Welcome to Rebel Service’s March 2024 Aviation News! Here’s a look at what’s been happening in the aviation industry over the last few weeks.
National Guard Helicopter Crash in North Mississippi Claims Lives of Two Pilots
Unfortunately, we start this month’s news off tragically. On Friday, February 23rd, 2024, a military helicopter flown by two Mississippi National Guardsman crashed during a training exercise in south Prentiss County, Mississippi. Both pilots, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Derek Abbott and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Bryan Zemek, lost their lives. According to Stars and Stripes, “ Zemek was in Alpha Company 1st Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment serving as an AH-64 Delta Apache Standardization Instructor Pilot in Tupelo. Abbott served as a maintenance test pilot in Delta Company of the 2nd Battalion, 151st Lakota Medical Evacuation Unit. Our team at Rebel Services mourns the loss of our local guardsmen and our prayers are with their families and friends. You can read more about the crash here.
“Retired” Aircraft Batteries Receive New Life with Wisconsin-Based Energy Company
As electric aircraft gain traction, a pressing question arises: What becomes of batteries that are no longer viable for flight but still possess usable life? Neenah-based Volatus Infrastructure & Energy Solutions, in collaboration with ScoutIt, is addressing this challenge by repurposing Electric Vehicle (EV) batteries for their new "battery wall" product line. This initiative aims to create off-grid charging solutions, providing a second life for batteries that would otherwise be discarded. ScoutIt's Founder and CEO, Davide Giacobbe, sees this collaboration as a crucial step in establishing a sustainable strategy for battery disposal and repurposing, ensuring a greener future for the aviation industry. Read more here.
NBAA Challenges IRS Audits on Business Aircraft Usage
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is pushing back against the Internal Revenue Service's plan to conduct numerous audits of business aircraft usage by American companies and entrepreneurs. NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen criticized the move, defending the integrity of companies relying on business aviation to compete globally. Bolen emphasized the significant economic impact of business aviation, underlining its role in job creation and GDP growth. He reiterated the importance of compliance with tax laws and Securities and Exchange Commission rules among companies utilizing business aviation, stressing its approved usage for reasons of efficiency, productivity, and safety. Learn more here.
GAMA President Discusses Future of General Aviation at 2024 State of the Industry
Amidst a banner year for general aviation in 2023, the outlook for 2024 remains promising, albeit with challenges to overcome. With over 4,000 aircraft delivered last year, GAMA President Pete Bunce celebrates the industry's robust and sustained growth across all segments. However, amidst this positivity, Bunce acknowledges ongoing supply chain issues, workforce shortages, and regulatory uncertainties that demand attention. Despite these hurdles, Bunce remains optimistic, underscoring the industry's resilience and the need for strategic planning to ensure continued success in the year ahead. Read more at General Aviation News.
Air Methods Hiring for Helicopter Pilot in Emporia, KS
If you’re a pilot looking for a fresh start in a great small town, Air Methods has an excellent opportunity for a helicopter pilot in Emporia, Kansas. Benefits include a $15k sign-on bonus, a $5k stipend, and a 110% geo modifier. Off-duty housing is also available. Applications are now open here.
That’s a wrap on this month’s Aviation News. Stay tuned for more news coming soon!
