Category: General Aviation

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.

EAS Barcelona Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Major Fleet Expansion, Invests €4 Million in Tecnam P2006T NG and P-Mentor


Tecnam iannounced that EAS Barcelona, a European Approved Training Organization (ATO), has committed to a significant fleet expansion and modernization program valued at more than €4 million.

Coinciding with the school’s 10th anniversary, this investment reinforces the long-standing partnership between Tecnam and EAS Barcelona, positioning the ATO as the operator of the largest Tecnam training fleet in Spain, now exceeding 30 aircraft.

Despite already operating one of the youngest fleets in Europe, with an average aircraft age of under four years, EAS Barcelona is taking a decisive step toward the future. The agreement includes:

  • Acquisition of six (6) P2006T NG, increasing the school’s multi-engine capacity.
  • Addition of two (2) Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft, which will join the single-engine training platform following an order placed in late 2025.

The new aircraft will progressively enter service beginning mid-2026. This strategy ensures EAS Barcelona offers the highest concentration of new-generation Tecnam aircraft among European ATOs, specifically designed to replicate the avionics and systems management of modern commercial airliners.

The fleet renewal underscores a shared commitment to environmental responsibility. Powered by the latest-generation Rotax 912iSc3 engines, the new P2006T NG and P-Mentor models deliver approximately 20% lower fuel consumption per flight hour compared to previous generations. This efficiency aligns EAS Barcelona’s growth with European aviation sustainability objectives, integrating responsible practices from the earliest stages of pilot training.

“We are incredibly proud that EAS Barcelona has chosen Tecnam once again to mark such a significant milestone as their 10th anniversary,” said Walter Da Costa, Tecnam chief sales officer. “This substantial investment in the P2006T NG and P-Mentor confirms that our fleet solution is the preferred choice for top-tier ATOs. It is an honor to support EAS Barcelona in delivering airline-oriented, sustainable, and technologically advanced training to the next generation of pilots.”

Jorge Garcia, EAS Barcelona head of training, added: “Tecnam aircraft allow us to deliver airline-oriented training using platforms that reflect modern avionics, systems management, and operational efficiency. This fleet expansion strengthens our long-term commitment to training quality, sustainability, and operational realism.”

About the Aircraft

P-Mentor: The ultimate two-seats IFR trainer, offering a state-of-the-art glass cockpit and flight physics that prepare students for the demands of commercial aviation. https://tecnam.com/aircraft/p-mentor/

P2006T NG: The world’s smartest twin-engine trainer, now updated for the modern age, offering superior multi-engine flight exposure for Integrated ATPL students. https://tecnam.com/aircraft/p2006t-ng/

FAA Releases Draft Plan for Transition to Unleaded Avgas

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released the draft Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline for public comment. Pilots, aircraft owners, and aviation stakeholders are asked to review and comment on the FAA’s draft plan, which highlights many of the technical, regulatory, and logistical challenges in shifting from 100LL to unleaded fuel. (See: https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/draft_docs/pubs)

The draft plan emphasizes the efforts underway toward the national goal for the phase-out of 100LL, targeting 2030 for the contiguous United States (2032 for Alaska). The draft plan provides a framework for the transition and describes phases of transition, anticipated timelines, fuel-authorization pathways, and steps that airports, pilots, and aircraft owners will need to consider as unleaded fuels continue to enter the market in the coming years.

The FAA notes that stakeholder feedback will further inform the transition moving forward. Stakeholder participation will also support transparency and keep safety at the forefront.

Aircraft owners and pilots are urged to review the draft transition plan and submit comments focused on safety, feasibility and operational needs.

The transition to unleaded fuel will shape general aviation for decades and input from the general aviation community remains central to assuring a safe and smart transition.

Premier Aircraft Appointed as the North American Platinum Distributor for New Diamond Aircraft Parts

Premier Aircraft, the longest-standing and most trusted Diamond Aircraft dealer in America, announced that it has been named the North American Platinum Distributor for Diamond Aircraft parts.

“Whether flying for business, leisure, or flight training, every Diamond Aircraft owner wants access to the replacement parts they need as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. AOGs are losing money,” stated Travis Peffer, CEO of Premier Aircraft. “For over 20 years, Premier Aircraft has been dedicated to helping Diamond Aircraft owners get the most value out of these wonderful airplanes, and now that we are the central point for parts, we can improve their ownership experience even further.”

“In the past, when parts were coming in from Canada or Europe, Diamond owners would have to deal with prolonged shipping times, high shipping costs, and lengthy customs issues that added weeks to the delivery process,” he added. “Now, with over $1.5 million in new Diamond Aircraft parts in stock at our main parts hub in the DFW area, and a dedicated parts staff, we can get them the parts they need sooner to reduce aircraft downtime dramatically.”

Premier Aircraft’s maintenance centers are located at:

• Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE), Fort Lauderdale, Florida

• Fort Worth Mecham International Airport (FTW), Fort Worth, Texas

• Flightlevel Aviation, Norwood Memorial Airport (OWD), Norwood, Massachusetts.

Peffer said that to further reduce the order-to-shipping time, Diamond Aircraft owners or their maintainers in North America and the Caribbean Islands can get quick online quotes at Premier Aircraft’s dedicated parts page: https://www.premieraircraft.com/maintenance/aircraft-parts-request/. Or they can call Premier Aircraft at +1-954-771-0411 and speak to a dedicated parts specialist.

TBX Releases 2026 Annual Survey: State of the GA Maintenance Industry

TBX announced the release of its 2026 TBX Annual Survey, a data-driven snapshot of the general aviation (GA) maintenance landscape. Drawing on more than 600 responses from maintenance shops and operators across sizes, regions, and aircraft types, the report captures a real-time view of the challenges, opportunities, and operational realities shaping GA maintenance today.

Unlike industry studies that often focus on airlines or business aviation, the TBX Annual Survey centers on the maintenance professionals who keep general aviation flying — A&Ps, IAs, DOMs, shop owners, operators, and flight schools.

“General aviation is often overlooked, even though it’s the foundation of the entire aviation ecosystem,” said Jon McLaughlin, chief executive officer of TBX. “After spending the past year visiting hundreds of maintenance shops, we wanted to flip the script and listen directly to the people doing the work. This survey reflects the real maintenance perspective — what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s holding the industry back right now.”

The 2026 survey reveals an industry under pressure from rising costs, supply chain disruption, and persistent staffing shortages—yet one that continues to demonstrate operational maturity and resilience on the shop floor.

Key findings from the 2026 TBX Annual Survey include:

· Rising costs and supply chain pressure dominate the landscape Nearly two-thirds of respondents cited rising costs and supply chain issues as their biggest current challenge, followed closely by staffing and training shortages.

· Staffing remains the single most critical constraint to growth When asked what would most improve their business prospects, finding and retaining skilled technicians far outpaced any other factor—including insurance costs, customers, or facilities.

· Operational fundamentals are working—people, process, and compliance Shops reported the strongest success in maintenance tracking, compliance and records, shop processes, and team support, highlighting operational maturity despite external pressures.

· Confidence is mixed: businesses are optimistic, the industry less so While 63% of respondents feel positive about their own business outlook, fewer than half expressed optimism about the future of general aviation overall.

· Shop rates and output scale meaningfully with size and region Average shop rates increase with shop size and vary significantly by geography, while larger shops service substantially more aircraft annually—underscoring structural differences across the GA maintenance ecosystem.

Designed for shop owners, operators, OEMs, suppliers, and industry stakeholders, the report provides actionable benchmarks and insights across key areas including top challenges, shop profiles, outlook and sentiment, and detailed shop rate analysis by size and region.

“Without the maintenance community, pilots—and the broader GA industry—wouldn’t get very far,” McLaughlin added. “Our goal is to use this data to help spark better conversations and uncover opportunities for collaboration across OEMs, suppliers, vendors, operators, and trade associations to improve the long-term outlook for GA maintenance.”

The full TBX Annual Survey 2026 report, including detailed benchmarks and analysis, is available now.

Cirrus Delivers 11,000th SR Series Aircraft

Cirrus today delivered its 11,000th SR Series aircraft, a testament to the company’s innovation, safety, quality and service. The latest model, SR Series G7+, features Safe Return Emergency Autoland, the world’s first FAA-certified autonomous emergency landing system in a single-engine piston. The SR Series product line (SR20, SR22 and SR22T) was first delivered in 1999 and has been the best-selling high-performance single-engine piston aircraft for over two decades. The SR Series captivates experienced pilots, student pilots and people new to aviation because the Cirrus design philosophy is centered around innovation, safety and approachability. From its award-winning safety features to its concierge aircraft ownership pathway, Cirrus is the Personal Aviation™ aircraft manufacturer of choice.

“Delivering 11,000 SR Series aircraft is an incredible milestone for Cirrus,” said Zean Nielsen, chief executive dfficer of Cirrus. “Cirrus is the third largest aircraft manufacturer in the world, and our aircraft feature cutting-edge innovations including the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), Perspective Touch+ avionics and Safe Return Emergency Autoland, which continue to raise the industry benchmark and keep people flying with confidence.”

11,000th SR Series Exclusive Design

The one-of-one, 11,000th SR Series aircraft showcases an exclusive, bold design to commemorate the milestone. Crafted by the Cirrus Xi™ Design Studio, the inspiration for the 11,000th aircraft draws from forward-looking trends, the art of movement, and elevated luxurious colors and materials. The design is a combination of elegance, sportiness and thoughtful details celebrating 11,000 aircraft deliveries with the number eleven on the fuselage, tail and inside the cabin. The dark green ‘Monteverde’ paint is unmistakable on the ramp making the number eleven standout. Premium materials in ‘Vision Green’, ‘Concrete’ Alcantara® and matte carbon fiber create a sophisticated, comfortable cabin.

SR Series G7+ Innovations

New for 2025, the SR Series G7+ aircraft features Safe Return Emergency Autoland as standard equipment. In the event of an emergency, anyone in the cabin can activate Safe Return Emergency Autoland with the touch of a button. Once engaged, sophisticated sensors and algorithms navigate the aircraft to a nearby suitable airport and autonomously land the aircraft. This advancement in aviation safety provides pilots and passengers with an automated emergency landing option in the event of pilot incapacitation or a similar in-flight emergency.

Automatic Database Updates powered by Cirrus IQ PRO allow owners to receive automatic avionics database updates via Wi-Fi or LTE to ensure the most current and accurate data for navigation. These updates can occur while the aircraft is powered off, and the owner is away from the aircraft. When the aircraft is powered up, essential databases are automatically synchronized across compatible avionics. 

Runway Occupancy Awareness leverages ADS-B traffic data to predict and alert pilots of potential runway incursions from nearby airborne aircraft or other aircraft on or approaching the runway. Visual and aural alerts are provided on the pilot’s primary flight display and 3D SafeTaxi map to maximize situational awareness, a safety feature that is especially useful at busy airports.

Smart Pitot Heat is enabled by systems integration through Perspective Touch+ to reduce pilot workload and automate the flying experience. The system performs a self-test before every flight and automatically turns on or off in flight depending on outside air temperatures, making it one less system to manage.