How to Fly the B-17 Flying Fortress

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“Maybe airplanes are a bit like people. You don’t really get to know them until after you’ve lived with them a while.” At least that’s what the narrator says in this 1943 Army Air Force training film. Even though this video and the associated technology is over 70 years old, a lot of the information is still relevant to pilots today. They stress the importance of checklist usage, reminders to trim the airplane and even crew resource management. I was amazed to hear the instructor hit on the hot-topic in today’s airline industry: “Flying means fatigue. Always run your checklist.”

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AOPA Aviation Summit Photo Reel

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Just a few weeks ago, the general aviation community rallied in Hartford Connecticut for the annual AOPA Aviation Summit. There was plenty of eye-candy and excitement for airplane geeks, including the news of a new set of rules governing airmen medical certification.

Relive some of the sites with this gallery of my favorite pictures from AOPA Summit.

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Stunning Nose Gear Collapse Caught on Video

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This sobering video from Tucson, AZ shows a nose gear collapse in a Remos G3. The accident occurred during a training flight with a student pilot at the controls. After flying a high approach, the aircraft lands hard, appears to bounce, then the nose gear collapses. According to the student pilot’s remarks, the airplane stalled prior to touch down, but I don’t buy it.

What really went wrong?

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AOPA and EAA Set Out to Eliminate Medical Certification for Private Pilots

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If AOPA and EAA have their way, medical certificates may become a thing of the past. Amidst a dramatic Star Wars entrance at the annual Pancake Breakfast, AOPA President Craig Fuller and EAA President Rod Hightower announced a united front to change the face of medical airmen certification.

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