Aviation News Talk – Pilot Stories, Safety Tips & General Aviation News

Max talks with John Fiscus of The Flight Academy to break down two Cirrus SR22 accidents that highlight the extremes of safety outcomes in general aviation: one a dramatic survival story, the other a heartbreaking tragedy.

Accident 1: CAPS Parachute Save over Lake Michigan

The first accident involved a Cirrus SR22 (N121JB) that suffered engine failure shortly after reaching 7,500 feet on a flight across Lake Michigan. The pilot and passengers had life vests ready, immediately turned toward shore, declared a mayday, and deployed the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). T...

Max talks with Bret Koebbe, Vice President of Sporty’s Pilot Shop, about how Starlink internet access is entering general aviation cockpits and what that means for pilots today and in the future.

For decades, cockpit connectivity was mostly reserved for the airlines. Systems like Gogo provided limited bandwidth, required expensive antennas, and were impractical for piston aircraft. GA pilots relied on ADS-B weather, portable receivers, or Iridium text messaging to stay connected. That landscape has shifted with the Starlink Mini, a portable satellite dish small enough to fit in a 182 or Cirrus, delivering broadband internet in fl...

Max talks with Cyriel Kronenberg, Vice President of Airports and Air Traffic Management at uAvionix and a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol’s National Radar Analysis Team (NRAT), about one of aviation’s most overlooked safety questions: if you survive a crash, how quickly will you be found?

How Long Searches TakeCyriel explains that while ADS-B has shortened search times, the reality is sobering. Without a flight plan, overdue aircraft may not even be reported missing for hours. Average search times have historically stretched from 18 hours with a VFR flight plan to more...

Max Trescott talks with Ken Solosky, the NYPD's Chief Pilot on 9/11, about his experiences managing helicopter operations on one of the most catastrophic days in American history. Though Ken wasn’t flying at the moment of the attacks, he was on the ground coordinating the NYPD’s aviation response. He recounts how what began as a seemingly routine aircraft accident quickly escalated into a full-blown national emergency. The aviation unit scrambled a standard rescue package—Bell 412s with divers and crew chiefs, and patrol helicopters—only to face total communication breakdowns. Cell service and landlines failed, radio channels were overload...

Max talks with airline pilot and Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) Jim Pitman to clear up a persistent avionics myth: that pressing the APR (Approach) key activates a GPS approach. In reality, APR is part of the automatic flight control system (AFCS)—not the GPS navigator. Its function is to arm the flight director’s lateral and vertical capture modes so the autopilot (if engaged) can follow the approach path. You can also view a video version of this episode. Just look on the page for August 15, 2025 video. And while you're on that page, please sign up to support the show...

In this episode of the Aviation News Talk podcast, Max Trescott talks with Sean Elliott, Vice President of Advocacy and Safety at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), about the FAA’s groundbreaking MOSAIC final rule—and how it benefits all pilots, not just sport pilots or Light-Sport Aircraft owners.

Sean explains that MOSAIC replaces the old, restrictive Light-Sport Aircraft definition with a performance-based standard, removing the long-standing 1,320-pound maximum takeoff weight limit and focusing instead on a clean stall speed (VS1) of no more than 59 knots CAS for sport pilot privileges and a land...

Ken Solosky was the NYPD's Chief Pilot on 9/11, responsible for coordinating helicopter operations during the most devastating day in modern American history. In this short teaser, you'll hear a preview of our in-depth interview with Ken, including why rooftop rescues at the World Trade Center weren't attempted and how the team coped with confusion, misinformation, and tragic loss.

The full episode is available now on our new podcast: Rotary Wing Show. Listen and subscribe in your favorite podcast app, by clicking on the link above, and then click the Follow button in the upper right.

Or...

Max talks about a dramatic ground collision between two Pasadena Police Department helicopters and the wide-ranging lessons pilots can draw from it. On November 17, 2012, two Bell OH-58 helicopters collided at the Pasadena PD Benedict Heliport when one returned from a flight and struck another that was sitting on the pad with its rotors turning. Six people suffered minor injuries, but the accident destroyed both aircraft and revealed systemic issues far beyond a single pilot error.

Max uses the NTSB report and audio clips from the Rotary Wing Show—where host Mick Cullen interviewed Da...

Max talks with Tom Turner, Executive Director of the American Bonanza Society’s Air Safety Foundation, about an extraordinary initiative to preserve the operational future of the iconic V-tail Bonanza aircraft. When Textron Aviation quietly stopped producing the magnesium ruddervator skins—a unique flight control surface used only on V-tail Bonanzas—it left over 5,000 aircraft potentially grounded due to a lack of repair parts. Even minor damage could make these aircraft unrepairable.

To solve this crisis, the ABS Air Safety Foundation awarded the $500,000 Maciel Ruddervator Prize to SRS Aviation of Minnesota. Tom explains the hi...

Max talks with Cole Crawford from ForeFlight about the company’s latest innovation: Dynamic Procedures. Built to replace the static, legacy approach chart paradigm, Dynamic Procedures enables pilots to access IFR approach information dynamically, contextually, and interactively—right from the ForeFlight map screen.

Cole explains that most pilots spend their time in ForeFlight’s moving map, but approach procedures often pulled them out of that environment into static “plates.” Dynamic Procedures changes that by embedding approach information into the map itself, using a smart sidebar that adjusts to what’s relevant—no more scanning throu...

Max Trescott teams up with Tom Turner—executive director of the American Bonanza Society’s Air Safety Foundation—to help listener Marc Brodecki weigh options for earning his private pilot certificate. Marc, a 39-year-old aerospace engineer in Los Angeles with glider experience, is evaluating three flight training options: a nearby tailwheel-focused school (that includes a Stearman), a larger flight school at Torrance using Sling aircraft, or buying and learning in the Beechcraft Bonanza he eventually wants to own.

Tom provides extensive guidance on Bonanza ownership. He discusses which Bonanza models (S-35 or early V-35...

Max Trescott takes listeners inside the cockpit of the future in episode 390, as he shares his firsthand experience flying the fully electric Bristell B23 Energic trainer and talks with executives from H55, the Swiss company behind its electric propulsion system. This in-depth episode explores the technical, operational, and strategic aspects of electric flight training aircraft.

The B23 Energic is a joint project between Czech aircraft manufacturer BRM Aero and H55, the latter founded by the team behind the Solar Impulse aircraft that flew around the world on solar power. Max discusses how H55...

Max Trescott interviews Dr. John Trowbridge, a physician and former senior Aviation Medical Examiner, to tackle a hidden yet critical safety topic: how over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications contribute to general aviation accidents. Studies have found that up to 40% of fatal accidents involve pilots with impairing substances in their system—ranging from allergy medications to sleep aids to alcohol. The problem? Many of these substances are legal and even commonplace, yet can significantly degrade judgment, memory, attention, and coordination.

Dr. Trowbridge emphasizes that many pilots—and even their doctors—are unaware of FAA wait-t...

Max Trescott welcomes aviation columnist, aerobatic instructor, and DPE Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro to explore smarter ways to plan cross-country flights. The conversation is inspired by Catherine’s June 2025 AOPA article titled “The Benefits of Getting High,” which argues that pilots often default to lower cruising altitudes or direct GPS routes without considering efficiency or safety trade-offs.Catherine explains that pilots should dig into their aircraft’s POH (Pilot’s Operating Handbook) to find performance charts that highlight how altitude affects both time and fuel efficiency. For her Bonanza, she found that the highest true airspeed at 65% pow...

Max talks about common gotchas with RNAV GPS approaches, especially when using vectors to final (VTF). The conversation picks up where Episode 383 left off, with listeners asking how vectors to final (VTF) influences glidepath capture on WAAS approaches.

He explains that under normal circumstances—flying the approach via own navigation from an initial approach fix (IAF)—the GPS glidepath doesn’t turn magenta or allow autopilot coupling until the FAF becomes the active waypoint. The magenta color indicates that the GPS receiver has completed a signal quality evaluation, verifying that the WAAS signal is goo...

A cabin door pops open just after takeoff. It’s noisy, surprising—but the aircraft is still flying just fine. So why are general aviation pilots still crashing and dying in these scenarios? In this episode, Max explores the unsettling trend of fatal accidents caused not by mechanical failure, but by how pilots react to in-flight distractions—specifically, an open cabin or baggage door.

In just the first five months of 2025, four U.S. GA crashes involved doors opening shortly after takeoff. Three were fatal; the fourth resulted in serious burn injuries.

Max w...

Max Trescott examines the tragic crash of a Citation S550, N666DS, in San Diego during an attempted RNAV (GPS) 28R approach to Montgomery Field at approximately 3:46 AM. After departing Teterboro, NJ, and making a fuel stop at Wichita's Jabara Field, the pilot continued westbound overnight.

After refueling, the flight continued to San Diego, where the Montgomery Field AWOS was inoperative, and weather was marginal. The pilot requested weather at nearby airports.

The aircraft correctly crossed the final approach fix PENYY at 2500 feet but then flew below the glide path and...

Max Trescott and Rob Mark launch the first episode of NTSB News Talk, diving into NTSB agency news, recent accidents and newly published NTSB reports to help pilots better understand accident causes and improve decision-making in the cockpit. Please help us improve the show by sending us your feedback here. To hear future episodes of NTSB News Talk, Follow or Subscribe to the show in your podcast app.

They begin with a surprising administrative shake-up: the unexplained termination of NTSB Vice Chairman Alvin Brown . Rob questions the lack of transparency, pointing out how an independent ag...

Max tackles a common frustration among pilots: why RNAV (GPS) glide paths sometimes fail to couple with the autopilot. A recent Facebook post from a pilot flying a Cirrus SR22T triggered the discussion, as the poster encountered exactly this problem during an LPV approach, mistakenly attributing it to an expired database. Max explains that the real culprit was a fundamental misunderstanding of RNAV approach procedures.

Unlike an ILS glide slope, which is a physical radio beam transmitted from ground equipment, an RNAV glide path is a computed construct generated by the aircraft’s...

Max Trescott shares his top recommended settings for Garmin avionics systems, specifically the G1000, G1000 NXi, G3000, G5000, and the Cirrus Perspective and Perspective+ systems. These configuration tips enhance situational awareness, flight safety, and pilot efficiency—and many also apply to Garmin standalone navigators like the GTN 650 and 750.

The episode begins with a critical safety upgrade: switching the Traffic Page vectors from Absolute to Relative. Unlike absolute vectors (which only show heading), relative vectors display a target aircraft’s flight path in relation to your own—allowing you to detect potential collision courses earlie...

Dr. Victor Vogel, a former oncologist turned flight instructor, founded the nonprofit Susquehanna STEM to the Skies to improve STEM education in rural Pennsylvania. The aviation-based STEM program was launched to address declining science and math scores among students, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. By combining aviation concepts with hands-on learning, the program offers a powerful way to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in real-world contexts.

Victor discovered that aviation offers rich, practical applications for STEM—such as flight navigation, time-speed-distance calculations, weight and balance, and engineering challenges. At the heart of th...

In this special crossover episode, Max Trescott, host of the Aviation News Talk podcast, appears as a guest on Dr. Tony Kern’s Only Human podcast. The two aviation safety advocates engage in a candid, insightful conversation that bridges their shared backgrounds in aviation, safety culture, and leadership.

The episode begins with a segment called “This Week in Safety Land,” spotlighting a tragic helicopter crash involving tourists over the Hudson River. The Director of Operations (DO) at the company involved chose to cease operations pending investigation, only to be overruled and fired by the CE...

Max talks with ferry pilot Sarah Rovner, founder of Full Throttle Aviation, about her adventures and challenges flying planes across continents. Sarah stumbled into ferry flying when she helped deliver a plane and quickly found herself flying everything from gliders to agricultural aircraft across Central America and even the Atlantic. Her unique edge wasn’t just piloting—it was handling the complex international paperwork required for cross-border flights.

Sarah explains the nuances of flying foreign-registered aircraft, using handlers, and dealing with customs and regulatory hurdles in countries like Mexico and Canada. She...

Max discusses engine-out scenarios and best glide strategies, prompted by listener feedback on Episode 372, which analyzed the crash of a Bonanza B35B (N2UZ) that suffered engine failure at 7,500 feet near Charlottesville, VA. Although the pilot did many things correctly, he overshot a long field and crashed. Max highlights choices that might have improved the outcome, such as flight following and alternate route planning.

Listener emails, read by Aviation News Talk intern Kelly, offer insights and experiences. Karen Larson shares how a conversation about the episode helped her husband safely...

Max talks with Dr. Tony Kern about human error, airmanship, and the hidden threats pilots pose to themselves. Tony shares how his passion for understanding error began with the tragic loss of two of his former B-1 bomber students in 1992. The crash, attributed to "a failure of airmanship," prompted him to research the elusive meaning of that term—work that eventually led to his book Redefining Airmanship.

Beyond medical transport, they assist military veterans by flying them to camps designed for rehabilitation, as well as special events like Major League Baseball ga...

Max talks with Adam Broun of PALS SkyHope, a volunteer pilot organization that provides free air transportation for medical patients, veterans, and others in need. Founded in 2010 by three pilots in the Northeast, PALS SkyHope has conducted over 34,000 flights, serving more than 4,000 families.

Beyond medical transport, they assist military veterans by flying them to camps designed for rehabilitation, as well as special events like Major League Baseball games. They also provide commercial airline tickets, through partnerships with JetBlue and Southwest, as backup transportation.

Safety is a major...

Max talks about the NTSB’s final report on the fatal crash of a Piper PA-28-140 in Moab, Utah, in October 2023. The crash killed a North Dakota State Senator, his wife, and their two children. The probable cause was spatial disorientation due to somatogravic illusion, leading to controlled flight into terrain.

Despite being an experienced military helicopter pilot with over 2,000 flight hours, the pilot had limited fixed-wing and night-flying experience. The crash occurred on a dark night with no moon, conditions that significantly increase accident risk. ADS-B data shows the ai...

The NTSB held a press conference to provide preliminary findings from the flight Max talks about new findings from the NTSB Preliminary Report on the midair collision over the Potomac River involving a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines regional jet near Reagan National Airport (DCA). The episode features audio from NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy and DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, highlighting the systemic risks in the airspace.

The report reveals a history of frequent near-midair collisions at DCA, with 85 close encounters (under 200 feet vertical, 1,500 feet lateral separation...

Max talks with Ranferi Denova about what pilots need to know about flying small planes to Mexico, though the advice applies broadly to international flights from the U.S., including to Canada and the Caribbean. Ranferi assures pilots that flying to Mexico is safe and rewarding, provided they plan ahead and follow proper procedures.

He details aircraft and pilot documentation requirements, such as an airworthiness certificate, insurance, and an FCC radio license. He also explains essential paperwork, like the Mexican flight permit (A IU) and the newly required LOPA...

Max gives and update on the Learjet crash in Scottsdale and the crash of a Cirrus SR22 in Santa Barbara. He also analyzes the crash of N2UZ, a Bonanza B35B, which suffered an engine failure at 7,500 feet while flying over Virginia. The well-trained pilot attempted to glide to Charlottesville Airport (KCHO) but crashed in a wooded area just beyond a 3,000-foot-long field. ADS-B data shows that the aircraft’s10.2:1 glide ratio was insufficient to reach the airport from its initial altitude. He discusses factors that could have altered the outcome, including diverting to Snow Hill, a...

Max talks with Connor Hailey from ForeFlight about their new aircraft insurance comparison tool, designed to help aircraft owners evaluate their insurance policies. The tool allows users to upload their current policy, which is analyzed using AI to extract key details. Pilots can verify and adjust their information, including certificates, ratings, and flight hours, which ForeFlight Logbook can auto-fill. The tool then compares the extracted policy details against an aggregated range of similar policies, showing whether the premium is fair.

The tool is currently only available to U.S.-based aircraft...

Rachael Webster recounts the surreal experience of having her airplane stolen from Palo Alto Airport. Initially mistaking the tampered aircraft for a kind gesture, she later received a call from the club informing her that her Citabria had been stolen and flown toward San Carlos with its transponder off. The aircraft was eventually discovered, nose-down but largely intact, on a beach south of Half Moon Bay. The thief, a man calling himself “Sun Rock,” had allegedly sought to expose airport security flaws. After landing, he went for tacos and was promptly arrested.

Th...

The NTSB held a press conference to provide preliminary findings from the flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) related to the January 29 midair collision near Reagan National Airport between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines CRJ regional jet. The Black Hawk was conducting a checkride with night vision goggles and was following FAA-designated helicopter routes. The CRJ was cleared for a visual approach to Runway 33.

The investigation revealed discrepancies in altitude readings from the Black Hawk’s instruments, raising concerns about possible erroneous al...

Max interviews Jeff Guzzetti, a former NTSB investigator, to discuss the accident investigation process, in relation to the DC midair collision. Jeff explains ICAO Annex 13, the international standard that guides accident investigations worldwide. He details the NTSB’s congressional mandate to investigate every civil aviation accident and explains their resource constraints, which often require FAA inspectors to assist.

The conversation covers the NTSB’s investigative process, including the launch of a GO team for major accidents, the role of accredited representatives, and the importance of securing accident sites. Jeff discusses the retr...

Max provides updates on the midair collision over the Potomac River between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a regional jet, followed by an analysis of the fatal crash of a Learjet 55 in Philadelphia.

Regarding the Potomac collision, the episode clarifies earlier reports about the Black Hawk's flight path, noting that it was slightly off its assigned helicopter route but not landing at Reagan National. Preliminary findings indicate that the helicopter was higher than permitted and slightly off course. The episode also examines ATC staffing at the time of...

Max discusses the tragic midair collision at Reagan National Airport between a PSA Airlines CRJ700 regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The midair crash over the Potomac River was captured by a Kennedy Center webcam.

ATC instructed the Army helicopter to follow the airliner to Runway 33, but it did not comply. The helicopter was not transmitting ADS-B Out, though its position was tracked using Mode S transponders. TCAS alerts are disabled below 400 feet, meaning the pilots had no automated warning. Nighttime perception challenges likely contributed to the...

Note: There is a video version of this episode for Patreon.com supporters at the $20/month level, which also gives you access to over 90 other videos. Max Trescott talks with Patrick Lienhart about FlySto.net, a platform bringing Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) to general aviation (GA). FOQA, widely used by airlines, collects and analyzes flight data to enhance safety by identifying trends before they lead to incidents. FlySto applies similar principles, allowing GA pilots to review their flights, compare data, and track performance improvements.

FlySto offers multiple perspectives, i...

Max talks with Jim Goldfuss about his journey from a career in logistics and retail to fulfilling his dream of flying professionally with PlaneSense, a fractional aircraft ownership company. Growing up around aviation, Jim earned his private pilot’s license in 1989 but paused his flying ambitions due to financial constraints. Decades later, with stable finances and family support, he resumed training, earning his instrument rating, commercial license, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate between 2020 and 2022.

Jim credits his time as a CFI with sharpening his aviation skills and communication abilities, which pr...

Max talks with Dr. Mark Alford, who shares his journey transitioning to the Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet. He completed a nine-day type rating course in Knoxville, preparing through extensive study and simulator sessions to master the jet’s systems and emergency procedures.

Mark highlights the challenges and rewards of his Supervised Operating Experience (SOE) with Max, which involved 25 hours of mentorship to remove his type rating restriction. They undertook diverse flights, including weather flying, night landings, and mountain approaches, like Eagle County Airport’s challenging RNAV GPS approach and high-performance departure. Mark...

In this Aviation News Talk episode, Max Trescott analyzes the recent crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, in South Korea. The aircraft landed gear-up on runway 19 at Muan International Airport, slid down the runway, hit a concrete berm, and burst into flames, leaving only two survivors among the crew. He performed a video analysis of the aircraft’s speed along the runway and concluded that the aircraft didn’t slow until after it left the runway, suggesting the engines were still at high power during the slide.

The incident unfo...

Max talks with Jason Blair, a DPE, about multi-engine ratings and training challenges. Jason explains that most pilots pursue multi-engine ratings as add-ons to their commercial certificates. He advises following an efficient training path: private single-engine, instrument rating, commercial single-engine, and finally, the multi-engine add-on.

Challenges with multi-engine training include mechanical delays, as many trainers are older aircraft, and higher accident rates during instruction. Jason highlights the VMC demonstration as a critical yet risky maneuver that simulates engine failure. Pilots must maintain control and recover methodically by managing power and airspeed, a...

Max talks with Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro about the value of advanced flight training and aviation experiences. Catherine shares her family tradition of gifting adventures instead of physical items, often involving flights to places like Fredericksburg, Texas, or Ireland, blending fun, learning, and aviation.

They discuss using flight training as a “gift to oneself,” encouraging pilots to pursue new ratings or specialized courses to improve skills. Catherine highlights the instrument rating for enhancing precision and multitasking, and the commercial rating for smoothing out flying and improving passenger comfort. She advocates for specialized train...

Max talks with Dr. Quay Snyder, an expert in aerospace medicine, about the critical role of sleep and fatigue management, especially in aviation. Dr. Snyder delves into the structure of sleep, emphasizing the importance of REM sleep for emotional recovery and memory consolidation, and deep sleep for physical restoration. He provides practical advice, such as maintaining a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment, avoiding heavy meals and screen exposure before bed, and adopting consistent pre-sleep routines. Writing down worries and using relaxation techniques like box breathing can further improve sleep quality.

C...

Max talks with Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro about the dangers of "timid turns" in traffic patterns, where overly shallow bank angles can lead to overshoots and potentially dangerous skidding turns. Catherine recounts a case where a pilot overshot final approach due to excessive speed and timid turns, underscoring how these habits can increase the risk of stall-spin accidents.

They explore the physics of turns, emphasizing that speed impacts turn radius far more than bank angle. A 30-degree bank is both safe and effective, increasing stall speed by only 7% while significantly reducing turn...

Max talks about the tragic crash of a Robinson R44 helicopter (N881KE) in Houston on October 20, 2024, which claimed four lives. The accident occurred during an air tour when the helicopter collided with a radio tower at night. While the immediate cause—the helicopter hitting the tower—is clear, the episode delves into the broader contributing factors, offering lessons for all pilots.

The tower struck was lit and operational despite a recent NOTAM suggesting otherwise, but a significant factor was the operator’s recent move to a new location. This change introduced risks as pil...

Max talks about discuss the tragic crash of a Beechcraft B55 Baron, N73WA, that departed from Catalina Island in Southern California on October 8th. The flight, taken in dark night conditions, sadly resulted in the loss of all five onboard, including two Certified Flight Instructors and two student pilots. Somatogravic illusion—an effect where acceleration feels like a climb—likely played a role in this incident. This sensation can mislead pilots into pushing the nose down, risking a controlled descent into terrain, especially dangerous during night departures over unlit areas.

Coincidentally, I flew...

Max talks first about the fatal crash of N57HP, a HondaJet, which crashed earlier this week during takeoff from Falcon Field in Mesa, AZ. The aircraft reached 133 knots on the runway, well above the rotation speed of 115 knots, before rejecting its takeoff.

Max also talked with Rob Mark about a near-miss incident at Chicago O'Hare involving Envoy Flight 3936, an Embraer 170. The incident took place on September 25th, when the aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 10 Center but mistakenly landed on Runway 10 Left instead. This misalignment was the result of multiple small...

Max talks with Eric Peterson, Director of Santa Clara County Airports, discussed the landmark arrival of G100UL, an unleaded 100-octane aviation gasoline, at Reid-Hillview Airport in San Jose, making it the first airport in the U.S. to offer GAMI’s G100UL fuel. Santa Clara County, motivated by studies linking lead exposure to nearby airports, decided to phase out leaded fuels in 2022, initially adopting Swift’s UL94 fuel. However, the new G100UL caters to aircraft needing higher-octane fuel, expanding lead-free options for pilots.

To encourage adoption, GAMI is offering incentives: airc...

Max talks about how to respond to system failures, including those not covered in the POH. The process starts with assessing the severity of the failure—whether it’s a minor inconvenience or a threat to safety. Pilots should determine if they can substitute other instruments or indicators for the failed system and assess if the issue could lead to cascading failures, such as an engine fire after a turbocharger malfunction.

Choosing the right place to land is also crucial. Not all failures require an immediate landing, so if time permits, pilots should cons...

Max talks with John Kinard of AeroLuxe Aviation, based in Nashville, which operates a fleet of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, including R44 and R22 helicopters. Following Hurricane Helene, the company became involved in relief efforts after seeing the devastation in North Carolina. John contacted the Ashville, NC EOC, and was told that help wasn’t needed. Nonetheless, AeroLux decided to fly three R44 helicopters to the disaster area to see how them might assist.

The helicopters operated out of a base at a Harley-Davidson dealership in Asheville, which had been converted into a co...

Max talks about the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which resulted in at least 200 deaths, mostly in North Carolina, and brought unprecedented rainfall to the Southeast. Towns like Hendersonville and Spruce Pine received over 20 inches of rain, causing widespread flooding and isolating mountain communities. Relief efforts have been extensive, involving the National Guard, Coast Guard, and various aviation groups. Helicopters have played a crucial role in reaching remote areas, while general aviation pilots have been delivering supplies.

Listeners who participated talk about their experiences transporting essential goods, such as water and...

Max discusses the crash of N831AZ, a Cirrus SR22 at Provo, Utah. The aircraft was following a slower light sport aircraft in the traffic pattern for runway 13. The Cirrus pilot was instructed to go around after getting too close to the preceding aircraft. During both traffic patterns, the pilot struggled with airspeed management, flying with a constantly decreasing airspeed instead of maintaining a stable approach. On the second attempt, the aircraft stalled during the base-to-final turn and crashed into Utah Lake, possibly entering a spin before impact.

He emphasizes the importance of...

Max talks with Nicholas about his recent experience buying a Cirrus SR22 and flying it from California to Missouri. After Nicholas arrived in San Jose, they drove to Santa Maria, where the plane had been relocated for a pre-purchase inspection. Nicholas discussed how he arranged for a local pilot to ferry the plane to the inspection site and his use of the Cirrus Owners Pilots Association (COPA) to find an independent shop.

The journey itself was full of challenges and learning opportunities. Departing under overcast skies, they flew through mountainous terrain in California...

In this episode of the Aviation News Talk podcast, Max discusses the crash of N629AG, a Piper PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage, which occurred on a visual approach to Anderson, Indiana (KAID) on a Friday morning. The aircraft, arriving too high and fast, attempted a go-around but stalled shortly after, killing the pilot and three passengers. The flight had departed from Fort Dodge, Iowa (KFOD) under IFR, leveling off at FL210 before beginning its descent. The pilot likely lost situational awareness, as the aircraft descended too slowly to correct for the high altitude and fast speed...

Max talks with Patrick Carter of NflightCam about his journey from running an aerobatic flight school to creating specialized camera systems for aviation. His interest in video recording began nearly 20 years ago when he used a basic camera setup to help a student improve his loops. This experience highlighted the value of video for flight instruction, as it allowed students to debrief and learn more effectively by reviewing their performance on the ground, free from the stress of flying. Patrick has also offered a Promo code for Aviation News Talk listeners. To get 10% off all purchases from...

Max talks with CFI Jim Hopp, who shares insights about tailwheel flying. He explains that tailwheel planes offer a more hands-on flying experience, with fewer instruments and a stick for better control. The primary challenge in tailwheel flying is ground handling due to the center of gravity being behind the main gear, which increases the risk of swerving and ground loops during takeoff and landing.

Hopp discusses gyroscopic precession, a factor that causes tailwheel planes to yaw left during takeoff, requiring more right rudder input. He also highlights the importance of precise rudder...

Max interviews listener Jim about a prop strike incident that occurred while landing his Cessna 182. The conversation covers Jim's flying background, the details of the incident, and the lessons learned. Jim, who began flying in 2012, purchased his Cessna 182 in 2022 and upgraded it with a Garmin G3X system.

During a return flight from New Mexico, Jim experienced challenging weather but expected a routine landing. However, a sudden yaw and bank just before touchdown resulted in a prop strike. Using the Garmin G3X data and Flysto.net, Max and Jim analyzed the incident...

In this episode, Max talks with Jeff Menasco, the Director of Aviation at Truckee Tahoe Airport, who describes the unique challenges and beauty of the airfield. Situated at a high elevation of 5,901 feet, the airport experiences high-density altitudes, often exceeding 9,000 feet, which can surprise pilots unaccustomed to such conditions. The surrounding mountainous terrain further complicates approaches, creating high minimums and orthographic wind effects, particularly in the afternoons with gusts up to 35 knots.

Winter weather adds another layer of complexity, with heavy snowfall requiring extensive snow removal efforts. The area’s scenic appeal and pr...

In this replay of episode #398 of the Aviation Careers Podcast, guest Max Trescott discusses strategies for pilots to stay safe while building flight time toward the 1,500-hour requirement for airline positions. Emphasizing the higher risk associated with general aviation compared to commercial airline flying, Trescott highlights key factors such as the "killing zone" for low-time pilots and the importance of accumulating time in type rather than just total flight hours.

He underscores the necessity of a professional attitude, akin to that expected in airline operations, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Trescott...

In this episode, Max discusses the recent fatal crash involving of N990PT, a Cirrus SR22, at Bar Harbor Airport in Maine. The aircraft lost control after an IFR approach in low visibility conditions. He emphasizes the importance of proper decision-making, especially in challenging weather.

Max also discusses the risks associated with low weather conditions, such as the need for a reliable alternate airport and the potential dangers of widespread low ceilings. The episode aims to educate pilots on avoiding small mistakes that can lead to major accidents and underscores the importance of...

In this special episode of Aviation News Talk, Max discusses a recent fatal crash involving N1089W, a Beechcraft A36 Bonanza, at MacArthur Airport in Long Island. The aircraft lost power shortly after takeoff, leading the pilot to attempt a 180-degree turn back to the runway, a maneuver often referred to as the "impossible turn." The plane crashed short of Runway 6, resulting in the deaths of both the pilot and passenger.

Max explains the dangers of the "impossible turn," especially for faster aircraft like the Bonanza, due to their larger turn radius. He...

Max talks with career coach Carl Valeri about current trends in the aviation industry regarding pilot hiring. Major issues include supply chain problems affecting both Boeing and Airbus, with specific concerns about engine inspections and manufacturing delays. Additionally, the premium leisure travel market is thriving, while low-cost travel faces challenges due to economic conditions. The conversation also highlights the ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers, especially in the East Coast corridor, leading to reduced flights and pilot demand.

Valeri emphasizes the importance of pilots gaining flight experience despite market downturns and advises aspiring...

In this episode, Max visits Skyryse, a Southern California-based startup. Its Skyryse One helicopter, has a revolutionary cockpit configuration that eliminates traditional controls such as the cyclic, collective, and pedals. Instead, it features a single centrally mounted control stick and two touchscreen displays, all powered by a triply redundant fly-by-wire flight control system and the company's proprietary SkyOS.

The Skyryse One is half the cost of the cheapest IFR-certified helicopters, significantly enhancing safety in the helicopter industry. The aircraft is priced at $1.8 million, higher than the standard Robinson R66 that its based upon...

In this episode, Max explores Loft Dynamics, a Swiss company transforming helicopter training with cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) simulators. During his visit to their Santa Monica demo center, Max flies the Airbus H125 training device, the only VR simulator approved by EASA.

Loft Dynamics offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional full-motion simulators, which are bulky and expensive, ranging from $6 to $20 million. Their compact VR simulators, including the H125, H145, and Robinson R22, cost around $1 million and utilize an open design with electric motor-driven seats. The technology includes Varjo VR headsets, Valve Index Base...

Max discusses the critical role of human factors in aviation safety, prompted by the tragic crash of Yeti Airlines flight 691 in Nepal in 2023. The flight crashed during a visual approach due to pilot errors and high workload, resulting in the loss of all 72 people on board.

Trescott explains how human factors like high workload, distractions, and ineffective Crew Resource Management (CRM) played a critical role in the accident. The crew's use of noise-canceling headsets and the challenging new airport approach added to their workload, leading to mistakes.

Trescott uses...

Max talks with CFI Jim Simon, about an incident involving a Cirrus SR22T and a parachute deployment. During a routine flight, the engine of their aircraft suddenly seized, resulting in a complete loss of power. Jim, who was flying with a learner, took control and performed emergency procedures. He opted not to land on a congested highway or in water, instead aiming for a greenbelt area.

At 1,500 feet MSL, he pulled the aircraft's parachute, experiencing a violent but controlled descent. They narrowly avoided power lines and landed softly in a marshy area...

Max talks with Dr. Victor Vogel about mental health issues and what pilots need to know when getting a pilot medical certificate. He also talks about how somatogravic illusion nearly brought down Southwest flight 2786, which nearly crashed while flying the missed approach at Lihue, Hawaii. He also discusses two fatal twin engine accidents that occurred this week in Colorado and New York.

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Max talks with John Fiscus discuss about strategies for flight instructors when teaching in the traffic pattern. These tips are also useful for pilots flying by themselves. John highlights a common issue among new CFIs: teaching based on qualitative feelings rather than quantitative data. He emphasizes the importance of providing concrete numerical guidance to students. John introduces the concept that "energy equals time," stressing that the amount of energy (airspeed, power, altitude) affects reaction time, especially as the aircraft gets closer to the ground.

He also talks about the need for CFIs to...

Max talks with Mark Kolber, an aviation lawyer and CFI, about the FAA's compliance program. Mark explains that the program, launched in 2015, shifted from a punitive approach to a more rehabilitative one, encouraging pilots to report mistakes and undergo retraining rather than facing severe penalties. He highlights the benefits of being proactive and transparent with the FAA to resolve issues through remedial training.

Mark discusses the importance of filing a NASA form for protections if a case goes to formal enforcement and advises seeking professional guidance when contacted by the FAA. He clarifies...

Max interviews Jason Blair about the FAA reauthorization bill and its implications for flight training and pilot certification. And Max reads listener stories and emails. Jason highlights a significant change allowing non-collegiate programs to qualify for restricted ATP certificates through enhanced qualification programs developed by airlines or FAA-approved training centers. This opens new pathways for aspiring pilots outside traditional collegiate programs. He also discusses the bill's focus on workforce development, including a GAO study on the pilot shortage and provisions to streamline the process for pilots training in experimental or limited category aircraft. Notably, the bill includes...

Max and Jason Blair discuss recent changes in the FAA's aviation testing standards, notably the transition from PTS to ACS. Key updates include the conversion of the CFI test to ACS, introducing scenario-driven evaluations. New maneuvers, such as demonstrating flight characteristics under various conditions, have been added for CFIs. Instructors can now use pre-developed lesson plans, easing the preparation burden.

Instrument rating changes allow using approaches with decision altitudes like LNAV/VNAV and mandate partial panel approaches to reflect real emergency scenarios. GPS databases must remain current. For commercial pilots, precision in power-off 180...

Max reads a number of listeners stories and emails from listeners. Several of the stories are in response to #328, in which we talked about a tragic aviation accident involving a CFI who purchased his dream airplane, N8924Y, a Piper Twin Comanche, and crashed it on the way home. Listeners share their experience with landing gear problems, Garmin G3000 question, and IFR questions.

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In this episode, Max discusses the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and the dozens of provisions that may impact GA pilots. Here's are a few of the many points covered: Pilots using BasicMed can fly larger and more capable aircraft, and DPEs can fly under BasicMed. CFI certificates will no longer expire, though CFIs will have to meet recent experience requirements. The FAA has to reduce the aircraft registration backlog and shorten the time to respond to Part 135 carrier applications. The FAA must accelerate remote tower implementation at three airports by December 2024. 

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Max explores a tragic aviation accident involving the crash of a N8924Y, a Piper Twin Comanche shortly after its new owner purchased it. The pilot was flying the aircraft home when he encountered various challenges, including fatigue, pressure to return home quickly, and low experience in the specific aircraft model. The episode delves into the circumstances surrounding the crash, highlighting common factors seen in similar accidents.

The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the landing gear problem while hand-flying the aircraft in dark night conditions. Ultimately, the crash was attributed to the pilot exceeding...

Max discusses a tragic accident involved a 55-year-old physician who crashed his Beech A36 aircraft, N84R, at Tucker Guthrie Memorial Airport in Harlan, Kentucky, on November 3, 2022. The pilot departed from Knoxville at around 9:32 a.m. with the purpose of attending scheduled appointments at a medical office near the destination airport.

Despite low instrument flight conditions at the time of arrival, the pilot did not file a flight plan, communicate with ATC, or receive a weather briefing before departure. Upon arrival in the airport area, he announced over the CTAF his intention to...

Max talks with Arizona Soaring President and Chief Flight Instructor Jason Stephens and eight time Nation glider aerobatic champion about what it takes to become a glider towplane pilot. Surprisingly, you can tow gliders with just a Private certificate, though most operators will probably want their prospective tow pilots to have a commercial rating. Most new tow pilots will  probably be required to have at least a couple hundred hours of total experience. And since most tow planes are taildraggers, they’ll also need a taildragger endorsement.

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Max talks about the accident of N51FM, a Cirrus SR22T at Paso Robles, CA, and emphasizes the importance of understanding approach procedures, particularly when starting an approach from an IF/IAF fix with a racetrack. The accident involved a pilot who failed to follow correct procedures, leading to a crash, though fortunately, all occupants survived. Max breaks down the mistakes made by the pilot and discusses the implications for instrument pilots.

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Max talks with Rob Mark about thirteen different ways a pilot can build flight time. These jobs may be attractive to weekend pilots who are looking for a fun flying activity, or for pilots who are looking to reach the 1500 hours required for an ATP and an airline job. This is Part 2 of a two episode series.

In Part 2, we discuss Part 91 and Corporate flying, Air tours, Banner towing, time building programs, glider towing, working as a CFI, and flying a personal airplane. We also discuss the illegal P-51time, which has nothing...

Max talks with Rob Mark about thirteen different ways a pilot can build flight time. These jobs may be attractive to weekend pilots who are looking for a fun flying activity, or for pilots who are looking to reach the 1500 hours required for an ATP and an airline job. This is Part 1 of a two episode series.

In Part 1, we discuss Part 135 Charter flying, Part 135 Cargo flying, flying skydivers, Pipeline Patrol, working as a Ferry Pilot and working as an Aerial Survey Pilot. We also talked briefly about aerial photography. In Part 2, we discuss seven additional ways t...

Max talks about the details of the crash of a TBM 960, N960LP, at Truckee, California last weekend. He also talks in detail about his factory tour last week of Robinson Helicopter.

Weather at the time the pilot flew the approach was ½ mile visibility and snow with clouds scattered at 300 feet and overcast at 700 feet. However the approach minimums were 1 mile visibility and the MDA is 582 feet AGL. The pilot flew the instrument approach more or less successfully, though he descended more than 200 feet below the minimums, and he started his turn for t...

Max talks about two critical factors, sleep inertia and false glide slopes, which played significant roles in an Air India Express accident. Despite being unrelated phenomena, they converged to contribute to the crash of Flight 812 in 2010. Air India Express, a low-cost airline operating in India, experienced its first fatal crash during this flight.

The aircraft, a Boeing 737, was returning from Dubai to Mangalore, India. However, the cockpit voice recorder revealed that the captain had been asleep for a significant portion of the flight, awakening only shortly before the crash. Compounded by issues such...

There are three secrets to making great landings. Unfortunately, nobody knows what they are. That’s an old joke but fortunately, there is a proven way to make better landings, and that’s by collecting data on your landings. Host Max Trescott talks with Chuck Cali about how you can collect data for your landings and compare it with other pilots. The techniques apply to anyone flying a modern glass cockpit, such as the G1000. Chuck has analyzed 40,000 Cirrus landings and concluded that pilots could be doing a better job, especially during the flare and touchdown.

<...

In this episode, Max discusses the crash of N1125A, a 1991 ASTRA/GULFSTREAM 1125 SP business jet at Ingalls Field Airport in Hot Springs, Virgina. It was the third fatal business jet crash in the U.S. in just five weeks. Five people on board were killed. 

Several airline pilots send feedback about the United flight 2477 taxiway overrun at Houston. Max also reads listener emails related to the ten fuel-related accidents discussed last week.

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In this episode, Max discusses the critical issue of fuel-related accidents in aviation, highlighting various incidents and discussing preventive measures. He summarizes ten recent NTSB reports, showing that fuel starvation and exhaustion accidents are more likely in older aircraft. Despite advancements in modern aircraft with low fuel warning systems, older models lack these safety features, making them more susceptible to such accidents.

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In this episode, Max discusses two Challenger jet crashes involving dual engine failures: one in Naples, FL, in February 2024 and another in Nebraska in 1994. The incidents share some similarities.

In the Naples crash, both engines experienced oil pressure warnings within seconds of each other before failing simultaneously. The preliminary report indicates the left landing gear touched down first, followed by the right, before the plane skidded into a concrete barrier. The cabin attendant facilitated passengers' safe evacuation through the tail compartment. The pilots, highly experienced, had a combined flight time of over 35,000 hours...

Host Max Trescott recounts his recent trip in the Vision Jet, a G1 version, with a Patreon supporter who is working towards his type rating. He also talks about the VNAV Direct vertical navigation feature that he rarely uses, but found helpful during the trip.

The journey involved flying from Oakland, California to Ann Arbor, Michigan and back, with several considerations such as runway lengths, weather patterns, and fuel efficiency. The decision to fly into Ypsilanti Airport instead of Ann Arbor Municipal Airport is made due to runway length and width concerns, as...

Host Max Trescott delves into arrival procedures for instrument pilots, focusing on common issues and best practices. The host begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding and properly executing arrival procedures, which are often overlooked, especially for pilots not regularly flying into larger airports.

Arrival procedures, also known as Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs), facilitate the transition from enroute structure to the terminal area, streamlining air traffic flow and reducing congestion. These procedures guide pilots to specific fixes or navigational aids, ensuring a seamless lateral and vertical transition. While some STARs are requested...

Host Max Trescott discusses the fatal crash of a Falcon jet in Georgia with aviation expert Rob Mark. The NTSB final report revealed a series of factors contributing to the accident. These included misreading a NOTAM regarding the ILS glideslope, difficulty entering the initial approach fix into the navigation system, high and fast arrival at the final approach fix, unauthorized use of airbrakes. It’s also possible that they didn’t realize the ILS approach required flying a procedure turn. They were also flying a black hole approach in dark night conditions with minimal ground lights, but appa...

Max talks with Seth Lake about Vmc (Minimum Control Speed with the Critical Engine Inoperative) maneuvers, particularly focusing on their importance in multi-engine training. Seth also talks about the challenges and risks associated with VMC demonstrations and offers constructive suggestions for improving training practices in multi-engine aircraft.

Seth explains that Vmc is the minimum controllable airspeed of a multi-engine aircraft when the critical engine is inoperative, and the operative engine is at full power. The FAA mandates specific criteria for this maneuver, emphasizing the need for multi-engine pilots to understand how to control...

On the afternoon of Wednesday, 7 Dec, 2022. The Cincinnati, Ohio area had been IMC all day and a single engine aircraft, based at Hogan Field (KHAO) near Cincinnati was flying instrument approaches in IMC conditions with the help of Cincinnati Approach.   

The aircraft departed Hogan field, located under the northern portion of the Cincinnati Class Bravo, and its first two instrument approaches went relatively well. It flew to the southeast at 4000 feet, and was given vectors to the RNAV (GPS) 3 Right approach @ KLUK, which is Lunken Field. After flying a low approach to minimums, it...

Max talks with Mark Kolber about Flying IFR in and out of Airports with no Instrument Approaches. Mark Kolber traces his expertise in aviation law to his background as a trial lawyer and a CFI. He emphasizes the importance of understanding rules, regulations, and procedures in IFR, highlighting that a significant portion of IFR involves adherence to regulations due to the potential impact on others.

The conversation delves into a specific scenario where a listener reports a Homeowners Association (HOA) planning to ban IFR departures from Sea Ranch, which is a private airport...

This episode explores the advancements in the Cirrus SR22 G7 aircraft, emphasizing avionics and general enhancements over its predecessor, the G6. To learn the features of the new Cirrus G7, you’ll want to purchase a copy of my Max Trescott’s G3000 and G5000 Glass Cockpit Handbook, which covers virtually all of the features you’ll find in the Perspective Touch+,used in the G7 and the SF50 Vision Jet.

Key features include automatic fuel tank alternation, borrowed from the Vision Jet, enhancing fuel management. The addition of a stick shaker provides tactil...

Max talks about some recent VFR into IMC accidents and other weather-related loss of control accidents. VFR into IMC accidents continue to be a problem for us as GA pilots. Not only are there too many of them, but they also have the highest lethality rate of any accident type, as 90% of these accidents are fatal. They are unique to general aviation, as they are almost non-existent in airline flying. He also talks about how to calculate the bank angle required to get a standard rate turn.

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Max talks about why controllers in the U.S. use vectors for approaches far more often than in other countries. He also shares listener feedback on why flying own navigation may be less work than getting vectors to final. He addresses misconceptions about the Activate Approach command and exactly what it does. He also talks about the importance of keeping your GPS navigator synch with your present position. He also talks about how to Activate a Leg of a flight plan and the four common errors he sees pilots make when activating a leg. He also reads...

Max talks about the FAA Controller Handbook rules for vectoring aircraft and how it relates to the crash of N188PC, a Pilatus PC-12 that crashed in Texas last week. He also talks about helpful tools in the Garmin G1000, G3000, Perspective and GTN 650 and 750 that you can use to tell if you might be getting a late turn from a controller that may take you through the final approach course. He also talks about how to use Garmin’s Runway Extensions and Track Vector when flying a traffic pattern, so that you never overshoot th...

Max talks with Jason Blair about the pilot examiner shortage and its impact on checkride delays. We also highlight the importance of proper paperwork and the common reasons for test discontinuation. Next, we delve into the requirements for checkride endorsements and the consequences of missing experience requirements. Jason addresses the misinterpretation of instrument rating requirements and the DPIC requirement for the commercial certificate. Finally, we discuss the qualification process for aircraft and the issues related to un-airworthy aircraft. This conversation covers the importance of documentation and airworthiness, checkride horror stories, maintenance issues and attitude, options for dealing...

Max gives an update on the Shelbyville, Indiana SR22 crash on N17DT. A listener witnessed the crash and described the final moments of the flight before the crash. The witness contacted the NTSB to provide a statement. Max also talks about how three pilots’ failures to follow standard operating procedures resulted in fatal crashes.

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Max talks about when to choose an IAF versus Vectors when Getting Vectors to Final. Like most things in aviation, the answer is “It Depends.” In older GPSs, choosing Vectors drops some waypoints, which is fine over flat terrain, but which can be dangerous when vectored over mountainous terrain. This is why CFIs often encouraged pilots to always load an approach with an IAF and not vectors, even when being vectored for an approach. Newer GPSs have solved this problem, and in most cases, it’s fine to load an approach with vectors.

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Max talks about the fatal crash of a SR22T in Shelbyville, IN and why after an engine, Cirrus pilots are encouraged to use the CAPS parachute rather than glide down to a field. He also talks about why a faster, heavier aircraft has more energy in a crash. He also describes the physics behind why a parachute pull is safer than trying to land in a field.

Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that l...

Max talks about the crash this week of a Cessna P210 in San Diego, and why it crashed. The flight originated in Concord, CA and flew for just over 4 hours to Montgomery Field in San Diego. The aircraft first tried to land at French Valley airport, was high on the approach and went missed. It diverted to Montgomery field to fly the ILS 28R, however the pilot flew about a third of a mile south of the airport, missing the runway. Five minutes after the approach, while climbing for another approach, he ran out of fuel. ATC...