Aviation Interest

The Helicopter Pilots Model Code of Conduct (HMCC) was released today by the project’s Permanent Editorial Board. The HMCC offers recommendations to advance helicopter flight safety, airmanship, and professionalism. Developed by a team of helicopter experts, the HMCC draws upon decades of research as well as input from key helicopter organizations in both the private

and public sectors, and builds upon the foundation of the Aviators Model Code of Conduct initiative, a project of over ten years. The Code applies to a range of operating environments, from primary instruction to commercial flight operations.

The California Pilots Association will host an event featuring Congressman Tom McClintock (R-CA-4), a member of the Congressional General Aviation Caucus, on Saturday, July 20. Part safety seminar, part legislative update, the event will be held at the Granite Bay High School Theater (1 Grizzly Way, Granite Bay, Calif., 95746-7194). The agenda includes:12:30 pm –…

Whiteman (WHP), CA – Obstacle Departure Procedure, (ODP)
Notice Number: NOTC4854

Pilots executing Incorrect IFR departure procedures out of Whiteman (WHP), CA. have resulted in numerous Pilot Deviations.

To help prevent these deviations, pilots are reminded that IFR aircraft flying the Whiteman (WHP) Obstacle Departure Procedure, (ODP) should ALWAYS be “OUTBOUND” on the VNY R-325 as they climb to 4,500 ft. prior to turning left direct VNY VOR/DME. It is imperative that pilots follow the established WHP Obstacle Departure Procedure, (ODP) to avoid higher terrain.

Here is an interesting article on the FAA, an insiders view of its practices and inefficiencies. It will assistin understanding what is happening regarding how the agency manages itself and the various projects it is responsible for. It is lengthy, but, it will provide you with important information on why the FAA shouldn’t be adding user fees, but instead, start to become effective through streamlining and cuts.

America’s Cup Races will be held on the San Francisco Bay July 4, 2013 through September 21, 2013.  The approximate times are 1000-1700PDT daily (For specific race schedules:  http://www.americascup.com/en/events

– The race course is located on the San Francisco Bay, to the south of Alcatraz Island, along the northern shoreline of the City of San Francisco, from the Presidio (Golden Gate National Recreation Area) to Treasure Island. 

Pilots at a California airport that flunked an Environmental Protection Agency lead air-quality test are crying foul. The EPA recently released results of a study of airborne lead at 17 airports around the country where monitors were placed to measure air quality in public areas. While nearly all passed the test, San Carlos Airport south of San Francisco had unusually high readings – and now we may know why.

EAA signs deal with FAA to cover controller expenses at Oshkosh The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) has finalized a one-time agreement with the FAA to cover nearly $450,000 in expenses related to air traffic control services at the 2013 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in, which begins on July 29.

“Let me be clear: We have consistently regarded the FAA’s move as holding AirVenture and GA hostage this year,” said EAA Chairman Jack Pelton.  “There was considerable, detailed thought given over the past month to every option and possible scenario. Ultimately, AirVenture’s importance to the entire general aviation economy and community, as well as to EAA’s year-round programs, was the overriding factor in our response. AirVenture will go on, and our attendees deserve nothing less than the best air safety and services we can provide.

Young pilot completes solo flight around the world – FRESNO, Calif. — On June 29, Jack Wiegand completed his mission to break the current Guinness World Records title and became the youngest person to fly solo around the world. The Fresno, Calif. native, 21 years 7 days, broke the current record held by James Anthony Tan…

There is a important difference between critical thinking and being critical. Knowing that difference can be the deciding factor in whether you are successful at affecting change or become an ineffectual aggravating irritant. Now that I have your attention…it will come as no surprise to learn I have a tendency to critique almost every aspect…

Pilot Barbara Goodwin, of Kalamazoo, MI (Michigan 99s) and Co-Pilot Maureen Kenney, Caliente, CA (San Fernando Valley 99s), are participating in the 2013 Women’s Air Race Classic June 18-21, 2013. The race start is Pasco, Washington, 
with the terminus is Fayetteville, Arkansas. Maureen is the only entrant in this year’s RACE from the Greater LA Area, and is involved in aviation as SWS 99s Webmaster, Air Race Classic, Inc. Director, FAAST Team Representative, SoCal area, and a CalPilots Member.