Cleared for takeoff.

My Crystal Ball

2010-03-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've been doing a lot of career counseling for both ATC and Pilot minded young people. I don't consider myself an expert by any means, but I do try and stay up on current technology and trends. As an aircraft owner, and user of the NAS (National Airspace System) I'm also interested in what my Government is doing for me, so I'm going to dust off my crystal ball and hopefully encourage some exchange of ideas.

As you may have read here; "Back in Action", I was recently at the FAA Tech Center, evaluating a componenet of NexGen. If you're not familiar, NexGen is somewhat of a generic term to describe the next generation of air traffic control, and is an umbrella covering numerous technological and procedural changes to the NAS. Our mission was to evaluate the use of "Datcom" in the terminal environment. Datacom, briefly, is a method to communicate and control aircraft without use of voice communication, or supplement voice communication, and is only one aspect of NexGen. Think automated Air Traffic Control, and I'll address that at a later time. (Disclaimer: I am a techie, and I love new toys) We recently installed a new Garmin 430 GPS/NAV/Com in our Cherokee, and I'm still amazed at the increased situational awareness, enhanced safety, and ease of IFR flight that it has provided. I am however still stinging from the price tag. Remember 360 channel radios, old ELTs, Loran, or for that matter VORs?

Here is my first prediction: NexGen, will be expensive. Bold prediction right?

One of my basic concerns is service to the user. Time was, air traffic was on a "first come first served" basis. This link is the Controller handbook, go ahead, look it up, the section you're looking for is 2-1-4, "Operational Priority". In order to justify the cost of equipment, the FAA will change their mode of operation to "Best equipped Best served". I didn't make up the term, check here, and here. What's the difference? My checkbook can't begin to keep up with the likes of Southwest or American airlines. If I can't afford the airborne equipment, I'll be limited to airspace and services for "non-conforming" aircraft.

By the way, do you want to know what our evaluation of Datacom found? We found limited application in the Terminal (Approach Control) environment, and in fact, the use of Datacom actually increased our workload in most conditions, and reduced the safety of the operation. While we were there, Datacom's budget, tripled.

My next prediction: Datacom is a done deal, 2018, mark your calendars.

Predictions to continue, next: "Where's the pilot?"

Spring Training 2010

2010-03-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

Next to flying, one of my real passions is baseball. Fortunately, Cheryl shares this passion, and truth be told, she's probably a bigger fan than I am. When Cheryl suggested we treat each other to Spring Training for Christmas this year, I jumped on it. Although I have some issues with commercial air travel, American got us to Miami cheap. More on this later.

Let me say, if you like baseball, go to Spring Training. It's a totally different, and better experience. The players are accessible, every seat is like box seats at the major league parks, and the excitement is intoxicating. We went early to watch batting practice, and saw Mark McGwire watching over younger players like Colby Rasmus and Skip Schumaker. Our seats were six rows up from the bull pen, so we got to watch the pitchers warm up veteran and rookie alike. The wind was terrible, and we got some rain, but the game was great. A winner by the way 6-4 in the top of the ninth. It doesn't get much better. Subsequent games against the Nationals and the Mets were similar great experiences. We saw Legends such as Lou Brock and Red Schoendienst; hometown
heroes Mark McGwire, Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina; and of course the youngsters trying to make it to the biggs, such as Allen Craig, Bryan Anderson, Tyler Norrick and Franciso Samuel.

Past, Present, and Future, just like Aviation. If your older than 16, you've seen a lot of changes in aviation, both Commercial and General Aviation. Some good, some not so good. Take our trip to Miami. We got to the airport 3 hours early, just like they tell you to. We got through security relatively easy, and settled in to wait for our flight. And wait and wait. It turns out the flight in was 1 hour late, and since no one wants to carry their carry-on all the way to the back of the plane, they used all the overheads in the front, and all the people sitting in front had to put their carry-ons in the overheads in the back. This made loading the airplane take an additional eternity, and drives an ex-controller nuts. Adding insult to injury, we had a gate wait when arriving Miami. All total, almost 7 hours. We could almost get there that quick in the Cherokee. Such is the present state of Commercial Aviation.

In my next entry, I'll try and talk about the future of aviation, with a little inside information on the future of Air Traffic Control. Until then, Go Cards!!!!!

Back in action

2010-03-01T09:11:00.000-08:00

Well, you may have been wondering where I was, and why I haven't been updating my blog. The truth of the matter is I've been real busy, and just couldn't get motivated. I witnessed first hand "Snowmaggedon" in New Jersey/Philadelphia area and will write about that in future articles. (It's all about the future of Air Traffic Control and general aviation) The big news, if you haven't already heard about it, we have severed ties with Remos Aircraft. I still believe the Remos to be a fine aircraft, but we have reached a point of irreconcilable difference. The current $150k + price tag is just too far removed from our vision of an affordable LSA. I won't go through all the reasons for our decision, but suffice it to say, we have other projects on the burner. I went flying yesterday, by myself, for the first time in months. I practiced steep turns, lazy eights, got in a few landings. Yes instructors need to stay current too. At one point, I was circling the river with a bald eagle. He didn't seem to mind, and it came to my mind what it is about flying I love so much. I experienced one of those clarity of thought moments, and decided it was time to update the blog. Sorry for the absence. Next week, we'll be heading down to Florida to take in some Cardinal pre-season games, so spring can't be far behind.

Jack

Another success story

2009-11-04T10:41:00.000-08:00

I just love it when our customers, or one of my past students, email me with a trip they took. I received such an email recently from one of our customers and would like to publish it here. (yes, I got his permission) This is such a great example of how LSAs are contributing to general aviation, and fulfilling dreams every day. Without further delay;

"Believe it or not, I flew to Roanoke Sunday and home today. My son and his wife are there.

I had planned this trip for several weeks, starting with reserving the plane for 3 days back 2 weeks ago. And the weather worked out.
Well, almost...

As prep, that trip to French Lick IN turned into the first leg. My plan was to refuel at Frankfort KY, but French Lick was right on the way, and my bladder somehow knew it was coming up. Soon back on my way, route just north of Louisville, north of Lexington, and into the coal country. It is amazing how the hilltops are dug up and replanted. At 5500 ft, at least half of the surface there looks either done or doing.

My plan was to stop at Kee field, which would leave me an hour into KROA, a chance to stretch and refuel. Well, this place was a nice short runway nestled between a bunch of hills, the kind where the pattern is not rectangular, but rather between the hills. It was kind of fun, like a movie. No one was there and the gas pumps padlocked. On takeoff, best angle of climb is the way to go. Google Earth next time.

So I head to Roanoke, and the clouds start forming, then overcast, and right at the mountain tops. When I checked weather at French Lick, no problem, all to the east.
So I head to my alternate airports, like Bluefield WV or Blacksburg VA. The New River goes through the mountains, and I was following the passes. When I got 40 miles from KROA I tried to contact their approach, but no response x2. The gap between the clouds and ground is getting my attention. Then they respond to my call, after I had decided they would not, and seem amazed that a LSA would come there. Being overloaded with navigating and flying, I was a blithering idiot on the radio, just pathetic, but finally getting my head together and setting down at Virginia Tech airport, which I had had in sight for the last 10 minutes. The controller heard me miscall the runway at Tech because I didn't swap frequencies somehow. They had to tell me.

I bet they are telling stories there about the fool in N79GX. Mortified, I am.

Anyway, all no worries at VT airport. I check weather, system will not clear before dark. Tie down for $5. Enterprise Rental right there, quickly doing the 45 minute drive to Ben's house. Blacksburg is up on a plateau, 1000 ft higher than the Roanoke Valley. On dropping down, weather looked fine, just that one point I could not traverse. Probably 10 miles total. But I'm glad I didn't try any more than I did.

I'm at Ben's at 4p EST after leaving here at 8 CST. Pretty cool. Sat up talking until 11p.

This morning I get around to checking the weather; Ben and I were going to fly to the Greenbrier for lunch. I was even going to do a mea culpa and take another shot at the Class C in Roanoke. But the chances of cloud layers tomorrow was too great. I'd already seen how that worked. Limitations of VFR pilots. So I drove back and took off at 10 EST, had to climb between scattered clouds even today, up to 4500. Beautiful mountains, still some color.

I got radar flight following since the coal mountains have a dearth of emergency landing sites, altho the strip mining does supply more than I would have thought. They handed me off to Lexington Approach, who left me 10 miles from Frankfort. Nice refuel there, and onward over Louisville. Somehow my ground speed dropped to 82-88 mph. Unexpected headwind. If I went lower to minimize it, bumpy. By the time I got to Mt Vernon, I had moved enough in the weather system, I guess, that I was up in the 90s, even 100 at times.

Nice to see familiar places. Carlyle Lake and Edwardsville and the Confluence are old friends now. Intense flooding starting around Carlyle. Mississippi out of banks, too.

Big crosswind at 3SQ, and landing after hours in the air is not the same. I always come in high, would think I would remember. Anyway, I did 3 go-arounds before a very nice landing. One of them I was on the ground but drifting off the runway, so best is just to shove the throttle home and try it again. Still, on the ground at 4p local.

12.3 hours total in the air, 1150 miles. A wonderful adventure, and amazing (and sobering) what I learned. Some things I thought I knew I now know better.

This is a marvelous country that someone like me could do this."

Stealth Bomber Sim time

2009-10-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

I had a great trip Friday, to visit a friend at Whiteman Air Force Base. Ken is a Squadron Commander of one of the B-2 squadrons and an excellent tour guide. Obviously, most of the base had restrictions on photography, so some of these are stock pictures from Whitema n's site, but this is what we saw. We had 45 knots of head wind all the way over to Warrensburg, but it was way worth it. After we got the security okay, and temporary id badges, Ken enlightened us with some of the history of Whiteman, beginning as a glider base in 1942. It's first mission was to train para-troopers and glider tactics for the Army Air Force. After the war and a brief demobilization, the base was reborn in 1951 as part of the Strategic Air Command. The sixties brought about the cold war, and Whiteman became a Minuteman missile base. In the late eighties, it looked as though Whiteman may yet again stand down this time due to the Strategic Arms Reduction treaties, but then in 1987, it was announced Whiteman would be the home of the first deployed B-2 bombers.

Whiteman is the home of not only the B-2 bombers, but A-10s, T-38s, and AH-64 Apache helicopters. We got to see where the crews train, pilots and technicians alike. Talking to the crews really makes you appreciate our men and women in uniform, and the sacrifices they make.

Ken walked us around the B-2 trying to explain the different systems, and pointing out the control surfaces. The B-2 is fly-by wire, that being the computers tell it what the pilot wants to do. I don't know how accurate it is, but it amused me when Ken said it "was just a toaster until the computer tells it to fly." Yes, we even got a chance to fly the B-2 simulator. With Ken in the right seat, I had the opportunity to take-off and fly to our tanker. Somehow, I managed to connect and the refueling process began, but I'm afraid we would have run out of gas long before I was able to keep us coupled long enough to take on a full load. Ken let me shoot an ILS approach and fly a couple of VFR patterns. This was indeed a great experience.

By the way, tours are available to the general public check here for the link.

February 11, 1973

2009-09-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

If you blow the dust off my first logbook, that’s the date of the first entry. Thirty-six years ago my life took a turn, but it really started before that. Hold that thought, I’ll get back to it later.

Cheryl and I took a quick, impromptu trip to Branson this weekend. We both needed to decompress a little, and Silver Dollar City tends to be our “Spa” of choice. We just love getting into the Ozarks, taking our watches off, and leaving the cell phones behind. I usually like to share our trips, offer suggestions to others, or promote local businesses that impress me, but to tell you the truth; it was just the relaxing, kind of boring trip that we needed. On the way home however, we pass the Creve Coeur airport (1H0), and out on the ramp I saw at least six Cessna 195s. Of course, the coming storm notwithstanding, we had to go. The 195 is an aircraft from a bygone era. Introduced in 1947, with a big 300 horsepower Jacobs radial engine, and a 48” cabin width. (Just 1 inch wider than the Remos by the way) Radial engines sound different, smell different, and leak oil about as fast as you can pour it in, but man, are they cool. I snapped some pictures, and took in all of the sounds and smells, just getting lost in the nostalgia.

Here’s where this detour from the highway gets a little bizarre. Out in the back, way in the back, obviously away from the more restored classics and war birds, sits another classic in its own right, N5643A. 1956 was the year Cessna introduced the 172, and one of those first production models was N5643A. The first entry in my logbook, February 11, 1973, was in N5643A. I trained, and got my private pilot rating in 43A, and have flown ever since. I lost track of N43A years ago, but it started my lifelong love of aviation.Every day of my 26 year career in the FAA I talked to airplanes. My brother Dave, logged his first hour, and received his private pilot rating in 43A. Dave went on to the Air Force, flew A-10s and F-5s, and is now piloting B-767 and B-757s for Delta Airlines. I did say my life took a turn prior to 1973 however, and here's where I get back to where I started. My Dad bought N5643A in 1965 to earn his Private Pilot rating, and I’m sure he never imagined that this decision would impact his kids, and grand kids so much. My son began his flight training in 2002, and is currently an Air Traffic Controller in the Missouri Air National Guard. Dave’s kids are too young to have started training yet, but I bet they will. (They can already identify more airplanes than most pilots)

My point to all this rambling you ask? Take advantage of opportunities as they come. I took the opportunity today to admire some classic aircraft and found more than I bargained for. My Dad took the opportunity to learn to fly years ago, and affected at least two subsequent generations. I can’t imagine what I would have done if I didn’t take the opportunity to climb into 43A some 36 years ago, but I know it wouldn’t have been near as satisfying. Life is short, fly hard.

Great Forest Park Balloon Race

2009-09-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

Just a random update this week. The turn out from Thursday's LSA Wings program was much better than I had anticipated. I wrote a preview about it last week, and there were a lot of great questions asked, and answered. Hat's off to St. Charles Flying Service for hosting this event. There was quite a bit of interest in the Remos, and Light Sport Aviation in general.

Interest in the Remos, means more work for me, and I love it, but this weekend's work was the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. These guys really know how to put on a major show, and I've been fortunate enough to be a part of it for the past 15 years. My job? I'm the air traffic liaison to the race. Due to Forrest Park's proximity to Lambert International Airport, Busch Stadium, and Scott Air Force Base, some years the wind direction requires me to work harder than others. This year, the Cardinals were playing, and Scott was having their big airshow, and the wind was from an absolutely perfect direction to avoid any conflicts of an air traffic nature. Unfortunately, although the weather was practically perfect all day, rain moved into the area just before race time, and about half of the balloons opted not to go. The remaining still managed to WOW the crowd. This year was also the Energizer Bunny's 20th Birthday. Here's a Bunny quiz, to test your trivia knowledge.

1. The Statue of Liberty, Base to tip of torch stands 152' tall. How tall is the Energizer Bunny Balloon?

A. 106'
B. 126'
C. 146'
D. 166'

2. The Bunny's Ears are as tall as:

A. The wing span of a Remos GX.
B. George Washington's head on Mount Rushmore.
C. A fully grown Giraffe.

3. The double burner output for the Energizer Bunny Balloon is,

A. 300,000 BTU/Hour
B. 3,000,000 BTU/Hour
C. 30,000,000 BTU/Hour
D. 300,000,000 BTU/Hour

Here's the answers.

If you've had enough trivia, go here to play the Energizer Bunny Drummer Game.

Number eight

2009-09-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

No matter your personal level of proficiency, all of us can become safer, more proficient pilots. It may come from instruction, flight reviews, or bad experiences, but one method of enhancing your proficiency, is the FAA's Wings program. Wings is a Pilot proficiency program sponsored by the FAA Safety Team. Although the main benefit of this program, is the added safety and professionalism, there is a very practical benefit to it's participants as well.

Strait from the FAA site: "Pilots participating in the WINGS - Pilot Proficiency Program to at least the Basic Phase need not accomplish the flight review requirements of 14 CFR part 61, if since the beginning of the 24th calendar month before the month in which that pilot acts as pilot in command, he or she has satisfactorily completed or currently holds the Basic or higher WINGS - Pilot Proficiency Program phase in an aircraft (reference 61.56(e)).

Pilots who participate in the program throughout each year so as to maintain at least the Basic phase will always have a current flight review as the date for your Basic phase and corresponding flight review will move as you continue your safety education by participation in accredited FAASTeam activities and courses. All WINGS - Pilot Proficiency Program activity and dates are conveniently tracked on FAASafety.gov."

I'll be participating in one of these upcoming programs, and would love to see a bunch of Remos enthusiast there. Since it's all about Light Sport Aviation, it's a natural. We'll be talking all aspects of light sports, so this would be a great time to get ALL of your questions answered. This is a fly-in event, so the number eight thing to do in your Remos is: Participate in an Wings event. Here's the important information.

"Light Sport: Then, Now & Tomorrow"

Topic Is Light Sport in your future?

Date and Time Thursday, September 17, 2009, starting at 6:30 pm

Speaker(s) Dave W. Pressy, Phil Dixon, SCFS Instructors & Mechanics

Brief Description Light Sport has opened up the skies to a new group of aviators and aircraft, but has generated many questions along the way. Join the experts at St. Charles Flying Service, Inc. for an in-depth look at the past, present and future of Sport Aviation. Get up-close and personal with LSA aircraft, plus learn about everything Light Sport from the experienced instructors, pilots & mechanics who train and fly in LSA’s every day

Select Number CE0327266

Location of Event

St. Charles Flying Service - 3SQ
3001 New Town Blvd.
Saint Charles, MO 63301

Hope to see you there. Jack

Biggest family news of the summer.

2009-09-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Gosh, has it really been three weeks since my last post? Well, you know what they say, "time flies when you're having fun." Well, we must be having lots of fun; I know we're staying busy. The Remos is flying so much we hardly have time to fuel it, and we've gotten several new Light Sport students just because of the Remos. Cheryl and I spent the weekend at Sam A. Baker state park down in southeast Missouri, and had a great time at her family reunion. In the last couple of weeks, we've celebrated my Dad's Birthday, took in the last couple of Muny Opera productions, and spent a day at the Missouri Botanical garden. We've just been enjoying the fabulous weather we've been experiencing.

Enough of the chit chat. The big news…….. Justin is home from Iraq. If you’re new to the blog, our youngest son, Justin, is an Air Traffic Controller for the Missouri Air National Guard, and he has been in Iraq all summer. That’s probably why Cheryl and I have tried to stay so busy. Justin was deployed to Kirkuk, Iraq and I wrote about him here, when he left. Hearing his stories, and seeing his pictures, I'm an even bigger fan. Of course, our grocery bill just doubled, (or tripled), we once again have a non-stop stream of twenty-something kids coming and going, and parking is at a premium. Nonetheless, we are so grateful for his safe return and appreciative of his service to our country. Please continue to pray for his friends still deployed, as well as all of our service men and women where ever they are.

God bless America.

Back to the top ten

2009-08-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

After a couple of diversions, we're resuming the series on ten things to do in your Remos, and the seventh one is......Teach a kid to fly! Airventure was interesting, and one of the things I thought was most interesting was EAA's and AOPA's Memorandum of understanding, joining forces in their efforts to advance General Aviation. http://www.aero-news.ne t/index.cfm?contentBlockId=fee9e794-c297-4e6b-989d-fda39f4bad8b. It seems to me, they should have been doing this all along, and shouldn't need a MOU to advance mutually beneficial goals, but I digress. One of the efforts they are both supporting is the EAA's Young Eagles. No doubt about it, the future of aviation is in the hands of our kid's, and grandkid's generation. They are the future pilots, aircraft owners, and controllers, and it's such a pleasure to see their dreams come true. One such kid is Jonathan Pannell.

Jonathan is a high school student at Starrs Mill, H.S. Peachtree City, GA. and earns much of his flying time washing, and waxing, airplanes for us at IGOLSA. He's a likeable kid who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. Some day, Jonathan will be a fine pilot, and who knows what else he may accomplish. He may not decide to pursue aviation as a career, but he is part of general aviation now. He saw the Remos, and decided that was the plane for him to learn to fly. Jonathan had his first solo flight recently, and sent us some pictures that he is justifiably proud of. For those not acquainted with the tradition, that is the cut out back of his shirt, commemorating the event.

Congratulations Jonathan, we're proud of you too.

Here's an update. I received pictures from another customer on his son's solo flight. Now a private pilot, congratulations to Ben also.

Oshkosh '09

2009-07-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Long anticipated, and finally here, Remos has unveiled their watercraft. The Remos GX is now available with a strait float option, or a four wheel amphibious option. Cheryl and I weren't able to attend Airventure this year due to some family commitments, but never fear, Dave is there, and we're getting reports by the hour. These are exclusive pictures taken the first day of the show, and as far as I know, we are the first to post these new options. By all accounts, the Remos display is by far the nicest of any LSA manufacturer, and reportedly in the top five of all exhibitors. I take great comfort in this, given the weak economy. Remos, it's investors, and customers, are here to stay. If you're fortunate enough to be at Oshkosh, please look up "Doc" Williams, and Bill or Carol Joyner. Give them a hug for us. You'll find them at either the LSA Mall, or the Remos (EAA) Learn to Fly Center. These are Remos owners, that have become very good friends of ours. They aren't employees, yet they spend their week at Oshkosh working the crowds, and just talking about their airplanes. Doc, Bill, and Carol, I think best represent the entire LSA movement. People who love to fly their airplane. Yes, I miss the aerial exhibitions, and shopping the new toys. I miss talking about the Remos, and getting the chance to chat with the Germans. I even miss being so worn out from the days activities that the best dinner we can muster is the McDonald's drive-thru; but mostly, I miss the great friends we look so forward to seeing at airshows. Doc, Bill, Carol, have a great time, I know you will. We'll see you next time.

Kansas City Travel log

2009-06-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, Cheryl and I sometimes do things that have absolutely nothing to do with aviation. I took this opportunity to take Cheryl to Kansas City for a long weekend getaway.

Usually, Cheryl is the travel planner, but this time, I thought I'd take a shot at it. I decided on the Hampton Inn on Country Club Plaza, and it turned out to be a great choice. Lots of shops and eateries, but I was determined to show Cheryl a more memorable trip than merely an out of town shopping trip. After a BBQ lunch at Jack's Stacks, (It is Kansas City after all) we drove up to Weston, Missouri, for the Weston's Cemetery Str oll. This is one we'll put on our calendar for next year. The town's folk dress up as the dearly departed, and tell their story as you stroll around the cemetery. Honestly, I had never heard of Weston, but it truly is a very historic town. The cemetery is unique in that it has union, and confederate soldiers, town founders and slaves buried there. It seems a good number of them had amazing stories to tell. The stroll was more historic than creepy, and we got great recommendations for dinner. We opted for O'Malley's Irish Pub. When they told us there was live music in a cave under the restaurant, it was a no-brainer. This cave by the way was a stop in the underground railroad, helping runaway slaves to freedom. What can I say, another keeper.

Saturday was an early trip to the farmer's market. We then visited the 2nd annual Art festival in the power and light district, followed by brunch at Lidia's. If you get nothing else from this blog entry, trust me on this; eat at Lidia's. Cheryl and I had the Saturday brunch, and the pasta trio sampler was amazing. Buffet salads, antipasto, and desserts, you pick your entree. Lidia's was one of the most enjoyable meals I've had lately.

Kansas City has seen temperatures in the high 90's this weekend, so we finished up Saturday with a trip to Crown Plaza, and taking in the new "Transformers" movie. Sunday was breakfast with one of Cheryl's brothers and his wife, and a leisurely drive home. I really had planned on a Gate's "Burt Ends" (no it's not misspelled) sandwich for lunch, but I just couldn't do it. Oh well, that will be first on our list for next time.

I promise it will be back to work on Monday, and the next blog will be airplane stuff, but I just thought I'd share our weekend.

Drop "Bombs" and accuracy landing.

2009-06-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Break out your competitive spirit, because the sixth thing to do with your Remos is compete. Today, St. Charles Flying Service hosted a fly-in. Perfect weather, food, drink, music, good friends, and of course, airplanes. Part of the festivities included an accuracy landing competition, and a "bomb drop". We had a great time, but honestly, even I was surprised by the attention the Remos got. Several aspiring new aviators inquired as to what it took to learn to fly the Remos, and we got more than the usual interest in the GX. I want to persoanlly thank Max, Jim, John, Rick and Lou, as well as a couple of names I can't recall. I really appreciate your interest, and I enjoyed our flights. I have to admit, I really enjoy the reaction of my customers first flight in the Remos. I have never given a demo ride and have my passenger tell me they were disappointed in the aircraft. That says a lot considering the glowing reviews we've received from publications such as Flying, Plane and Pilot, and EAA's Sport Aviation. All in all, I had a great Saturday, wish you all could have been there. I leave you with this short video. A Light Sport Student in the accuracy landing competition.

Fifth thing to do with your Remos.

2009-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

Another guest Blogger. This installment courtesy of my brother Dave. Hope you enjoy it.

What do I do with my Remos? Family comes first around our house. Even though the Grandparents live over 460 n.m. miles away, they still support my children’s activities. When my little girl started selling Girl Scout cookies, you know who got the first sales call…Grandma and Grandpa. Their generous and excessive order was a magnificent boost for a first time sales girl. The big surprise came when the cost of shipping was computed. What options are there to UPS? Well, when your daughter insist on the same personal service she sees her uncle perform, the only thing that is acceptable is hand delivery. The Remos to the rescue. The preflight planning for the flight from Atlanta to St. Louis was completed. There was a slight hesitation, Caren’s last flight was 45 minutes of continuous crying, followed by two hours of fatigue induced sleep. Now that was four years ago when she was only three. My concern was erased when Caren started taking pictures of every body of water we flew over. She directed my flight for optimum viewing of any aquatic point of interest. The four hour flight was a blur as we sashayed our way over Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois. It really impressed her when we flew up the Mississippi River and got the her photo with the St. Louis Arch in the background. The best photo was at the actual delivery to Grandma and Grandpa. Who wants to place an order for next year?

I can't go there in a Remos

2009-05-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

Well I've been highlighting things to do in your Remos, but I've come across one trip that I can't make in the Remos.

Our youngest child, Justin, called today to let us know he made it safely to Iraq. Justin is an air traffic controller for the Missouri Air National Guard, and as cruel as this sounds, he left for his first overseas deployment on Mother's day. You can no doubt imagine how this past week went. Luckily for me, I've been putting a lot of hours in the air, keeping me pretty occupied, but Cheryl has been home constantly reminded that Justin is not here. Little things like too many groceries in the refrigerator, and not enough noise from the basement, make the house seem strangely large again.

Justin is tall, good looking, and well mannered, obviously getting all of these fine traits from his mother. He has also been undeterred in the pursuit of his objectives. Way back when, Justin decided he wanted to take up martial arts. We talked a lot about it, and agreed, but on the condition that he set a goal, and not quit till he achieved it. Lo and behold, several year later (and thousands of classes and tournaments) Justin was awarded his black belt. He has approached everything he does since then, the same way. His pilot's license, basic training, radar school, checkout at Rosecrans approach control, and now Iraq, he is single minded until he's successful. You probably don't know Justin, but he can be an example to each one of us. We don't have to go to Iraq, but when it seems you'll never solo, think of Justin. If it looks like you won't ever get your own Remos, think of Justin. Whatever challenges you face, you can make it through.

To just say we are proud of him, and are thankful for his service to his country, doesn't begin to tell the whole story. To say we'll miss him and worry about him while he's half a world away would be a gross understatement. To say that he's the right man for the job, right where he needs to be, and trust God to protect him, is how Cheryl and I are coping. Please keep Justin, as well as all our troops in your prayers.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

I know some of you think I'm really stretching these "Ten things to do with your Remos" articles. (You ain't seen nothing yet) But sometimes it's just too easy. I received some email this week, that has been around the web several times. It makes me giggle every time I see it, probably because it rings so true to what my mother had to put up with raising Dave and me.

Why boys need Mothers:

And you also find out interesting things when you have sons, like...

1.) A king size waterbed holds enough water to fill a 2000 sq. ft. house 4 inches deep.

2.) If you spray hair spray on dust bunnies and run over them with roller blades, they can ignite.

3.) A 3-year old Boy's voice is louder than 200 adults in a crowded restaurant.

4.) If you hook a dog leash over a ceiling fan, the motor is not strong enough to rotate a 42 pound Boy wearing Batman underwear and a Superman cape It is strong enough, however, if tied to a paint can, to spread paint on all four walls of a 20x20 ft. room.

5.) You should not throw baseballs up when the ceiling fan is on. When using a ceiling fan as a bat, you have to throw the ball up a few times before you get a hit. A ceiling fan can hit a baseball a long way.

6.) The glass in windows (even double-pane) doesn't stop a baseball hit by a ceiling fan.

7.) When you hear the toilet flush and the words 'uh oh', it's already too late.

8.) Brake fluid mixed with Clorox makes smoke, and lots of it.

9.) A six-year old Boy can start a fire with a flint rock even though a 36- year old Man says they can only do it in the movies.

10.) Certain Lego's will pass through the digestive tract of a 4-year old Boy.

11.) Play dough and microwave should not be used in the same sentence.

12.) Super glue is forever.

13.) No matter how much Jell-O you put in a swimming pool you still can't walk on water.

14.) Pool filters do not like Jell-O.

15.) VCR's do not eject 'PB & J' sandwiches even though TV commercials show they do .

16.) Garbage bags do not make good parachutes.

17.) Marbles in gas tanks make lots of noise when driving.

18.) You probably DO NOT want to know what that odor is.

19.) Always look in the oven before you turn it on; plastic toys do not like ovens.

20.) The fire department in Austin ! , TX has a 5-minute response time.

21.) The spin cycle on the washing machine does not make earthworms dizzy.

22.) It will, however, make cats dizzy.

23.) Cats throw up twice their body weight when dizzy.

24.) 80% of Women will pass this on to almost all of their friends, with or without kids.

25.) 80% of Men who read this will try mixing the Clorox and brake fluid

Any way, my mother was there when I threw mud on the neighbor's laundry. She was there through sickness, and hundreds of baseball practices and Boy Scout meetings. She was there when the school principal and I had somewhat of a misunderstanding about what acceptable behavior was, and she's still there for me today. My Mom gets to show you the 4th thing to do with your Remos, and that's take your Mom flying on Mother's Day.

This is how my Mom is spending Mother's Day this year, with her Daughter-in-law Margaret, and Granddaughter Caren. To my Mom, my children's Mom, (Cheryl) and all of the other Moms out there, have a very
Happy Mother's Day.

3rd installment by guest blogger

2009-04-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

This third installment of what to do with your Remos, comes from my nephew, Alan. I vividly remember my son's first trip to Oshkosh, and my brother meeting us there. It's exciting to see the tradition continue and expand.

Sun 'n Fun, has once again proven to be a great place for Pilots to enjoy "Spring Break." There's always too much to see and do, but I've included a couple of pictures of things I thought were interesting. This picture of Alan, was when he was getting a poster signed by Patty Wagstaff.

Without further delay, here is Alan's blog, and the 3rd thing to do with your Remos.

Fly to an Airshow.

Yesterday my dad and I flew down to sun'n'fun. After landing at sun'n'fun We went out to ihop for dinner with Uncle Jack and Aunt Cheryl. Then we went to walmart to pick up some things. After that we went back to the airport. Then dad and I crawled under the fence to get to camp. Then we went to bed. The next morning we woke up and ate breakfast. Then we went around to the different booths. Then we watched the show. After the show we flew back home to Atlanta.

Wow what a lot you can do at sun'n'fun!

Sent from my iPod

-Alan Bowers

I think Alan summed it up pretty well. The whole "crawling under the fence" thing, you'll have to have Dave explain. We've got plenty more in store, please continue to check back every week or so.

The second thing to do with your new Remos.

2009-04-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

Here we are, the night before Sun 'n Fun, and I'm reflecting on our past week. Cheryl and I were on a cruise last week just getting ourselves prepared for the airshow, and subsequent flurry of sales activity. It seems as though Cheryl gets a lot more excited about spending the week at an airshow, if she gets to go on a cruise on one end or the other. As some of you know, Cheryl is the real brains of the operation, so the cruise is really just a bonus. At St. Thomas, Cheryl and I, along with a couple of good friends that went with us, took a day sail on "High Pockets." We spent an incredible day with Kathleen, who is not only quite a ship captain, but a great cook. Kathleen, and here first mate Paul, were the inspiration of this next installment of what to do with your Remos.

Just take your Remos on a day flight. I couldn't help but notice how much sailing, and flying have in common. Some comparisons are obvious, such as concern for the weather conditions, and navigation, but some are more illusive. Kathleen was "pilot in command". We trusted her to pre-flight her craft and take care of her passengers. She plotted her course and provided us an amazing adventure. We sailed, we swam, we snorkeled, and feasted on Katleen's Caribbean lunch. In short, we had one of the most memorable days of our lives, with some of our best friends in the world.

Kathleen's example is one we can all follow. What is to us, just another routine day flight, can be someone else's most memorable day. I have been an outspoken proponent of taking kids flying for a long time now. EAA's Young Eagle program is excellent, but you can make just as much impact taking neighborhood kids, nieces, nephews, or children of friends. You can also make an impact on your own friends and family. The rules of Light Sport Aviation give potential pilots that are a little advanced in age, a chance to fulfill their lifelong dreams of flying. Take your passenger, fly them to a nearby greasy spoon, do a little aerial site seeing, and return. You don't need to provide a gourmet lunch, but follow Kathleen's example, be professional, plan your route and pick a nice calm day. Remember, you're the "captain" of the vessel, try and give your passenger the most pleasant flight experience you can.

And by the way, if you're ever in St. Thomas, do yourself a favor and sail on "High Pockets." Say Hi to Kathleen for us.

Ten things to do with a new Remos

2009-04-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I might be biting off more than I can chew, but I've decided to present, (in multi-part format), ten things you can do in a new Remos GX. I don't have ten chosen yet, so if you have one you want to present, just let me know.

I had a great week last week. We sold our 2006 G-3 Demo, and the couple that bought it came down from Michigan to get some instruction and dust off their pilots certificates that had been unused for several years. I really enjoyed this couple, we flew, we shared several meals, and laughed a lot. Definitely my kind of people. After a couple of very blustery spring days in St. Louis, we decided that I would sit right seat on the way "home" to MKG, Muskegon County Airport, Michigan. That was a 323nm trip, that we had planned at just over 2 1/2 hours. The flight was beautiful, and the company was great. This brings me to the number one thing to do with your new Remos.

1. Take a trip. For whatever reason, many people don't think of traveling in a light sport aircraft, why, I don't know. Here's the facts. It took us 2 1/2 hours to fly from St. Louis, Mo. to Muskegon, Mi. We burned about 13.75 gallons of avgas, for a cost of about $50. Add the $25 bucks we spent on lunch, and the cost of our whole trip was $75.

Now here's the return trip. Delta 3981 leaving at 4:55 edt to Detroit, Delta 3503 (1 hr 20 min layover) arriving St. Louis at 8:20 cdt. 4 hours and 20 minutes, at a cost of $160, plus taxes, fees, cramped seats, a cab ride home, and all I got to eat was peanuts. No contest, round one to Remos.

Dave, thanks for the great flight, and lunch. Enjoy your Remos.

More from Banson, Mo.

2009-03-24T08:08:00.000-07:00

What a couple of weeks! I'm sorry it's taken this long to get a new post up, but things have been hectic in the Gateway household. First off, son Justin, has been informed he will be deployed to Iraq in May, so you can be sure you'll hear more about that later. We're still frantically planning for Sun 'n Fun, and visiting several friends and family in the process. We sold the G-3 that had been in Atlanta, and I'll be doing the transition training for the proud owners next weekend.

Of special interest to us mid west fliers, the new Branson Airport will be opening soon. http://www.flybranson.com/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=CPC&utm_term=branson%2Bairport&utm_campaign=Wahlstrom%2BAirport
It's not quite as convenient to the tourist areas, and you have to drive through a golf community to get to it which is somewhat strange, but it certainly is going to be nice. Cheryl and I decided to check it out this weekend. We actually had to stop and wait for wild turkeys on the road before progressing up the drive. In case you have never seen wild turkeys fly, (Not withstanding WKRP in Cincinnati, one of my favorite all time episodes. Click the link for guaranteed chuckle) they can, and their wing span appears to approach that of a Remos. They provided us somewhat of an airshow of their own, but the official airshow, http://bransonairshow.com/ will be May 8-10.

Of course we ate BBQ at Dana's as usual, and had the best Reuben sandwich in the country, at Chester's. Don't take my word for it, here is a review on trip advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g44160-d1189626-r21085483-Chester_s_Restaurant-Branson_Missouri.html
Chester's corns their own beef, makes their own sauerkraut and dressing. Served with a huge pile of fries, if you can convince me there is a better Reuben anywhere, I'll pick up the tab. Yes, that was a challenge!

Planning our Sun 'n Fun pilgrimage.

2009-02-28T14:37:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, and I'm making our plans for Sun 'n Fun. For the uninitiated, like they say, "It's Like Spring Break for Pilots." There is so much to see and do during the airshow, but getting there can be half the fun. Here's just a couple of options. Out of St. Louis, we have to spend the night in Atlanta. We've got a niece and two nephews we don't see near enough, but there is still time to stop in at M34, Kentucky Dam State Park Airport for lunch. We'll have to decide on picnic, or take the free shuttle to Patti's 1990's settlement. Lunch the next day will be in Savannah at Paula Deens Restaurant. After all, we have to keep Cheryl happy if she's going to spend a week at the air show.
.
We'll probably have to make it a day trip, or stop on the way back home, but we'll hit Cedar Key at some point.

Of course, it's possible we have an entirely different itinerary. That's what's so great about traveling in the Remos. Speaking of cross country flying, Aviation Consumer has a very interesting article about using LSA's (Light Sport Aircraft) for travel. Drop me a line, and I'd be happy to send you the text of the article.

Hope to see you in Lakeland,

Jack

Things are bad!!!

2009-02-18T17:08:00.000-08:00

The economy is ugly, no doubt about it. Here is a list of headlines from the finance pages today.

Investors Look for Safety as Market Test Bottom

HP Cuts Full Year Outlook; Shares Fall

It May Cost Less to Let GM Fail

FOMC Minutes Show Doubts About 2009 Recovery

Farrell: Is There A Bottom?

That’s why I just couldn’t pass this article up without a little tongue in cheek commentary.

http://aero-news.net/index.cfm?ContentBlockID=f559e852-ee2f-4117-80fc-eb378e3d2bcf&

It seems as though the Economic Stimulus plan has something for us aircraft buyers also. Bonus depreciation. You’ll have to question your tax advisor about how this could apply to your situation, but I see the opportunity to purchase a new Remos GX, put it on a leaseback at your local flight school, and write a ton off your taxes. But then, I’m not a tax advisor. Luckily, I’m also not a stock market investor. Here’s a graph of the SP 500 over the last decade. Again, I’m not an analyst, but this doesn’t look good to me.

As if you couldn’t guess, I prefer airplanes to stocks and bonds. Let’s examine a couple of airplanes.

- In 1978, a Cessna 152’s base price was $14,950 and the average delivered price was $20, 075. Today in Trade-a-plane, you would expect to see this model listed anywhere from $22-45,000. Not a bad investment.

- Go back a little farther, the 1967 Piper Arrow debuted at $16,900, and you’d be hard pressed to buy one now for less than $55,000.

- Want to feel real bad about the stock market? A 1938 Piper J-3 sold for $2500, and today fetches anywhere from $25,000 to $45,000.

Wow! I wonder what will my 2009 Remos GX be worth in 30 years? Know what? It really doesn’t matter to me, because that’s 30 years of “living the dream”, and besides, I depreciated the whole thing courtesy of the 2009 Economic Stimulus Plan.

I'm not suggesting anyone should bail out of the stock market, and invest their IRA in a new airplane. But things are rarely as bad as they seem, or as good as you remember. Relax, have fun, and be happy. Better days are ahead.

Spring is in the Air

2009-02-13T16:48:00.000-08:00

Here are my indications that flying season is once again upon us. We just finished our taxes, the Crocuses are blooming, and most importantly, as I write this, pitchers and catchers are a mere 14 hours from reporting to camp.

I love my wife, and I love baseball. I'm also very fortunate that my wife loves baseball. What does baseball have to do with flying you ask? Well I can get all metaphorical with you and we can compare the years of training, the quest to ever improve our "game", and even compare our pre-flight briefing with scouting reports. I sometimes reflect on the "big league" of both worlds. By the way, contract negotiations, uniforms, and schedules, are definitely not what I love about either baseball or flying. I rather fancy minor league baseball. The kids that still love the game, and have dreams of the World Series. The same kind of kids that earn their hours as CFI's or ferry pilots, and dream of flying the heavy iron. I guess that's why I still get a kick out of seeing someone, regardless of age, (because dreams don't have age limits) hit their first home run, solo for the first time, or get their pilot's license.

Back to flying; Here's my plan, and suggestion for this spring and summer. I love the Cardinals, but let's face it, it's a lot of hassle just to spend $100 to sit in the nose bleed, and buy $5 hot dogs and $7 beer. http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/info/geographical.jsp This link list minor leauge teams geographically. Go to the team sites, and they list their schedule. For instance, we can fly 2 hours to watch the Springfield Cardinals play. Less than that to take in a Peoria Chiefs game. And when we fly to Atlanta, to visit my brother and his family, guess what is right on the way. Yep, the Rome Braves. What we're saving on gas, will pay for the tickets, and peanuts. Every minor league team's town we fly into, has a small airport, most with a courtesy car, and is more than willing to give you the lowdown on the local team. Go ahead, sit in the box seats, and you're probably watching the game with the players parents, or the families they are staying with. Just imagine you'll be able to tell all your friends stuck in the big league stadiums, that you saw the next "Albert Pujols", or "Tom Glavine" before they made the show.

Give me a call; I'll set you up with the schedule, and a Major League new Remos GX to make that dream a big league reality.

By the way, this is Ben, son of one of our customers on his recent solo flight. Isn't that cool!!!

Update on the Air Expo in Sebring

2009-02-08T17:06:00.000-08:00

Our first Air Expo was 2006, and it struck me as barely more than a regional pancake breakfast fly-in. It was dirty, disorganized, and nothing like we experienced on this trip. The Air Expo is becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Light Sport Aviation community. I was impressed by how far they have come.

The Remos booth was outstanding, the best display we have ever had. We introduced the 2009 model GX, and I for one, am very excited. The '09 model still has all the great performance and handling qualities of the '08 GX, but with some refinements. It features new interior, including a headliner, and intrument panel. The elevator trim has been moved to a re-designed stick, and the biggest change is new landing gear with removable wheel pants.

Notice the interior.

Three blade Prop

The picture above, is just for those skeptical that Dave and I are ever in the same place at the same time.

There were more airplanes than Remos there, and here are a few that caught my eye.

Yes, the show was great, but now that we're back in the Missouri winter, my thoughts and anticipation are turning to Sun 'n Fun. Spring is just around the corner, time to brush up those piloting skills, and take to the skies. Why not road trip into St. Louis, or Atlanta, and take a demo ride in a Remos aircraft? We can get you into a new Remos in time for you to fly with us down to Sun 'n Fun, or participate in the first ever Remos Fly-in this June. You can be there, do that, and bring home the T-shirt.

Shock and Sorrow

2009-01-30T05:55:00.000-08:00

It was a an emotionally charged week for us in Florida. I promised a new post reporting on the Air Expo, and the 2009 Remos, and you will get it, but not in this post. Cheryl and I got to the Air Expo, saw the '09 model, and met with the Remos CEO, and numerous future Remos owners. We came away exhausted but enthused.

Enthusiasm however soon gave way to shock and disbelief. If you haven't heard already, tragedy struck the Remos family early Sunday morning, a friend, the Eastern Regional sales manager for Remos, was involved in an accident in his GX. http://www2.highlandstoday.com/content/2009/jan/28/la-ntsb-investigation-continues-into-sunday-plane-/ Thankfully, Mike survived the crash, but suffered extensive injuries, and will be recovering for quite some time. Unfortunately, the passenger's injuries were fatal. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mike, his family, and the family of Steven Fletcher, the fatally injured passenger.

The cause of the accident is still officially under investigation, and I'll post no speculation here. What I will offer, is my heart felt thanks to all of my friends and customers that called or emailed with their concern. Without exception, each call expressed relief to find out neither Dave or I were involved, then sorrow and sympathy for the victims and their families. It strikes me that we really are becoming a Remos family, just as we envisioned it two years ago when we began this great adventure. This family, like all families laugh, cry, and grow together. The good times are easier than the bad, but the bad times are easier with care and concern from family.

Thank you for your care and concern, and please continue to pray for Mike, his family, and the family of Steven Fletcher.

At the Air Expo

2009-01-21T17:20:00.000-08:00

I got busy, and we'll be at the Air Expo this week, so I'll have an update when we get back.

Thanks.

The Corner Hardware Store

2009-01-13T11:41:00.000-08:00

Every town has one, the hardware store you never think about going to until Home Depot or Lowes doesn't have what you need. If your lucky, they tell you to try Ace, or some other "bigger" store, and likewise, they don't have what I need either. When all hope is lost, I trek over to Jehling Hardware. This is an old time hardware store, right out of Mayberry. I have never brought in a part, screw, or appliance and been disappointed. To me, it is a modern marvel, how they can cram so much stuff into so little space. Even more amazing, they know exactly where it is. Unbelievable. One of these days I'll learn to go there first, but they just aren't as convenient as some of the big box stores, and Like Jehlings inventory, I'm always trying to squeeze more time into a day than there is. Unfortunatetly, I don't have the same success as they do. I had an opportunity this week to visit, like always, it was after two of the others weren't able to cut spare keys to the Remos for me. It had been a while since I was there, and even longer since I was there during the Christmas season. Jehling puts out a train display that we used to take the kids to every year when they were small enough for me to lift up so they could see everything. Sure enough, the display was there, and I spent a lot more time watching the trains, and exploring every nook and cranny of the display than it took for them to cut my keys and find the other things on my list. Something else I'm going to put on my list is to go ahead and be inconvenienced once in a while, because it sure was worth it Saturday. I hope you enjoy the pictures, but they don't do justice to the live version.

IM SAFE

2009-01-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

I've been sick this week; so has Cheryl, and Justin, and just about half of all the people I know. Therefore, we haven't been flying or taking any trips. It has given me the opportunity to use a checklist I teach to all my students, and routinely use myself. IM SAFE.

I Illness
M Medication
S Stress
A Alcohol
F Fatigue
E Emotion

We know we have to check the weather, and pre-flight the aircraft before we go, but we also have to evaluate ourselves. The IM SAFE points are just some of the factors we must consider when we determine if we should fly, or stay on the ground. The old adage; "it's better to be on the ground, wishing you were in the air, than in the air, wishing you were on the ground" really applies here. Aviation is a demanding endevour, requiring the pilot to use all of his or her facilties and resources. The items on the above checklist are merely a starting point, or memory jogger. Only you know your personal limitations, you are pilot in command. Saying no before you go can be a hard decision but it just might be the right one.

The checklist below is from a FAA publication that expands on these ideas. Print it out and fill in the blanks for your own limits.
http://www.faa.gov/education_research/training/fits/guidance/media/personal%20minimums%20checklist.pdf

I know it's gross, but I thought it was funny. Of course I'm not the one cleaning it up. Only watch if you have a strong stomach.

I told you so!

My new year resolutions.

2008-12-30T12:44:00.000-08:00

I guess depending where you were in the market, some of us might be very happy to see 2008 in our rear view mirror. However in 2008, we met a lot of new friends, spent a lot of time in the air, and for the most part, we were healthy and happy. From my perspective, that's a pretty good year. We have a lot of exciting plans for 2009 that you'll definitely want to be a part of. More about that to come, but for now.....

In the spirit of the season, I've compiled a list of my New Years resolutions.

1. I resolve not to lose weight. At least not so I can load my airplane legally. The Remos has an industry leading useful load of 650 lbs. and a cabin width 7" wider than a Cessna 182. So.... if I happen to lose weight, it's for my health.

2. I resolve to spend more time with our out of town friends and family. The Remos GX is a serious cross country aircraft, in speed, range and load capacity. It makes those day trips to see kids, or grand kids comfortable, and a real pleasure.

3. I resolve to spend less money in the air. Let's face it, I'm not going to fly less, but every hour I spend in the Remos, I burn 4-5 gallons an hour less than the Cherokee or Cessna, and maintenance is a lot less as well.

4. I resolve to meet new friends this year and introduce them to the Remos GX. I'll be at Sebring http://www.sport-aviation-expo.com/ on Friday 1/23/2009. Please give me a call, I'd love to meet you there.

5. Most of all:

We're already the most experienced, but I resolve to be the best dealer, with the best prices, service, and information available. When you get ready to buy a Remos, give us a call. We sell and deliver anywhere in the U.S.

From my family to yours, we wish you a very Happy New year.

Why not leave a comment telling us your resolutions?

The weather outside is Frightful.

2008-12-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

I sure hope the weather where you live has been more favorable to flying than here in St. Louis. We’ve had such a mix of wind, ice, and low ceilings that I haven’t been able to fly much at all. This is the time of year I spend a lot of time on the simulator, or taking some online air safety course. I enthusiastically recommend these courses. http://www.aopa.org/asf/online_courses/ They are really excellent, and bonus, they're free. This is a great time to brush up on weather, aerodynamics, airspace, or anything you haven’t thought much about since that written test. While you’re at the computer, take a look at this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8. It kind of reminds me of flying into Chicago airspace during Christmas. How do these guys do this?

Speaking of Christmas, we’ll have the whole family together this year. We’ll take some time off, do a little traveling, visit friends, and exchange some gifts. I pray that you and your families have a very joyous Christmas, and happy New Year. I want to thank you all for the year we’ve had at Gateway Sport Aviation, and the new friends we have made. Don’t worry, the weather will get better, and we’ll be flying again in no time at all. Most importantly, I leave you with this….

Luke 2

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

God bless us all.

BBQ Ribs and Primary Flight displays.

2008-12-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

Perhaps I took my own advise too much to heart last update, but I managed to take quite a bit of time off flying to spend with family and friends, enjoying this holiday season. I did spend an evening out at 3SQ last week attending a seminar for instructors teaching the Garmin G-1000 integrated flight and avionics platform. I won't go into here, but it struck me how similar it was to the Dynon unit that is installed in the Remos Light Sport Aircraft. The Dynon doesn't have a lot of the sophistication of the Garmin unit, however information is displayed, and menus are selected, in very similar fashions. This makes the Remos an even better fit for flight schools teaching Technically Advanced Aircraft, or owners wishing to be on the forefront of aviation advancements. Besides, once you get past how cool they look, you'll appreciate the functionality.

Of course, avionics, or flight displays aren't what is most important as far as I'm concerned. What matters most is are we having fun, and where are we eating! We took the opportunity to fly down to Dexter, Mo. for some of the Hickory Logs famous BBQ ribs. This trip has become one of our family traditions, and not just for the great BBQ. The Hickory Log goes all out on it's Christmas decorations, and it's close enough to Poplar Bluff for Cheryl's parents, and assorted brothers or sister to meet us there. KDXE is a nice little airport with a restaurant right on the field for weekend fly-in breakfast. KDXE is attended irregularly, but they do have a courtesy vehicle, and the Hickory Log is only 4 miles away. My advise? Go hungry, eat the ribs, and don't get your fingers all over the multi-function display on the way home.

Why not start your own "flying family tradition"?

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T15:12:00.000-08:00

What a time of year! Holiday parties, family in from out of town, and all the rest, put flying on the back burner, as it should be. I am thankful for so much, too much to even start listing here, but let me tell you about a recent flight I took. I had to fly down to Rogers, AR. to pick up a Remos, and on this trip, my son Justin was my ride. Justin is 20 now, an air traffic controller for the Missouri Air National Guard, and a pretty good stick in the airplane as well. On this flight we got to share the pre-dawn takeoff, and the sun rising above the cloud tops. We had time to just enjoy each others company, but the instructor in me scrutinized his technique. I resisted the temptation to offer advise or point out differences in our technique, (or at least I think I did) after all he was the PIC on this flight. The dad in me was just too proud. Proud of the man he has become, and the future he has in front of him. We flew in a rather loose formation back home, Justin in the lead, keeping his dad clear of MOA's and restricted airspace. We didn't have any long or profound conversations, we didn't need to. We shared a flight; I'm sure it meant more to me than to Justin, but one of these days, when he is flying with his son or daughter, he might remember, and smile. When I reflect on the future of aviation, it's usually from the perspective of declining pilot numbers, light sport aircraft sales, or the state of the air traffic control profession. Well the good news is, when I look at Justin, and his generation, I know the future of general aviation is in good hands, and for that I'm thankful also.

I want to wish all of you a very special Thanksgiving and holiday season. God has blessed me and my family so much, but we all have needs. Take time to tell your family how much you love them, and what you're thankful for. Please remember the hurting, the lonely, and less fortunate. I'm hoping you'll skip an hour or two in the air, and truly enjoy this season.

Expanding your LSA horizons.

2008-11-12T17:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is going to be one of those instructional entries, specific to new or potential Light Sport Certificate holders, so all you "old time" pilots, go here, http://www.sun-n-fun.org/content/ and start planning your trip.

61.325 How do I obtain privileges to operate a light-sport aircraft at an airport within, or in airspace within, Class B, C, and D airspace, or in other airspace with an airport having an operational control tower?

If you hold a sport pilot certificate and seek privileges to operate a light-sport aircraft in Class B, C, or D airspace, at an airport located in Class B, C, or D airspace, or to, from, through, or at an airport having an operational control tower, you must receive and log ground and flight training. The authorized instructor who provides this training must provide a logbook endorsement that certifies you are proficient in the following aeronautical knowledge areas and areas of operation:

(a) The use of radios, communications, navigation system/facilities, and radar services.

(b) Operations at airports with an operating control tower to include three takeoffs and landings to a full stop, with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern, at an airport with an operating control tower.

(c) Applicable flight rules of part 91 of this chapter for operations in Class B, C, and D airspace and air traffic control clearances.

That's the regulation, but what does it really take? My advise, is to demand more training than your instructor will probably want to give you before he/she gives their endorsement. The FAA believes the most dangerous part of your flight, is on the ground, and for good reason. According to the IG, general aviation is involved in 72 percent of incursions while accounting for 59 percent of the operations. However, accidents predominantly involve air carrier aircraft. In the decade of the 1990s only one GA pilot was charged with the probable cause of a runway incursion accident at a towered airport (St. Louis). Careful investigations of these incidents have identified three major areas contributing to runway incursions - communication, airport familiarization, and cockpit procedures for maintaining orientation.

After your ground instruction, and some "practice" radio calls, have your instructor pick out a towered airport, and show you how to download, or find, the airport diagram. Check the NOTAMs, paying special attention to runway or taxiway closures, and mark them on your diagram. When you fly into the towered airport for your 3 full stop landings, if possible, ask to depart a different runway each time. Your goal here is to taxi from one end of the airport to the other, hopefully requiring you to cross other taxiways or runways. Remember to read back hold short instructions, or the controller will "politely" remind you. Here's where a well placed call to the tower from your instructor before the flight might be appropriate. Have your instructor tell the controllers what you want to do, and why. If they have time, and traffic permits, they will be happy to accommodate. Really, most controllers are not nearly as scary as they sound. A large airport can be very confusing on the ground. Never be afraid to ask Ground Control for "progressive taxi", especially at unfamiliar airports, that's part of their job. Believe me, they'd rather spend a little extra effort on helping you navigate the taxiways than spend their break writing a statement. (That's 25 years of controller experience talking) Make sure your instructor talks about some of the new hazards you'll encounter at bigger airports. Jet blast, or rotor wash can ruin the day of a light sport pilot, so give the helicopters and "big iron" a wide berth. I've spent this entire article talking about hazards, dangers, and surly controllers, not to scare or discourage the LSA pilot, but rather to equip and empower them. Your Sport Pilot Certificate is a huge accomplishment, and privilege. I want you to use it to it's fullest, being comfortable and confident talking with air traffic, and most important using it safely.

Come out to St. Charles Flying Service, tell them to take you to Lambert International, and that I said it would be alright. Enjoy your flight, and for the truly fearless, watch this video.

The perfect Autumn Morning

2008-11-02T13:48:00.000-08:00

I guess I’m still in a nostalgic mood, because what I most appreciated this week was a BFR (Biennial Flight Review) I conducted in a 1947 model Stinson Voyager. Believe it or not, even I get tired of flying once in a while, and after a couple of long cross-countries, and trying to catch up with a huge backlog of Remos demo flights, that’s where I found myself Friday. I was out at 3SQ, and being the only instructor that happened to be tail-wheel current, I grudgingly agreed to perform a BFR for Jim in his Stinson. Jim is an ex-Navy A-4 pilot, retired TWA DC-9 Captain, and infinitely more experienced than I’ll ever be, but for the next couple of hours I was the “instructor”. We discussed several areas of part 91 regulations, pre-flighted the aircraft, and hit the skies. Because of the big tail, they say if you can taxi the Stinson in a crosswind, you can fly a Stinson. I learned this nugget of information, and much more between steep turns, stalls, and slow flight. Jim and I started to get to know one another, I learned about the history of his airplane, and how he got into aviation. Let me add here, it was one of those perfect autumn mornings. The Missouri foliage was in full color, the air was crisp, clear and calm, and occasionally you’d get a whiff of someone’s fire in the fireplace. Rarely did Jim and I get more than 1000’ AGL as we fulfilled the requirements of the BFR, all the while enjoying the multi-colored blanket pass beneath us. We reminisced about other airplanes, times and places, and shared just about the perfect hour in the air. This wasn’t work; this was just pure enjoyment of flight. That hour literally flew by, and I emerged re-vitalized. I guess that’s how it goes; you never know what the next opportunity will bring, so we should approach each one with anticipation and expectation. I wish you all that very special hour in the air this week, and I thank Jim for providing mine.

Classic cars and airplanes

2008-10-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

Classic cars and airplanes make a fantastic combination. Cheryl and I flew over to H49, Columbia, IL. Sunday for a fly-in and open house, and that’s what we encountered, in addition to the polka music and bratwurst. Of course the Remos attracted all sorts of attention, and we tried to do the right thing and stay there answering questions, but I heard the ’62 Corvette whispering from across the field. The ’62 vette has always been my dream car. It was the first to offer the 327 cu.in 250hp engine, and the last to use the “strait axle.” You gottta love a car that was 100% convertibles. Officially, the ’62 was offered in seven colors, but for my money, the red was the only one to lust after. Although Todd and Buzz drove “Route 66” in a ’60 model, it was still every boy’s fantasy. (That and to be an astronaut, and if you’re under 50 years old you won’t get the reference.) Can you believe it? The base price of a 1962 Corvette was $4038.00. Here’s a confession, I’ve had friends that owned various years of Corvettes, I’ve ridden in them, and even driven a few, but I’ve never even sat in a 1962 model. If the opportunity comes up, I don’t think I will. I have no delusions about ever owning one, (as if I could ever afford it) or owning any other year model for that matter. The truth is, the car is not particularly comfortable, it’s fast, but not as fast as the airplanes I usually fly, and I could never take it to the grocery store for fear of a scratch or ding. But man, it’s a 1962 Vette. Some dreams you just need to keep forever, that will be one of mine. Some dreams you need to share, and that’s where I get back to the Remos. People were looking at my airplane and I knew that to many of them, the GX was their ’62 vette. We went back to the airplane, dutifully handing out literature, and answering questions. I didn’t give a lot of rides Saturday, but of the few I did, I enjoyed Pastor Bob’s best. Bob’s a pilot from way back, and stays in the air these days in his glider. We pitched and rolled, soared without care, and I noticed that the grin on Bob’s faced never left. We’ll be getting together again soon. If you’re interested in seeing some cherry classic cars, visit my friends at: http://www.classiccarstudio.com/home.php

Can I get an AMEN?

2008-10-19T17:09:00.000-07:00

CGI, Cape Girardeau airport, is typical of so many general aviation airports these days. Outstanding facilities, and personnel, but it is utilized well below its heyday. Whether it’s the economy, gas prices, or more and more restrictions on private aviation, many U.S. airports are in need of revival. Also, like most airports in a similar state, I get the impression Cape is under appreciated by the citizens and neighboring communities. We took the Remos down there last weekend to attend the Cape Pilots Association fly-in/chili cook-off, and met a great bunch of aviation enthusiast. We ate chili, saw outstanding examples of home built and vintage aircraft, as well as the state of the art light sport variety, and watched a whole bunch of r/c model aircraft. We got a chance to visit with the airport manager, and were impressed with his enthusiasm, and future plans.

Most aircraft/aviation statistics these days will confirm that general aviation is in a decline. Aircraft deliveries, airport operations, and private pilot certifications are all well below the levels only a few short years ago. There is one obvious exception. According to the AOPA:

“Aircraft shipments were behind last year’s figures. A comparison of total U.S. shipments shows 2008 figures to be behind 2007 figures by 11 percent. Focusing exclusively on single-engine piston aircraft for 2008 (277 of the 558) are down compared to 2007 shipments (425 of 628), down 35 percent. Aircraft registration applications for quarter one 2008 were behind when compared to 2007 data (down 12.3 percent). (Note: Only January and February data is available for 2008 aircraft registrations.)

Accident data for the first quarter of 2008 (252 in 2008) shows a decline of 11 percent as compared to the first quarter of 2007 (282 in 2007). Record low fatal general aviation accidents are due to a dedicated commitment to safety by everyone in general aviation.

Sport pilot certificates held data for the first quarter of 2008 shows an increase of 61 percent as compared to the first quarter of 2007 (2,410 more sport pilot certificates).”

Did you see it? Sport pilot certificates increased 61%. That’s why we’re so excited about the Remos GX. Fuel burn averages 3.8 gal/hr in a training environment and only about 5 gal/hr in cruise. Maintenance on a new aircraft is understandably less than a 30 year old aircraft, and with Remos’ safety record, insurance, even for rentals, is very reasonable. Flight schools that understand the trends, and see the possibilities, will begin to embrace light sport aircraft of all varieties. Flight training can be more affordable for the student, and more profitable for the school, and airports like Cape Girardeau will be the ones to lead the revival. Can I get an Amen? Besides, the pilot association has some great chili cooks. If you missed the fly-in this year, don’t dismay. The airport will be hosting a huge air show next year, and you can bet we’ll be there again

The new GX is here!

2008-10-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

It’s been very busy around Gateway Sport these days. We’ve got our demonstrator, and it will be in St. Louis for a couple of weeks before it goes to the flight line at our Atlanta location. If you’ve been waiting to get into a new GX, the time is now, please give me a call so we can schedule your ride.

Cheryl and I actually took a weekend off last week and flew into Branson, Mo. It’s a great trip that we make quite often. We had a special mission this trip, and it involved trying out new restaurants, but let me take it from the beginning. The flight itself was great, and we landed at PLK, Taney Co. Airport at School of the Ozarks. The School of the Ozarks could be a blog in itself, free college education, but that’s a different story. Unfortunately, they don’t have a courtesy car, but there’s an AVIS counter right in the terminal, and you’re going to want to spend a couple of days anyway. They even rent Harleys, if 4 wheels are too many for you. Branson has an amazing amount of things to do, but Cheryl and I always seem to end up at Silver Dollar City for a day or two, and take in a couple of shows. This was the agenda once again, but this time we were planning on all new dining options. It was Montana Mike’s for dinner. Service was good; food was decent, but not as good as Outback. Probably a step up from Lone Star or Ponderosa, but they had this lady come around to take our picture. She came back later with the prints for sale, and key chains with our picture on them. We passed, even though it was a better picture than we usually take.

We had our first breakfast at Chester’s, located at the historic Hillbilly Inn. Cheryl had found out about their “pile-ups” on some internet forum, and decided it sounded interesting. Chester’s is a family operation, and we met Perry and Jason. Perry sat us in the back, with a breathtaking view of the Ozark mountains. It didn't take long to notice the airport was on top of the very next mountain. What a bonus view! The coffee was hot and welcome, the food was great, and plenty as you can see in the picture. Obviously, after trying to put away breakfast, we couldn’t even think about lunch. Odee’s was our choice for dinner. We sampled the homemade potato chips and ribs. It was good, but for BBQ in Branson, our choice is Danna’s.

Sunday’s breakfast was the Belgium Waffle House. They’re only open for breakfast, and was okay, but I left less satisfied than when we use a coupon at IHOP. After the Landing, and some outlet mall shopping, we tried some more BBQ at Shorty Small’s. Either I was real hungry, or it’s my second favorite BBQ in Branson. (Danna’s is closed on Sundays.)

We had thought about stopping at Gaston’s on the way home, but it didn’t work out. That will be another blog later. As for this trip, without doubt, our favorite new restaurant was Chester’s. We’ll definitely be going back. If you get a chance to fly in to Branson, (and what a great trip in a new Remos GX) have some breakfast (we'll be trying their lunch on our next trip) at Chester’s and say hi to Perry for me.

A little review.

2008-10-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

I've got lots to cover in this update. First off, it was recently announced on Dan Johnson's site,

http://rlsa.bydanjohnson.com/index.cfm?b=6&m=1, that Remos Aircraft was #1 in new S-LSA registrations for the six months ending August 2008. That's up from #7, and is such an impressive move given the state of the economy, and the sheer number of LSAs on the market. This move speaks volumes about what is important to the U.S. consumer, and confirms Remos as not only the leader in quality, but value. Remos has correctly identified the fact that the U.S. consumer will embrace quality and value for their dollar, and I'm convinced that Remos will continue it's climb in market share.

Which brings me to my next topic. After a little random investigation, we discovered the German POH, publishes a different approach speed than the U.S. POH. Why we were trying to read the German POH, who knows, but we were curious. We decided to contact the German engineer, that we were privaledged to have met and spend some time with in Oshkosh, for an explanation. For those of us that didn't know(or needed reminding), the ultra light rules in Germany are different than the Light Sport Aircraft rules in the U.S. Whereas we have a weight restiction of 1320 lbs. the German restrictions is approximately 1200 lbs. The airframe is identical, however, this difference in MTOW(maximum takeoff weight) is the reason for the differnent speeds in the POH. Weight is one of the factors in determining the stall speed of an aircraft. The angle of attack, will always be the same, but the airspeed at which the aircraft will stall is decreased on the aircraft with the lower weight. Generally, the approach speed of an aircraft, Vref, is determined by applying a factor of 1.3 Vso (stall speed in landing configuration). Therefore, if the 1200 lb. GX is flown at the same Vref speed as the 1320 lb aircraft, it will float much longer on landing. I'm sure this isn't new information to most of us, but it never hurts to get in a little review. The best aviators are always learning more about their aircraft. That's all for now.

Great Forest Park Balloon Race

2008-09-21T16:12:00.001-07:00

We slowed things way down Saturday at the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. I've been fortunate enough to be the Air Traffic Coordinator for the race about the last 15 years. It truly is one of the best events in St. Louis. We've made some very good friends, and talked to quite a few about the new Remos. It just goes to show, it doesn't matter what you fly, there's a commonality between aviators. For all you power pilots out there, do yourself a favor and get a ride in a hot air balloon or a sailplane. They add a whole new dimension to flight, and an awareness of the most minuscule change in air currents. One of my favorite things to do in the G-3, is to go up on a day with lots of cumulus clouds, cut the engine, and just ride the thermals. You'd be amazed how long you can stay aloft. I read an interesting article a while back on "soaring" your general aviation aircraft. Basically, you determine what power setting will approximate the performance you would get in a basic sailplane. Trim you aircraft for best glide, then add/reduce power enough to have a sink rate of 100-150 fpm. Then go find some thermals. It's a real good excercise in coordination and speed control. Give it a try, and let me know how you do.

2008-09-13T14:50:00.001-07:00

2008-09-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

We Can

2008-09-13T08:37:00.001-07:00

We’re all about light sport aviation here at Gateway Sport, so we tend to look at the world from a certain perspective. For instance, it’s Saturday, and I have a choice of a growing list of household chores, or going to the airport. I should do some chores, and there’s nothing I particularly have to do at the airport, but somehow the airport will win out. You see, I’ve been working hard all week, and it’s not that I’m aviation deprived; after all, my vocation is aviation. There’s just something about the airport, especially early Saturday morning, before the lessons start, and the pattern fills up. Just as the sun begins to break over the horizon, this is my favorite part of the day. There’s no noise, no one on the ramp, and the phones aren’t ringing, just peaceful anticipation of what the day has to offer. I probably won’t even fly today, but that’s not the point. The point is, we can. In my way of thinking, “we can”, is a profound statement. In this country, we have the privilege of owning, or renting an aircraft, and flying wherever, whenever we want. We have been blessed to live in a land of plenty, and having the resources to pursue our dreams and ambitions. Flying just seems to be one of those things that people dream about their entire life. Some have been fortunate enough to fulfill that dream early in life, and for others, the dream is still there, waiting to be realized. It’s easy to spot those of us afflicted with flight; we’re the ones that hearing an airplane fly overhead, have to sneak a peek to see what it is. We fidget at the television remote until we find a program, any program, which has airplanes on it. We concoct, all sorts of reasons to just drive by the airport, and the interesting thing is this behavior knows no generational or gender boundaries. Young and old, male and female alike share the dream, and that’s where I get back to light sport aviation. Aviation is expensive, no doubt about it. $6 avgas, and half-million dollar airplanes have taken a toll on aviation, and that’s a shame. However, current long lines for TSA screenings, cost for checked baggage, and higher prices for reduced airline schedules are once again making general aviation more attractive. I am convinced the Light Sport certificate, and aircraft classification, is one of the things the FAA did right. Believe me, after a career with the FAA there are plenty of things I think they did wrong, but this is one of the keepers. Light sport is allowing us “old timers” to keep living the dream longer than we could before. It’s making it more affordable for our kids, and grandkids to experience that thrill of their first solo flight. Light sport aviation, however, is also a valid and practical means of transportation. I am a very fortunate man on many different levels, but not too far down the list, is the fact that I get to share my love of flight. I get to give pilots who have been out of aviation for 10, 20, or more years, the opportunity to get back in the cockpit. I get to take that 15 year-old, (had to ride their bike to the airport kid) on their very first flight, and marvel as they took the controls to maneuver the craft as they desired. I am privileged to see the person who has had a full and prosperous life, finally embrace their dream, and take to the air. If you’re still with me, here’s the whole point. You have the same opportunity. Let’s get out to the airport; take a friend, or better yet, one of the neighborhood kids, and share our dreams, pass along our passion, just because “we can”.

I plan to make this column a regular feature of the web-page. Usually air traffic controllers aren’t this philosophical or reflective, but retired controllers get a little leeway, especially on rainy, windy Saturday mornings. I will be presenting mostly practical tips and sharing some of my plans or experiences to hopefully make your Light Sport Aviation a safer, more fulfilling experience. If you have questions or comments, or desire to talk with us about satisfying your dreams of flight, give us a call. We’d love to hear from you.

In the planning stages

2008-08-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

We've decided, the first trip we're taking in retirement, is driving the Mother road, route 66. Out of character, we plan on taking our time, and stopping at the nostalgic, out of the way places. Eat a lot of Diner food, and visualize life back in the 1950's. We'll let you know how it goes.