Welcome to our May 2024 Aviation News Brief. In today’s edition: Mississippi Transportation Commission grants $30 million in grants for Mississippi ports, airports, and railroads plus a tornado touched down near an Omaha airport. Find out more below.
From Wright Brothers to Modern Skies: The Complex Journey of Developing Unleaded Avgas
Amidst ongoing confusion about the transition to unleaded avgas, understanding the evolution of aviation gasoline specifications can be enlightening. Originally, the Wright brothers used a simple straight-run fuel, adequate for their short initial flights despite pre-ignition issues due to poor engine cooling.
As aircraft performance demands increased, especially during World War II, high-octane fuels were developed to enhance fighter aircraft capabilities at high altitudes. This led to the 1947 ASTM D-910 specification, which has remained largely unchanged.
Today, avgas constitute a tiny fraction of total fuel production, complicating the economic drive for innovation in unleaded alternatives. The current challenge lies in formulating a specification that accommodates a wide range of components and aircraft, a far more complex task than in the past when avgas options were more limited. Read more here: https://generalaviationnews.com/2024/04/25/avgas-from-the-wright-brothers-to-today/
From Boneyard to Blue Skies: The Restoration of America's First Air Force One
Once left to decay in the deserts of Arizona, the historic Lockheed Constellation known as Columbine II—America's original Air Force One—is being meticulously restored to its former glory. Used by President Eisenhower from 1952 to 1954, this iconic aircraft was the first to carry the prestigious call sign.
Now, under the careful watch of restoration experts and aviation enthusiasts at Dynamic Aviation in Bridgewater, VA, Columbine II is set to soar again as a flying museum, preserving a pivotal piece of presidential and aviation history. Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of this treasured aircraft, from near abandonment to a symbol of American innovation and heritage. https://nbaa.org/news/business-aviation-insider/202405/the-first-air-force-one/
Tornado Brushes Omaha's Eppley Airfield; Minimal Damage, No Injuries
Omaha’s Eppley Airfield experienced a close call when a tornado touched down nearby on April 26th at 5:08 p.m. While the main terminal was spared, the Omaha Airport Authority reported some structural damage to buildings on the east side, specifically within the General Aviation area. Remarkably, no injuries were reported. Airport officials swiftly secured all passengers in shelters, ensuring their safety, and operations resumed normally by just before 6 p.m., showcasing the resilience and quick response of airport staff and emergency protocols. Read more here:
https://www.wowt.com/2024/04/27/tornado-touches-down-eppley-airfield-damage-reported-some-buildings/
Mississippi Injects $30 Million into Transportation Infrastructure Boost
The Mississippi Transportation Commission has announced a substantial investment of $30 million in grants aimed at enhancing the state's critical transportation infrastructure. This funding boost will benefit a variety of key projects across Mississippi's ports, airports, and railroads, supporting upgrades and expansions that are essential for boosting local economies and improving connectivity. The initiative underscores Mississippi's commitment to modernizing its transportation facilities and ensuring they remain competitive and efficient for the future. Learn more on WTVA.com
That’s a wrap on this month’s aviation news brief. Thanks for joining us!
