Category: General Aviation

Scintam Tackles Seized Fastener Problem Live at DPRTE 2026

Nottingham, U. K.-based engineering firm Scintam is bringing its FastEDR technology to DPRTE 2026 in Farnborough, offering live demonstrations of a machine that’s modernizng how engineering teams deal with one of the most persistent challenges in maintenance: the safe removal of seized fasteners.

Powered by electrical discharge machining technology, FastEDR removes seized fasteners without heat, force or chemicals. CEO Duncan Kerr and CTO Pete Woodsmith will run the demonstrations and will be available to answer questions.

The Problem

Seized fasteners are a constant — and costly — challenge across defence platforms. Current removal methods, such as hand-drilling and pneumatic tools, are unpredictable, risk damaging high-value components, and can lead to extended downtime — grounding assets that are needed in service.

The Solution

FastEDR is portable, non-destructive, and works in situ, delivering consistent processing times regardless of fastener condition.

Traditional removal methods also pose a direct risk to the technicians that carry them out, exposing them to vibration, repetitive strain, swarf hazards, and long-term conditions such as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), commonly known as white finger.

Steven Maclaren, a former Royal Navy aircraft engineer with 22 years’ service across rotary-wing platforms and now a Board Advisor at Scintam, has experienced these risks first-hand.

“Twelve-hour shifts holding pneumatic drills at awkward angles, with continuous vibration and cold air exposure — over time, these conditions can lead to lasting injury,” says Maclaren. FastEDR, Maclaren notes, “significantly reduces that exposure and improves efficiency while protecting the next generation of maintainers.”

At the Stand

Visitors can watch live demonstrations of seized screws being removed using the FastEDR machine, and speak directly with Duncan Kerr and Pete Woodsmith about specific maintenance challenges.

“The feedback we’ve had is that the live demonstrations are far more impactful than a video – people are struck by how easy and simple it is,” says Kerr. “But we also want to listen and learn about the problems people are dealing with and where we can help.”

Vision and Ambition

Scintam is a small business with big ambitions. “In the next few years, I see hundreds of FastEDR machines all around the world,” says Kerr, “in both commercial and defense applications.” The company is also looking to partner with prime contractors and defense organizations to develop tailored solutions for their specific maintenance challenges.

Blue Skies Opens Tecnam-Based Flight Training Academy

Tecnam have announced a new partnership with Blue Skies Aviation Solutions (Pvt) Ltd, marking the launch of a newly formed Approved Training Organization (ATO) in Sri Lanka. To build a world-class pilot trainingcapability from the ground up, Blue Skies Aviation has selected an all-Tecnam fleet, acquiring three (3) P-Mentors and one (1) P2006T NG.

Purpose-built to deliver structured professional pilot training for students across the South Asian Region, the new Blue Skies Aviation Academy will commence operations with an initial intake of 15 student pilots. Supported by a planned four intakes per year, the academy is scaled to achieve an annual training capacity of up to 60 students.

The approved training scope covers Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Visual/Instrument Flight Rules (VFR/IFR) training. By standardizing on the Tecnam P-Mentor and the twin-engine P2006T NG, the academy provides a complete, seamless progression pathway from ab-initio to advanced pilot qualifications based on a common aircraft philosophy and modern glass-cockpit avionics.

Don Asitha Manage, Accountable Manager and Managing Director of Blue Skies Aviation Solutions, stated: “The launch of our Approved Training Organization marks an important milestone for Blue Skies Aviation Solutions as we invest in building a state-of-the-art pilot training capability in Sri Lanka. By partnering with Tecnam and standardizing our fleet around purpose-built training aircraft, we are establishing a strong foundation focused on safety, training quality, and regulatory compliance from day one. This initial intake represents the first phase of a scalable training model designed to support the long-term development of professional pilots aligned with international standards.”

The partnership with Tecnam provides Blue Skies Aviation with a modern training platform that directly enhances operational efficiency. The fuel-efficient design and lower life-cycle maintenance costs of the P-Mentor and P2006T NG deliver a highly competitive cost per flight hour, supporting sustainable economics during the start-up phase. Furthermore, the EASA CS-23 certification and widespread global adoption of Tecnam aircraft facilitate regulatory acceptance and future international positioning for the ATO.

“We are honored to be the aircraft of choice for Blue Skies Aviation Solutions as they bring this visionary new academy to Sri Lanka,” said Walter Da Costa, Tecnam chief sales officer. “Starting a new ATO requires a flawless foundation, and the combination of the P-Mentor and the P2006T NG is exactly that. It is the most modern, efficient, and profitable training fleet available on the market today. We are excited to support Blue Skies Aviation in their mission to elevate professional pilot training in the South Asian region and look forward to seeing their cadets take to the skies in our aircraft.”

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

Cirrus introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era smart and safe Personal Aviation.

The Vision Jet is recognized as the world’s first single-engine Personal Jet and the best-selling jet in aviation. Known for its V-tail design, a quiet and spacious cabin, safety systems, and intuitive Perspective Touch+ avionics, the Vision Jet was designed with the pilot and passengers in mind. Cirrus is now delivering the G3 Vision Jet.

“The G3 Vision Jet is a testament to our relentless innovation, continued investment in Personal Aviation and our owners who want to travel efficiently with award-winning safety features, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) and Safe Return Emergency Autoland for peace of mind,” said Zean Nielsen, chief executive officer of Cirrus. “The G3 Vision Jet interior was engineered for excellence and comfort now offering expanded seating for increased mission capability. The Cirrus Perspective Touch+ flight deck adds new features for reduced pilot workload including ATC Datalink and Alerts-Linked Checklists while new Cirrus Spectra wingtips illuminate the ramp.”

A Reimagined Cabin

The G3 Vision Jet cabin supports expanded mission capability with pilot and passenger comfort in mind. Now the G3 can seat a total of seven occupants (six adults, one child) with the Premium and Arrivée trims or Xi Designed aircraft. The cabin showcases newly designed seating, tray tables, personal device mount locations and interior aesthetic enhancements to create a flexible, productive and streamlined environment able to adapt to every mission.

Cabin Seating Expands

  • The cabin now features a sleek, comfortable and convenient third-row bench seat to elevate the passenger experience by increasing spaciousness for seven passengers.
  • Enhanced bolstered seats tout fine-tuned ergonomics, adding support to the headrest, armrests and knee area for a comfortable journey.
  • The pilot and co-pilot seats can now be adjusted to their full aft range with single-hand operation, while the middle and third-row seats remain modular and can be removed or installed to serve the pilot’s mission.

Cabin Aesthetic Upgrades

  • All G3 seats feature a new hardshell back with hand-wrapped Alcantara.
  • Depending on the G3 Vision Jet trim, seatbacks are now part of the design experience and come equipped with carbon fiber at the Arrivée level.
  • Interior colorways are enhanced with two new Standard colors, five Premium offerings and a new collection of Arrivée colors now aligning with the SR Series product line.

Flight Deck and Exterior Light Enhancements

The G3 Vision Jet adds Perspective Touch+ flight deck features to reduce pilot workload, increase safety and maximize productivity:

  • ATC Datalink: Pilots can text to communicate with air traffic control to receive route updates, altitude assignments and more.
  • Automatic Database Updates: Flight data is always up to date, streamlining the preflight process with the Cirrus IQ PRO Advanced subscription.
  • Alerts-Linked Checklists: Provide quick access to relevant checklists in high-workload scenarios when a caution or warning alert may arise.
  • Taxiway Routing and 3D SafeTaxi: Increase situational awareness in airport environments with clear airport surface maps and directions when navigating an unfamiliar airport.
  • Cirrus Spectra Wingtips & Lights: New wingtip and landing lights are 2.7 times brighter while the signature Cirrus halo light distinguishes the jet on the ramp.

Visionary Dale Klapmeier Joins AOPA Board of Trustees

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) today announced the appointment of aviation entrepreneur and industry pioneer Dale Klapmeier to its Board of Trustees.

Dale Klapmeier is best known as the co-founder and longtime CEO of Cirrus Aircraft, where he helped transform the modern general aviation landscape. Over more than three decades, he would help lead the development of the SR-series piston aircraft, bringing the next generation of aircraft to owners around the world. After his brother Alan developed and launched the Vision Jet, Klapmeier then guided Cirrus through its development, certification and production, establishing a new category of owner-flown personal jets.

Under Klapmeier ’s leadership, Cirrus became known for bringing new pilots into aviation through a relentless drive for innovation establishing a new level of safety, simplicity, comfort, and performance. Cirrus Aircraft was the first company to make a whole-airframe parachute system standard equipment in every aircraft produced, reframing how pilots and families thought about risk in personal aviation. Klapmeier, along with his brother, championed the integration of advanced avionics, envelope protection, angle-of-attack awareness, and simplified cockpit design at a time when much of general aviation was still analog. Just as importantly, he pushed for training programs, transition guidance, and owner education that paired technology with pilot proficiency, creating a safety culture that extended well beyond the airplane itself.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dale Klapmeier to the AOPA Board of Trustees,” said Jim Hauslein, chairman of the AOPA Board of Trustees. “A National Aviation Hall of Fame inductee, Dale is a true general aviation visionary. Through Cirrus, he helped deliver more than 10,000 piston aircraft to owners and fundamentally reshaped the owner-flown light jet category. Just as importantly, he brings a lifelong commitment to the GA pilot community that will be invaluable to the Board as we look ahead.”

Klapmeier said he is honored to join the board at a time when advocacy, safety, and pilot engagement are more important than ever.

“AOPA has always been the voice of the pilot and a fierce defender of the freedom to fly,” Klapmeier said. “I’ve spent my career focused on helping more people experience the utility, safety, and joy of personal aviation. I’m excited to support AOPA’s mission and contribute to the work being done on behalf of pilots across the country.”

As a member of the Board of Trustees, Klapmeier will help guide AOPA’s strategic direction and governance as the association continues its work in advocacy, safety, training, and member services for pilots nationwide.

Vantage Aviation Expands FBO Network, Adds Pittsburgh Allegheny County

Vantage Aviation has expanded to support aircraft owners and travelers in western Pennsylvania. The aviation services provider has completed its acquisition of fixed-base operations (FBO) at Allegheny County Airport (AGC), serving Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

The AGC location, formerly operated by Corporate Air, is the sixth of the growing Vantage Aviation FBO Network – all since the fall 2024 launch of the company.

“The acquisition of the Corporate Air FBO at Allegheny County Airport represents an important milestone for Vantage Aviation,” said CEO Ryan Maxfield. “AGC is a critical business aviation airport, and this transaction allows us to strengthen our presence in a market with sustained demand from corporate, charter and owner-flown operators.”

Vantage Aviation says the AGC facility gives corporate and general aviation aircraft owners and travelers the closest access to downtown Pittsburgh, with ramp space to accommodate even the largest ultra-long-range business jets. The 24-hour facility includes 110,000 square feet of hangar space, an 11,600-sq-ft FBO terminal and office space of more than 24,000 square feet.

In addition, Vantage Aviation also offers aircraft management and charter services at AGC. It plans to launch a renovation of the facility later this year. Vantage Aviation acquired the assets of Corporate Air, following that company’s bankruptcy filing in 2025.

“This transaction enhances our ability to support based aircraft, transient charter traffic, and managed fleets with a seamless customer experience,” Maxfield added. “Allegheny County Airport continues to play a vital role in the region’s business aviation activity, and we’re excited to be part of its continued growth.”

The AGC location, which will be in demand for this spring’s NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, joins Vantage Aviation FBOs in Duluth, MN; Greenville, SC; Richmond, VA and one being constructed in Rifle, CO, coming online later this year.

ARSA Offers D&A Waiver Guidance to Australia

On Jan. 26, the Aeronautical Repair Station Association delivered resources and instructions to Australian holders of U.S. repair station certificates for seeking a single, nationwide waiver from the FAA’s new rule imposing drug and alcohol testing requirements outside the United States.

Based on its decades of experience with testing requirements and analysis of the final rule issued in December 2024, ARSA drafted a waiver application based on the equivalency of Australian drug and alcohol testing regulations to American standards. After coordinating with government officials in both countries, the association provided a method for repair stations to push Australia to seek the blanket waiver on behalf of all of its FAA-certificated repair stations.

“We offer the draft waiver … that [the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Australia] can use to obtain acknowledgement that your country’s drug and alcohol testing regime is equivalent to that being imposed by the United States on ‘foreign’ repair stations under CASA’s jurisdiction,” ARSA said in its first outreach to the Australian Government in December – the exchange led to the direct repair station outreach. “We are also hopeful that the draft waiver can serve as an example of the care and detail that the American regulations require to establish a country-wide waiver.”

Repair stations located outside the United States must comply with new testing requirements by the end of 2027. Given the extreme complexity of compliance, ARSA urges governments and international stakeholders to take action now to plan program management.

To read the ARSA letter to the Australian Government that began this effort, click here.

To review ARSA’s matrix analyzing CASA’s drug and alcohol testing requirements against those of the 14 CFR part 120, click here.

For background on American drug and alcohol testing rules for maintenance providers and ARSA’s engagement, click here.

AOPA Launches Member Call to Action on ADS-B Misuse 

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has launched a member call to action asking its 300,000 members to contact their senators and representatives in Congress and urge them to cosponsor the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA), legislation that would address growing concerns over the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data, including its use by some airports to charge fees to pilots. 

“When the ADS-B mandate went into effect in 2020, the FAA said this important technology would only be used for safety and airspace efficiency. Instead, we’re now seeing it used in ways that discourage adoption,” said Darren Pleasance, AOPA president and CEO. “As the largest pilot organization in the world, we need every one of our members to tell their elected representatives how the misuse of ADS-B is a step backward for aviation safety and erodes trust in our aviation system.” 

PAPA was introduced in 2025 by Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.) as H.R. 4146 and Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) as S. 2175. If passed, it would: 

  • Prohibit the use of ADS-B data to assist in the collection of fees from pilots or aircraft owners.
  • Clarify that ADS-B data may only be used for its intended purposes of air traffic safety and efficiency.
  • Expand a provision in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that would effectively ban any government official from initiating a non-criminal investigation based solely on ADS-B data.
  • Ensure airports are transparent about proposed fees and their intended purpose.
  • Give the Secretary of Transportation the discretion to authorize other uses of ADS-B data.

Rep. Onder highlighted PAPA during a recent House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing, saying, “If ADS-B is being used by, I’ll say, bad actors to monetize airport landing fees, that’s going to discourage folks from employing ADS-B or adopting ADS-B in the first place or turning it off.” 

“We appreciate Representative Onder and Senator Budd for their leadership on this important issue. As pilots, they know firsthand how vital ADS-B is to aviation safety and how important it is that this be addressed at the national level,” said Jim Coon, AOPA senior vice president of government affairs and advocacy. “Montana was the first state to pass a law prohibiting the use of ADS-B to charge fees to most GA pilots. We’re also seeing momentum building nationwide, with similar bills being filed in states like Arizona, Oklahoma, Florida, and Minnesota, with more on the way. While each of these efforts helps improve aviation safety, a patchwork of state laws could create confusion among pilots.” 

“To be clear, the bill would not prevent airports from imposing fees on pilots, nor would it impede the use of FlightAware, Flightradar24, or other popular flight tracking apps,” Pleasance wrote in an email to AOPA members earlier today. “When this bill becomes law, airports will still be able to impose fees, as long as they are fair and reasonable. Airports could also continue to use ADS-B to monitor traffic counts, understand traffic patterns and flows to help them manage and create operational efficiencies.” 

“As pilots, we understand how much of a game changer ADS-B has been,” said Pleasance. “I’ve spoken with many people who are deeply concerned about how quickly more airports are adopting this technology and how the data is being used. Allowing third parties to access personal information in the FAA aircraft registry without consent deters pilots and aircraft owners from equipping their aircraft with ADS-B.” 

“Many of us have used ADS-B to track a flight online using a service like Flightradar24 or FlightAware, but those who aren’t pilots may not understand how critical this technology has been to the continual improvement we’re seeing in general aviation safety,” said AOPA Air Safety Institute Senior Vice President Mike Ginter. “The accident rate has been dropping for more than 30 years and there is no question that ADS-B has contributed to that success.” 

Wintriss Controls Group Appoints New President

Wintriss Controls Group announced that the former general manager of Wintriss, Keith Magnant, is serving as the company’s new president, an appointment that became effective Jan. 1, 2026. Magnant succeeds long-standing Wintriss President Mark Hatch, who retired at the end of 2025 after 45 years in manufacturing with Wintriss, 15 of which he served as the company’s president. 

The succession was carefully planned and executed over the past 12 months with Hatch and Magnant working closely together for a seamless transition. Under Magnant’s leadership and strategic vision, Wintriss is strongly positioned for a future of long-term growth and continuous innovation.

“It’s an honor to follow in Mark’s footsteps, and I’m excited to carry forward all his success. Having served as general manager for several years, I know our teams and customers well, making this a natural transition in leadership,” said Keith Magnant, president, Wintriss Controls Group. “My job as president is to continue delivering quality products, meeting customer commitments and supporting our organization. I look forward to growing Wintriss and bringing the company’s products to new markets.” 

Magnant is a highly skilled sales and marketing executive with 30 years of experience specializing in hardware and software manufacturing for a range of industries. He has been with Wintriss for nearly 12 years in various and progressive roles, including sales manager, director of sales and marketing and most recently general manager.

Magnant played a pivotal role in Wintriss’ recent asset acquisition of ISB, now operating as Wintriss ISB, where he also serves as president. Wintriss ISB is a manufacturer of safety equipment for the metal forming industry based in Montreal, QC, Canada. With Wintriss ISB’s full complement of light curtains, press brake guarding systems and other safety products, combined with Wintriss’ outstanding line of Shadow Light Curtains, the acquisition positions Wintriss as the leading provider of safety solutions for presses and press brakes in the metal forming manufacturing industry. 

Airbase Georgia Launches 2026 Public Outreach with Super Museum Sunday, Feb. 8

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia will participate in Georgia’s statewide Super Museum Sunday from noon to 4:00 p.m. on February 8.The public is invited for a free afternoon filled with aviation history, restored World War II aircraft and hands-on learning opportunities.

Super Museum Sunday marks Airbase Georgia’s first public outreach event of 2026. It also serves as a celebratory kickoff aligned with the national observance of America 250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The event underscores the museum’s role in connecting local communities to the people, innovations, and sacrifices that shaped the nation.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Airbase Georgia’s hangar, learn about the restoration of historic WWII aircraft, meet volunteer members, and discover how the largest flying museum in Georgia is a living classroom for all ages.

Super Museum Sunday is a statewide annual event sponsored by the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Department of Economic Development, through its Explore Georgia division. The program encourages museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions across Georgia to open their doors with free admission, offering residents and visitors a shared opportunity to experience the state’s history, arts, and heritage.

“Education is at the heart of everything we do,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards. “When we say our mission is to educate, inspire, and honor, that includes educating the general public just as much as our K–12 students. Super Museum Sunday allows us to open our doors and invite the community to engage directly with the stories, skills, and values that define this generation of American history.”

Airbase Georgia’s 2026 public outreach strategy emphasizes increased community access, expanded educational programming, and alignment with statewide and national heritage initiatives tied to America 250. Super Museum Sunday offers an accessible entry point for families, educators, students, and aviation enthusiasts to experience that mission firsthand.

Admission is free, and all are welcome.

For more information about Airbase Georgia, upcoming events, or educational programs, visithttps://airbasegeorgia.org/.

Tecnam Officially Launches the P2006T NG in the USA & Canada

Tecnam has officially announced the launch of the P2006T NG (Next Generation) in the United States and Canada. The P2006T NG represents the latest evolution of Tecnam’s highly successful twin platform, building on the outstanding global track record of the P2006T MkII and the strong market reception of the P2006T NG, which is already in active delivery and operation across multiple international markets.

Over the years, the P2006T family has become one of the most trusted and widely used twin-engine aircraft worldwide, particularly within professional flight training organizations. This success has been driven by its proven reliability, low operating costs, and suitability for modern multi-engine training environments. The Next Generation version further refines this platform with extensive enhancements developed in close cooperation with operators and training academies around the world.

A Clear Roadmap for the US & Canadian Market
Tecnam has defined a structured entry plan for North America:

  • Official Launch: January 19, 2026
  • FAA Certification: Expected in Q4 2026
  • First Deliveries: Scheduled to begin in Q1 2027

The P2006T NG is already validated and operating in several countries outside North America, reinforcing Tecnam’s confidence in the platform’s readiness for the US and Canadian markets.

Designed for Modern Training and Ownership
The P2006T NG has been designed to meet the demanding requirements of today’s flight schools while offering an uncompromised experience for private owners:

  • Exceptional Operating Efficiency
    Powered by twin fuel-injected Rotax 912iSc3 engines, the aircraft delivers extremely low fuel consumption, enabling operators to significantly reduce direct operating costs while maintaining excellent performance and redundancy.
  • Increased Payload and Mission Flexibility
    The aircraft benefits from an increased Maximum Take-Off Weight, providing greater payload capability and flexibility for training, private travel, and special mission operations.
  • Improved Accessibility and Ergonomics
    A new pilot-side door increases ease of access for instructors and students, improving training efficiency and cockpit flow during high-tempo operations.
  • Advanced Avionics Suite
    The cockpit features the Garmin G1000 NXi, including the GCU 477 FMS keyboard and GFC 700 digital autopilot, ensuring pilots train on avionics architectures fully aligned with modern airline and commercial aviation environments.

Configurations for the North American Market
The P2006T NG will be offered in multiple configurations to meet diverse operational needs:

  • Trainer – Optimized for professional flight training and multi-engine instruction
  • Sport – A refined version with premium interior finishes
  • Special Mission Platform (SMP) – Configurable for surveillance, mapping, and utility missions

“The success of the P2006T MkII worldwide has confirmed the strength of this platform, and the P2006T NG represents its natural evolution,” said Walter Da Costa, Tecnam chief sales officer. “With the NG, we are bringing to the United States and Canada a twin-engine aircraft that has already proven its value internationally, combining efficiency, reliability, and modern technology tailored to the needs of today’s flight academies and private operators.”

Availability
Production slots for the United States and Canada are now being allocated, with deliveries planned to commence in Q1 2027, subject to FAA certification.