In a ceremony today at Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd’s facility in Broomfield, Colorado, the Swiss aircraft manufacturer delivered the 1,100th unit of its flagship single engine turboprop PC-12.    

Thomas Bosshard, CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd stated, “We are extremely pleased to have the honor of delivering this milestone aircraft to Frontline Aviation. Since its introduction to the market in 1994, the PC-12 program has greatly exceeded all expectations originally set for it by Pilatus, and we anticipate continued popularity of the PC-12 NG for many years to come.”

In a press conference to discuss the future of the National Championship Air Races, the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) announced on Wednesday the formation of a Blue Ribbon Review Panel to study the event. The panel will examine any possible changes or modifications that could be made to enhance the already high level of safety established by the FAA and existing RARA procedures. RARA also announced that, despite many challenges in the near and long term future, they are planning to hold the 49th Annual National Championship Air Races at the Reno Stead Airfield, Sept. 12 – 16, 2012.

A Haiti bound Cirrus SR22 over the Atlantic Ocean suddenly experienced a loss of oil pressure while cruising at 9200 feet. The pilot realized that he was unable to safely glide to land and his only option was a water landing.  Unfortunately, water landings usually end up with the aircraft flipping over when they hit the water. Fortunately, the Cirrus SR22 was equipped with a ballistic chute and was deployed successfully.  Both the pilot and his passenger survived the incident.