See Ike’s Commander in Action
“These airplanes are nothing more than metal, rubber, and aluminum. But they represent those people who over a stretch of time in our history made something incredible happen.” This quote from Commemorative Air Force (CAF) volunteer Gerald Oliver, said while sitting in front of President Dwight Eisenhower’s L-26 Aero Commander, is an astute observation to what makes airplanes so special to us. Oliver was interviewed as part of a feature story and video published by AOPA on the famous Commander that served as Air Force One and shuttled Eisenhower between Washington, D.C., and his farm in Gettysburg, PA. The CAF restored the airplane, which Oliver claims to be the only flying L-26, and the organization now offers rides in the airplane as a way to generate support and show off a piece of living history for veterans and others. You can watch the full video on YouTube 52(12.8%), and read the story in an upcoming issue of AOPA PILOT magazine.
Summer Flight Levels Online Now
Roedie Botes might have the coolest aircraft registration in the world. But ZS-OOM, his 690B based in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, is notable for much more than its go-fast name. After buying the airplane during the Covid lockdowns, Botes embarked on a complete upgrade, and ditched every steam gauge in the panel. That includes custom electronic engine instruments from Electronics International. You can read the feature story 64(15.8%) in the latest issue of Flight Levels Online. Also in this issue, read how Twin Commander Factory Authorized Service Center the GAM Group 33(8.1%) keeps Australia running with its huge fleet of Commanders, expert maintenance facilities, and extensive parts stock. Aero Air’s Andre Pridgen explains the proper way to replace windshields 36(8.9%), and The Commander Guy, Barry Lane, describes why little differences 39(9.6%) between the models can have big impacts on operations. You can read these stories and many others in the latest edition, online now 63(15.6%).
Maintenance Alert Issued for Cracks in Lower Wing Skin Cutouts
Twin Commander Aircraft has issued a maintenance alert 66(16.3%) for cracking in the lower wing skin cutouts in the forward portion of the main landing gear truss. A longtime area of focus for owners and technicians, two reports from the field noted small cracks extending forward and aft from the radii of the lower wing skin cutouts. The maintenance alert calls for operators to work with a Twin Commander Authorized Service Center within the next six months to undergo detailed visual inspections and either eddy current or liquid penetrant inspections of the affected area. Maintenance facilities are encouraged to report the results of the inspections to Twin Commander Aircraft by calling 919-956-4300, emailing [email protected], or by submitting the card attached to the alert.
