In this issue

Lysander Cockpit Report
ARCo boss John Romain gives a remarkably candid account of testing a curiously handling aeroplane that rather spooked him on his first flight.

Pilot Profile: Laureano Ruiz Liaño – the world’s oldest active aviator
A pioneer of Spanish light aircraft manufacture now aged 96, Laureano has no plans to stop..

Civil Air Patrol assists NHS with Covid-19 tests

The United Kingdom Civil Air Patrol (UKCAP), the air support charity that uses volunteer pilots and crews, has recently undertaken an operation related to routine Covid-19 testing activity on behalf of NHS Western Isles.

1 min

Rotax-powered JMB VL3 Evolution hits 200 knots

Czech company JMB Aircraft has completed flight testing of the latest version of its VL3 Evolution, which included exceeding 200kt TAS. The aircraft, which is powered by a 142hp Rotax 915iS engine has had its Vne increased to 184kt.

1 min

Former RAF chief chosen as CAA Chairman

Sir Stephen Hillier has been declared the prefered candidate to become the new Chairman of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

2 mins

The A380 makes a comeback – as a freighter

German maintenance specialist Lufthansa Technik is currently working on a conversion programme for an Airbus A380 as part of its effort to offer temporary passenger to-cargo modification services.

1 min

VSS Unity flies from Spaceport America

Virgin Galactic recently announced the successful completion of its first SpaceShipTwo test flight from Spaceport America. The flight was an unpowered glide, and marks the inaugural solo flight of VSS (Virgin Space Ship) Unity in New Mexico. It is an important flight test milestone in preparation for commercial service.

2 mins

Hard times for the airlines

The pandemic continues to have a profound effect on the UK’s airlines, virtually all passenger flights being grounded, the majority of aircraft in each airline’s fleets laid up and thousands of pilots furloughed and facing an uncertain future.

3 mins

TESTING THE Lysander

Making the first flights in an immaculately restored historic aircraft, notorious for its handling peculiarities

10+ mins

The Isolated Aviator

Entertainment − and even flying practice − for the grounded pilot

7 mins

The oldest active pilot?

Instrumental in the growth of general aviation in Spain, Laureano Ruiz Liaño is a living piece of European aviation heritage

4 mins

Safety Matters

Safety Matters and Safety Briefs are based on the AAIB Bulletin and UK Airprox Board reports, with additional material from the US National Transportation Safety Board.

6 mins

Read all stories from Pilot

Pilot Magazine Description:

Pilot is Britain’s best-selling general aviation magazine. Whether you are an aeroplane enthusiast, already a pilot or thinking of becoming one, it’s a great read.  Each issue is packed with flight tests, travel articles, news, technique features and much more to inspire, inform and entertain, including stunning photographs.