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Prepare for a Successful Underwater Egress

Have you ever given thought to what you would do if you found yourself strapped in upside down in a sinking aircraft? Imagine flying along on a nice warm day, and the next moment, being trapped inside an aircraft with cold water rushing in. It’s very dark, you can’t breathe, and if you’re not prepared, […]

Pelican’s Perch #59:
Fried Valves

The term “Fried Valves” seems to be sneaking into the lexicon of engine terminology, and is most often used by those who speak in dire tones about LOP (Lean of Peak) operations. Next they’ll blame LOP for tail flutter, vacuum pump failures, faded upholstery, and other such things. While were at it, let’s blame LOP […]

Pelican’s Perch #57:
The Whyalla Report – Junk Science?

In December, 2001, the ATSB (Australian Transport Safety Bureau, similar to the U.S.’s NTSB) published one of the worst accident reports I can remember reading. In my opinion, the ATSB has taken junk science, pure speculation and profound ignorance to levels seldom before seen. They have not only perpetuated “Old Wives’ Tales,” but they have […]

The Pilot’s Lounge #51:
Getting Your Airplane Fixed Right

I could hear the noise emanating from the pilot’s lounge here at the virtual airport well before I got to the door. I recognized the voice that was underway at full steam. As I considered the identity of its operator, I was reminded of one of my grandfather’s favorite aphorisms: An empty wagon makes the […]

Hazel Sig

Hazel Sig-Hester was born March 3,1922, in Grinnell, Iowa. Her family lived on 3rd Street, Hazel was the thirdchild, and Grinnell was the third town her parents had lived in, so it’s easy tosee what her lucky number is. Hazel’s father took a ride with Charles Lindberghwhen he passed through Iowa giving rides, and her […]