Latest news with #EAAAirVenture
Newsweek
4 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
FAA to Modernize 40-Year-Old System After Fatal Washington DC Crash
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching a sweeping overhaul of the U.S. air traffic control system following the deadly plane crash in Washington, D.C., that killed 67 people in January. New FAA administrator Bryan Bedford called the current system "not acceptable" and announced an aggressive modernization effort at the EAA AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, on Thursday. Why It Matters In late January, American Airlines Flight 5342 departing from Wichita, Kansas, collided midair with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Washington's Reagan National Airport. The crash killed all 67 people aboard both aircraft. Investigators confirmed the Black Hawk was flying above the 200-foot limit for its assigned route while the plane was at roughly 325 feet at the moment of impact. This overhaul comes after decades of warnings about outdated radar systems, under-resourced control towers, and chronic shortages of air traffic controllers. The January crash is one of the deadliest aviation incidents in recent U.S. history, and its location—just miles from the Capitol—brought renewed urgency to long-overdue reforms. The FAA's modernization push now has political momentum and funding, as Congress recently approved $12.5 billion over five years, and the Trump administration has proposed an additional $19 billion to fully rebuild the national airspace system. What To Know The FAA has faced growing criticism for failing to address years of safety concerns. Recent high-profile near-misses and operational mishaps have highlighted vulnerabilities in technology and staffing. Air traffic controllers are routinely working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, and the agency is currently short about 3,500 controllers. Bedford emphasized that parts of the U.S. air traffic control system haven't been updated in 40 years. The FAA now plans to replace legacy radar and telecom systems, modernize towers and support infrastructure, and redesign how airspace is managed around major cities. Speaking at the air show, Bedford blamed former President Joe Biden's administration for a lack of engagement on aviation issues. "Nobody in the Biden administration had any interest in aviation," he said, vowing to change the agency's culture from the inside out. Bedford has promised to be transparent, going so far as to share his email address with attendees, as reported by Reuters. In response to January's crash, the FAA has imposed strict new restrictions on helicopter operations around Reagan National Airport. In addition, enhanced coordination protocols have been implemented between military and civilian aircraft near D.C. airspace. In February, Vice President JD Vance, appearing on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures, told anchor Maria Bartiromo that air traffic control is short-staffed, and their software looks "like a video game." He also added that under the Trump administration "our aviation system is going to be much safer." The New York Times reported earlier this year that over 90 percent of air traffic control facilities in the U.S. are understaffed, citing data from the union representing controllers. Republic Airways President and CEO Bryan Bedford testifies during his nomination hearing to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on June 11 in Washington, D.C. Republic Airways President and CEO Bryan Bedford testifies during his nomination hearing to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on June 11 in Washington, People Are Saying FAA administrator Bryan Bedford, who was speaking at the EAA AirVenture air show on Thursday, said: "We can do a better job in leadership. We can help the FAA figure out a strategy, especially around modernization. I'd really like to see us create a culture of trust and collaboration and a little more forward-leaning." Bedford, when confirmed to his position earlier this month, said: "I'm grateful for the opportunity to join the FAA team. I have a deep respect for the important work FAA employees do to protect the safety and efficiency of our national airspace. Building trust and delivering results together will be our focus." Vice President JD Vance told Fox News in February: "The software point is really important, though, because we know if you look at these old, antiquated air traffic control systems, it really does look like a video game. It's 30 years old. We've got better software. We need a federal government that's more responsive to the technology that's out there." Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told Fox News Sunday in February: "It [Notice to Air Mission] has to be upgraded. That's in the works. It has been in the works for years. We have to rush this new system online because, again, this is the second time in two years it's gone down." What Happens Next? The FAA is expected to roll out initial modernization plans later this year, with radar upgrades and tower improvements prioritized in high-traffic zones.
Reuters
6 days ago
- Business
- Reuters
New FAA administrator says state of US air traffic unacceptable, morale low at agency
OSHKOSH, Wisconsin, July 24 (Reuters) - The new head of the Federal Aviation Administration said on Thursday the current state of the aging, understaffed U.S. air traffic control system is "not acceptable," vowing an aggressive modernization effort. New FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford also said morale at the agency is "kind of low" after a fatal crash in January near Reagan Washington National Airport killed 67. The issues plaguing the FAA's air traffic control network have been years in the making, but a rush of high-profile mishaps, near-misses and the catastrophic crash in January between a U.S. Army helicopter and a regional American Airlines (AAL.O), opens new tab spiked public alarm. Congress this month approved $12.5 billion to begin a massive overhaul over five years, while the Trump administration wants another $19 billion. Bedford said at an air show that the U.S. air traffic control system has not been modernized in four decades. "We really do have some significant technology challenges," Bedford said, also calling for FAA leadership improvements and redesigning the national airspace. "We can do a better job in leadership. We can help the FAA figure out a strategy, especially around modernization," said Bedford, who was speaking at the EAA AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. "I'd really like to see us create a culture of trust and collaboration and a little more forward leaning." Bedford, who vowed to be transparent and gave out his email to a large crowd, criticized the administration of Democratic President Joe Biden for not doing more to address air traffic control issues. "Nobody in the Biden administration had any interest in aviation," Bedford said. The FAA plans to upgrade outdated radar and telecommunications systems, air traffic control towers and other facilities. It also plans to increase the staffing of air traffic controllers and has adopted new incentives to retain controllers. A persistent shortage of controllers has delayed flights and many are working mandatory overtime and six-day weeks. The FAA is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy hopes to address that shortfall within three to four years.
Associated Press
23-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
General Aviation Community Unites to Support the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift
OSHKOSH, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 23, 2025-- During the industry's iconic Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, leading general aviation organizations — including EAA and General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) — announced their collective support and endorsement of the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift event. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation and Jack J. Pelton, chairman and CEO, Experimental Aircraft Association celebrate the general aviation community uniting to support the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift during the industry's iconic Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. (Photo: Textron Aviation) The Special Olympics Airlift, organized by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, mobilizes hundreds of volunteer Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker pilots and aircraft to create the world's largest peacetime airlift and provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Special Olympics athletes. This monumental event will transport hundreds of athletes and coaches across the country to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota's Twin Cities. 'The support of EAA, GAMA and our customers across the general aviation community is a powerful testament to the spirit of aviation and its ability to change lives,' said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. 'Together, we are creating unforgettable experiences for these athletes and demonstrating the true heart of our industry.' The industry is calling on Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft owners and operators to come together on Friday, June 19, 2026, and Saturday, June 27, 2026, to enable champions from all corners of the nation to travel to and from the host city, regardless of financial or logistical challenges. Owners and operators of Cessna Citation, Beechcraft King Air and Hawker aircraft can participate by volunteering their aircraft, crew, fuel and time. 'The Special Olympics Airlift is one of the most inspiring demonstrations of what aviation can do to uplift lives and unite communities,' said Jack J. Pelton, chairman and CEO, Experimental Aircraft Association. 'EAA is proud to support this extraordinary mission, and we deeply appreciate the dedication of the pilots and volunteers who make it possible. It's a shining example of aviation's heart.' Since the inception of the Special Olympics Airlift in 1987, Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker owners have transported more than 10,000 athletes and coaches to various Special Olympics World and USA Games. During the 2026 event, participating aircraft known as Doves are expected to touch down or takeoff from St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field (KSTP) every three minutes throughout a 10-hour period. 'The Special Olympics Airlift is an excellent example of how the general aviation community bands together to support special missions and give back. This noble effort provides Special Olympics athletes and coaches with the transportation necessary to create lasting memories of the games and inspiring achievements by the competitors,' said James Viola, president and CEO, GAMA. Everybody needs a lift every now and then. Become a Dove for this monumental nationwide aviation event by visiting View source version on CONTACT: Media Contact:Rachel Williams [email protected] 316.706.7201 KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA WISCONSIN MINNESOTA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SPORTS GENERAL SPORTS PHILANTHROPY TECHNOLOGY FOUNDATION SATELLITE OLYMPICS ENGINEERING AIR TRANSPORT OTHER PHILANTHROPY AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING SOURCE: Textron Aviation Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 07/23/2025 11:11 AM/DISC: 07/23/2025 11:11 AM
Cision Canada
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- Cision Canada
ONE AIRFRAME, TWO FUTURES: H55 AND BRISTELL SHOWCASES THE ONLY GENERAL AVIATION / FLIGHT TRAINER AIRCRAFT IN BOTH ELECTRIC AND COMBUSTION AT EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH Français
SION, Switzerland and OSHKOSH, Wis., July 23, 2025 /CNW/ -- H55 and Bristell are showcasing a unique milestone in aviation at this year's EAA AirVenture: the only general aviation aircraft certified under CS/FAR-23 available in both all-electric and combustion versions. On display at Booths #296 & 297, the Bristell B23 product line—including the fully electric B23 Energic powered by H55's electric propulsion system—offers operators and flight schools a true side-by-side choice for their fleets. This dual offering isn't just a technical achievement—it marks a pivotal step in making clean aviation accessible, scalable, and commercially viable. The B23 Energic, a fully electric two-seat aircraft has been developed with Bristell and is powered by H55's proprietary Electric Propulsion System (EPS). Certified under European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) CS-23 in the first half of 2026, and entry into service in the USA in 2027, the aircraft is designed for flight schools and general aviation, offering zero emissions, quite noise, and comparable operating costs to piston-powered aircraft. Co-founded by the senior management team from Solar Impulse, André Borschberg, Sébastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt, H55 builds on the groundbreaking success of flying around the world without fuel to now delivering real-world electric aviation solutions. André Borschberg, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman, said: " Flying around the world without fuel proved what was possible. With H55, we're making electric flight practical and accessible. During our Across America tour, we've completed nearly 200 passenger flights—and not a single person stepped out without a smile. That emotional connection is translating into real commercial traction. It's a powerful confirmation that electric aviation isn't just part of the future—it's a key pillar of today." Now Taking Off in the U.S. – A Robust Early Customer Base With its first two years of production already sold out, H55 is seeing accelerating demand from U.S. and European operators. The company's Founder's Pioneer Edition offer has driven strong commercial interest, with deposits and signed Letters of Interest (LOIs) nearing full allocation. The message is resonating: certified electric aircraft are no longer a vision—they're a viable business opportunity. Meet the Team & See the Aircraft Up Close Visit Bristell Booths #296 & 297 to explore the B23 Energic in person. Get cockpit briefings from H55's pilots and see the company's electric propulsion system on display. Kristen Jurn, North American Sales Manager, said: "It's exciting to be at Oshkosh for H55's first U.S. appearance. After flying in seven of the eight states on tour and speaking with hundreds of pilots, instructors, and operators, one thing is clear—electric flight is no longer a prototype story. The B23 Energic is real, it's certified in Europe next year, and FAA certification will soon follow. It's quiet, clean, and far more cost-effective to operate—and those who are ready to lead the transition are already lining up. This is more than a debut—it's a game changer." Why It Matters With over 160 takeoffs and landings across seven states during its Across America tour and a 100% safety record, the B23 Energic is proving that electric flight is not only viable—it's ready for commercial adoption. The key benefits of the B23 Energic include: Quiet & Comfortable: No vibration or cabin noise, enhancing pilot and student concentration drastically decreasing the pilot workload and physiological fatigue. Ground Efficient: Low energy consumption during taxiing and circuit training. Block time and flight time are almost the same due to the absence of run-up needs and very short check-list procedure. Pilot-Friendly Simplicity: No oil changes, fouled spark plugs, faulty magnetos, or weight shifts from fuel burn—just pure focus on flying. Reliable Endurance: Up to 90-minutes of endurance with an equal recharge time for US delivery models. Easy Charging: Compatible with standard DC CCS automotive charging. Leading the Charge Across America Since April, H55 has flown across seven U.S. states—from Florida to Wisconsin—connecting with flight schools, airport operators, regulators, aerospace universities, and government officials. With commercial momentum building, H55 is helping to define the next chapter in sustaining and defining general aviation flight as clean, quiet, and cost-effective. To schedule a meeting or interview, please contact: Tamar Burton – U.S. Media Relations, [email protected] About H55 H55 is a Swiss-based company founded by the former Solar Impulse management team: André Borschberg, Sebastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt. Dedicated to revolutionizing the aviation industry, H55 provides certified electric propulsion and battery management systems tailored to a diverse range of aircraft, aiming to achieve sustainable air travel. H55 supplies certified electric propulsion systems with full airplane integration solutions for general aviation and regional transport aircraft. Through its pioneering legacy and commitment to certified solutions, H55's team of visionary engineers and aerospace experts are at the forefront of driving the aviation industry setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of electric aviation.
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cirrus Unveils Cirrus Airframe Parachute Lined-Bag Collection
DULUTH, Minn & KNOXVILLE, Tenn. & OSHKOSH, Wis., July 17, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cirrus, Cirrus Aircraft Limited (2507:HK), is introducing a collection of handcrafted, aviation-inspired travel bags utilizing upcycled parachute material repurposed from the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®). The bags are handmade by Duluth Pack, the oldest canvas and leather bag maker in the United States, and are available for the first time at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025. Fusing sustainability with durability and timeless design, each bag is constructed using upcycled Cirrus parachute fabric and rugged canvas. Cirrus and Duluth Pack bags are both made in the United States with headquarters in Duluth, Minn. Cirrus is known for revolutionizing the personal aviation industry with innovations such as the CAPS, an FAA-certified whole airframe parachute system designed to safely lower the aircraft and its occupants to the ground in an emergency. The Cirrus Parachute-Lined Collection includes: Cirrus Duffel with Parachute Lining: Industrial-grade construction, dual side-zip pockets and ample capacity for weekend gear. Logbook Briefcase with Parachute Lining: Sleek and durable, ideal for carrying flight logs, documents or a tablet. Pilot Overnighter Bag with Parachute Lining: Compact and designed for versatility with space for toiletries, shoes, a headset and a laptop. Each item is hand-built in Duluth, with the inner lining cut individually by hand from Cirrus parachute canopies and then layered with canvas over the upcycled parachute lining. The layers are stitched together to form a single, durable bag. Cirrus parachutes used in the lining are composed of Kevlar, Nylon and Vectran cordage. The parachute itself spans 2,349 square feet, with a diameter of 54.7 feet and contains cords stretching over a mile long. To purchase a Cirrus Parachute-Lined bag, visit booth #183-188 on Celebration Way during EAA AirVenture or the Cirrus Store. About Cirrus Cirrus is the recognized global leader in personal aviation and the maker of the best-selling SR Series piston aircraft and the Vision Jet®, the world's first single-engine Personal Jet™, and the recipient of the Robert J. Collier Trophy. Founded in 1984, the company has redefined aviation performance, comfort and safety with innovations like the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®) – the first FAA-certified whole-airframe parachute safety system included as standard equipment on an aircraft. To date, worldwide flight time on Cirrus aircraft is 18 million hours, and 270 people have returned home safely to their families as a result of the inclusion of CAPS as a standard feature on all Cirrus aircraft. The company has seven locations in the United States, including Duluth, Minnesota; Grand Forks, North Dakota; Greater Dallas, Texas; Greater Phoenix, Arizona; and Greater Orlando, Florida; Knoxville, Tennessee and Benton Harbor, Michigan. Learn more at View source version on Contacts Media Contact Nadia HaidarPR Manager, Cirrus+1-865-336-6153nhaidar@
