The official magazine of the Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association www.aopa.co.uk
The VL3 Evolution is one of the fastest ultralights on the market – and it's an I feel aircraft going places, quickly! the need for speed
THE BEST AIR SHOW CODE OF PRACTICE UNDERSTAND THE LAPL Henry Simpson investigates George Done explains Nick Wilcock breaks down what it takes to put on the how AOPA's Maintenance the confusion about what you Royal Air Tattoo Code of Practice can help you can and can't do with an LAPL
MAGAZINE 06.2019 FREE TO MEMBERS WWW.AOPA.CO.UK
03 CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE WELCOME EDITOR David Rawlings TO THE NEW [email protected]
ART EDITOR CHAIRMAN Dan Payne [email protected] ET ME introduce myself. In 1981 I had my first flight in a light aircraft at Biggin Hill. My then boyfriend had just completed his PPL in a Cessna 152 so SUB EDITOR I found my way to Croydon station by public transport. I didn’t drive or have Lucy Debenham L a car at the time; it was just after I’d finished university in London so I had no need of a car. I recall enjoying the experience more than I had expected since at first CONTRIBUTORS sight the aeroplane had looked rather small. The following weekend we went gliding at Pauline Vahey, Nick Wilcock, RAF Bicester which is when I really became addicted to flying. I’ll never forget the thrill John Walker, Mick Munn, of that first winch launch – I had to do this. This was flying that was accessible, both in George Done, Henry Simpson, monetary terms and transport. The whole community spirit of gliding meant I was never short of a lift out of central London on a Friday evening nor a lift back on the Sunday. PUBLISHED BY Thirty-eight years and many flying hours later I find myself the new Chairman of AOPA UK your AOPA UK. Why? Because I joined three flying membership associations, I was a 50a Cambridge Street, member of the British Gliding Association through my gliding club, the British Women London, SW1V 4QQ Pilots’ Association, and when I gained my PPL in 1987, I joined AOPA. These three +44 (0)20 7834 5631 associations were aligned with my interests in recreational flying. Over the intervening years, I have been fortunate enough to be able to continue to ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTIONS afford to fly. So when I decided to call it a day on my corporate career in the IT sector, I decided to follow my lifelong passion for all things aviation. AOPA UK You will no doubt have seen in this magazine that I chair both the Members’ Working British Light Aviation Centre Group and the Corporate Members’ Committee for AOPA, two of our membership 50a Cambridge Street London, SW1V 4QQ constituencies. A few years ago, this led me to campaign to save airfields in the UK +44 (0)20 7834 5631 from becoming housing estates – work that I still continue as a member of the Airfields Working Group of the All Party Parliamentary Group for General Aviation together with HEAD OF ADVERTISING my AOPA board colleague John Walker. David Impey So enough about me. Having been a board member myself for eight years I want to +44 (0)7742 605338 thank George for leaving me a board of very active members, each of whose different skills and contributions are invaluable to the running of a membership association PRINTING which relies on its volunteers. Ruddocks The GA sector is facing a number of challenges, possibly more than at any other 56 Great Northern Terrace, time in the history of flight. The success of the UK’s Commercial Air Transport sector Lincoln LN5 8HL is putting pressure on the others who also want to have access to and use the same +44 (0)1522 529591 airspace, airfields and resources. At the other end of the scale, drones provide another www.ruddocks.co.uk challenge with their integration into the existing aviation environment.
I want to ensure that AOPA retains its leadership position in protecting the rights and © British Light Aviation Centre Ltd privileges of its membership. That’s you. Whether that’s on a personal basis, if you’d AOPA is a member of the International had an airprox and need some help and guidance, or on a collective basis, when we’re Council of Aircraft Owners and all wanting to keep the IMC Rating. In order to continue to achieve this, the association Pilots Association. IAOPA needs resources and that starts with you, our membership, and your contribution. If you’re reading this, I hope you’re already a member, thank you. If not, please consider joining us. •
Articles, photographs and news items from AOPA members and other readers are welcome. Please send to the Editor. Inclusion of material in AOPA Magazine cannot be guaranteed, however, and remains at the discretion of the Editor. Material for consideration for the June Pauline Vahey issue should be recieved no later than 01 Chairman, AOPA UK July 2019. [email protected]
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 04 INSIDE THIS MONTH CONTENTS JUNE 2019
07AOPA AFFAIRS AOPA CEO Martin Robinson 16NEWS The news from Europe's biggest writes about the biggest concerns currently aviation expo, AERO Friedrichshafen as well as affecting General Aviation. Once again it's all Piper's new trainer, new aircraft for the Blades about infringements and drones! Aerobatic Team, and more from the GA world.
09AOPA COMMUNITY The latest from inside 24FLYING FEATURE The Royal Air Tattoo is the AOPA, including the latest Members Working biggest air show in the world – the result of a Group, the Maintenance Working Group and lot of time, effort and organisational skill. Henry much more. Simpson finds out how it's done.
10WORKING FOR YOU AOPA Chairman Pauline 28COVER STORY The VL3 Evolution is a super Vahey shares the latest updates from the fast ultralight aircraft that is making waves in Spring Members Working Group meeting which the aviation market. Read how two brothers set took place in April. up JMB and produced this aircraft.
12PPL CORNER Mike Munn was lucky enough to 36TRAINING FEATURE The LAPL seems to be granted a full PPL scholarship back in 1968 confuse everyone – even those teaching it. Nick — from a tobacco company. In PPL Corner he Wilcock breaks it all down to explain what you writes about the intriguing training process. can actually do with the licence.
14HELP AND ADVICE George Done focuses on 40TECH & BOOK REVIEWS Discover the latest AOPA's Maintainence Working Group that has aviation gadgets and books on the market. This set up a Code of Practice, and how it can help issue focuses on Garmin's new navigators and you before work begins on your aircraft. a book about the unsung heroes of WWII.
15AIRFIELDS UPDATE John Walker reports 43CLASSIFIEDS Find pages packed with aviation- on the UK's airfields that are currently under related listings, as well as opportunities for threat from property developers as well as local shares in aircraft, and reputable maintenance councils across the UK. organisations.
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 05
EDITOR'S MOMENT It's fly-in and air show season — feels like it's been far too long, doesn't it? So it's time to get back in the aircraft and rediscover why you became a pilot. This issue is here to help you with flying and making sure your aircraft is being looked after to the highest possible standards. Turn to page 14 to see how AOPA's Maintenance Working Group has created a Code of Practice for maintenance organisations to adhere to. Nick Wilcock is on hand to clear the muddy waters of the LAPL; we also explore how you can obtain your UK Seaplane Rating. And we've got Aero Expo coming up on 13—15 June at Wycome Air Park. AOPA will have its usual tent and stand there, so come and say hi, have a cup of tea, and chat about anything and everything aviation. And if you're bringing a friend with you, get them to sign up to AOPA so they can start enjoying the benefits of being part of the organisation. 36 Blue skies.
David Rawlings Editor, AOPA Magazine UK [email protected]
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June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot
07 AOPA AFFAIRS MEMBERSHIP MATTERS THOUGHT I would begin As Tony Rapson steps down as head of by referring to the work of "If for any reason it the GA unit we would like to thank Tony for the General Aviation Safety all goes wrong, make a his stewardship, we wish him well. At this I Council (GASCo). Earlier point we congratulate Rachel Gardener- this year I was invited to join the board of note of what happened, Poole on her new and challenging role. We GASCo as the AOPA representative. If you have worked with Rachel previously and have not yet been to a Safety Evening I can explaining why you as a GA pilot she will have a good insight recommend it. for the work that still needs to be done. We GASCo is a registered charity and as such think it went wrong offer our continued support to the various it relies on donations. It was originally the tasks, building on what Tony began. case that the CAA would match the level and keep it safe" of funding received from ‘industry’ and it DRONES, AGAIN! is basically the same today. In recent times speak to the CAA or NATS. The global expansion of the drone GASCo has taken on the role of providing I am also concerned that the CAA, in some market may be closer than we think. In the airspace infringement awareness instances, is being a bit heavy-handed. In a recent meeting, a challenge was put course, which you may be asked to attend the past, giving a pilot a formal caution to regulators as to who has the right to should you infringe airspace. This approach was considered an appropriate response, say that airspace is only for aviation? to infringements is what AOPA has been but adding to that a temporary suspension Governments are keen to tap into what is asking for, for many years, as education of licence, a requirement to do five hours perceived as a highly innovative, job- about not infringing is better than fines of additional flight training and attend the creating, economic powerhouse, changing being swallowed up by the court system. infringement course, may be seen as an the face of transportation and the way abuse of power. aerial operations will to be performed in THE CAA Where the CAA acts as judge and jury the future. I think fully autonomous urban Another group aligned to this is the CAA’s on airspace infringements AOPA will only air vehicles are still some way off, but Airspace Infringement Working Group. support reasonable proportionate action advocates representing the drone industry Again this is the regulator working together taken by the CAA. So if you need to send are looking towards a 2030/35 timeframe. with industry towards reducing the number a written response to any authority be Our position is clear when it comes to of infringements. Whilst the overall numbers careful with the language you use as words using the airspace: existing users should have gone up, this may be due to increased have significance. There is a reason why the not be forced into equipping with new reporting. The number of risk-bearing police use a caution before they question technology, and there should be no new events appears to be falling. However there you, reminding you what you say can be airspace classes. Therefore the challenge is no such thing as a minor infringement used as evidence etc. That said, GA needs to regulators is the need to focus on according to CAA/NATs. Whilst that is to reduce the number of infringements. developing a benefit-driven approach and understood, it's a difference between the These separations exist to support the the integration of users through the use of possible impact on another airspace user or safety of the airspace and we can make interoperable solutions. I refer to the mobile not – and this relates to the safety impact. sure we all plan our flights correctly, even phone market: today it matters not who AOPA is not condoning infringements if they are just local. One tool that can your service provider is, or what phone but merely stating that the differences assist you is a moving map that displays you use, because the system allows us to need to be understood and responded to airspace and provides warnings. If you have communicate globally; over the next 10 proportionally, as we know some pilots are never used one, maybe now is the time to years airspace access is going to be one of turning off transponders for fear of setting investigate the advantages a moving map our biggest challenges. Your association is off an alert. After many years of dealing will provide. Also talk with an instructor engaging in the debates today, making sure with infringements I can say that insufficient about using the moving map as an aid to that GA will retain free unfettered access or incorrect planning is most likely to lead your visual navigation. now and in the future. • to an infringement, combined with poor Currently the government is consulting monitoring of the progress of the flight. on the work done on its Green Paper — Not taking proper account of weather Aviation 2050, and the DfT is looking for and NOTAMs can also lead to problems, responses from the aviation community therefore proper detailed planning is key that will help the government produce an to a successful flight. If for any reason it all Aviation White Paper by the end of 2019. goes wrong make a note of what happened, AOPA is submitting a response and a draft Martin Robinson explaining why you think it went wrong and version will go on our website for members CEO, AOPA UK keep it safe. Also contact AOPA before you to use in developing their own responses. [email protected]
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot
AOPA COMMUNITY 09 HELPING YOU STAY FLYING Welcome to the AOPA Community section of the magazine, bringing you all the news and insights from the world of AOPA...
WORKING FOR YOU 10 News from the MWG
PPL CORNER 12 A member reflects
ADVICE 14 AOPA's Code of Practice
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 10 AOPA COMMUNITY Working For You
WORDS Pauline Vahey IMAGES various LATEST FROM MEMBERS WORKING GROUP The Members Working Group meets on a regular basis to discuss the latest concerns from the world of GA. Here are the latest topics
THE MEMBERS Working trained in both immigration are not on same flight), other Group (MWG) returned to and customs. "It was suggested vulnerable people, animals White Waltham for its 99 per cent of people who that once the (especially dogs), firearms spring meeting on Saturday the Border Force deal with and/or cash more than £10k, 6 April 2019. behave properly, try to abide outcome of Brexit foodstuffs such as meat and by the rules, don’t want to dairy, and drugs (even for BORDER FORCE (BF) risk breaking the law, and just was settled, they personal medical use it is Two members of the Heathrow enjoy flying. BF appreciates better to declare them on the Small Ports team attended AOPA’s support to educate return to MWG GAR). These can be notified the meeting at short notice. members about current rules. and share the by sending an email to the Their region covers a 3,500 However, they also talked central NCU email address. sq. mile area from Kemble to about the need to be careful changes that will They reiterated they are Farnborough to Battersea and with the occasional, more happy to be contacted to Elstree. Having been based at unscrupulous, pilots who be implemented discuss unusual or unforeseen Northolt until its temporary don’t follow the rules, and BF in Customs and issues. It was suggested that closure recently they have just benefits from more-watchful once the outcome of Brexit moved to Farnborough. pilots reporting unusual Immigration" was settled, they should They explained about their behaviour. return to MWG and share duties and why they wanted to BF also has duties to the changes that will be build a good relationship with supervise flights involving implemented in Customs and General Aviation. All staff are children (especially if parents Immigration.
Airspace is one of the biggest concerns facing GA right now
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 11
AIRSPACE UK in the past two years The Kirkhope enquiry, despite the huge backlog of focusing on lower airspace demand. This is now causing modernisation process a shortage of instrument- (below 7,000 ft), has approach training capacity in finished taking evidence and the UK. internal discussions, a first draft of recommendations EASA UPDATE is expected soon. The main Nick Wilcock’s report had concern is squeezing the been circulated beforehand recommendations into and questions were taken. the legislative timetable. Less than a handful of CAP1616 may be amended/ Enroute Instrument Ratings evolved. A formal roundtable (EIRs) have been issued in for GA was held at CAA HQ, the UK and it is likely to be chaired by the DfT. scrapped when the Basic The Strategy and Master Instrument Rating (BIR) is Plan for all Southern England introduced. airspace was discussed. BIR: two issues will reduce Currently all airspace take-up – AOPA is lobbying changes require a sponsored for training to be held at airspace change proposal DTOs as well as ATOs; AOPA (ACP). That is intended to continues to oppose the be simplified/replaced. GA audiometry requirement for concerns were about not medicals. being overly consulted, Modular LAPL: it will be and new procedures optional so may not be could be complex and introduced in every country. expensive for GA. They It may help provide a route talked about including from microlight to LAPL GA in the consultation. progression in the future. It There was also some will mainly be used in France discussion about returning as a replacement for Brevet- underutilised airspace to de-Base. GA, more frequent reviews EU regulations which of controlled airspace, and enable the UK to issue whether it was appropriately the IR(R) have now been classified. Proposed extended until April 2021. sanctions where airspace Ab-initio training in non- isn’t used as much as EASA aircraft is likely to be originally requested were announced by EASA in June, also discussed. Points raised but will exclude microlights. included a single higher Hours will soon count for transition level, and wider revalidation of EASA SEP access to GNSS approaches class ratings when flown in for safety reasons. The 3-axis microlights. diverse groups of GA Aerobatic rating organisations all presented a requirement for hours flown unified and consistent view since licence issue is to be (with a few nuances) and reduced from 40 to 30 hours. were seen to be doing so. However, this is still thought The General Aviation to be too high and it would Partnership met and raised be more appropriate if it was the issue of huge delays in competence based. processing GNSS approach It is currently NOT applications. The CAA recommended for Private staff appears to be hugely Pilots to transfer their risk averse and more licences to another EASA experienced with larger country, the problem being airline requirements but less that, some countries do not familiar with simpler GA include or recognise all UK- needs. No GNSS approaches based qualifications such as have been approved in the IR(R), •
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 12 AOPA COMMUNITY PPL Corner
WORDS Mike Munn THE WD AND HO WILLS TRAINING SCHEMES Mike Munn tells his fascinating story of how he became a pilot through a promotional campaign from a tobacco giant in the '60s
BETWEEN 1966 and 1968 correctly as I managed to join the to be almost vertically below us, WD and HO Wills, the "I duly applied selection process for the 1968 and prompted when to flare and cigarette manufacturer part and must have year. land. I must have impressed as I of the Imperial Tobacco I was allocated the Luton was selected as one of the three Group, ran a promotional answered Flying Club at Luton Airport. final candidates for full training at pilot training campaign called The selection process comprised Luton Flying Club. – unsurprisingly – ‘The Wills correctly as I one to two-hour written speed The sponsors provided all Flying Training Scheme’. managed to join tests on simple aeronautical and the equipment required for The scheme, in consultation general questions, mostly with the course including charts, with Rex Smith – Chairman the selection multiple-choice answers. During instruction manuals, Dalton Flight of the British Light Aviation the day each candidate was Computer, flight log book, knee Centre (BLAC – now AOPA) – process for the taken on a brief experience flight pad, and club membership. The provided for the full training to to assess their spatial awareness requirement was to complete PPL standard of 60 individuals 1968 year" and flying aptitude. My flight was the PPL training within three to each year, including the issue of in one of the club’s new Cessna four months ready for a critical a Board of Trade ( BofT) Private 150 E aircraft. The initial take-off flight assessment test carried Pilots Licence plus the possibility was done by the CFI (Howard out by one of the ‘trappers’ from of winning a new Piper Cherokee Brunt) who handed over controls the RAF Central Flying School – 140. and directed a few simple turns at more of that later. Thus started The selection process was the same time as asking “Which my free training. undertaken by 140,000 way is north?” Returning to the I can mention here that the applicants, initially by post, by circuit, I was instructed to apply norm for light aircraft in those completing a series of simple full manual flap (40˚ operated by days was no headsets – there yes/no answers to some 50/60 mechanical manual flap lever) and was a loudspeaker in the roof, general questions. I duly applied to descend to the threshold of a handheld microphone and a and must have answered grass runway 36, which appeared perverse Direction Indicator that I could never get to grips with. The training progressed quite quickly as it was not restrained by cost, and the instructors were keen to teach each of the three students so the hours built rapidly. We did many things during training that may or may not have been in the syllabus in those days – and definitely are not allowed in the current syllabus: eg climb to 4/5,000 ft and stop the engine and restart without use of the starter motor! Also fully developed spins from glide and power configurations, max rate side slip descents and mixing it on short final 24 grass with commercial traffic on the convergent 26 hard main runway. Cross country flights – dual and solo – were done with chart rule and stopwatch. A Cessna 150, similar to the aircraft Mike trained in This was the year, 1968, when
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 13 filming was being done for the Grand Finals Air Display, the film Battle of Britain, and organised by Wills in conjunction on one return from a cross- with CSE, including an air display country flight I was very closely by the Red Arrows (Folland accompanied by a Mitchell B25 Gnats at the time). But more camera-plane painted dayglow importantly for the candidates AOPA FI red and green port/starboard, a further round of testing and also returning to Luton. interviews decided the winner REFRESHER Towards the end of the course of the competition, followed by it became clear to me that a presentation of the new Piper the other two candidates had Cherokee 140. SEMINARS dropped out of training and First there were several hours For revalidation of an FI certificate, the holder shall I was the only Luton trainee of PPL-standard and higher- fulfil two of the following three requirements: left. So in addition to the PPL a level questions on all the usual 1 At least 50 hours of flight instruction special effort was made by the flying subjects, both written and 2 Attend a FI Refresher Seminar instructors to train me to a higher verbal; this was followed by a 3 Pass an Assessment of Competence standard than that normally 15-minute individual interview within the 12 months preceding the required, for the forthcoming with an eminent interview board. expiry of the certificate. critical flight test with one of the That was some interview! trappers from the RAF Central One question I remember, not In the case of a renewal you should, within 12 months before renewal, attend a Flight Instructor Refresher Flying School Examining Wing. surprisingly, was “What will you Seminar and pass an assessment of competence. This was arranged by Wills, do with the new Cherokee 140 whereby the same CFS examiner which you hope to win at the (in this case Flt Lt J Clifton end of today?” The Cherokee Hemsley) attended each of the 20 140 was valued at £7,200 and NEXT DATES The next dates for the seminars are flight schools to mark tests and came with £500 for first-year 3-4 DECEMBER 2019. rate the best student from each insurance and maintenance. location. The same Flt Lt Hemsley There were other prizes of £250 also undertook this examining for second place and £100 for To register for a place on any of the seminars task for the previous 1967 third, with £25 for each of the please call the AOPA office on 020 7834 5631 or join online at WWW.AOPA.CO.UK. scheme and also I believe for the remaining finalists plus a nice oak earlier 1966 scheme, providing table box, with brass-inscribed valuable training feedback to the plate, containing some 300 or so BLAC. cigarettes. The critical flight test in the The marks of the tests were C150 lasted an hour and a half collated and the winner, together and followed a similar regime to with second and third places that for PPL issue, but of course were announced later in the was done with the critical eyes day. I like to think I came fourth of an experienced examining – is anyone out there who also service officer, who said little but participated in the scheme - wrote a lot. I well remember his instructor or student? few words on short final glide The whole experience was approach for runway 36 – “I think extremely well thought out, we are shortly going to require planned and executed – and some power” – to avoid touching above all, generous. down on the main runway. Subsequently for me, life, The examining officers' reports family and work intervened, and full comments for both 1967 so I had some years with no and 1968 can still be seen in flying. However in the late '70s the archives of Flight magazine I checked with the CAA what I (dated 16 May1968 and 14 needed to do to regain my lapsed November 1968) in the Sport PPL – but I decided to revisit and Leisure sections; it makes the whole training programme. interesting reading. Crucially I never disclosed my Well, all that was a wonderful previous training. This raised experience – but more was to a few eyebrows when the come! The number one candidate instructor announced that Mike from each of the 20 flying was going solo after roughly schools (accompanied by the three hours – to which the club Club CFI) was invited to an all- owner declared: "Not b----y expenses-paid two-day public likely, it's ridiculous". I was with event at Oxford Kidlington for him! •
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 14 AOPA COMMUNITY Advice and Airfields Update
WORDS George Done HELPING TO KEEP OWNERS FLYING George Done explains how the AOPA Maintenance Working Group can help you with your maintenance and engineering problems
AOPA HAS been helping aircraft owner and part-owner members for the past 20 years with their maintenance and engineering problems, of which about 10 per year come to AOPA’s attention. Considering that our members own, or own a share in, about 1,500 GA aircraft, only quite a small proportion of owners are affected. AOPA is fortunate to be able to call on the members of the AOPA Maintenance Working Group for advice, the CAA members providing help where necessary on regulatory queries, which represent about 40 per cent of the overall figure. SDMP, for example, has been a recent issue, and such cases are vigorously pursued with the CAA towards a Make sure AOPA's Code of Practice for Maintenance and Repair is followed satisfactory conclusion. The rest are more problematic "An owner Maintenance and Repair that submitting an ASR (Aviation and generally an owner will have they themselves follow and Safety Report, otherwise gone through a certain amount will have gone could be recommended to known as a Mandatory of aggravation before deciding other light aircraft maintainers. Occurrence Report – MOR) is to contact AOPA for help. This through a In particular, in cases where recommended. is where the Maintainance an aircraft changes hands and The second category includes WG members, with their certain amount the new owner transfers to a catastrophic engine failures, background of experience and of aggravation new maintainer, the latter will in the sense that the engine is professionalism, can provide take nothing for granted, and virtually a write-off, or at least useful comment on individual before deciding to unforeseen extra costs may requires a significant rebuild. cases. Problems tend to fall into arise. In this case of the owner Also, when an oil analysis or distinctive categories, namely, contact AOPA" having had no previous dealings other evidence indicates that all in order of ascending numerical with the maintainer, the C of is not well inside the engine, and magnitude: dissatisfaction P can be used to establish a subsequent investigation reveals with recent maintenance or basis for the future business some components unexpectedly deterioration of the owner/ relationship between maintainer worn beyond allowable limits, or maintainer relationship, engine and customer. In situations damaged. Such events usually problems, and aircraft purchases where the maintenance lead to grounding the aircraft that turn out to be less than organisation itself changes and look set to cost the owner ideal. hands, or the previous high a considerable sum before the Regarding the first category standards seem to be slipping aircraft can be restored back in which the maintenance back, a discussion based around to full airworthiness. Ideally, the service falls below par, the the C of P can be worthwhile. A owner wishes to have the cause WG members decided in 2012 few of these problems concern of the failure determined in the that it would be a good idea poor maintenance by a previous hope that suitable recompense to draft a Code of Practice for maintainer, in which case can be negotiated, possibly in
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 15 the form of an engine rebuild. may be a problematic aeroplane payments may be agreed). • All elements of the work In most of the past cases – the cost of which to restore • We will agree with you the carried out will be explained in reviewed by AOPA, it has been to airworthiness could easily be parts to be used. Should you full upon collection/delivery. impossible to determine the equal to the purchase price. wish to source and pay for parts • Final invoicing will clearly show precise cause, even though directly, this can be discussed labour, parts, additional charges there may be a certain amount THE CODE OF PRACTICE and we may be able to agree, and VAT. Once our explanation of circumstantial evidence that • We will endeavour to contact subject to the inclusion of a of the work is complete, payment appears to point to previous you at least two weeks in suitable administration fee is due upon collection/delivery, work done on the engine, advance of any scheduled to cover the approval of any which should be within seven which involved dismantling and maintenance due, to fix a paperwork that you need to days. Thereafter, a daily storage assembly by a maintainer or mutually acceptable time and provide. charge may be raised. overhaul workshop. However, date to receive your aircraft at • All parts supplied by us remain • Aircraft must have valid there have been a couple of our facility. our property until we are in insurance whilst in our custody. cases where positive evidence – • A full explanation of any receipt of cleared funds. • We ensure that all our staff are in the form of an incorrect part mandatory requirements ADs, • Replaced parts will be made competent to carry out the work fitted – came to light, leading to SBs, etc. that you need to have available to you for examination within their responsibilities. a satisfactory outcome for the carried out when your aircraft is upon request. (Unless required • A competent member of staff owner. with us, in addition to the routine for part-exchange by our will appropriately supervise Thirdly, there are cases scheduled work, will be given in supplier.) trainees. where serious problems detail. • The quality of any subcontract • Appropriate equipment is are discovered at the first • Any additional work requested work e.g. avionics, weighing, used to carry out the work we maintenance inspection of a by you will be agreed at the time welding etc. remains our undertake. recently purchased aircraft. of booking. responsibility unless purchased • All work is carried out in strict These are rare, but nevertheless, • Estimates and quotations can directly by you. accordance of the National are important enough for be provided upon request and • Any additional work found Airworthiness Authority AOPA to strongly recommend before any work is carried out if to be needed during the regulations appropriate to your a pre-purchase inspection required. maintenance procedure will be aircraft. by a licenced, or otherwise • Accepted methods of payment advised to you in writing or by • In the event of a complaint our experienced aircraft engineer, will be confirmed prior to any email, and will be required to be Chief Engineer or Accountable before a prospective owner work commencing. (For lengthy prior authorised by you, unless Manager should be informed parts with a lot of cash for what or expensive projects, staged otherwise agreed. immediately. •
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot General Aviation news from around the world
PIPER ANNOUNCES NEW TRAINER Piper's new Pilot 100 and Pilot 100i trainer aircraft, which it claims is an affordable, proven trainer aircraft for flying training organisations of all sizes by AOPA News Team collaboration with several programmes of all sizes single-engine Archer grew by key vendors. As a result, desire,” said Piper President nearly 50% YOY, while twin- Piper Aircraft, one of the Pilot 100 series features and CEO, Simon Caldecott. engine Seminole deliveries the world's most famous several new components like “We are excited to add rose 117%. manufacturers of training the Continental Prime IO- the Pilot 100 series to our The Piper Pilot 100/100i aircraft, has announced two 370-D3A engine, as well as training product line at a price provides flight schools with new value-priced additions to Garmin G3X Touch certified point that provides optimal professional training aircraft its trainer-class line, the Piper avionics in a standard two- economics for all operators.” that offer a value proposition Pilot 100 and Pilot 100i. These pilot interior configuration. The new Piper Pilot which translates into lower new products enter the trainer The Pilot 100i adds an IFR- 100/100i rounds off Piper’s operating costs that can segment at a competitive capable upgrade package portfolio of training aircraft result in lower-priced initial price point of $259,000, that includes the Garmin products. With five model training courses. Standard are VFR equipped and offer G3X Touch and GFC500 series (Pilot 100, Archer instrumentation includes the the same rugged durability autopilot, the new GNX375 TX, Archer DX, Arrow and Garmin G3X system, which and functionality as their and is priced at $285,000. Seminole) the company offers all the advantages of stablemate, the Archer TX. Both aircraft will be available offers the widest range of a glass cockpit without the The need for a new trainer in limited quantities beginning training aircraft of any aircraft costs. The Pilot 100/100i aircraft at a price point that in 2020. manufacturer, and meets is powered by the 180hp could support the growing “With the unprecedented all the individual needs of Continental Prime IO- demand for professionally demand for professional its training operators and 370-D3A which offers 128 trained pilots was identified pilots, our team worked customers. The sales figures ktas/237 kph max cruise following extensive research closely with several key amply demonstrate how speed and 522 nm range with and the rapid expansion suppliers to deliver an well Piper’s training class of 45-minute reserve. of trainer sales. To achieve aggressively-priced, products is received by the Piper also states that the optimal acquisition and proven trainer that offers industry. Since 2014, sales of Pilot 100’s interior is simple operating costs and the advanced systems the single engine Piper Archer yet functional, and was economics, Piper focused and performance that have grown more than 93%. specially crafted to withstand on proactive planning and flight schools and airline For 2018, sales of the robust the rigours of flight training. •
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 17
CAP 10 RELAUNCHED AS A LOOK BACK... THIS MONTH NEW GENERATION AIRCRAFT 98 YEARS AGO by Robert Care of +6/-4g. It’s powered Casimir Pellissier, president by a 180hp fuel-injected of Robin Aircraft. The Cap The instantly recognisable Lycoming with a two-blade 10C NG is identical to the and much-admired CAP Hoffmann propeller as Cap 10C that was produced 10 was relaunched at Aero standard. until 2008. It benefits Friedrichshafen as an A three-blade MT from a modernised cabin updated NG. constant-speed prop is on interior, an optional glass The French-built side- the show aircraft and will be cockpit (Garmin G500) and CAMBRIDGE WINS by-side two-seat aerobatic certified soon, according to a three-bladed, variable- FIRST AIR RACE aircraft will be manufactured UK agent Mistral Aircraft. pitch propeller. Standard The first Cambridge vs by CEAPR – the same The new prop will offer flight instruments include Oxford air race took company that owns Robin – improved performance. two side-by-side Garmin G5 place on 16 July 1921 and has a wood construction “The plane is always EFIS with analogue back-up. and Cambridge took the with a carbon-fibre wing efficient and the demand for Basic price is €295,000 plus spoils. spar, with aerobatic limits new copies recurring," says VAT. • Returning from the Great War, some young men from Oxford and Cambridge Universities felt confined within their colleges. Besides, they had, just a few years earlier faced German biplanes over the battlefield. The funds needed to hire the aircraft of choice, the SE5A, were provided by the Royal Aero Club as it was the sponsor of the 1921 Aerial Derby at Hendon which incorporated the Varsity Air Race into its programme. The prize fund of £400 was contributed by wealthy The owners of Robin Aircraft showed off its new CAP10 NG at Aero aristocrats and Anglo- American Oil. The Oxford aircraft were decked out in dark MANAGEMENT AND TRACKING blue and their Cambridge counterparts in light blue. SYSTEM FOR SCHOOLS Cambridge claimed a clean sweep of 1-2- by David Rawlings course management and only automatically saves 3. The race was won evaluations, SMS, reporting, the information relative to by WS Philcox whose Private-Radar at Aero and more. Private-Radar offer all flights, but also makes it speed averaged 118.55 Friedrichshafen announced every functionality a flight easy to review flights, consult mph. Boeree, the new clients for its intuitive, school needs and can also accurate times (start up, organiser, completed the full-featured Flight School customise the program to fit taxi, take off, landing, full course in last place. Management System each school's specific needs. stop), view altitude graphs, The organisers were and Aircraft Tracking System. Its unique tracking monitor speeds, track in 3D, disappointed at the Private-Radar offers the system allows you to follow and much more. Automatic low number of aircraft most advanced, easy to use your aircraft in real time, logging of the flights entered and low and cost effective Flight from anywhere, with any means automatic logbooks, spectator count and School Software on the connected device (tablet, maintenance, and even the aerial race was market: aircraft management, smartphone, laptop, invoicing when you also use discontinued in 1924. pilots management, scheduling, etc). The software not Private-Radar. •
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 18 AOPA NEWS GA News that matters
AOPA NEWS HIGHLIGHTS A380 FOR SCRAP Only 12 years after their entry to service, crews have begun dismantling two Airbus A380s for scrap at a French airport. The ex-Singapore Airlines airframes were the first to carry passengers in 2007 and were returned to a leasing company by the airline after their 10-year term expired. The leasing company made the call The New F-Series from to part them out after it Flight Design couldn’t find any buyers. The cannibalisation began last week at Tarbes Lourdes Airport.
AIRCAM THREE-SEATER The distinctive twin-engine FLIGHT DESIGN'S AirCam from US company Lockwood Aircraft is being upgraded for 2019, NEW F-SERIES including an optional third seat. “The new A new clean-sheet range of aircraft has been Gen-3 model airframes announced by the German Manufacturer will have the option of incorporating a third seat by Lucy Field “The aircraft, the structure features and information that located behind the second and the aerodynamics were a dedicated pilot needs to seat and a 220 lb gross At AERO Friedrichshafen, Flight developed by the most highly comfortably navigate a long- weight increase from the Design launched its all-new experienced specialists. range aircraft. gross weight to 1,900 lb,” clean-sheet range of aircraft, Intensive use of computer The redesigned cabin offers said company boss Phil the F-Series. There will be simulations helped to focus more space and is bright. Lockwood. “The new seat three models over the next on safety, handling and With the Rotax 912iS, Flight will be quickly removable few years, starting with the F2 performance.” Says Dieter Design was able to improve to convert between cargo two-seater powered by a Rotax Koehler, Head of Design the installation and fuel system and third passenger.” 912iS engine, the F2e with an F2 Project, “Only the great design. In terms of production electric propulsion system, and cooperation of the international technology, Flight Design is NEW OWNERS the four-seat F4 powered by a team has made the project making the new series with Cyrrus Ltd, an aviation Rotax 915iS engine. possible with its very high its modern carbon pre- consultancy, has bought The F2 has been designed requirements”. preg technology. This allows a 25-year lease for for the new 600 kg UL class, “The F2 is characterised by higher accuracy of fit, and Shoreham Airport. the ASTM LSA class and in significantly simplified flight makes the airframe lighter and Rob Cooke, Managing particular the new CS23 Adm. 5 characteristics and improved structurally stronger. Director of Cyrrus, will class developed for VFR & IFR. flight performance,” said Tom “The Flight Design Team take over as managing Over the years Flight Design Peghiny. "After test flights with worked together with its director. Rob Cooke’s has proven with CT how to the prototype the sense of partners in the different experience includes senior meet customer requirements. space is simply incomparable”. countries for two years on the management roles at The F2 implements a number The interior has been concept, development, Birmingham, Doncaster- of requests from CT customers completely redesigned and testing and approval of F2,” Sheffield and Durham and the wishes of flight schools. the noise level lowered. explained Daniel Günther, Tees-Valley airports. “The F2 offers maximum A parachute rescue COO of Flight Design General Rob Cooke said, “We want space, comfort, performance system and airbags are aviation. “In May 2019, the to reassure everyone that it and ease of flight, making it standard equipment. The ASTM LSA and UL approval will be business as usual at easy for less-experienced Garmin Avionic Suite with will be completed. EASA Brighton City Airport." pilots to fly,” said Tom Peghiny, ADS-B and autopilot with approval is expected in summer President of Flight Design USA. ESP provides all the security 2019.” •
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 19 XTREMEAIR LAUNCHES TWO NEW AIRCRAFT – INCLUDING TRAINER by Robert Care outside. The aircraft further incorporates an automatic Aerobatic aircraft specialist step, that lowers when the XtremeAir is reaching into canopy is lifted, for ease of the recreational sport-flying access; and leather seating market with a new XA42 provides a more upscale feel. “Gold” version of its XA42 One of the most significant model and is hoping to bring changes includes a new all- in a new generation of flyers glass flight deck with a Garmin with its XA22 trainer under G3X primary flight display, development. G5 EFIS, GTN 650 GPS, and The XA42 will have the same GFC 500 autopilot, among performance as the original other features. XtremeAir is XA42 aerobatic model, but eying certification by year- XtremeAir announced two new aircraft at AERO. incorporate features that end. While the price is not yet would appeal to a broader set, van der Snoek estimated it XA42 Gold has +/-10g. Also the prototype by the range of pilots, including those would be in the range of about specific to the XA22 will be end of the summer, with who are more interested in €400,000 ($450,000). duplicated ergonomics for the certification possible next recreational flying, according At the same time, XtremeAir front and rear seat to provide year. Van der Snoek said the to Eric van der Snoek, head is developing an XA22 trainer students with the same aircraft was designed with of the design organisation aerobatic aircraft that will have handling as the instructor. roomier cockpits to be more for XtremeAir. These include similar flight characteristics, The range of the XA22 will comfortable for students, larger baggage capacity but be equipped with a 210hp be 782 nm and cruise speed with a view to attracting a with weight up to 25 kg four-cylinder Lycoming AEIO- will be 156 knots, with a top new generation to aerobatic (55 lb) and access to the 390 engine. The aircraft will speed of 225 knots. flying. Price is expected to be cargo compartment from the have a load of +/-8g, while the The team hopes to fly €250,000. •
by AOPA News Team
On Saturday 13 April the AERO team celebrated an outstanding bottom line. “With 757 exhibitors from 40 countries, this is the largest international aviation exhibition at Lake Constance. The proportion of foreign exhibitors was also unprecedented, with every second exhibitor coming from abroad. Attendance of 32,100 visitors means we’re well pleased with the results,” said head of AERO Roland Bosch, when presenting the results. The 27th AERO attracted seven per cent more exhibitors than its predecessor, with every major company in general aviation present. “The AERO in Friedrichshafen is Europe’s largest exhibition for general aviation, and with regard to innovations and premieres, this meeting is the leading exhibition worldwide for the industry,” said Klaus Wellmann CEO Messe Friedrichshafen. Roland Bosch and project lead Tobias Bretzel, who spent much of the four days in personal meetings with their customers
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 20 AOPA NEWS GA news that matters
Cirrus jets have been grounded
CIRRUS JET GROUNDED OVER FAULTY SENSOR A faulty angle-of-attack sensor has seen the FAA issue an emergency airworthiness directive by Lucy Field “This emergency AD was STALL WARNING crew alert automatic pitch commands prompted by Cirrus reporting (CAS) message activation, by pressing and holding Cirrus SF50 Vision personal three incidents on Cirrus accompanied by an audio the autopilot disconnect jets have been grounded Model SF50 airplanes of the alarm and stick shaker button in accordance with by a faulty angle-of-attack stall warning and protection activation, followed possibly the emergency procedure in sensor. The Vision jet was system (SWPS) or Electronic by either low speed ESP/ the aeroplane flight manual seen as a breakthough into Stability & Protection (ESP) USP engaging, and/or the and safely landed at his the jet market for many system engaging when not stick pusher engaging. destination. pilots when it first burst onto appropriate,” said the FAA. “The pilot will also observe Cirrus Aircraft has issued the scene in 2008 with a The first incident occurred the dynamic and colour- a service advisory with flyover of Oshkosh, but now in November 2018 and the coded (Red) airspeed instructions to replace the it has been grounded due to latest earlier in April 2019. awareness ranges displaying angle-of-attack sensor, serious safety concerns. “The SWPS or ESP systems the stall band, regardless of which was determined as The US aviation authority, may engage even when actual indicated airspeed.” being the root cause of the the FAA, issued an sufficient airspeed and In one case, the aircraft problem. emergency airworthiness proper angle of attack exists activated several downward The AOA sensor, directive on 19 April for normal flight,” continued pitch commands coincident manufactured by Aerosonic, requiring replacement of the FAA. “The SWPS includes with stall warning, stick malfunctioned because two the angle-of-attack (AoA) the stall warning alarm, stick shaker, and several set screws that secure the sensor. If faulty, the sensor shaker, and stick pusher. The associated alerts. The pilot sensor’s potentiometer shaft could initiate unwanted pitch ESP includes under speed reported “AOA FAIL” and to the AOA vane “may have changes. protection (USP). “STICK PUSHER FAIL improper torqueing and no The emergency AD applies “The SWPS system CAS” messages preceding application of thread locker to all SF50 jets currently engaging inappropriately the pitch command. The (Loctite) to secure the two flying – estimated to be 117. could potentially result in a pilot was able to stop the set screws”. •
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019
22 AOPA NEWS GA news that matters CAMBRIDGE AIRPORT TO RELOCATE by David Rawlings
Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group, the owners of Cambridge Airport, has announced it will relocate and close the current site by 2030. Marshall has said it is considering three new potential locations – Cranfield, Wyton and Duxford. The current site which lies east of Cambridge city centre will be turned into 120,000 homes and around five million square feet for business use. Alex Dorrian, Executive Chairman of Marshall said that they will be, “supporting and retaining our existing valued and highly skilled workforce Cambridge Airport's current location will be developed into 12,000 homes through the move.” With three sites being will give us the necessary space consuming task. will continue to be our home for considered, Chief Executive and flexibility to support our “At this stage, we have a number many years to come.” of Marshall, Alistair McPhee, planned growth, which is close of potential locations in mind Marshall intends to put the explained, “It is still very early enough to Cambridge to enable but are still some way away Cambridge Airport site forward days but we know that finding us to retain and attract talent, from making any decisions. for development as part of the the right airfield location that will be a complex and time- However, the Cambridge site next Local Plan from 2030. • BLADES TO SWAP HAPPY EXTRAS FOR GAMEBIRDS BIRTHDAY by David Rawlings Ben Murphy, Red Bull Air The Gamebird also by George Done Race pilot and Blades 2 pilot provides dual controls and After thirteen seasons of further explained the change: a glass cockpit, which will Past AOPA Chairman David F flying, the Blades Aerobatic “We will tour to the Middle greatly help the Blades with Ogilvy, OBE, FRAeS celebrated team is swapping out its East in the winter months. In their upset recovery training. his 90th birthday recently and fleet of Extra EA300s for the past we’ve had to ship The team hopes to take was treated to a pub lunch at the new GB1 Gamebird. The the aircraft, but the GB1 has delivery of the Gamebird The White Lion, Westbury on team recently completed its such phenomenal range, so ready for the start of the Trym, Bristol, organised by 1,000th display and thought we can ferry fly it.” 2020 season. • Anne Hughes, Chairman of the it was time for a change. Vintage Aircraft Club of which The Blades are instantly David is Honorary President. recognisable and piloted David is also Past President by former RAF Red Arrow of AOPA, and was Chairman pilots. of AOPA prior to 2001 when For the beginning of the 2020 George Done took over. David season the Blades will have a was Done's flying instructor new aircraft for displays. The when he gained his PPL Philipp Steinbach-designed through an RAF Scholarship at GB1 is the team's new aircraft Elstree in 1953. David has spent of choice. “There are several his life in aviation, he has been reasons for the change,” part of the GAAC working on explained Blades pilot Andy aerodromes and the Curator Evans. “It’s easier to fly in of the Shuttleworth Collection formation and has a whole The Gamebird GB1 will be the aircraft of choice for the of historic aircraft for many bunch of extra benefits.” Blades Aerobatic Team for the beginning of 2020 years. •
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019
24 FEATURE The Royal International Air Tattoo
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 25
IMAGES Royal Air Force Charitable Trust and author THE BEST SHOW IN THE WORLD The Royal International Air Tattoo is one of the world's most famous air shows and is loved by thousands. Here Henry Simpson explains what it takes to put on such a mammoth event and why it's always a giant success...
HENRY SIMPSON PPL HOLDER FOR FOUR YEARS 21 YEARS OLD STUDYING BIOLOGY AND PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
VERY JULY really fantastic to know what we company running a military were in the flying display. It’s thousands of have done to help them,” Andy event on a military airfield easy to see why it is seen as a people flock to says. and this means the show has triumph. E RAF Fairford in Indeed, the scholarship unique discussions with air In terms of developing the Gloustershire to enjoy the programme is important to arms and is subject to MAA show in the future, Andy says spectacle that is the Royal him as he himself gained a (Military Aviation Authority) that every year the show International Air Tattoo, scholarship as a cadet and his oversight. When he started changes and evolves through the world’s largest military pilot’s qualification award from the job, Andy said he wrote a culture of continuous air show and an event un- the Leicester Aero Club still down a mind map of what improvement – although paralleled around the globe. adorns his desk. In addition to may be involved in the task they do face a fundamental The event is organised by the scholarships Andy is keen and he got “about 50 per cent” challenge in terms of the the Royal Air Force Charitable to see young people getting of it right. “It’s a field at the road network. The local road Trust Enterprises (RAFCTE) involved in engineering, and to moment, but we need to bring network is not ideal for the high and I visited its headquarters support this the showground in a multitude of additional volumes of traffic the show at Douglas Bader House to features the Techno Zone, an services including for example brings in. “We’re pretty much at speak to Chief Executive Andy area where companies such as HMRC, Border Force, currency capacity now,” Andy explains. Armstrong and Head of Air BAE Systems sponsor hands-on exchange for foreign aircrews They are looking to increase Operations Tom Gibbons, exhibits and STEM activities. as well as the Met Office for the number of spectators via about organising the event. Planning the show starts weather and hotels for crew the usage of park and ride The Air Tattoo is the keystone one or two years ahead accommodation.” The most schemes and using the digital event organised in support with roughly an 18-month unique aspect of the show, medium to stream the show to of the Trust, by its trading timescale although they are he suggests, is having its own a wider audience. RAFCTE also company RAFCTE. The Trust’s always thinking ahead, with dress hire facility to provide have plans to run other events mission is to promote the Royal the theme of the 2021 show black tie for visiting aircrew to such as they did with the 2017 Air Force, support its people already decided – RIAT’s 50th attend the Gala Dinner during Scampton air show, although and encourage air-mindedness anniversary. That pre-planning the show. He adds that over 47 there are no firm plans yet in and the aviation-related is important, so they can talk years “...they have pretty much this area. As far as prospective education of youth. One of the about the following year’s event thought of everything.” visiting pilots are concerned, ways that the Trust achieves its at any given show and start I asked if they thought the the airfield is understandably mission is through scholarships planning for headline items, RAF 100 celebrations had closed to fly-in visitors, but such as the Sir Michael Knight although the real planning for been successful. “The RAF Kemble is probably the closest Pilot Scholarship Scheme, the next year takes place post- should be applauded for all along with Gloucester and which is awarded to nine RAF show. RIAT differs significantly the events they have done Oxford. However, as Tom Air Cadets in recognition of from other air shows this year [2018].” RIAT hosted mentions, there is significant their flying abilities; they fundamentally because of the the 'International' celebration restricted airspace for the show are sent on a six-week level of military involvement. of the RAF’s Centenary with although they do use a flexible residential course where Andy was keen to stress that a record crowd of 185,000 airspace strategy that is based they have full access to RAFCTE is a separate stand- people and 302 aircraft, around the requirements of a air and online ground alone business and not part including those from 43 display act, citing the difference school training and a of the RAF. This provides the air arms out of 30 nations between a Chinook display and PPL examination. “It’s unique scenario of a civilian participating, 121 of which the Red Arrows as an example.
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 26 FEATURE The Royal International Air Tattoo
Being a predominantly would want to be in dialogue "The F-35's about the show and Andy is military show, in recent years two years in advance as, “you keen to state that they are they have faced an “inevitable make your own history in this debut in 2016 proud of their safety record. squeeze” in attracting military job.” I asked Tom about the participants from overseas. I then asked about how the required complex challenges presented in dealing However Andy is confident that show would be affected by discussions and with participating air arms from they run a “must-attend event” the USAF’s announcement so many different nations. where the benefits outweigh that more assets will be cooperation Each nation has its own the cost for attendees. stationed at Fairford following requirements such as those This year’s show features the closure of RAF Mildenhall with multiple for security and logistics but the operational theme of the in 2023, including the arrival organisations there is also the requirement 70th Anniversary of NATO and of RC-135 Rivet Joint signals of interpreting the proposed they are already in dialogue intelligence aircraft. “It’s very including the US display routine against UK with NATO as to what support exciting,” he says, highlighting Flying Display regulations for that might look like on that the opposite would be Department of to ensure that those acts the ground and in the air, in bad news for the base, and it Defense." displaying are compliant. The addition to inviting all NATO provides Fairford with a long key to this is communication member states to participate. future. “There will be issues with participants. Invariably Air and Space will also be a we will have to work around.” national display teams need prominent theme this year as These could include building more planning, as do new the Saturday of the show will work to help accommodate nations and first-time displays. mark 50 years to the day since the new squadrons, but the It’s a critically important hand- Apollo 11’s moon landing. USAF is very supportive and holding process, for those who In terms of representing there is “no doubt that RIAT will have never visited the show anniversaries such as the RAF’s continue at Fairford for many or displayed in the UK before, 100th in 2018 and the Battle years to come.” Tom adds as everything is new to them. of Britain’s 75th in 2015, for that rather than think of them Tom also states that significant RIAT to host these successfully as issues he prefers to view items, such as the F-35’s debut Andy says that whilst they them as challenges due to the in 2016 required complex chose the themes of the show, close cooperation and support BELOW FROM LEFT: the discussions and cooperation it’s all about engagement with they have from the USAF. In Hawker Fury; the BBMF in its with multiple organisations, relevant organisations. If he the post-Shoreham world, the full glory; drones in the static including the US Department had an ambition for a show he team has reviewed everything display of Defense, the USMC, RAF
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 27 and many others in order to In regard to their personal "Andy views the Self-Defense Force Kawasaki successfully complete the joint highlights and disappointments P-1 as a highlight as it was the deployment. Another example both Tom and Andy view Vulcan's final first aircraft to touch down at was when 2018’s show featured the cancellation of the F-35’s the first show he was in charge, the first transatlantic crossing planned RIAT and European appearance in in 2015. Tom also holds this by a Remotely Piloted Aircraft debut on the Wednesday 2015 as a real debut in high esteem as it was into UK airspace. "From initially before the show in 2014 due to the first flying participation by receiving a phone call in the car engine issues to have been a 'hairs on the back the Japanese armed forces the previous August/September great shame after the work that in a European airshow. Andy through to the aircraft landing had been put in. Although they of your neck' also wanted to add that the at Fairford, a lot of effort was both stated it was rewarding to moment" extraordinary volunteer team, expended by a number of see them land in the UK for the a temporary workforce of agencies before it arrived,” first time in 2016. Similarly, they 2,500 people encompassing Tom explains. Andy adds that both view the cancellation of civilian volunteers and military there is an “awful lot of planning the planned RAF 100 formation specialists, are a great asset and contingency planning but fly-past from the 2018 show to the show. At that moment that’s what event planning as a disappointment, which a C-17 flew over, interrupting is all about.” Tom highlights was down to bad luck – as in our conversation. "Cool place the Battle of Britain 75th months of dry weather the to work,” Andy adds. It's clear anniversary fly-past as another only rain that seemed to fall that the dedication and hard example, with the integration was from a thunderstorm work put in by the team is of the Royal Air Force BBMF that sat over the airfield at what makes the show such a and civilian aircraft. That mix precisely the wrong time on success, and 2019 looks to be of military and civil pilots plus that Friday – forcing the fly- no exception. the different limitations of past to be aborted. In terms I would like to thank Andy various aircraft types within of highlights Andy views the Armstrong, Tom Gibbons and such a large formation could Vulcan’s final appearance in Laura Hooper at the Royal Air have caused issues, but 2015 as a real 'hairs on the Force Charitable Trust for their Tom states that there was a back of your neck' moment. The time and hospitality. The 2019 seamless integration due to the Battle of Britain 75th was also BELOW FROM LEFT: Royal International Air Tattoo experience and professionalism 'mentioned by both as amongst thousands come to the show takes place 19–21 July and of the crews and the show their personal highlights. Andy each year; the Red Arrows; a tickets must be purchased in team. views the Japanese Maritime line of jets waiting to fly advance. •
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 28 COVER STORY VL3 Evolution
I the feel need for speed
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 29
WORDS Robert Care IMAGES JMB Aircraft The VL3 Evolution from JMB is a true success story and it’s a go-anywhere, do-anything UL aircraft that’s famous for being super fast
OMETIMES you Republic until 2011 before decided to buy the airport want to get from JMB took over the rights of from their father. A to B as quickly the VL3 in 2012 — and even Together they hosted events S as possible, and that’s an interesting story… and invited companies to let’s be honest — speed come and spend a day flying is fun! Sometimes you HISTORY aircraft as a team building can compromise comfort Brothers Jean-Marie and exercise. It's said that a man for speed, but the VL3 Jean-Baptiste Guisset created came to the airport asking Evolution offers comfort, JMB (a combination of their the brothers for the fastest stability and a lot of pace. names). The brothers were ultralight aircraft. Although The VL3 is one of the fastest born in Belgium into an the brothers weren’t aircraft side-by-side Ultralight (UL) aviation family. Their father brokers, Jean Marie offered aircraft on the market. It was ran his own private airfield. to keep the man's number, first designed in 2004 and When their father came to forseeing a potential built by Aveko in the Czech sell the airfield, the brothers new line of business. The
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 30 COVER STORY VL3 Evolution brothers went to AERO know when they want to do THE AIRCRAFT Friedrichshafen, saw the VL3 something, they’ll do it well. "The plane was The VL3 is a glass-cockpit and started to speak with So I was not afraid to follow essentially a good, (although traditional gauges the manufacturer Aveko. them and be part of this are an option) side-by-side After several discussions amazing project. They also solid aircraft, but two-seat aircraft with a with Aveko, the brothers asked if I wanted to work retractable landing gear, that became the dealers for with them, which I did, and customers and is clearly fast, thanks to the Benelux and France. They it has been my role to adapt JMB had their own shape and lightness of the instantly fell in love with the and improve the aircraft ever aircraft. It’s an all-composite plane, and that passion for since.” ideas" aircraft that can be broken the VL3 ultimately saw them Since JMB took hold of the down into individual units. becoming the biggest sellers VL3 Evolution improvements Both halves of the wing of the aircraft in Europe. have been made to the and tail surfaces, including Eventually, JMB decided airframe. The plane was stabilisers, can be separated that there was so much essentially a good, solid from the fuselage to ease potential in the aircraft that aircraft, but JMB had its own aircraft transport. they wanted to take over ideas to make it even better. The aerodynamic design of production of the VL3. "We knew what the potential the wing gives the aeroplane The brothers approached of the aircraft was, and knew good stalling characteristics. childhood friend Francois we needed to make them The design on the wing Stelandre, to enquire as to happen to stay number one mean that at the critical whether he wanted to work in the market. As Jean-Marie angle of attack the airflow with them. “I’d been helping said, we have the best plane, separates at the root of the with the sales of the VL3. I but we explained that if wing, offer stable handling loved the plane so wanted to we don’t improve, our best characteristics. Thanks to the be part of the project,” said plane won’t continue to be, area of the wings the stall Stelandre, who is the Design as others will catch us. speed of the aeroplane in and Quality Manager at JMB "So we modified the landing landing configuration reaches now. gear and the tail and we a value of 30 kts. Each wing “I’ve known the brothers changed the looks slightly to is fitted with two 60 litre fuel for more than 20 years and I make it look more sporty." tanks creating a total volume
JMB knew it was buying a good aircraft, but realised that if no changes were made to the VL3 it would soon be left behind by other ULs and not be a viable option in the market, so improvements were made
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 31
The VL3 began life as an aircraft with the Aveko company
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 32 COVER STORY VL3 Evolution
Fast, sleek and stunning. The Evolution is instantly recognisable
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 33 of 120 litres. Each tank can then completely hidden by cockpit, or any combination, be fitted with lockable lids. "We are able a cover. The hydraulic unit that the buyer wants,” The internal structure of is operated electrically. explained Stelandre. “We the tail stabilisers is similar to install a wide Therefore the landing gear offer several types of GPS, to the construction of the range of avionics is functional even if the radios and transponders. wings. Therefore the tail engine fails. If the hydraulic We have experience with surfaces can be completely into the aircraft, unit fails JMB has installed installing two types of two- removed from the hull, from conventional an easy to reach, manual axis autopilots, which is except the keel, which is an hydraulic pump next to the particularly handy for long integral part. The elevator- mechanical pilot's seat. haul flights. On request of trim tab is located on There are several engine the customer we will equip the right side, controlled flight and engine options available with the the aeroplane with a VOR mechanically by a wire. The instruments to a VL3 Evolution, the Rotax navigation system. rudder is controlled by steel 912UL with 80 hp, the Rotax "Each panel is made ropes and the elevator by full-glass cockpit" 912IS and the 912ULS with to measure for the carbon rods. 100 hp. The engine cooling customer, according to The landing gear is has combined cooling — the the specification they have operated simply by a switch cylinder heads are cooled requested. The instruments on the dashboard, which also by water while the cylinders are mounted in a laser- indicates — via an LED — themselves are cooled by air. fired plate with surface whether the landing gear is . inscriptions.” up or down. It is hydraulically INSIDE The width of the cabin operated. The cockpit is a very (115 cm/3.77 ft) ensures a The wheels are pushed comfortable, roomy place comfortable place for both completely into the hull, to be, with a great view occupants. The interior of without protruding from through the canopy. “We cabin is equipped with basic the profile of the aeroplane, are able to install a wide fabric upholstery. But JMB which significantly range of avionics into the offers a wide range of textile contributes to reduce aircraft, from conventional and leather versions in the airframe's drag. The mechanical flight and engine different colours. The solid landing-gear shafts are instruments to a full-glass seats are equipped with
The factory now has close to 100 employees and JMB states that at its current production rate, it is producing one Evolution every four days. Currently more than 300 are flying.
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 34 COVER STORY VL3 Evolution
The roomy cockpit is more than comfortable, even for the larger-built pilot
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 35 four-point safety belts, the sports car; slick, capable, wanted fun. When people colour scheme of which is "A lot of people and made for experienced first see the aircraft they aligned with the colour of the buy Ferraris but pilots. “It’s a magic aircraft expect it to cost €500,000. upholstery. because you can do a lot We like to tell them they The aircraft is equipped never go 200 mph of things with it. You need could buy two-and-a-half with a well-designed heating just 130 m to land and 100 VL3s and get their licence and ventilation system. The in them, but they m to take off — so you can for that price," Stelandre pumps are located under like them and buy go anywhere and know you explained. the panel on the left side, can take off again,” said with warm air distributed them anyway" Stelandre. ”It’s super fast, GROWTH AND FUTURE around the foot well, whilst super stable with a really low In just the seven years since cold air passes through vents consumption. It’s a nice toy. the company began selling on the upper surface of the A lot of people buy Ferraris the ultralight it has gone dashboard. but they’ll never go 200 mph from strength to strength. Behind the pilot seats there in them, but they like them There are currently 320 VL3s is a baggage compartment and buy them anyway. It’s flying, with 50 customers able to hold 25 kg/55 lbs of the same for the Evolution; waiting. They currently are luggage. The compartment some people won’t go top selling one or two aircraft is accessible from inside speed, but others will.” a week, but Stelandre told the cabin, through the area With all its speed, the first me that six were sold in the above the seats, and is customers to buy the VL3 previous week. The factory equipped with holders for were professional pilots or has the capacity to produce headsets and audio outputs retired pros, but over the an aircraft every four days. for their connection. JMB has last few years JMB has seen “We have just received added a new option this year a shift in its customer base. certification from the — an exterior cargo door “It was professional pilots Czech Republic for the on the airframe, behind the at first — because of its 600 kg version and we will pilots seats. speed, it spoke to them. Now soon have certification in we have all types of pilots Germany. We are currently FLYING that want to fly for fun and working for UK certification, With its sleek design and at the weekends. A lot of so soon we will deliver the retractable landing gear, people felt that this aircraft 600 kg version to the UK,” the VL3 is comparable to a wasn’t suitable for pilots that said Stelandre. • TECH SPEC JMB VL3 EVOLUTION
ENGINE Height: 2.05 m/6.9 ft Max Cruise Speed: 305 km/h TAS/165 kt Manufacturer: Rotax Cabin Width: 115 cm/3.77 ft Landing Groundroll: 150 m/490 ft Model: 912 - 914 Horsepower: 100 hp - 115 hp PERFORMANCE WEIGHT Take off: 150 m/490 ft Empty Weight: 270 kg/590 lbs DIMENSIONS Climb Rate: 6m/s 1,200 ft/min Min Crew Weight: 65 kg/143 lbs Wingspan: 8.44 m/27.6 ft Max operating Alt: 5,400 m/18,000 ft Max Baggage Weight: 25 kg/55 lbs Length: 6.24 m/20.4 ft Stall Speed with Flaps: 53 kmh/29 kt MTOW: 600 kg/1323 lbs
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 36 FEATURE LAPL Limitations
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 37
IMAGES Various ALL THE FACTS ABOUT THE LAPL AOPA continues to receive reports of a lack of understanding of the LAPL. Not just from LAPL holders themselves, but rather disturbingly we hear of poor knowledge displayed by instructors, examiners and DTOs. So Nick Wilcock is on hand to explain everything about the LAPL and see if it's right for you
NICK WILCOCK BOARD DIRECTOR IAOPA FCL REPRESENTATIVE AT EASA FORMER RAF PILOT
HERE is so much NPPL Class Ratings, the LAPL countersigned by the instructor order to fulfil the requirements confusion about adopted similar requirements, in the ‘Remarks’ column of in (a). the LAPL that but with ‘privileges’ rather than a pilot’s logbook, there is no T I thought I'd Class Ratings as such, which similar requirement stated for INSTRUCTORS remind people about the made it unique in format and is LAPL privileges. Nevertheless, When Part-FCL was first requirements, privileges and probably why many FIs and FEs recent discussions with proposed, EASA proposed limitations of the LAPL. are still confused about LAPL NAAs have concluded that that instructors for the PPL validity requirements. LAPL holders are strongly should not need to have ORIGINS recommended to include ‘CPL knowledge’; they would Soon after EASA proposed LAPL VALIDITY such signatures, if for no simply need to hold a PPL, revised PPL requirements, it Like all other Part-FCL licences, other reason than to prove to meet the relevant experience was realised that the 45-hour the LAPL is valid for life. To aircraft rental organisations prerequisites and gain an FI course for the PPL was likely maintain its privileges, a LAPL that they meet licence recency certificate. EASA also proposed to be excessive for many holder must meet the recency requirements. Instructors a lower grade of instructor, aspiring pilots. So just as the requirements of FCL.140.A(a): conducting these flights are termed the Light Aircraft Flight UK had developed the NPPL (a) Holders of an LAPL(A) shall also advised to record the Instructor (LAFI). However, for the same reason, EASA only exercise the privileges name of the pilot to whom certain Member States noted formed the MDM032 group of their licence when they they gave such instruction in that EASA’s proposals ran to formulate proposals for have completed, in the last 24 the remarks column of their contrary to those of ICAO a ‘recreational pilot licence’, months, as pilots of aeroplanes own logbooks, in case an NAA Annex 1 para 2.1.1.1, which which eventually became the or TMG: ever needs to confirm that the requires flight instructors LAPL, requiring only a 30-hour (1) at least 12 hours of flight flight had indeed taken place to have met the knowledge course. It was intended to be time as PIC, including 12 take- as stated in the LAPL holder’s requirements for the issue of a licence granting TMG or SEP offs and landings; and logbook. a commercial pilot licence as privileges only, restricted to (2) refresher training of at least If a LAPL holder has not met appropriate to the category of VFR. Medical standards were 1 hour of total flight time with these recency requirements aircraft included in the licence. to be less restrictive than an instructor. though, they can be AOPA’s Instructor Committee for the Class 2 medical and These are really very simple; regained under the terms of objected to the idea of the could be granted by a pilot’s a LAPL holder only needs to FCL.140.A(b): LAFI as did the European own General Practitioner, check back over the 24 months (b) Holders of an LAPL(A) Commission and it was deleted. rather than only by an AME. before the date of any flight to who do not comply with the Hence a compromise had to As for the NPPL (SSEA), licence check that they have been met requirements in (a) shall: be agreed for LAPL-only flight privileges would only be valid and there are absolutely no (1) undertake a proficiency instructors. Because the LAPL on aircraft of no more than requirements for any signatures check with an examiner before is a ‘sub ICAO’ licence, the 2,000kg MTOM and with no in the licence. However, they resume the exercise of the provisions of ICAO Annex 1 do more than four PoB, including although AMC1 FCL.050(i)(10) privileges of their licence; or not apply, meaning that a PPL/ the pilot. Unfortunately though, (iv) requires that any logbook (2) perform the additional flight FI who provides instruction only despite the problems the UK entry for an instructional flight time or take-offs and landings, for the LAPL does not need to had experienced with the for SEP or TMG Class Rating flying dual or solo under the have passed the CPL exams. original ‘rolling validity’ of the revalidation purposes must be supervision of an instructor, in Such FIs may provide ab initio
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 38 FEATURE LAPL Limitations
"However, a pilot using a PPL restricted by medical to LAPL- level will still need to maintain Class Rating validity"
LEFT: If you want to fly, maybe the LAPL is the way forward for you flight instruction only for the FCL.210.A(b): and the pilot’s medical status regulations applicable to the LAPL and, if appropriately (b) Specific requirements will define which privileges licence they hold. qualified, for any ratings such for applicants holding an may be exercised. However, a as the Night Rating or Aerobatic LAPL(A). Applicants for a PPL(A) pilot using a PPL restricted by THE B-WORD Rating which can be included holding an LAPL(A) shall have medical to LAPL-level will still By the time you read this, in the LAPL. But they may completed at least 15 hours need to maintain Class Rating we might know whether the only provide such training, or of flight time on aeroplanes validity in accordance with PPL government has actually indeed any other training, for after the issue of the LAPL(A), requirements, as only pilots managed to sort out an EU exit LAPL holders. Nevertheless, of which at least 10 shall be who hold an actual LAPL are agreement – or whether the provided that a LAPL-only FI flight instruction completed in subject to the ‘rolling validity’ whole thing has been revoked. can also meet the FCL.915. a training course at a DTO or requirements of the LAPL. Nevertheless, the CAA has been CRI(b) prerequisites for a at an ATO. That training course doing a good job in keeping CRI(A) certificate, they could shall include at least four hours UK MEDICAL DECLARATIONS people in the picture as best it also apply for the certificate of supervised solo flight time, The CAA introduced a method can, but one thing which needs and subsequently conduct including at least two hours of by which a pilot could self- to be understood is that, if any training which falls within solo cross-country flight time declare their fitness to fly light there is a non-negotiated split the scope of the certificate for with at least one cross-country aircraft, known as the Pilot from the EU and from EASA, a other licence holders. Hence flight of at least 270 km (150 Medical Declaration (PMD). UK-issued LAPL or a Part-FCL AOPA advises any prospective NM), during which full stop The restrictions on the use of PPL restricted by medical to LAPL-only FI to apply for both landings at two aerodromes a PMD with a Part-FCL pilot LAPL-level will only be valid in FI and CRI(A) certificates, different from the aerodrome licence are described in the UK airspace or in the airspace assuming that they meet the of departure shall be made. CAA document ORS4 No. of a country with which an relevant prerequisites for each 1283 and are due to expire agreement has been secured. certificate. CHANGES TO PPL PRIVILEGES in April 2020; there are also Somewhat reassuringly though, Although the ATPL and provisions for holders of Westminster whispering LAPL-TO-PPL UPGRADE CPL include PPL and LAPL national UK licences to fly both indicates there is no political Many pilots who elect to train privileges, an error in Part-FCL EASA and non-EASA aircraft desire for the UK to leave EASA. for the LAPL later decide to meant that LAPL privileges using a PMD, again restricted Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway upgrade to the PPL. However, were not included in the PPL. to the privileges applicable and Switzerland are non-EU although EASA agreed in 2013 Hence, if a pilot could no longer to the LAPL – i.e. VFR private countries which are EASA that a LAPL trainee who elects hold a Class 2 medical but was flights in aircraft of an MTOM Member States, so even if the to change to a PPL course able to meet the requirements of no more than 2,000kg and UK does leave the EU, there is would be credited all previous of a LAPL medical, the only with no more than four PoB, no reason why we should not flying training, in 2016 they option was to surrender the including the pilot. However, also become a non-EU EASA changed their minds. Although PPL and apply for a LAPL. use of a PMD is only permitted Member State. IAOPA (Europe) is attempting This error has now been within UK airspace and anyone Hopefully this article will lead to persuade EASA to agree to addressed and both FCL.040 using a PMD to fly within to a better understanding its earlier decision, currently, and FCL.205.A are to be LAPL restrictions in this way of the LAPL by students, to gain a PPL a LAPL trainee amended, so that a PPL holder must maintain Class Rating instructors, examiners and must meet the requirements of will also have LAPL privileges validity in accordance with the training providers.
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 39 PART-FCL SEAPLANE-FLYING REQUIREMENTS FOLLOWING on from the single-pilot aeroplane (sea) this can be found on pp1323– either class or a combination article in April’s magazine ratings shall include theoretical 1325 of 1735. thereof, in order to meet the which described FAA knowledge and flight instruction; Having obtained a Part-FCL SEP requirements for both ratings, Single Engine Sea Rating and (Sea) Class Rating, the regulatory with the proviso that at least requirements, this short (2) the flight training for a freedom of EASA means that one hour of required PIC time article considers how a pilot class or type rating (sea) for a pilot could use the rating in and six of the required 12 holding a Part-FCL licence single-pilot aeroplanes (sea) other member states where take-offs and landings must be may obtain the SEP (Sea) shall include at least eight attitudes to seaplane flying are completed in each class. Class Rating. hours of dual flight instruction if less restrictive. One of the more Currently, seaplane privileges First though, some reality. applicants hold the land version recent IAOPA (Europe) regional are not yet available for LAPL Although in the UK we have a of the relevant class or type meetings was held at Lake Como, holders. However, this will shortly strong seaplane heritage, today rating, or 10 hours if applicants right next to the Aero Club Como, be rectified with amendments to there are hardly any water do not hold such a rating. which is the oldest seaplane FCL.105.A and FCL.140.A. LAPL aerodromes available in the Theoretical knowledge operation and seaplane flight holders with SEP (Land) privileges UK. A few exist in Scotland and requirements are fully described school in the world. Seaplane will be able to add SEP (Sea) Northern Ireland where national in AMC1 FCL.725.A(b); on activity was much in evidence privileges by meeting the same law is rather more permissive, completion there is a multiple- throughout the day, which looked training and testing requirements but that’s about it. Nevertheless, choice written examination of to be great fun; in addition to as required for the holders of some seaplane training is at least 30 questions with a 75 flying by qualified seaplane pilots, other pilot licences. Maintaining available elsewhere in the UK. per cent pass mark, which may they also offer SEP (Sea) Class LAPL recency requirements SEP (Sea) Class Rating training be conducted by the training Rating training for the holders for both classes will also be requirements for single organisation. of any Part-FCL PPL(A). Similarly, achievable through consolidated pilot, non-complex, non-high The content of the SEP (Sea) seaplane training is available in land and/or sea flying, again with performance seaplanes are Class Rating Skill Test is stated other EASA Member States. the proviso that at least one hour stated in FCL.725.A(b): in Section B.7 of Appendix B to Revalidation requirements for of the required PIC time and six (b) for single-pilot aeroplanes Annex 1 of Part-FCL; for those pilots who hold both an SEP of the required 12 take-offs and (sea): who have downloaded the EASA (Land) and an SEP (Sea) Class landings shall be completed in (1) the training course for ‘Easy Access Rules for Aircrew’, Rating may be completed in each class. •
If you want to receive your SEP (Sea) Rating, you'll have to prepare to travel
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 40 TECH AND BOOKS The latest products
FLARM WINS UK AWARD
FLARM was awarded the UK BGA’s Bill Scull Safety Award during AERO 2019. The Bill Scull award is NEW NAVIGATORS presented to a person or organisation for services to gliding safety. FROM GARMIN Mid-air collisions have Garmin launches two new navigators offering WAAS/LPV killed 33 UK glider pilots since 1975. Almost all approaches and optional integrated ADS-B In/Out mid-air glider collisions are with another glider, Product GPS 175 700 aircraft makes/models. button on the touchscreen and they mainly happen Maker Garmin “Many aircraft have not offers quick access to in thermals and around been equipped with WAAS/ direct airport or waypoint airfields, where other GARMIN never seems to LPV or ADS-B due to the navigation. Customisable gliders can be hidden rest and has launched two lack of a compelling value data fields and short cuts from sight behind the new products, the GPS proposition for owners on the moving map to pilot- glider structure. 175 and GNX 375 GPS of these aircraft,” said selectable pages such as In 2004, three Swiss navigators with Localiser Carl Wolf, Vice President the nearest airport allow glider pilots applied their Performance with Vertical of Aviation Sales and for quick, one-touch access engineering expertise guidance (LPV) approach Marketing. “The GPS 175 to important information to design a system that capability. Pilots receive the and GNX 375 offer WAAS/ in-flight. would alert pilots about benefits of WAAS/SBAS LPV approaches and The GPS 175/GNX 375 an imminent collision and GPS guidance in a compact optional ADS-B In/Out offer unique benefits that give an indication of the design that is easy to with an impressive array of only a touchscreen can direction in which the incorporate into an existing features, performance, and provide, such as graphical threat lay. The founders avionics stack. The GPS 175 compelling value.” flight plan editing, allowing of this system became is a stand-alone certified Slim and unobtrusive, pilots to more easily edit known as FLARM. Today, IFR navigator with a colour the GPS 175/GNX 375 their flight-plan based most of the active UK touchscreen display that's include a WAAS/SBAS on an ATC amendment or glider fleet carries the packed with features and GPS that is IFR approach- weather. FLARM system and there capabilities including capable. A vibrant, Features such as FastFind have been no glider-glider WAAS/LPV approaches. colourful touchscreen simplify flight-plan entry collisions since 2014. The GNX 375 has all of display boasts a familiar by applying predictive FLARM continued to the capability of the GPS Garmin user experience logic to suggest airports develop the system to 175 and adds Automatic that enables quick and and waypoints using improve its performance, Dependent Surveillance- intuitive entry of flight current GPS location, while add functionality to Broadcast (ADS-B) Out, as plan information, while a Smart Airspace makes measure antenna well as dual-link ADS-B In dual concentric knob and it easier for the user to performance and find lost via a built-in transponder. dedicated home button identify pertinent airspace gliders and to build-in an Intended for Class I/II offer added versatility on the moving map. The obstacle database. aircraft that weigh 6,000 when interfacing with the addition of SafeTaxi airport For devising and lbs/2,721 kg or less, as well touchscreen. Dedicated diagrams displays runways, continuing to develop as experimental/amateur- pages within the GPS 175 taxiways, Fixed Based this safety system, built (EAB) aircraft, the include a moving map, flight Operators (FBO’s), hangars FLARM is the deserving GPS 175/GNX 375 have plan, nearest, procedures, and more, relative to the recipient of the Bill Scull received Supplemental waypoint information and aircraft’s location on the Safety Award. Type Certification terrain pages, and the airport surface. • (STC) and are available GNX 375 adds traffic and Where flarm.com immediately from Garmin weather pages. The addition Where garmin.com Price From £792 authorised dealers for over of a dedicated direct-to Price From $4,995.00
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 41 THE LESSER- KNOWN PILOTS
OF WWII GATWICK'S Csaba B. Stenge tells the story of the Hungarian Air HISTORY Force and its forgotten role in the Second World War Book Gatwick Propliners Author Tom Singfield Book Forgotten Heroes related aspects such as military history – especially Author Csaba B. Stenge air victory confirmation of the Hungarian Armed WHEN Ronald Waters systems, air combat tactics Forces and Air Force in the bought 90 acres of THERE are plenty of well- and obtained awards. Besides Second World War. He has farmland adjacent to the known stories from the pilots this, the book contains spent the last two decades Gatwick racecourse in and Air Forces that 'did their more than 350 rare images conducting intensive research 1930 in order to set up bit' in the Second World War, – many of them previously – both in archives and with a private airfield, little But the Hungarian Air Force unpublished – and a selection veterans and their families - did he know how that is one of the few that isn't of superb colour profiles, looking for surviving wartime airfield would evolve known that well. which show camouflage and materials relating to the over the next eighty- Prior to the beginning of markings for the aircraft of Royal Hungarian Air Force. nine years to become the Second World War, the the aces. He has written eight books the world’s busiest Royal Hungarian Armed Csaba B. Stenge was born in and more than a hundred single-runway airport. Forces – including the Air 1975. He is a historian and scholarly articles in the Back in the 1960s and Force – prepared to engage his PhD describes the history Hungarian, English, German ’70s it became a hub for the Little Entente forces. of the Royal Hungarian and French languages. • aircraft enthusiasts and However, after a short Air Force in the Second photographers who, skirmish prior to the war World War. The focus of Where helion.co.uk thanks to the viewing with the Slovaks, during the his research is aviation and Price £59.95 decks, could get up war their opponents became close to the aircraft and the Soviet and American enjoy the eclectic mix aviators. The Hungarian aces of new jetliners and old fought gallantly against such propeller airliners. heavy odds and, after the Tom Singfield, ex-Gatwick war’s end, the new Hungarian Air Traffic Controller communist regime turned and a fan of all classic against them too. This book airliners, has long dreamt is the unique story of the of a book showcasing the 38 Hungarian air aces of glory days of Gatwick’s the Second World War. The classic airliners. After overwhelming majority of thirty years of searching the related materials have out the very best been lost or destroyed, so colour images of that the author has demonstrated time, he is now able truly Herculean efforts during to publish the results his 23-year-long extensive of his searches in this research to write this book. These stunning monumental work. The book pictures celebrate those is based mostly on previously wonderful times and the unpublished primary sources amazing and much- from Hungarian, German, missed ‘propliners’ that Russian and American operated from Gatwick archives, and also on the for the first twenty years preserved documents of after its reopening in the aces and their families. 1958. The text is not limited to the highly-detailed biographies Where thehistorypress.co.uk of the 38 Hungarian aces; it Price £20.00 also covers some important
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot
AIRCRAFT FOR SALE AIRCRAFT FOR SHARE INSURANCE TRAINING TECHNICAL FUEL +MORE CLASSIFIED ADS The AOPA Classifieds section is chock-full of everything you need to get the most out of your flying. No matter what your aviation need is, you'll be able to find it here, whether it be an aircraft, services, or a hangar home, we have it all. To advertise contact Charlotte Pulham at [email protected]
AIRCRAFT FOR SALE
AA5 TRAVELER
1987 BEECH BONANZA F33A
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES Please contact [email protected] or +44(0)1487 830105 +44(0)7583 140127
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
AIRCRAFT FOR SHARE
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES Please contact CHARLOTTE PULHAM at [email protected] +44(0)1487 830105 or +44(0)7583 140127
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
LIBERTY XL2 Friendly Liberty XL2 group based at Biggin Hill looking for buyer for 20% share of IFR equipped aircraft. Great international tourer. The Liberty is FADEC controlled, with a 115 kias cruise at 6 US gallons/hr. Current costs £160/month and £80/hr. Further details and demo flight available on request. FAA licence required for flights outside the UK. Trial period possible. Ideal candidate will have 200+ hours.
Contact Bill Roberts at 020 7564 5461 or at [email protected].
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
AIRCRAFT ENGINES FOR SALE INSURANCE
DE HAVILLAND GIPSY ENGINES
2 x GIPSY QUEEN MK 2 Inclusive of ancillaries. Ex DH 88 Comet replica
3 x GIPSY MAJOR 8 (10) No ancillaries, ex M.o.D. DHC-1 Chipmunk
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TECHNICAL FOR ALL CLASSIFIED AD SALES ENQUIRIES Please contact charlotte @aopa.co.uk or +44(0)1487 830105 +44(0)7583 140127
AIRCRAFT FOR SALE - ENGINE RETROFITS
OTHER FOR ALL ENQUIRIES Please contact CHARLOTTE PULHAM at [email protected] +44(0)1487 830105 or +44(0)7583 140127
AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot June 2019 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
OTHER HELP NEEDED We are searching for any FACTORY DRAWINGS (including cutaways and repair manuals) of the ARMSTRONG WHITWORTH F.K.8 and pictures of them in manufacture or repair. With a particular focus on the wings but anything would be useful.
If anybody has any material that can help then please email [email protected] It would be most appreciated!
June 2019 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot