Category: General Aviation

Hartzell Propeller Offers $1,000 Discount On Composite Top Props to AOPA Members

Hartzell Propeller is launching a new promotion for all of calendar year 2025, offering a $1,000 discount on any new carbon fiber composite propeller through its Top Prop STC program. This special offer is available to verified members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

To qualify for the $1,000 discount, AOPA members must confirm their active membership via an online process. Additionally, the composite Top Prop must be purchased directly from Hartzell Propeller.

“We’re thrilled to provide AOPA members with this opportunity to enhance their aircraft through our high performance composite propellers,” said JJ Frigge, Hartzell Propeller president. “And to make the deal even sweeter, we encourage members to inquire about possible Top Prop trade-in options.”

Darren Pleasance, AOPA president said: “AOPA shares Hartzell Propeller’s dedication to aviation excellence, and we’re grateful for this exclusive discount for our members. We also appreciate Hartzell’s support of our 1958 Cessna 182 Skylane Sweepstakes by donating a new Legend Super Scimitar propeller.”

Hartzell’s Top Prop program features state-of-the-art carbon fiber composite propellers compatible with a wide range of aircraft. Hartzell has secured 21 Top Prop STC approvals for composite propellers including:

  • Carbon Voyager for a majority of the Cessna fleet
  • Talon for high performance aerobatics
  • 5-blade turboprop applications for Kodiak, Pilatus and TBM

Hatzell Propeller is planning even more Top Prop STCs in 2025.

Upgrading to a Hartzell composite propeller is one of the smartest investments an aircraft owner can make. The Top Prop STC Conversion program streamlines the process, enabling aircraft owners to upgrade to innovative designs with features such as scimitar blades, blended airfoils, and durable structural composite materials.

Key benefits of a composite Top Prop upgrade include:

  • Industry-leading warranty through first overhaul
  • Shorter take-off distances
  • Reduced noise levels
  • Improved ground clearance
  • Enhanced tip erosion resistance
  • Reduced weight
  • Faster climb rates
  • Increased cruise speeds
  • Smoother overall operation

For AOPA members to take advantage of this program, they should visit Member Offers – AOPA. And for more information about Hartzell Propeller’s Top Prop program visit Top Prop Conversion Program | Hartzell Propeller Inc..

Muirhead Launches Integrated Seat Cover Service for Airlines

Aviation leather supplier Muirhead announced a strategic expansion into the global seat cover business, that they way will disrupt the traditional airline seating supply chain with a unique, vertically integrated service model.

This strategic move positions Muirhead — known for sustainable leather production — as a fully certified service provider offering a streamlined, ‘one-stop shop’ seat cover solution for airlines and seat OEMs.

The new Muirhead Seat Cover Service integrates every aspect of the production process – from initial design and fit checks to testing, authority certification, material production and seat cover manufacturing. This end-to-end approach eliminates the need to coordinate with multiple suppliers, reducing complexity, lead times, and overall costs while enhancing quality control and accountability.

“This marks a significant milestone for Muirhead,” said Nicholas Muirhead, CEO of Muirhead’s parent company, Scottish Leather Group. “Our entry into the seat cover market builds on over a century of leather expertise, and we’re bringing that same commitment to quality and innovation to a new frontier. By integrating every stage of the seat cover production process, we’re offering airlines a seamless service that ensures absolute accountability and delivers superior value.”

Martin Longden, head of Cabin Engineering at Muirhead, added: “Unlike fabrics or synthetics, leather demands specialized craftsmanship and technical expertise to achieve the fit and performance required in aviation – expertise often missing in traditional supply chains. At Muirhead, we’re proud to have integrated every step of this process under one roof – ensuring airlines benefit from a seamless, accountable solution and the unrivaled quality that only comes from working with a dedicated leather specialist.”

The Scottish manufacturer’s vertically integrated approach disrupts the conventional supply chain by eliminating an intermediary stage, reducing margin stacking and ensuring complete traceability from farm to fit. Airlines can expect faster turnaround times, competitive pricing, and a service backed by Muirhead’s industry-leading leather manufacturing expertise.

Leveraging its unique understanding of leather’s properties, Muirhead eliminates the challenges that often arise from misaligned manufacturing processes. This expertise ensures that leather seat covers meet the highest standards of durability and performance.

Sustainability remains integral to Muirhead’s operations. The company’s patented circular manufacturing processes and commitment to zero waste and traceability ensure that its seat covers meet the highest environmental standards. With a seven-year leather warranty and independently verified Life Cycle Analysis, Muirhead provides a solution that is not only cost-effective but also aligned with airlines’ sustainability goals.

Aerocorp Named Exclusive Dealer and Service Center for Costa Rica, El Salvador and Guatemala

Tecnam Aircraft today announced the appointment of Aerocorp as its exclusive dealer for sales and service in Costa Rica, Guatemala and El Salvador. 

Tecnam’s rich aviation heritage and Italian sophistication will enhance Aerocorp’s industry standing and ability to deliver quality products to its aviation clientele throughout Central America. Aerocorp will market the range of Light Sport Aircraft as well as the P2010 and P2006T series and the P-Mentor to flight schools and private owners.

“We are very excited about this venture with Tecnam as it brings over 75 years of expertise to the regional market. Aerocorp is one of the top MROs in the region that can complement Tecnam’s heritage and grow the brand in this part of the world. I know that together we can bring a new generation of aircraft to the market that will be valuable to our customers along with the efficiency and quality that Tecnam offers”, said Esteban Artiñano, CEO, Aerocorp.

“Having Aerocorp on board with Tecnam is key to supporting our growth in Central America and supporting our existing customers throughout their territory,”said Walter Da Costa, Tecnam chief sales officer. 

Aerocorp will offer Tecnam aircraft in all models such as the P2006T Twin Engine and the P2010 series, as well as the light sport range as the P92MkII. The Tecnam fleet is the only one today that offers the best efficiency and the latest certifications.  Efficiency that also means very low CO2 emissions. A recent study shows that flight schools using TECNAM single and twin engine aircraft can reduce emissions by up to 60%: 10 tonnes of CO2 for each student by the time they receive their commercial pilot licence.

Cirrus Approach Flight Training App Relaunches with Augmented Reality Pre-Flight 

Cirrus announced the relaunch of the Cirrus Approach app, the premier digital mobile tool for flight training in a Cirrus. The Cirrus Approach app offers seamless mobile access to comprehensive training courses, student progress tracking and essential flight instruction tools — all optimized for Apple iPad devices.  

“The Cirrus Approach app is a valuable flight training resource for owners and flight instructors by increasing accessibility to content that keeps pilots current and safe,” said Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus. “With the app refresh, we are now able to digitally connect more people to an array of flight training materials accessible at home or in the hangar.” 

One of the key features of the relaunch is the integration of state-of-the-art Augmented Reality (AR) technology, setting a new standard for pre-flight training. The Cirrus Approach app provides an immersive, interactive environment where users can master crucial pre-flight procedures and safety checks specific to the SR Series and Vision Jet. This realistic virtual experience is designed to equip pilots with the skills and confidence they need for real-world operations. 

“The opportunities are endless with the integration of Augmented Reality and flight training – setting a new benchmark in aviation education,” adds Nielsen. “AR is set to transform the flight training experience for Cirrus aircraft owners. We now offer pilots an immersive, interactive way to master essential pre-flight procedures and safety checks in a realistic virtual environment. This innovative approach not only improves learning efficiency but also ensures that pilots are thoroughly prepared for real-world flying.” 

Learn to Fly in the Cirrus Approach App

Cirrus Private Pilot Program was designed to teach anyone to learn how to fly an SR Series Cirrus aircraft and earn their pilot’s license. Now offered in the Cirrus Approach app, the Private Pilot Program provides an immersive ground school training when partnered with a dedicated Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP) through a Cirrus Training Center to help students complete their Private Pilot License in a Cirrus aircraft.  

With over 50 dynamic training courses, the Cirrus Approach app caters to a broad spectrum of flight training needs. From specialty courses to transition training and the highly regarded Private Pilot Program, each course is crafted with engaging videos, interactive modules, documents and quizzes—making learning both effective and enjoyable.  

Instructor Features Enhance Student Pilot Learning Experience

When paired with a Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot, the Cirrus Approach app elevates the flight training experience for both instructor and student pilot. Benefits include: 

  • Mobile Flight Training Access: CSIPs can monitor student progress, review course materials, and stay organized at all times, making it easier to prepare for each training session. 
  • Student Management: The app offers an intuitive interface for CSIPs to manage students’ flight logs, assess performance, and customize instruction to meet individual needs. 
  • Interactive Course Material: Engaging quizzes and simulations simplify complex topics, empowering CSIPs to provide high-quality training. 
  • Real-Time Adaptability: CSIPs can quickly adapt to their students’ learning needs, providing instant feedback to ensure effective learning. 

Availability

The Cirrus Private Pilot Program is available for purchase directly within the Cirrus Approach app. Additionally, Cirrus is currently offering the AR preflight feature at no cost, exclusively within the app. 

AvAir is Now Climate Neutral Certified

AvAir, an inventory solutions provider in the aviation aftermarket, announced it is officially Climate Neutral Certified. AvAir joins the growing movement of companies achieving the Climate Neutral Certified standard, the first company in the aviation industry, by measuring 12 months of greenhouse gas emissions, taking action on reduction plans, and compensating the brand footprint with eligible-verified credits.

Climate Neutral Certified is the leading consumer label for climate neutrality. It is earned by organizations that have chosen to be accountable for the greenhouse gas emissions generated in the production, operations, and shipping of goods and services.

“We are extremely proud to receive this certificate and be Climate Neutral Certified,” said Tyler Botthof, vice president of operations at AvAir. “As a company, we have committed to removing nearly 7,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions which is equal to driving 1,500 gas-powered cars for one year and taking steps to continue to reduce carbon dioxide emissions that are a result of the company’s and team’s actions.”

“Climate Neutral Certified companies are demonstrating immediate action on climate change is possible and essential,” says Austin Whitman, CEO of change climate. “Climate Neutral Certified brands have built a powerful movement that gives companies and consumers meaningful ways to act on climate—today. They are leading the way, taking immediate voluntary action to address their carbon emissions, and engaging their consumers around this important issue like never before.”

Change Climate’s certification label builds on internationally recognized standards for carbon measurement and neutrality. All certified brands must measure cradle-to-customer greenhouse gas emissions each year to maintain certification. Then commit to reduction action plans to cut future emissions within a 12-24 month timeline. Finally, certified brands must invest in verified carbon credits to compensate for all of its emissions.

In addition to this comprehensive evaluation and commitment, AvAir is working with the leading environmental service and solutions provider in North America, WM to invest, improve and build upon its sustainability strategy and endeavor. AvAir is assessing its processes and data to benchmark procurement, waste, water, energy, fuel, transportation and other potential contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

“AvAir is modeling what companies can do when they lean into environmental commitments,” said Eric Dixon, vice president, sustainability & environmental solutions, WM. “WM is thrilled to support AvAir’s sustainability agenda, which authentically aligns with our company’s sustainability ambitions. For over two years, we’ve helped AvAir better understand its environmental footprint, from procurement and waste generation to transportation and utilities. This certification demonstrates how they go beyond measurement and continue to take action to reduce the company’s impacts. On top of these initiatives, AvAir has also supported the WM Phoenix Open’s Working for Tomorrow Fund, helping finance water restoration and renewable energy projects on Tribal Nations land right here in Arizona. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and seeing what’s next for AvAir.”

AvAir is headquartered in Chandler, Ariz. with operations in Dublin, Ireland. It has been named Parts Supplier of the Year for four consecutive years from 2021 through 2024 by Airline Economics, the leading industry trade publication. It has also been recognized for its work in sustainability by The Aviation 100 two years in a row, AvAir received the Environmental Sustainability award.

To learn more about AvAir visit AvAir.aero. To learn more about AvAir’s certification data on Change Climate’s website visit https://explore.changeclimate.org/brand/avair .

Learn more about Change Climate and its community of certified brands at http://www.changeclimate.org.

“Gallery in the Sky” – Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings Showcases Great Aircraft Paint Schemes in New 2025 Calendar

Featuring a distinctive combination of the most elaborate and classic aircraft paint schemes produced in North America this past year, the annual Aerospace Coatings calendar from The Sherwin-Williams Company recognizes the exceptional creative craftsmanship of aircraft painters and designers across the country.

Its new 2025 calendar is no exception.

Highlighting 12 unique paint schemes that grace the sky, all paint designs featured in the new calendar utilize Sherwin-Williams aerospace coatings in their maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) facilities.

“We were again amazed with the quality and variety of the calendar submissions we received, from kit planes to military aircraft to large business jets,” said Julie Voisin, Sherwin-Williams Segment Manager, Aerospace, OE Interior and Commercial Refinish. “It is truly amazing the design quality and what the painters are able to accomplish. We are looking forward to the aviation industry enjoying these flying works of art throughout the coming year.”

“No doubt this year’s calendar demonstrates one of the most inspiring collections of aircraft paint schemes, and we are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2025 Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings calendar contest.”

The 2025 Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings calendar cover features, for the first time, three aircraft in flight –all airborne Northrup F-5 fighter jets from Tactical Air Support, Inc., Reno, Nev. These aircraft were painted by CC’s Custom Aircraft Painting, Inc., in Ogden, Utah and their amazing paint schemes were designed by Scheme Designers in Cresskill, NJ. This cover image showcases just several of the dozen visually amazing paint schemes showcased in the annual collection. Other calendar-selected aircraft painted include the following companies and aircraft types:

• FlyExclusive – Hawker 800XP
• Regent Aircraft Services – DeHavilland DHC-6 300 Series
• North Idaho Aircraft Refinishing – Cessna 182 King Katmai
• C&L Aviation – Hawker 900XP
• Ballard Aviation – Beechcraft King Air B200
• Midwest Aircraft Refinishing – Cirrus SR22
• CC’s Custom Painting – Northrup F-5
• Corrigan Aircraft – Daher TBM 850
• FlyExclusive – Beechcraft 350
• Stevens Aerospace and Defense Systems – Socata TBM 700
• Hawk Aircraft Painting – Van’s Aircraft RV-14
• First Class Aerospace – Mooney M20K

The wall calendar showcases Sherwin-Williams aerospace topcoats featured in designs that vary from single-stage systems such as AcryGlo, JetGlo, and JetGlo Express and even the new 850 and 855 Series SKYscapes basecoat-clearcoat systems.

“The designs chosen for 2025 represent all sizes and types of aircraft, provided by paint shops from all over the country,” added Voisin. “In addition to several of our previously featured MRO customers, we are pleased to note there are a number of new shops selected as well.”

The 2025 Aerospace Coatings calendar is available in early January 2025. If you would like to receive this new edition, contact your local/regional Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings representative or distributor.

Southwest Aerospace Technologies Expanding Capabilities

Southwest Aerospace Technologies (S.W.A.T.) announced that it has signed a lease agreement with the City of Georgetown, Texas, for the long term lease of a 12,000 square foot hangar and the adjacent area at the Georgetown Executive Airport (KGTU). The additional space will enable S.W.A.T. to expand its service offerings as well as its aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities.

“We are very excited about the expansion opportunities this property gives our business,” said Kurt Encinias, president and CEO of S.W.A.T. “We’re also excited to contribute to the City of Georgetown’s continued growth by providing additional jobs and other tangible economic benefits, including a high-net-worth customer base that will patronize local businesses when their aircraft is at our facility.”

The lease was officially signed on December 11, and the company has already begun using the hangar, which can accommodate multiple aircraft at a time, for aircraft maintenance activities. Work on the side rooms that will serve as office space is underway and due to be completed by the end of the year. S.W.A.T. is also remodeling the additional space behind the hangar, which will be used for customer offices and other functions. That work is expected to be finished in early 2025. The total footprint of the new space is 41,000, which allows for future growth and enhancements.

S.W.A.T. currently has a 25,000 square foot facility in west Georgetown located in Biz Park 29 which houses its FAA Repair Station, aircraft parts and components inventory, warehouse and the sales and administrative functions. The company’s corporate and administrative offices will be relocating to the new facility, while the repair station, inventory and warehouse will remain at the current location. The company also has a service hangar in Montreal, Canada, that performs maintenance on Rolls Royce BR710 engines.

“The additional space at the Georgetown Executive Airport will allow S.W.A.T. to provide more extensive aircraft maintenance services and gives us more flexibility as we continue to serve the needs of our worldwide customer base,” added Encinias. “We have continuously been committed to supporting our industry and this opportunity for expanding our facilities and capabilities is an important step in our strategic growth. We look forward to the future.”

Guill Launches 10-Day Extrusion Tooling Program

Guill Tool, extrusion tooling expert, has announced its 10-day program. This program applies to eligible tips and dies that will be shipped within 10 business days of receiving the purchase order from the customer. 

The company’s precision tips and dies have been manufactured in the U.S. for 62 years. All Guill extrusion tools are produced using certified and documented quality steel material specifically qualified for the polymer to be extruded. Furthermore, Guill designs tips and dies for any application the customer needs. These feature multi-lumen, stripe, multiple stripe, wire and cable, hose, pipe, tube, fiber optic, blown film, corrugated tube and profile. Dies include face seal, shouldered, snap together, floating, die plates, interchangeable die plate and custom dies. Available tips include single and multi-lumen, threaded style, snap together, fixed center shoulder, profile, tapered style and custom. 

To find out which tools are eligible for the program, check with any sales representative. For all other parts, company personnel will review the customer’s drawing to determine if it is eligible for the program.  

Eligible tips and dies for this program cannot be plated and must have a diameter less than 1.5” and a length less than 4.75.” 

Guill proudly manufactures its products in the U.S. under the quality standards of ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100:2016.

Atlantic Aviation Group Receives Aviation Training Awards

Shannon, Ireland-based Atlantic Aviation Group (AAG) has achieved a remarkable double victory at Ireland’s flagship 2024 Aviation Industry Awards, highlighting its leadership and innovation in developing professional skills in the aviation industry.

AAG’s Training Academy scooped the Aviation Professional Training Award and the Aviation Academic Education Award, both awarded for AAG’s dedication to shaping the future of the aviation workforce, by focusing on professional growth and education.

The 2024 Aviation Industry Awards, held at the Crowne Plaza in Santry, Dublin, are seen as a benchmark for recognising outstanding contributions to the industry. The double win solidifies the AAG Training Academy’s position as a leader in its field, especially given the competitive nature of the categories.

The AAG Training Academy, based in Shannon, plays a key role in developing aviation professionals and supporting the industry. Offering EASA Part 147-approved courses, trainee-ships, and a Bachelor’s programme in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, the Academy blends theoretical and practical learning in state-of-the-art facilities. With over 4,500 graduates, it remains a cornerstone of aviation training excellence.

Commenting, Eva O’Keeffe, chief aviation services officer at AAG, expressed shared pride in the achievement and AAG’s continued development of talent and excellence in Ireland’s aviation sector.

“The Atlantic Aviation Group Training Academy are thrilled and honored to have won the award in both categories in which we were nominated. This achievement reflects the immense dedication and hard work of our entire team, whose commitment to fostering growth and advancing skills within the aviation industry has always been our top priority. With the current global skill’s shortage for qualified aircraft mechanics and engineers, developing a talent pipeline for the future is more important than ever.”

“We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the event organizers and the judges for making this such a memorable and exciting night. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and look forward to continuing to support the development of aviation careers.”

Turtles Fly Too Dedicates Transport Mission to Support Stop Children’s Cancer Mission Honors Bonnie Freeman’s Legacy in the Fight Against Pediatric Cancer


Turtles Fly Too (TF2) says it has dedicated its upcoming transport mission to the
memory of Bonnie Freeman and the tireless work of her parents, Laurel and Howard Freeman, and her sister Carolyne Freeman, founders of Stop Children’s Cancer. The mission will involve the transport of 60 Kemp’s ridley sea turtles from the New England Aquarium to multiple locations in Florida.

Leslie Weinstein, President and CEO of Turtles Fly Too, has known the Freemans for 55 years and got to know their daughter, Bonnie, who passed away at the age of 12 from T-cell
leukemia. After being diagnosed at the age of 10, Bonnie said to her parents, “Let’s do
something so others do not have to go through what we are going through.” Her wish to help other children turned into a 43-year endeavor that has raised over $23 million for children’s cancer research at the University of Florida Health.

Dr. William Slayton, chief of the division of pediatric hematology/oncology at UF Health said, “The work they’ve done in Bonnie’s memory has really transformed our pediatric oncology program into a top program in the nation. By funding our research, they funded our clinical trials program, and having a strong clinical trials program is important. Through clinical trials the cure rates for the type of cancer Bonnie had have gone from less than 50% to over 90%.”

Dr. Slayton added that Stop Children’s Cancer “have also funded an endowed professorship
that’s been held by top notch pediatric cancer researchers.” Having this funding in place allows UF Health to bring in some of the best researchers, making it one of the top places for children to be treated.

Through Stop Children’s Cancer, the Freemans have funded the Bonnie R. Freeman Clinical
Trials, driving critical research breakthroughs that have improved cancer outcomes for children by more than 10%. One of the current trials is focused on a new drug that targets leukemia cells in infants, which could dramatically increase the cure rate for one of the most aggressive forms of childhood leukemia.

Due to a sudden drop in water temperatures, the New England Aquarium has recently
experienced an influx of cold-stunned sea turtles. Once capacity is reached, Turtles Fly Too is called upon to transport the turtles to marine medical facilities where they receive critical care and rehabilitation.

In recognition of their longstanding friendship and the Freemans’ unwavering commitment to childhood cancer research, Weinstein is dedicating TF2’s mission to Stop Children’s Cancer. “This is a small way for us to honor Bonnie’s memory and the incredible work her parents continue to do,” said Weinstein. “I am proud to dedicate this mission to them, knowing how much they’ve accomplished in Bonnie’s name.”

Laurel Freeman said that when her daughter got sick, Bonnie put all of her focus and attention into Stop Children’s Cancer. She helped with bake sales, went on T.V. for interviews, and while the other children were learning things like how to tell time, Bonnie wasn’t interested. “Bonnie didn’t learn to tell time, and I think she wasn’t interested or invested in it because she knew her time was limited. When she got sick, she was really a here and now person, she stayed in the present as much as possible.”

The mission details include a plea for volunteers for the following:

  • Transporting 60 Kemp’s ridley Sea Turtles from the New England Aquarium to various
    locations in Florida. Breakdowns below:
  • 15-20 going to The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, FL
  • 12 going to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater, FL
  • 20 going to the Loggerhead Marine Center in Juno Beach, FL
  • 8 going to the Coastal Stewards in Boca Raton, FL
  • Pilot, aircraft and exact date pending. The mission needs to be completed week of
    December 9, so details TBD soon.

Contact Turtles Fly Too to offer your aircraft and flying services:

Contact Turtles Fly Too
Sara Hertwig
Sara@turtlesflytoo.org / (303) 775-3201