New Flight Levels Out Now

The newest edition of Flight Levels is out now. Read about Gemini Air Group, Twin Commander’s newest Factory Authorized Service Center, and Tim Carpay, the company’s founder. We also have a conversation with our own Mark Twombly to get his thoughts on Twin Commander Aircraft’s changes over the years, and why it’s so much fun to fly the airplane. Looking for an updated fuel filler cap, or need a new entryway step strut? Find out about the latest Twin Commander Aircraft development projects. Become a better pilot with tips on programing holds in the Garmin, or dream about faraway flying vacations with Air Journey. You can find all this and more in the issue or online.

FAA Unveils ADS-B Blocking Procedure

Aircraft owners concerned about privacy in the age of ADS-B now have a solution. Late last year the FAA announced a program that enables users to block ADS-B’s in-depth tracking mechanisms to public view. To participate the aircraft owner/operator must go through a series of steps, including registering on the FAA’s website, and applying for a call sign through a third-party provider, such as Foreflight and FltPlan.com. To be eligible the aircraft must be registered in the United States, have 1090 MHz ADS-B equipment, and be flying in U.S. airspace. See the FAA’s website for more information.

Dates for 2020 Maintenance Class Set

Eagle Creek Aviation Services has set this year’s class dates for the Twin Commander Initial Maintenance Course. The course has been lengthened to conform to EASA rules, and to include information about the Garmin G950 STC. Class dates are April 20-29 and September 21-30. The course is a combination of class work and hands-on aircraft demonstrations. Each attendee will receive printed and digital course materials, and graduates obtain a certificate and record of training. Classes are held at Eagle Creek Aviation Services in Indianapolis, and the fee is $5,000. For more information or to sign up, contact Mike Grabbe at 317-293-6935 or [email protected].

Insurance Rates Climbing

Have you seen premium increases on your aviation insurance policy? You’re not alone. Rates are rising across the industry, according to Greg Reba of Reba Aviation Insurance. Whether it’s a two-pilot Gulfstream, a single-pilot TBM, or a Twin Commander, Reba said rates are going up an average of about 15 percent across the board. Pilots transitioning up from high performance pistons to a turboprop are likely to see large increases, and they can expect to undergo training and supervised experience. Increases are due to a number of factors, including low profits for underwriters in previous years, big recent losses, and fewer underwriters in the market. Reba said rates are still less expensive than they were a decade ago but that, “It’s stormy weather ahead.”