Search

This article provides information on different types of big aircraft that private pilots can fly without a type rating. It discusses the Cessna 208 Caravan, Grumman Goose, de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, Beechcraft King Air 260, and Antonov An-2 Colt. Each aircraft has its own advantages and considerations for pilots. The Twin Otter is versatile and suitable for rough and unimproved runways, while the King Air 260 offers comfortable transportation between established airports. The An-2 Colt is a rugged and dependable aircraft with a unique charm and history. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides an overview of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and its efforts to combat wildfires in the state. CAL FIRE is responsible for protecting natural resources and managing the state forest system. They utilize a fleet of aircraft, including OV-10 Broncos and Sikorsky S70i Firehawks, to fight wildfires and coordinate with ground crews. CAL FIRE's aviation program, funded by the state, works closely with the Tactical Air Operations program to provide effective aerial firefighting capabilities. The introduction of the new generation of S70i CAL Firehawk helicopters has significantly improved CAL FIRE's firefighting operations, with enhanced safety features, increased payload capacity, and the ability to operate at night. CAL FIRE also invests in training simulators for its pilots, saving money and reducing maintenance time. The fleet is being upgraded with new Sikorsky S-70i CAL Firehawk helicopters, which can carry nearly three times the amount of fire retardant as the previous helicopters. [Extracted from the article]

Provides information about Aluminum Overcast, a B-17 airplane owned by aviator Hugh Wheelless that was later donated to the Experimental Aircraft Association. Purchase of Aluminum Overcast by a group of investors in 1978; Experience of an engine fire by a pilot while flying the B-17; Restoration of the airplane in commemoration of a B-17 that was shot down in France in 1944.

Focuses on Fuddy Duddy, a Boeing B-17G bomber. Features and capabilities; Combat engagement of B-17; Improvements in Fuddy Duddy.

Features the Swoose, a vintage B-17D Flying Fortresses that was in service for the entire length of the World War II.

Presents a ride in its Aluminum Overcast B-17 airplane bomber as the main prize by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for its 1995 Oshkosh Air Show contest. Builders and restorers of the Aluminum Overcast; Ammunition and equipment of the bomber which have been restored; History of the aircraft.

Presents letters to the editor in response to articles discussed in previous issues. Views on the B-17 Flying Fortress bomber; Response to the article "A Dog's Life in the Air," by Dick Karl on private flying with a pet dog; Recollections on the design and construction of the B-52 Stratofortress bomber.

Reflects on the author's experience aboard the B-17 bomber. Description of the flight; Lessons learned from the experience.

Focuses on the author's participation in the 1996 Oshkosh Air Show aboard a Boeing B-17 craft. Selection of the craft to ride to the event; Reasons for choosing a B-17; Capabilities and features.

Presents an air pilot's account of his experience while flying a B-17 bomber during World War II in Germany. Air worthiness of the plane; Description of how enemy jet fighters were beaten; Conversations with a former German enemy.

Presents letters to the editor in response to a pilot's flight experiences with B-17 bomber planes, featured in the article "Bomber Run Over the Texas Coast," published in the October 2004 issue of "Flying."

Presents information on historical events in aviation, including the use of B-17 during World War II.

Reports that the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston, Texas received a grant to maintain its B-17 bomber Thunderbird. Building of an educational display about B-17s; Contact information.