Cessna 195
An affordable, round-engine classic guaranteed to turn heads on any ramp. Although not stingy on gas, its practical for everyday flying.
An affordable, round-engine classic guaranteed to turn heads on any ramp. Although not stingy on gas, its practical for everyday flying.
Dozens are already flying in Europe. Success rests with engine life and serviceability, but in the U.S., a Lycoming-powered version may win the day.
Post-accident, most insurers will do the right thing but some will steer you to a marginal shop. Heres how to stand your ground to get competent repairs.
In an age of slick composite airplanes, Vikings are a wood-and-fabric throwback. But owners rave about good handling and sleek looks.
Yes, FS is more expensive but we like its structured syllabus and more polished take-away training materials.
Got speed? The Aerostar certainly does, in abundance. Although its too-hot-to-handle reputation is probably undeserved, it is by no means a cheap ride.
Sprightly speed, sporty handling and a canopy you can open in flight has generated fanatical loyalty.
The Skylane has endured because it offers a rare combination of affordability, ease of operation and utility.
Few airplanes fly as fast or as far on as little gas as the K-model Mooneys. The 252 is the most refined version of the line.
Lycoming Crankshaft Suit
As I write this, were barely six weeks into the new year but already the first colossally bad development of 2005 has bubbled to the surface: The Interstate Southwest Ltd. lawsuit against Lycoming. In mid-February, Interstate won this suit and was awarded a staggering $96.1 million in damages.
In case youve deleted the details from your short-term memory, recall that Lycoming blamed Interstate for a bad batch of crankshaft forgings that resulted in a massive recall. The problem came to light in mid-2002, following a spate of engine failures caused by broken crankshafts. A joint Lycoming/FAA investigation blamed the problem on improper heating and…
A Texas jury finds that defective structural design caused failures in Lycoming six-cylinder crankshafts, not overheating during forging.
If the light sport aircraft segment promises to explode with choices, most of them may come from Europe. U.S. builders are waiting on the sidelines.