 1st Congressional District Representative Jo Bonner, Mobile Mayor Samuel L. Jones and Mobile County Commission President Merceria Ludgood. Crosby praised all the elected officials for unwavering support throughout EADS North America's KC-45 campaign.

"All along we've asked for only one thing: for the Pentagon to select the airplane that is best for the men and women who serve our nation. We're confident that if the best airplane is selected, it will be the KC-45. The KC-45 is the only one in this competition that is flying and refueling today. It is the superior aircraft," said Gov. Riley.

"If the welfare of our warfighters trumps politics in this competition, the Air Force will select the EADS tanker," said Alabama Senator Richard Shelby. "It is clearly the most capable plane, and will be built by American workers to best serve and protect American warfighters."

"The Mobile community is proud to stand arm-in-arm with EADS in the competition for the Air Force tanker," said Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions. "The EADS tanker is clearly the superior aircraft, offering more capabilities to the men and women who protect our nation, and at a better value to the taxpayer. EADS' investment in Mobile, combined with a talented workforce and excellent resources and infrastructure, is an important step in turning South Alabama and the Gulf Coast into a world-class center for aviation manufacturing," Sessions added.

If the KC-45 is selected, EADS North America also has committed to building commercial A330 freighter aircraft at Brookley Field - more than doubling the aircraft production that the tanker alone will bring.

"EADS' partnership with South Alabama is a natural fit," said Congressman Bonner. "Our region has the talented workforce and the infrastructure to deliver the very best tanker to our war fighters, while laying the foundation for a new aviation corridor along America's Gulf Coast. We are excited to be a part of an EADS team which offers our military the most advanced and adaptable refueling aircraft in the world."

"I am thrilled to partner with a world-class company like EADS North America to help bring badly needed, high-skilled jobs to a workforce unsurpassed in its skill and dedication," added Mobile's Mayor Jones. "As a United States military veteran with deep experience with combat aircraft, I could not be prouder that Mobilians will be at the forefront of building the EADS North America KC-45."

"The partnership between Mobile and EADS North America offers the hardworking women and men of Mobile a critical shot in the arm as we feel the effects not only of the national economic downturn, but of an oil spill that has devastated our community," said Mobile County Commission President Ludgood. "Mobilians are thrilled both at the much-needed jobs this partnership would bring, but also at the opportunity to contribute to the defense of the nation."

The reliability and performance of the KC-45 and its refueling systems has been validated by over 1,000 boom/hose-and-drogue contacts and refuelings involving a wide range of aircraft, including F-16 and F/A-18 fighters, E-3 AWACS and other A330 tankers. The KC-45 is the U.S. Air Force configuration of the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport, which has been selected by four allied nations, winning every head-to-head competition against Boeing tankers. The KC-45 carries more fuel, cargo and passengers over greater ranges than the NewGen concept aircraft that Boeing is offering the Air Force. FMI: KC-45Now.com.

Southwest Airlines Partners With EAA at 2010 Air Venture

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

DALLAS TX- Southwest Airlines and the EAA announced the carrier's participation in this year's Air Venture air show to be held in Oshkosh, WI from July 26 until August 1. The annual air show, which draws more than 550,000 visitors from 75 countries each year, is the world's premier aviation enthusiast event. The highlight of Southwest's participation will be the arrival of one of the airline's Boeing 737-700 aircraft on Saturday, July 31. The aircraft will feature a unique decal and will be open for tours throughout the day to Air Venture visitors.

"Southwest Airlines is honored to participate in the greatest aviation event in the world," said Chuck Magill, Southwest's Vice President of Flight Operations. "Besides being the ultimate aviation event in the world, Air Venture is the largest event in Wisconsin, and our participation reflects our excitement to be a part of the great state of Wisconsin through our service to Milwaukee." For more information about Southwest's participation, visit our blog, http://www.blogsouthwest.com/blog/oshkosh-countdown-air-venture-here-comes-southwest-airlines.

In addition to participating in the 2010 Air Venture, Southwest is helping the EAA with its goal of spreading passion about aviation. The organization's Young Eagles program brings aviation to young people, and to raise money for this program, the EAA is raffling an airplane. For as little as $1 a chance, someone could win an Aviat Husky with some impressive add-ons, or a number of other great prizes. All proceeds go to EAA initiatives to light the spark of aviation in youth. For information about this raffle, visit http://www.airventure.org/sweepstakes/, and for Air Venture information, visit the EAA web site at http://www.airventure.org/. FMI: -http://www.southwest.com/

Governor Riley Says Agreement Could Bring New Aerospace Jobs

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

MONTGOMERY - Governor Bob Riley on Tuesday said he will travel to the Farnborough International Air Show outside London next week to work on an agreement with an aerospace company that could bring several hundred new jobs to Alabama.

"I'm very optimistic the result of this economic development mission will be new jobs for Alabamians. We continue working hard to bring new jobs to our state, and we will go anywhere to show companies that we have the skilled workforce they need to make their companies successful," said Governor Riley.

Governor Riley couldn't reveal the name of the company or the timing of a possible announcement, citing confidentiality agreements that are standard when industries are being recruited by the state. However, he did say the company is a well-known industry leader and that, if the recruitment is successful, groundbreaking for a new plant in Alabama would take place before the end of the year.

-Gov. Bob Riley says he will be at the Farnborough International Air Show next week to work on an agreement with an aerospace company that could bring several hundred new jobs to Alabama. The Governor spoke about the state's efforts to win the project during a news conference at the State Capitol as Neal Wade, Director of the Alabama Development Office, listens.-

Neal Wade, Director of the Alabama Development Office, said the potential agreement shows Alabama continues making progress in expanding into the aerospace sector.

"Aerospace is a growing force in Alabama's economy and a big part of our job is to make sure it continues to grow here," said Neal Wade. "Aerospace contributes more than $8 billion in payroll to the Alabama economy, and that is an increase of 37 percent since 2002."

A delegation of about 60 local officials, chamber of commerce leaders and other economic developers from Alabama will also be attending the air show. While at the air show, Governor Riley will also meet with several other aerospace companies, including some that are already major employers in Alabama such as Boeing, GKN and EADS.

He and Wade will also meet with officials from Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida. The three states and Alabama work together as part of the Aerospace Alliance, a group formed in 2009 to attract major aerospace projects and jobs to the Gulf Coast region. The Alliance's first priority is to help secure the KC-45 aerial refueling tanker for the region, a project that would bring 48,000 direct and indirect jobs to the country, including thousands to the Gulf Coast. If selected by the Pentagon, the KC-45 would be assembled in Mobile.

Before returning to Alabama, Governor Riley will travel to Ireland and Northern Ireland for several days of meeting with high-ranking government officials. Among the Irish officials Governor Riley will meet are Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Brian Cowan, Foreign Affairs Minister Michael Martin, and Trade Minister Batt O'Keefe. In Northern Ireland, the Governor will hold talks with First Minister Peter Robinson, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, Trade Minister Arlene Foster and the U.S. Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland, Declan Kelly. Last year, Alabama companies exported $73 million worth of goods to Ireland.

"Trade plays a very important role in Alabama's economy and we must continue building trade relationships overseas to grow our economy at home," said Governor Riley.

Alabama's top exports to Ireland include aluminum alloy plates, industrial machinery, wood products, plastics, and electrical machinery. The Governor departs for the overseas mission on Saturday, July 17 and returns to the state on Sunday, July 25. - Staff Report

Navy MZ-3A Airship Supports Gulf Oil Spill Response

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NEW ORLEANS - The Navy's "MZ-3A Airship" arrived at the Gulf Coast to be used in the Deepwater Horizon response, the largest oil spill response in history. The airship is more economical to operate and can stay aloft for longer periods of time than helicopters or airplanes already in use. Because the airship travels slowly, it will be a helpful platform for aerial observers looking for marine mammals and other wildlife that may be in distress.

While the airship's primary mission is spotting and monitoring oil to support command and control of skimming operations, the locations of animals will also be passed to the Incident Commands so that vessels and crews can be dispatched to assist wildlife. The airship will play an important role in achieving the goal of saving a way of life with the massive response.

-NEW ORLEANS (July 8, 2010) A U.S. Navy MZ-3A manned airship, Advanced Airship Flying Laboratory, is signaled to cut engines at Lake Front Airport, New Orleans, La. The airship will be used to provide logistical support for the Deepwater Unified Command and the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. The Coast Guard requested the support of the Navy vehicle to help detect oil, direct skimming vessels and look for wildlife that may be threatened by oil. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Geraci/Released)-

The airship, the first to be used in the oil spill response, began its flight the last month from Yuma, Ariz. It arrived at the Gulf Coast in New Orleans July 8.

The airship will operate from a mooring three miles southeast of the Mobile Bay shoreline.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Geraci/Released)

"The airship will operate relatively close to shore, primarily supporting skimmers to maximize their effectiveness," said U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Kevin Sareault, Deputy Area Commander for Aviation, Unified Area Command, Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Response. "While different sensors are being considered, one of the primary means for locating oil will be by simple visual observation by the embarked aerial observers. The mission of overflights is to locate and direct surface assets to actionable oil - that is oil that can be burned, dispersed or skimmed."

Some of the sensor options under consideration include electro-optical, infrared and radar sensors, tools already in use on other response aircraft. The sensor packages are scheduled to arrive during the week of July 12 and will take several days to install, test and evaluate.

Two potential advantages of airship monitoring of oil in the Gulf:

1. The airship can operate for a 12-hour endurance period, much longer than airplane or helicopters.

2. The airship is more economical because it can monitor a larger area and is less expensive to operate compared to fuel and manpower costs for several helicopters or airplane to cover the same area.

There are currently no plans for other airships to be used in the response. The MZ-3A Airship was built in 2006 and has flown missions as far away as Greece where it provided security for the Olympic Games. It has also been deployed for the Office of Naval Research and Marine Mammal Research, and EPA Atmospheric Testing. FMI: http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/.

SUPPORTING THE GULF COAST FLY OUT

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

A group of Birmingham area pilots are planning a "Let's show support for the Gulf Coast Flyout" by participating in a lunch FLY OUT to Gulf Shores Jack Edwards Airport -JKA on Saturday July 17. A rain date of July 24 is proposed.

Organizers say, since many of us are going to fly somewhere for a $100 hamburger next Saturday, why not to Gulf Shores. Another way to help the residents on the Gulf is by purchasing fuel from the local FBO and shopping at the area markets. There will be drawings for donated gift certificates awarded to the participants.

The group hopes pilots from other areas of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama & Florida will organize similar groups and fly out to various Gulf Coast locations.

Anyone is welcome to join the pilots which will depart the Shelby County Airport-EET around 9:00 AM Saturday. A pre-flight briefing with registration for the drawings will begin at 8:00AM is strongly encouraged.

Plans are to arrive at Jack Edwards (JKA) between 10:30 and 11:00 to allow transportation time to selected restaurants. Organizers require advance notice as to how many will be participating to ensure ground transportation and arrangements for groups at the restaurants.

Please encourage wives, girlfriends, husbands, or boyfriends to join us for a fun, purposeful flight. This is an event to show our support for the Gulf Coast and to draw attention the "Gulf Is Open for Business!"

Those departing from EET or OTHER locations please send the following information needed to plan transportation & restaurant groups: your Name, A/C TYPE, N -Number, E-MAIL, CELL Number and number of people on board.

Anyone that wants to ride, email your weight for the "NEED A SEAT" list to: DOUGPFLYRV@GMAIL.COM

For more information and to make your reservation, contact:

Doug Preston      205-873-2955
Brian Pyatt          205-529-5573
Ed Wood            205-276-969

If you cannot make it to the fly-in, the Orange Beach Fishing Association and the Orange Beach United Methodist Church need donations for people who are out of work. Both of the groups are giving financial aid to families and have organized support groups who need our help.

You may send donations to the following addresses:
Orange Beach Fishing Association Compassionate Fund, P.O. Box 222, Orange Beach, AL 36561 and Orange Beach United Methodist Oil Spill Care-Givers, 28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561 -Staff Report

NASA Marshall Center Achieves 50 Years of Launching the Future of Science and Exploration

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

HUNTSVILLE AL- From the roar of mighty rocket engines to extraordinary scientific discoveries about our world and our universe, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville AL, stands at the forefront of the nation's space exploration mission -- just as it has done for five decades.

The Marshall Center became NASA's first field center July 1, 1960. Today it supports the whole spectrum of the agency's crucial work: propulsion, engineering, science, space operations, and project and program management. With its talented, skilled and diverse work force; extensive practical experience; and state-of-the-art laboratories and test facilities, Marshall thrives at the intersection of science and exploration.

The mission of Marshall hasn't changed in 50 years: discoveries that increase our understanding of the cosmos and our place in it; improve our ability to safely live and work in space; and deliver practical breakthroughs here on Earth that protect the planet and improve life for all humanity.

Fifty years ago on Jan. 14, 1960, President Dwight Eisenhower set the process in motion to create the NASA George C. Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

-On July 1, 1960, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center officially came into being as 4,670 civil servants previously associated with the Army became NASA personnel, and 1,840 acres of arsenal property and facilities worth $100 million were transferred to the space agency. For several months, the Marshall group continued to work at the same desks in the same Army buildings. The center's activation included the transfer of buildings, land, space projects, property and personnel from the Development Operations Division of the U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Agency.-

The center became operational on July 1, 1960 and was dedicated on Sept. 8, 1960. However, the steps toward the Center's creation began on Jan. 14. On that day, the president officially informed Congress that he planned to transfer the Development Operations Division of the Army Ballistic Missile Agency in Huntsville to NASA.

In his message to Congress, Eisenhower said he had recently reviewed "the needs and requirements" of NASA and the Department of Defense including the space agency's "responsibility for the nation's program of space exploration" and the Department of Defense's responsibility for the "development and operation of space vehicles for defense purposes."

Eisenhower believed that both agencies needed launch vehicles. However, the question involved which agency would have responsibility for "boosters for space vehicles greatly exceeding the thrust of any boosters now available." Eisenhower favored NASA since he saw "no clear Department of Defense requirement for such very large boosters." As part of his message to Congress, the President added, "For this reason, I assigned sole responsibility for the development of space vehicle boosters of very high thrust to NASA last November."

-The crowning achievement for the Saturn V rocket came when it launched Apollo 11 astronauts, Neil Armstrong, Edwin (Buzz) Aldrin and Michael Collins, to the moon in July 1969. In this photograph, astronaut Aldrin takes his first step onto the surface of the moon.-

On Jan.14, however, Eisenhower addressed what he called the "pertinent arrangements" for NASA to carry out its mission. "This can be done by transferring to NASA the Development Operations Division of the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and certain supporting personnel." Unless Congress objected, the transfer plan would become effective in 60 days.

On the local level, the Huntsville Times predicted the transfer plan would "provide jobs for Dr. Wernher von Braun and more than 4,800 other Army employees" who would join NASA. In addition, the newspaper stated, "NASA would receive title to more than 86 million dollars' worth of buildings, land, and equipment at Redstone Arsenal plus 14 million dollars' worth to be shared with Army at Cape Canaveral, Fla."

In the months that followed, Eisenhower's Jan.14 transfer plan, Congress held hearings. By mid-March, Congress had agreed to the plan and although the new NASA field installation was not officially named, Eisenhower and Congress recognized it as the "NASA facility" in Huntsville.

-The Marshall Center was dedicated on Sept. 8, 1960, by President Dwight David Eisenhower and named in honor of Gen. George C. Marshall, the Army chief of staff during World War II, U.S. secretary of state and Nobel Prize winner for his world-renowned "Marshall Plan." -

In July, those Army employees who had decided to join NASA were officially sworn in as NASA employees. In September, President Eisenhower traveled to Huntsville where he officially dedicated the new NASA Center as the "George C. Marshall Space Flight Center," in honor of his fellow World War II military leader, General George C. Marshall.

Dr. Wernher von Braun would serve as director of the new field Center provided the launch vehicle needed to launch the first human into space and the first humans to the lunar surface as well as launch vehicles and scientific expertise to NASA far into the future.
Staff report FMI: http://history.msfc.nasa.gov/index.html , Complete NASA Marshall Timeline of achievements

Enterprise Run Benefits Aviation Expo 2010

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Enterprise AL- A celebration of 100 years of aviation in Alabama was the theme of the fundraising race, according to Special Projects Coordinator Rachel Davis. All proceeds of the event will go towards funding the 2010 Enterprise Aviation Expo to be held at the Enterprise Municipal Airport on Sept. 25. Corporate sponsors of the event were Troy Bank and Trust, Gold's Gym, Walgreens and Winn Dixie of Enterprise.

Nearly 100 people of all ages lined up at the Boll Weevil Monument on Saturday morning to participate in the first "Happy Birthday Alabama Aviation" 5K Run and one-mile walk.

Last year, Enterprise hosted a first Aviation Expo at the city's municipal airport. The event was planned to pay tribute to the rich aviation heritage alive in the Wiregrass by highlighting many Warbirds and other vintage aircraft throughout U.S. military history. Displays included vintage military vehicles and weapons. FMI: Enterprise Now

Steve Oliver and Suzanne Asbury-Oliver to Receive 2010 Bill Barber Award for Showmanship

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

World Airshow News has announced that Steve Oliver and Suzanne Asbury-Oliver are the 2010 recipients of the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship. The award will be presented during EAA AirVenture 2010 at EAA's Theater in the Woods on Monday, July 26. Steve and Suzanne join a list of honorees that reads like an airshow hall of fame over the past 25 years.

Steve Oliver began flying with his father in a Piper Vagabond at the age of 12. By the time he was 17, Steve had enrolled in aeromechanics school in Kansas City and was taking flying lessons. In just 11 months, Steve earned commercial and instructor ratings and performed his first airshow. He currently holds an Airline Transport Pilot rating, is a single and multi-engine flight instructor, an Aerobatic Competency Evaluator (ACE), and holds a ground level aerobatic waiver.

Steve has flown transport category fire bombers, helicopters, and seaplanes. He has flown mail and has been both a corporate and a charter pilot. He has flown many hours crop dusting and towing banners at various events across the country. It was while towing banners that Steve met Suzanne Asbury.

-Steve Oliver and Suzanne Asbury-Oliver in Bessemer AL at the Birmingham Aero Club Airshow- Alabama Aviator image

Suzanne Asbury-Oliver began flying gliders at age 14 while attending junior high school near Portland, Oregon. At 15 she soloed, and by 18 she was certified as a flight instructor. She also holds an Airline Transport Pilot rating and has logged more than 6,000 flying hours, many of them in her original 1929 open cockpit Travel Air Pepsi SkyWriter biplane. After some 70 active years on the job, the biplane was retired in 2000 and now hangs from the ceiling at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center at Dulles Airport.

Today, Suzanne is the nation's only female professional skywriter. Millions have met Suzanne by national media attention through the Today Show, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, US Magazine, People Magazine, and front page coverage in the Wall Street Journal.

With Suzanne as the primary skywriter, Steve performs the aerobatic day and night shows in the Oregon Aero® SkyDancer, a 1956 de Havilland Super Chipmunk which has been specially modified for airshow performances both in the daytime and at night. The Olivers also offer barnstorming rides in a New Standard D-25.

This year marks the 25^th anniversary of the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship, which began in 1986. The award goes to airshow performers or teams that have demonstrated great skill and showmanship and is presented annually by World Airshow News magazine http://www.airshowmag.com/ and the friends and family of the late Bill Barber. -ICAS

Air Race Classic 2010 Video

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Editor's note of correction: The 2011 Air Race Classic will begin in Iowa City IA and the exciting Terminus will be in Mobile Alabama.

TUSCALOOSA AL- Last week Tuscaloosa was the second stop of eight including the destination of Frederick MD on the 2,400 mile, 34^th Annual Air Race Classic. The all women air racers honored their rich history by taking to the skies at Fort Myers FL in celebration of the 100^th year of women pilots and 81 years of women air racing.

-Laura Ying Gao, Ellen Herr and Terry Carbonell, Classic 11 Team- C182 RG, placed first in the 34^th Air Race Classic-

Fifty-one planes came to Tuscaloosa, all but a few stopped for a grand total of 2,000 gallons of fuel. Each plane carried a crew of two but a few had three pilots. One of the first planes to land would become the winner of the race, the Classic 11 team - C182 RG, Terry Carbonell of Alva FL, Ellen Herr of Fort Myers FL and Laura Ying Gao of Spring Hill FL, all three are Ninety Nine members.

-Click to view Alabama Aviator TV Air Race Classic land in Tuscaloosa-

Terry ran her fourth air race this year; Ellen enjoyed her first along with Ying, a student pilot. A native of China, Ying explained it would take as long as fifteen more years before the China skies are open to GA. She says she is enjoying the wonderful freedom to fly and hopes aviation in the states will continue to be supported.

-Alabama's own Flying Carastros, Susan and Marie, Classic 12- C182T landed in Tuscaloosa-

Alabama's own mother-daughter team, Classic 12 a Skylane- the Flying Carastros, Marie and Susan flew their eighth race together this year. The All Women's Transcontinental Air Race, better known as the Powder Puff Derby, held its final and commemorative race in 1977 and after that the Air Race Classic stepped in as the premier event. Although Marie flew in the 1960 Powder Puff Derby, she likes to race for the one-on-one time with her daughter. Susan now lives in W Palm Beach FL but often flies her C310 to Montgomery to visit her mom.

About 11:00, the sky began to rain airplanes as the air racers descended on Tuscaloosa. Airport Manager, Wayne Cameron and the two FBO's were hopping to fuel and turn the onslaught of traffic. Each aircraft was required to fly by the tower for handicap timing and then sequenced to land. Needless to say, the military Texans called off their practice that day. By about 3:00 most all of the air racers had departed to their next stop though a few remained over night.

-Wayne Cameron, Airport Manager, welcomed the Air Race Classic teams to Tuscaloosa-

A wide variety of aircraft entered this year's race, from Cessna to Cirrus, Beechcraft, Piper, Commander and Grumman. According to Classic 44 BE-55, Jessica Stearns of Bonita Springs FL, this is the first time in 40 years a twin entered the race.

-Ruby Sheldon and Judy Bolkema-Tokar, Classic 16 Team- C182S, Ruby's 25^th Air Race Classic and most senior member at 92 with Judy, a tireless ARC volunteer-

Even more diverse than the aircraft, each of these accomplished women pilots had a wonderful story. Team Classic 16 C182, Judy Bolkema-Tokar of Port Orange FL and Ruby Sheldon of Phoenix AZ was certainly among them. Ruby is the most senior of the pilots at 92 with more than 15,000 hours. She holds the first FAA helicopter instrument instructor certificate ever issued and flew the Huey in the Arctic among other fascinating adventures in a DC3 and Grumman OV-18 Mohawk. Last year she was inducted into the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame.

The Air Race Classic wrapped up Sunday night with the awards banquet where the top ten winners were announced. Next year the 2011, Air Race Classic will begin in Mobile Alabama. -B Meyer, See more at the GALLERY. FMI: Air Race Classic , Mother Daughter ARC Team

TOP TEN - Air Race Classic 2010

1

11

Terry Carbonell, Ellen Herr & Laura Ying Gao

Cessna Skylane RG R182

2

24

Joyce Wilson & Laura Berry

Cessna Skylane 182S

3

55

Linda Street-Ely & Elizabeth Kummer

Grumman Cheetah AA-5A

4

4

Lauren Steele & Allison Springer (Purdue U)

Piper Warrior III PA28-161

5

19

Jo Alcorn & Michelle Bostick

Cessna Skyhawk 172R

6

49

Barbara Harris-Para & Laurie Zaleski

Beechcraft Bonanza A36

7

17

Dottie Anderson & Jean Sloan

Piper Archer PA 28-181

8

48

Kay Brown & Jessica Campbell (Indiana State U)

Diamond DA-40

9

30

Erin Jackson & Christine Zoerlein (Southern Illinois U)

Cessna Skyhawk 172R

10

58

Kristen McTee & Kim Turrell (Embry-Riddle U-Prescott)

Cessna Skyhawk 172S

Alabama Employee of the Year Works at Guntersville Airport

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

GUNTERSVILLE AL- Recently the Alabama APSE -Association for Persons in Supported Employment- held their banquet and awards ceremony. This organization works to support individuals with disabilities find gainful employment and networks employers with potential employees. Joseph Clifton, a part time employee at Guntersville Airport, won Alabama APSE employee of the year and his family won Family of the Year, for their steadfast support.

Joseph was interested in aviation most of his life. Guntersville Municipal Airport Manager Matthew Metcalfe first met Joseph a little over a year ago. Metcalfe was working then at Albertville airport, when Joseph came to meet a plane he was tracking on Flight Aware. He taught himself to look up "N" numbers and track aircraft flight plans and took the opportunity to show his new skill to his caseworker.

-Guntersville Airport employee, Joseph Clifton -center- recieves the APSE Alabama Employee of the Year Award-
Photo special to Alabama Aviator

Shortly after stepping into the Manager position at Guntersville Municipal Airport, Mayor Hembree asked Metcalfe to consider hiring a young man he knew about from the ASPA. They agreed to meet and set a time for him to come for an interview and assessment.

When he arrived with Ms. Mitchell, his caseworker, Metcalfe recognized Joseph immediately. "As far as work around the airport goes, it has been mutually rewarding for both Joseph and the rest of our staff. We have worked together on everyday airport tasks and even special projects," says Metcalfe.

"The local pilots welcomed Joseph with open arms," according to Metcalfe, "they take him flying at EAA breakfasts and around the area. With his new found confidence, he plans to pursue his light sport rating this summer."

Next time you're flying near Guntersville, stop by to meet Joseph. He just may rekindle your excitement about aviation. -B Meyer, Matthew Metcalfe contributed to this story.

EAA & AOPA Sound Off Over FCC Ban on 121.5 MHz ELT

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

In a report adopted on June 1, 2010, the Federal Communications Commission states it will prohibit the sale or use of 121.5 MHz emergency locator transmitters, effective in August. Thousands of General Aviation Aircraft would be affected by the surprise rule that was released June 12, 2010. The 121.5 ELTs are allowed under FAA rules. The FCC states the rules have been amended to "prohibit further certification, manufacture, importation, sale or use of 121.5 MHz ELTs."

On June 15 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) published in the Federal Register a change to 47 CFR Part 87 that will "prohibit the certification, manufacture, importation, sale, or continued use of 121.5 MHz emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) other than the Breitling Emergency Watch ELT." Meanwhile, the FAA in 14 CFR Part 91.207, stipulates that U.S.-registered civil airplanes are required to have an approved automatic type emergency locator transmitter in operable condition attached to the airplane. The FAA does not specify either 121.5 or 406 MHz, but the overwhelming majority of aircraft are equipped with 121.5 MHz units, meaning they would be in violation of federal law when it goes into effect 60 days after publication, or August 15, 2010. Pilots of GA aircraft are now caught between two conflicting rule makers.

EAA says it is working with fellow aviation associations to prevent this action and exploring all avenues of action to address this rule before it goes into effect.

"This regulatory change would impose a substantial and unwarranted cost on general aviation," said Earl Lawrence, EAA vice president of industry and regulatory affairs. "And this also creates a burden for the GA community and those ground-based rescue units that continue to use the 121.5 frequency to perform searches and save lives."

"The FCC is making a regulatory change that would impose an extra cost on GA operators, without properly communicating with the industry or understanding the implications of its action," said AOPA Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Rob Hackman. "There is no FAA requirement to replace 121.5 MHz units with 406 MHz technology. When two government agencies don't coordinate, GA can suffer."

Both the 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz ELTs meet the FAA's regulatory requirements if manufactured to the proper technical standard order. While satellites no longer monitor the 121.5 MHz frequency as of Feb. 1, 2009, the frequency is monitored by ATC, the military, and other pilots. AOPA is exploring all avenues of action to address this rule before it goes into effect.

It would be impossible to outfit all aircraft in the timeframe of the FCC rule and cost prohibitive for GA aircraft owners. The rule highlights the fact that threats to GA can come from many different areas, Hackman said. Government agencies outside of the FAA don't necessarily understand the effects of their actions on aviation, and poor communication can compound the problem. In addition to the unnecessary cost, this ruling also raises the question of the legality of the 406 MHz ELTs because they also transmit a low-power signal on 121.5 MHz to allow the search-and-rescue community to home as part of the rescue process according to AOPA. -Staff Report, FMI: EAA, AOPA. See pdf FCC report

Star Wars Exhibit to Open at US Space & Rocket Center Huntsville VideoLink

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-HUNTSVILLE AL- Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination, a blockbuster exhibition, presented by Bose Corporation, was developed by the Museum of Science in collaboration with Lucasfilm Ltd. More than 2 million visitors worldwide have experienced this traveling exhibition.

The first exhibition of its kind, Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination combines costumes and props from all six Star Wars films with interactive exhibits related to real-world technologies. The exhibit is organized around two technology themes: "Getting Around" and "Robots and People." Journey into that galaxy far, far away at an exciting exhibition featuring more than 80 costumes, models and props from all six Star Wars films that invites visitors to defy gravity, manipulate robots, and engineer droids.

Examine Luke Skywalker's original landspeeder from Star Wars: Episode IV, on public display for the first time, alongside scale models of X- and Y-wing starfighters. Then, find out how things move without touching the ground in the real world, from models of flying cars to commercial space planes.

Visitors meet C-3PO and R2-D2 and explore how people relate to the droids in Star Wars. The exhibition also features real-world robots that navigate and sense the world around them while communicating in increasingly sophisticated ways. These robots include the dinosaur-like Troody and a floor-vacuuming Roomba.

Ride the Millennium Falcon in a full-size replica of the cockpit of Star Wars Episode IV. Visitors will experience the jump to lightspeed, as narrator Anthony Daniels (better known as C-3PO) takes them on a multimedia exploration of what we know about our own galaxy. The experience is four-and-a-half minutes in duration and accommodates small groups of visitors at a time. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are $5 per person. All visitors who Jump to Lightspeed will receive a limited-edition souvenir pin.

-Click to view Star Wars Exhibit video-
-Sit back and experience a breathtaking ride to the edge of the universe! In a full-size replica of the cockpit of Episode IV's Millennium Falcon, visitors experience a virtual jump to lightspeed. Narrated by Anthony Daniels (C-3PO), this multimedia presentation explores what we know about our own galaxy in a breathtaking journey to the edge of the universe.-

The Huntsville stop will be its first in the Southeast. Officials at the Space Center are expecting more than 150,000 people to this experience. The "Star Wars" exhibit, which will take up more than 12,000 square feet, will occupy a large portion of the museum's original building.

When "Star Wars" opens June 28, tourism officials hope people from Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville, Birmingham and Memphis make the short drive here. Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination will make its first appearance in the Southeast beginning June 25, 2010, through September 6.

Three great FBOs are nearby to fly in to the Star Wars exhibit: Huntsville Executive- MDQ Madisonville, DAAS-Decatur-DCU and Huntsville International- HSV. B Meyer, FMI: Star Wars tickets,

Bonhomme Wins Red Bull Air Race New York

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NEW YORK - Paul Bonhomme of Britain won the first-ever Red Bull Air Race in New York on Sunday with a scintillating performance under pressure in front of the most spectacular setting in the eight-year history of the sport. Nigel Lamb took second place in a thrilling four-way battle between the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan while American Kirby Chambliss got his second straight podium with third place.

-image Nick Laham Getty Images-

Bonhomme, the defending champion, prevailed in front of a huge crowd of 75,000 spectators watching from both sides of the Hudson River and a live U.S. television audience with one superb run after another through three pressure-packed rounds. Bonhomme had finished behind Arch for the last three races and was desperate to get back on top after the Team Abu Dhabi racer cut his lead in the championship to just one point. Arch pushed Bonhomme to his limits but saw his three-race winning streak shattered in dramatic fashion when he hit a pylon in the final 4 ending any hope of a podium finish.

It was Bonhomme's 12th straight podium -- a record -- and he now leads the championship with 53 points while Arch is second overall with 48 points. Team Breitling's Nigel Lamb is third on 47 and Chambliss has 35. -Red Bull Air Race

Angel Flight Lands in Alabama Video

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

TUSCALOOSA AL - Achieving lofty goals, such as the desire to fly, seldom comes easy; sharing that passion leads many pilots to do great deeds. Among these is flying medical patients for Angel Flight. Dozens of Alabama pilots volunteer their aviator skills, aircraft and time to fly those in need of medical treatment to distant locations free. Until recently these flights were coordinated by Birmingham based GivingFlite as well as sister organization, Angel Flight. This year GivingFlite merged with Georgia based Angel Flight therefore furthering possibilities for Alabama pilots to volunteer their skill.

-Angel Flight displays their mission, history and awards at Tuscaloosa Grand Opening- Click to enlarge

Last week, the new Alabama Angel Flight branch office celebrated a ribbon cutting and Grand Opening at the Tuscaloosa Airport. Members of the Angel Flight Board of Directors, office staff and volunteers gathered to meet and greet elected officials of Tuscaloosa and Northport over lunch.

CLICK to View Alabama Aviator TV -YouTube Video

Bert Light, Chairman of the Angel Flight Board, explained how the 27 year history of this nonprofit organization goes far beyond flying patients for treatment including Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. According to Light, after 9/11, Angel Flight became a lifeline transporting volunteer fire fighters, nurses and relief workers to Ground Zero and the Pentagon. These pilots also flew as first responders during hurricane relief efforts across the Gulf States, Haiti Earthquake supplies and worked closely with the Red Cross. Coordinating with Air Care Alliance, Angel Flight missions soared to 3,000 last year. Light says this number represents only a fraction of the need because so many do not know about their service.

- Bert Light- Angel Flight BoD Chairman, Art Ramey- Alabama Branch Office Director TCL and Sonny Deason-Alabama Angel Flight Pilot-

Directing the new branch office is University of Alabama business major, Art Ramey. Spearheading the flying efforts at TCL is long time Angel Flight Pilot Sonny Deason. Ramey, also a pilot, moved to Tuscaloosa in 2009 when he transferred to the University of Alabama's Business School. His major is Operations Management with specialization in Global Business and Supply Chain Management. He was thrilled to know a new Angel Flight branch would be opening here. Ramey looks forward to spreading the message about the new Angel Flight office and gaining local community involvement.

- Sonny Deason, pilot, receives award from Angel Flight for spear heading new TCL branch office-Click to enlarge

Deason, a local resident, says, "Tuscaloosa's strategic location in the Southeast makes it an ideal hub for Angel Flight. Over the years I've connected to numerous flights in and out of Birmingham and Atlanta and other cities in the Southeast, and realized there are a lot of people nearby who could really use our help." He is hoping this new office will bring in more pilots in the region who will find the branch location convenient for them and want to get involved.

-Angel Flight office opens in Tuscaloosa Alabama-

Tera Wyatt, Director of TDOT and Wayne Cameron, Airport Manager was among those recognized during the luncheon for their efforts in support of the new branch office located in the terminal building. Cameron said he hoped the new group would bring more air traffic to the airport and offered his continued support.

-Russ Buchanan, founder of GivingFlite, receives award for his leadership and helping Angel Flight soar.- Click to enlarge

Russ Buchanan, founder of GivingFlite received recognition for his efforts in building and guiding the non-profit and award winning all volunteer organization now merged with Angel Flight. A surprise announcement by Angel Flight executive Director, Jeanine Chambers Biron was a $10,000 donation from GivingFlite. Buchanan said it was the remainder of funds raised over the years and was happy that GivingFlite would live on through them. "I hope people that supported and donated to GivingFlite will continue to support Angel Flight. It is such an important mission that changes lives." -B Meyer, See More Photos at the GALLERY- FMI: Angel Flight Alabama , Tuscaloosa Airport . Angel Flight Alabama is currently seeking volunteer pilots and support Earth Angels.

USN Blues Practice over NAS Pensacola

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

PENSACOLA FL - The U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, align behind the crowd line during a practice demonstration. The team conducts practice demonstrations over Naval Air Station Pensacola two days a week throughout the show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Johnson/Released) - US Navy.mil

Arch on Top in Red Bull Air Race Qualifying Victory

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NEW YORK - Austria's Hannes Arch qualified fastest for the first-ever Red Bull Air Race in New York on Saturday and collected one championship point that cut Paul Bonhomme‘s lead at the top to just one point before Sunday's race. Canada's Pete McLeod took a remarkable third place on the turn-filled track on the Hudson River, between the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyscrapers. Americans Kirby Chambliss and Michael Goulian were in strong position for Sunday in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

-Hannes Arch of Austria in action on the Hudson River during the Red Bull Air Race New York Qualifying Day on June 19, 2010 in New Jersey. -Dean Mouhtaropoulos / Getty Images for Red Bull Air Race-

In front of a Qualifying Day crowd of more than 40,000 spectators lining the shores of Liberty State Park in New Jersey and New York, Team Abu Dhabi's Arch clocked the 5.5-km track of 13 Air Gates in 1:08.18, setting a track record on his first run. Despite a penalty-marred second run, Arch‘s time was still good enough to hold off Bonhomme's strong challenge. The defending champion from Britain was 0.80 behind Arch in Qualifying 1 and cut the gap to just 0.52 seconds with his faster second run later on when he hit speeds near 230 mph. Bonhomme leads the championship with 41 points while Arch has 40. -Red Bull Air Race

Tuskegee Airman Gone West

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) - Retired Lt. Col. William H. Holloman III, 85, one of the famed "Tuskegee Airmen" who broke the military's color barrier by becoming a World War II fighter pilot, died June 11 in Kent, Wash.

Colonel Holloman continued to serve during the Korean War and became the Air Force's first African-American helicopter pilot. He went to war again in Vietnam.

-Five Tuskegee Airmen prepare to autograph lithographs Aug. 6, 2008, illustrating various missions the men flew during World War II. Retired Lt. Col. Bill Holloman (standing) went on to become the Air Force's first African-American helicopter pilot. Colonel Holloman died June 11, 2010, in Kent, Wash.-

A St. Louis native, he volunteered for and graduated from an all-black aviation training program at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Ala.

Colonel Holloman flew a single-seat P-51 Mustang fighter-bomber as part of the 99th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group from a base in Italy to targets in Germany, Austria and Eastern European countries in 1944 and 1945. He flew 19 combat missions, including escorting bombers and hitting enemy targets.

After World War II, Colonel Holloman worked in South America and flew small commercial planes in Canada. Later as an Air Force reservist, he was called back to active duty for tours during the Korean War and in Vietnam. It was during that time he switched services and joined the Army.

After he retired in 1972 from the Army, he continued to serve his country by teaching younger generations about how the war and aviation intersected in a way that helped end racial separation. - Inside AF.mil

Lucy Buffett Appeals to Tourists to Visit Alabama Coast for Fourth

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

MONTGOMERY AL- The Alabama Tourism Department has launched new advertising campaign designed to get tourists to Alabama's beaches for the Fourth of July.

State tourism director Lee Sentell says the ads featuring Gulf Shores chef Lucy Buffett are airing in 10 media markets important to Gulf coast tourism. They will be followed by an ad featuring American Idol Taylor Hicks. Sentell says both offered to help their home state after the Gulf oil spill.

Click to View Alabama Tourist Ad with Lucy Buffett

The new ad with Buffett is airing in Mobile, Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, Nashville and Memphis, Tenn., Jackson, Miss., and New Orleans and Baton Rouge, La.

Buffett, the youngest sister of Jimmy Buffett, runs Lulu's at Homeport Marina, a popular restaurant on the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores near Jack Edwards airport. See FLY ALABAMA related article -Staff Report

Cessna Skycatcher Winner of AIAA General Aviation Award

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

WICHITA - The Model 162 Skycatcher produced by Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. company, has been named winner of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Piper General Aviation Award for 2010.

The award is made annually to a company or product judged to have made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of general aviation. The Skycatcher design team will be officially recognized at the 10th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations (ATIO) Conference, September 13-15, in Houston, Texas.

The Skycatcher is Cessna's entry in the new light sport aircraft category. The 162 achieved required ASTM compliance in late 2009, and the first aircraft was delivered in December. Cessna has more than 1,000 orders for the entry level aircraft (base price is $112,500).

"This recognition for the Cessna design team is well-deserved and makes the hard work worthwhile," said David Brant, senior vice president, Engineering. "An award from AIAA is like winning an Oscar since it comes from fellow aerospace engineering professionals."

AIAA presents the Piper General Aviation Award for outstanding contributions leading to the advancement of general aviation. The award honors William T. Piper, Sr., who was founder and first president of Piper Aircraft Corporation 1929-1970.

The first recipient of the Piper General Aviation Award in 1989 was Fred Weick of the Piper Aircraft Company. Other aviation innovators have been recognized for significant contributions to general aviation and include James K. Coyne President of the National Air Transportation Association, Raspet Flight Research Laboratory at Mississippi State University, and Sam B. Williams of Williams International.

AIAA is the world's largest technical society dedicated to the global aerospace profession. With more than 35,000 individual members worldwide, and 90 corporate members, AIAA brings together industry, academia, and government to advance engineering and science in aviation, space, and defense. For more information, visit http://www.aiaa.org/.

Ensuring the Safe Integration of UAS

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

As the popularity of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) grows, the FAA is moving forward with plans to ensure safe integration of these aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS). FAA achieved a milestone on June 9, 2010, by signing a cooperative research and development agreement with Insitu, Inc., a Boeing Company subsidiary and provider of unmanned aircraft.

-FAA Safety Briefing, EYE in the Sky-

The new partnership will enable further study of how the craft operate and help the industry move closer to a sense-and-avoid solution. For more information on the safe integration of UAS in the NAS, check out the article "Eye in the Sky: Assuring the Safe Operations of UAS" in the May/June 2010 issue of FAA Safety Briefing. -FAA.gov

Three New Space Station Crew Members Launch From Kazakhstan VideoLink

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NASA- As the launch of the Soyuz TMA-19 lit up the pre-dawn skies around the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, NASA astronauts Doug Wheelock and Shannon Walker and Russian cosmonaut Fyodor Yurchikhin began the two-day journey to catch up with the space station currently orbiting 220 statute miles above the Earth.

› View launch video from NASA /Image Credit: NASA/Carla Cioffi

The station's newest flight engineers will begin a five-and-a-half month tour of duty after docking with the station's Zvezda service module at 6:25 p.m. Thursday. Fellow Expedition 24 crewmates Commander Alexander Skvortsov and Flight Engineers Mikhail Kornienko and Tracy Caldwell Dyson will welcome them aboard the orbiting complex when the hatches open around 9:25 p.m.

During Expedition 24, the six-person crew will continue scientific research investigations and station maintenance activities. On June 28, Yurchikhin, Wheelock and Walker will climb back into their Soyuz spacecraft and move it to the newly-delivered Mini-Research Module-1, or Rassvet.

The mission also includes three spacewalks, one conducted by Russian cosmonauts Yurchikhin and Kornienko on July 26 and two by NASA astronauts Wheelock and Caldwell Dyson on Aug. 5 and 17.

In September Wheelock, Walker and Yurchikhin will become the Expedition 25 crew when Skvortsov, Kornienko and Caldwell Dyson return home in the Soyuz TMA-18 spacecraft that brought them to the station April 4.

U.S. Army Col. Wheelock, 50, is making his second trip into space. As an STS-120 mission specialist aboard space shuttle Discovery in 2007, he traveled to the station and conducted three spacewalks.

Walker, 45, is a graduate of Rice University and the first native Houstonian to be named an astronaut. This is her first spaceflight.

Yurchikhin, 51, is making his third trip into space and his second long-duration stay aboard the station. He flew aboard space shuttle Atlantis on the STS-112 mission to the station in October 2002. He also spent six months aboard the station in 2007 as commander of Expedition 15. -NASA

US Navy Eye on the Flag

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-GREAT LAKES IL- In preparation for the 2011 Great Lakes Centennial, more than 7400 staff and students from Training Support Center, Recruit Training Command, Hospital Corps School and many other tenant commands at Naval Station Great Lakes recreated the "Living Flag from 1917" on National Flag Day at Ross Field.

-U.S. Navy photo by Chief Gas Turbine Electrician David C. Smith/Released-

With some wearing crisp dress whites and others in blue camouflage-style uniforms, the sailors portrayed the Stars and Stripes on Ross Field for what was called a "living" U.S. flag. Navy video and still photographers captured the moment from a crane.

About 10,000 sailors gathered on Ross Field for the original living flag in November 1917. In celebration of the armistice, they depicted a 48-star flag. - US Navy.mil

New US Army Aviation Center of Excellence Commander Announced

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

FORT RUCKER, Ala. - The Army Chief of Staff announced Monday Brig. Gen. Anthony G. Crutchfield, Director, Joint Center for Operational Analysis-Lessons Learned, U.S. Joint Forces Command, Suffolk, Va., will become the next Commanding General at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, Ala.

Crutchfield will replace current commanding general Maj. Gen. James O. Barclay III, who has commanded USAACE since July 2008.

Barclay's new position is Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, United States Army, Washington, DC.

The change of command ceremony will be announced at a later time.

-Brig. Gen. Anthony G. Crutchfield-

Brig. Gen. Crutchfield serves as director for the Joint Center for Operational Analysis (JCOA). JCOA assists in leading the transformation of the joint force by producing compelling recommendations for change derived from direct observations and sound analysis of current joint operations, exercises and experiments. JCOA also maintains a comprehensive database and archive of lessons and documents pertaining to previous and ongoing joint and combined operations around the world.

Brig. Gen Crutchfield has served tours across the United States as well as in Germany, Korea, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He has commanded at the platoon, company, battalion, and brigade levels. He is a master Army aviator and is rated in the AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Blackhawk, and the AH-1 Cobra Helicopters. Brig. Gen. Crutchfield most recently served as the deputy commander/chief of staff of U.S. Army Accessions Command at Fort Monroe, Va.

Commissioned in 1982, he has earned degrees from Marshall University, Webster University and the Army War College.

His decorations include awards of the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal. He is authorized to wear the Master Army Aviator Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. -Kelly P. Pate, Chief, Media Relations-The U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker POA

Alabama on NASA Education Research Program Award List

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

WASHINGTON -- NASA has awarded $16.8 million to colleges and universities nationwide to conduct research and technology development in areas of importance to the agency's mission. In addition to the research and technology development, the awards enable faculty development and higher education student support.

The selections are part of NASA's Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, or EPSCoR. The program is designed to assist states in establishing an academic research enterprise directed toward a long-term, self-sustaining and competitive capability that will contribute to the states' economic viability and development. EPSCoR assists in developing partnerships between NASA research assets, academic institutions and industry.

A total of 24 proposals were selected for funding in Puerto Rico and the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia and Wyoming. Winning proposals were selected through a merit-based, peer-reviewed competition.

Proposals were selected from colleges, universities and organizations including the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

For a list of selected proposals, visit: http://nspires.nasaprs.com/. FMI: http://www.nasa.gov/

Blue Thunder II Claims New International Speed Record

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-Marysville CA- Pilot/owner/builder John Parker, former Formula One air race champion and holder of several speed records at shorter distances in his earlier Thunder Mustang, Blue Thunder, took his successor machine, Blue Thunder II, to record speeds. He flew over the long course set up in California, launching and finishing in front of the crowds at the Golden West Fly-in on both Saturday and Sunday, June 12 and 13.

On each day, Parker went fast enough to break the old record of some 330mph; he went 361mph on Saturday, and a blazing 363.9 on Sunday.

Blue Thunder II is powered by a Falconer V-12 engine of 600 cubic inches and 640 horsepower. The Thunder Mustang is a faithful rendering of a P-51 Mustang, in ¾ scale, built in composite materials. The fuel was 115 octane ERC racing gasoline. Nitrous oxide was also used during a portion of each run.

The record runs were made in accordance with international rules and were officially observed by Brian Utley, a representative of the National Aeronautics Association, the US arm of the international organization of record, the FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale). Parker's class, C1c, is for piston-powered landplanes between 2200 and 3850 pounds.

Parker battled high winds that prevailed throughout the show. The 20-knot wind that faced the Saturday run was particularly rough.

Though the record is for a distance of 100 kilometers, the course was laid out at a total distance of 142km, out and back around an observer's waypoint. The average speed over the course counts for the record.

Parker and "Blue II" will be attending the AirVenture airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, at the end of July; the man and machine will also be competing in the SuperSport class in the Reno Air Races in September.

To learn about Blue Thunder II: http://www.bluethunderairracing.com/
To follow the record claim: http://records.fai.org/file?i=2&f=16037
For information on air racing: http://www.airrace.org/

GL Avionics XTreme Mini EFIS Launched

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-Torrance CA - After several years of development MGL Avionics is pleased to announce the launch of the XTreme mini EFIS. The XTreme is a functional primary flight display (PFD), engine monitor, fuel computer and basic GPS built into a slick and compact package. It mounts in a standard round 3 1/8" hole (offset) and boasts a bright 4.3" diagonal sunlight readable display (the same size and resolution as the popular Garmin aera and BendixKing Av8or GPSs).

The XTreme can be used as a PFD or PFD/Engine monitor, depending on the application. It can be used as primary instrumentation or as a backup gauge to a large EFIS. The XTreme includes a built-in GPS that is used for Ground Speed, Range Calculations and as a backup/control to the AHRS and will soon include a basic GPS Navigator via a free software update. Direct To, and Basic Route navigation will be supported (no moving map). Also, full 2-axis autopilot functionality will be included in a free software update later this year (just add MGL Avionics CAN Servos at $1,000 each).

The basic unit has been introduced at a special price of $1,000, and includes the built-in GPS and antenna. To add a full AHRS package, another $1,260 is required. Without the attitude sensor the XTreme will still display a GPS-derived bank angle (no pitch information), so it can be used without AHRS sensors if necessary. If engine monitoring is required, an RDAC (Remote Data Acquisition Computer) must be added (starting at $160) and also a full complement of engine and fuel sensors. A PC program that simulates the functions and setups of the XTreme is available from http://www.mglavionics.com/ to allow familiarization with the mini EFIS before and after purchase. See packages: http://www.mglavionics.com/html/xtreme.html

NASA Appoints Constellation Program Managers

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-WASHINGTON- Lawrence D. Thomas has been appointed manager of NASA's Constellation Program, which manages the effort to take humans beyond low-Earth orbit and develop the next generation launch vehicle and spacecraft.

Charles M. Stegemoeller has been appointed as deputy program manager. He and Thomas will be based at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Thomas most recently served as the deputy program manager of the Constellation program at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. He began his NASA career in 1983 as an aerospace systems engineer at Marshall's Science and Engineering Directorate.

He served in leadership positions at Marshall including manager of the Systems Engineering and Analysis Office for the Second Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Program Office, and chief of the Systems Engineering Division, Spacecraft and Vehicle Systems Department. Thomas also spent two years at Johnson as manager of the Vehicle Analysis and Integration Office in the International Space Station Program.

He earned a bachelor's degree in industrial and systems engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville; master's degree in industrial engineering from North Carolina State University; and doctorate in systems engineering also from Alabama.

Stegemoeller most recently served as director of the program planning and control office for the Constellation Program. He joined NASA in 1985 and served in several leadership positions within the Space Station Freedom and NASA/Mir Programs at Johnson. He was later named associate director for the Office of Bioastronautics within the Space Life Sciences Directorate.

Stegemoeller earned his bachelor's degree in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University, College Station. For more information on the Constellation Program visit: http://www.nasa.gov/constellation

FLY to the ALABAMA Coast! 6th Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival Video Link

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-FOLEY AL- The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival welcomes 80,000 visitors representing eleven states each year and features 45 balloonists from across the country. There is free, fun entertainment for families including a children's village, balloon glow (weather permitting) and Frisbee dog show. Juried arts and crafts booths, food vendors and live entertainment make this annual festival one to attend!

-David Horton 2009 Balloon Festival image-

During early morning flights around 6 AM, you can watch Balloon Pilots compete for money and bragging rights. Watch as balloonists attempt to drop a tennis ball into a small boat floating in the pond. Late afternoon around 6 PM, you'll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of 25 Balloons "Glowing" on the grounds while 24 others fly overhead.

-Click to view YouTube VIDEO- 2009 Balloon Festival-

You will find something interesting to see and do during every hour of the 6th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. From watching colorful balloons, high-flying kites, catching shows performed by the Disc-Connected K-9's World Famous Frisbee Dogs, listening to a great line up of music, or enjoying the Children's Village, there is something sure to please everyone in the family.

-Disc-ConnectedK-9's World Famous Frisby Dogs-

Things to remember: Wear sunscreen (especially small children) or pick up some free at the Souvenir Booth (limited supply). We recommend you wear light colored clothing and closed shoes. You're welcome to bring your lawn/bag chairs or blankets, but not coolers. We suggest pets remain at home. The free shuttles only allow service animals on board. Soft drinks and water are $2, Tummy Yummy's are $1 in the Children's Village and beer and wine is $3.

-What-A-Kites-

Attendance averages 80,000 guests who enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, local cuisine, the Disc-Connected K9's World Famous Frisbee Dogs show, and new for 2010 the WhatAKite 60' kites on display and flying throughout the day.

Balloon flights are not available during the festival. Please contact our Balloon Meister, Tommy Rachel at Taking Off Hot Air Balloon Co., to schedule a flight before or after the Festival. FLY ALABAMA- SUPPORT Our Gulf Coast Ecomony!- Staff Report, FMI: Aviator EVENTS Schedule

6th Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
Foley, Alabama
June 18 - 20, 2010
Father's Day Weekend

Alabama Pilot Headed for World Gliding Championships

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

-MOONTOWN AL- Pilot and rocket scientist Bill Elliott from Huntsville, Alabama is becoming the local "rock star" of glider competition. While in college, Bill earned an airplane rating, but by 1989, he was looking for a new challenge, the lure of motorless flight induced him to join the Huntsville Soaring Club at Moontown.

Bill has served in various roles on the Huntsville Soaring Club Board of Directors and was recently appointed Alabama SSA Governor after a five-year stint as SSA State Recordkeeper. He is a founding member of the Georgia-Tennessee-Alabama (GTA) race series, and developmental a Wiki-based Web site, http://www.gliderpilot.org/. He hopes the site will become a one-stop shop of soaring information serving the global soaring community. Bill holds many Alabama, Tennessee, and New Mexico State soaring records and recently awarded a U.S. national multiplace record in a Blanik with fellow club member Rand Baldwin.

-Bill Elliott, file image-

He began soaring cross country in a club plane, then bought a Duster and, a few years later, an HP-18, with which he won the Region 5 South Sports Class Championship in 1995. After this win, Bill took a 5 year hiatus from soaring to spend time with his kids. By 2001, he had moved up to a DG-300, followed by an ASW-27 in 2002. With the acquisition of the ASW-27, Bill's competition soaring career moved into high gear.

The past several years has seen Bill regularly as the Region 5 North and South 15 meter champion. His 4th place finish at the 2007 15 meter nationals earned him a slot as reserve pilot for the 2008 U.S. Team. After a win in the 18 meter Nationals in 2008 followed by a 3rd place finish in 2009, Bill is headed for Hungary for the World 2010 Gliding Championship. He will be competing in a JS1 Revelation in the 18-meter class this summer in Szeged, Hungary. The 31st FAI WGC contest begins on July 24th and ends on August 7^th, 2010. But first, he will compete next week, June15 through June 24 in the U.S. Nationals in Waynesville, Ohio.

-courtesy of SSA.org-

When asked what fuels his passion for competition soaring, Bill replied, "I love the challenge that racing offers; focus, preparation, practice, and competition all come together to enhance your soaring skills like no other kind of flying can. It is amazing to race on days when, not long ago, I would not have even assembled the glider. Every time I soar, I return to the ground both amazed and in awe of what it is we soaring pilots do." -Staff Report, FMI: Soaring Society of America , Huntsville Soaring

1	11	Terry Carbonell, Ellen Herr & Laura Ying Gao	Cessna Skylane RG R182
2	24	Joyce Wilson & Laura Berry	Cessna Skylane 182S
3	55	Linda Street-Ely & Elizabeth Kummer	Grumman Cheetah AA-5A
4	4	Lauren Steele & Allison Springer (Purdue U)	Piper Warrior III PA28-161
5	19	Jo Alcorn & Michelle Bostick	Cessna Skyhawk 172R
6	49	Barbara Harris-Para & Laurie Zaleski	Beechcraft Bonanza A36
7	17	Dottie Anderson & Jean Sloan	Piper Archer PA 28-181
8	48	Kay Brown & Jessica Campbell (Indiana State U)	Diamond DA-40
9	30	Erin Jackson & Christine Zoerlein (Southern Illinois U)	Cessna Skyhawk 172R
10	58	Kristen McTee & Kim Turrell (Embry-Riddle U-Prescott)	Cessna Skyhawk 172S