Month: August 2023

Avi-8 releases watch based on Capcom’s 1942 video game and I couldn’t say no

Andrew Stevens

For readers here that don’t know me, I currently work in the video game industry and have for well over a decade now. So, video games are a passion of mine. However, I have always been around flight as well, so aviation also has a special place in my heart. I’m sure you could have guessed that one given that I’m a contributor here at SAJ. With that said, over the years, any time aviation and video games would co-mingle in some way, I would always gravitate toward it. That was the case back when I was younger when it came to Capcom’s 1942 video game that released in 1984 (1986 on the Nintendo Entertainment System in North America).

Recently I caught wind that a watch maker was collaborating with Capcom to create a Limited Edition watch based on the video game, 1942. I think I’ve only ever owned one single watch throughout my entire life thus far. I even tried the Apple Watch for a brief period of time (so I guess that’s two watches technically?), but even that didn’t stick. It was just never my thing. However, when it comes to owning video games, now that’s a different story! I’ve picked up many games over the years and continue to collect both current and retro games. In fact, I probably still play my retro consoles more than any current generation console or PC.

The underneath of the Capcom 1942 Automatic Limited Edition watch

It’s always amazing to see the progression video games have made over the years when it comes to the graphics. Today we have incredible visuals in all the latest video games and they are so easy to get fully immersed in, especially when playing something like Microsoft Flight Simulator or Ace Combat 7. However, with the games of the 80’s and 90’s, you always had to use some imagination when putting yourself into the pilot seat, especially when it came to vertical or side-scrolling shooters. If we look back at Capcom’s 1942, it’s a top-down vertical shooter where you control a P-38 Lightning throughout various stages of battle by moving forward, backward, left and right while firing at enemy aircraft and avoiding oncoming bullets. It didn’t have any typical flight controls, but that didn’t stop you from feeling like a pilot! Also, one of the coolest feature with 1942 is that you can perform an inside loop, which enables you to avoid oncoming fire. It’s fun to do, but it’s even more helpful during intense situations! I love those old-school arcade games!

I don’t remember when I first played 1942, but it was likely on the Nintendo Entertainment System – the original NES! I always remember loving it because it was a chance to put myself in the pilot’s seat and imagine being a top fighter pilot. Plus, the P-38, right? One of my favorite aircraft! In fact, I have a large canvas on my wall from AirVenture 2015 where the P-38 flew in the heritage flight with the P-51 and F-22. Three of my favorite aircraft all in a single shot!!

Author’s photo of the Heritage Flight from AirVenture 2015

Anyway, remember when I mentioned watches? Yeah, I’ve rambled a little bit. Sorry!

Even though I don’t wear watches, I couldn’t help but be curious when I saw the announcement that Avi-8 collaborated with Capcom to release a Limited Edition 1942 watch. Avi-8, founded in 2012, created its brand around the inspiration of planes, people, and the history of military aviation.

The Avi-8 / Capcom collaboration led to the creation of the Avi-8 Flyboy, Capcom 1942 Automatic Limited Edition Black Ace and Blue Ace watches – only 300 pieces of each, that are inspired by the 1942 video game. And yes, through my love of aviation and video games (especially the 194X series!), I absolutely had to get one! Thankfully I was able to secure one before they sold out too. Phew!

Author playing 1943: The Battle of Midway at a local arcade

Having memories of the 1942 game as a kid and still playing the series today (including 1943 recently at a local arcade!!), I’m really happy to see this collaboration happen as it brings attention to both aviation and video games through recognizing not only the history of aviation, but the history of aviation that is represented in video games as well. Anytime both aviation and video games can get together, whether it’s to celebrate a new video game or something a little more unique like this watch, I’m happy to partake!

As for the watch itself – I’m in love with it! I’m someone that enjoys buying a few collector’s editions every now and then for my favorite video game series which usually include some kind of special collector’s figure or related item. So, in a way, getting this watch today would have been like getting the 1942 Collector’s Edition if they had released one back in 1986. I enjoy that the P-38 rotates around the face of the watch as it sits on the second ticker. Also, there’s another P-38 in the background along with an enemy formation, and you can see bullets that are being fired at the enemy aircraft which represents what you would see when playing the video game. Super cool! Plus, the watch glows in the dark“…yeah, I’m 38 and glow in the dark is still cool – whatever!

There is a lot to appreciate about the watch, including all the detail, packaging, additional leather wristband, and more. Instead of talking about it though, I’m going to share my unpacking video and then get back to playing 1942 while wearing my watch!

For those interested in playing 1942 or any games from the series, you can download Capcom Arcade Stadium on pretty much every platform (Steam, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/S/X, Nintendo Switch) and then purchase the titles as DLC for $1.99 each.

Titles include:

  • 1942
  • 1943: The Battle of Midway
  • 1941: Counter Attack
  • 19XX: The War Against Destiny
  • 1944: The Loop Master

Plus, if you want some more aviation-inspired fun, check out Carrier Air Wing and Progear!

PlayStation 4 arcade stick used to play 1942 on Capcom Arcade Stadium

These old-school arcade shooters released by Capcom, which were inspiration for many others like them, are still some of my favorite games to play today. I love the passion for aviation that’s shown in them, including the games that even stretch reality and lean heavily into a fictional world that’s ideal for an arcade shooter. They all are just simply entertaining and exciting, and they give me a quick challenge to engage in whenever I have a moment to spare. It’s now time to continue to brush up on my reaction skills and set new personal bests for high scores!

You can check out Avi-8’s website to learn more about them and see other aviation watches they have for sale.

Heliport Planning and Evaluation Course Offered by Transportation Safety Institute

Kim Stevens

A Heliport Planning and Evaluation Course is being offered by the U.S. DOT Transportation Safety Institute on September 12-14, 2023, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the Embassy Suites.

The three-day Heliport Design course is designed to provide attendees with an understanding of the evaluation process and the skills necessary to complete an evaluation of a proposed or existing heliport. The instruction is offered by Pilots and FAA Inspectors experienced in heliport evaluations and operations.

Instruction includes both classroom lecture and several “hands-on” practical exercises. The course includes a detailed review of the evaluation criteria, worksheets, and administrative tools available to the inspector, preparation of the evaluation report, and hands-on instruction in the operation of the tools used in the typical evaluation. The training culminates in the evaluation of a ground-based and local heliport.

Who Should Attend

 Aeronautics Division of State’s Department of Transportation and local municipality’s authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) (i.e., fire marshal). The applicant/owner, safety managers, operators, contractor or Architectural and Engineering (A&E) professionals. FAA Flight Standards Aviation Safety Inspectors or Airspace Systems Inspection Pilot, and Procedure Evaluation Pilot.

To register contact Brendan Jensen at Brendan.jensen.ctr@dot.gov or by phone at (405) 954-7751.

To Reserve a Hotel Room call (855) 439-6850 / Discount Code: TSI

NAHF to Present Congressional Leadership Award to Congressman Sam Graves and Senator Jerry Moran

Kim Stevens

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) Board of Trustees has announced the distinguished recipients of the inaugural National Aviation Hall of Fame Congressional Leadership Award. Chairman of the Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, Congressman Sam Graves, and Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Ranking Member Senate Commerce Committee -Aviation Subcommittee, Senator Jerry Moran, will be honored for their outstanding contributions to American Aviation and Aerospace.

Established by the NAHF Board of Trustees, the Congressional Leadership Award pays homage to exceptional American leaders whose dedicated public service has bolstered the nation’s strength and significantly propelled advancements in aviation and aerospace. This novel award series seeks to recognize individuals of remarkable character and integrity whose service and initiatives have significantly impacted the United States’ continued global leadership in aeronautics.

NAHF Chair Jim Cooling enthusiastically stated, “We couldn’t envision more deserving recipients for this inaugural honor. Congressman Graves and Senator Moran’s unwavering commitment to advancing general aviation, enhancing aviation safety, fostering education, and promoting accessibility has left an indelible mark on the industry and our nation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to them for their leadership and are honored to present them with this prestigious award.”

The awards will be formally presented during The President’s Reception, scheduled for September 21, 2023, as part of the National Aviation Hall of Fame’s 59th Enshrinement Dinner and Ceremony. The President’s Reception will also feature the presentation of the A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Teacher of the Year Award, The Milton Caniff Spirit of Flight Award, and the Armstrong Aerospace Award.

Taking place on September 22, 2023, the Enshrinement Dinner and Ceremony, led by emcee CNN’s Pete Muntean, will feature the formal induction of the NAHF Enshrinee Class of 2023. This remarkable class includes pioneers (the late) Velta Benn and (the late) Cornelius Coffey, visionaries Angela Gittens and (the late) Ed Stimpson, and aerospace heroes Fred Haise and Kathryn Sullivan.

Over the course of two days in Washington D.C., aviation enthusiasts, government and industry leaders, and esteemed returning Enshrinees, such as Major General Charles Bolden, Colonel Eileen Collins, Captain Robert Crippen, Captain Robert “Hoot” Gibson, Clay Lacy, Sean Doherty Tucker, and others, will convene to celebrate aviation’s legacy and future.

The 59th NAHF Annual Enshrinement Dinner & Ceremony is accessible to the public through advance registration only. Limited sponsorship opportunities and individual seats are still available. Committed sponsors to date include Cirrus Aircraft, National Business Aviation Association, Hartzell Aviation, Cooling & Herbers P.C., Jet Aviation, Airports Council International, Army Aviation Association of America, Avelo Airlines, Boeing, Bombardier, Cardinal Aviation Advisors, Commemorative Air Force, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, GE Aerospace, Gulfstream, JFK International Terminal, NetJets, Rolls-Royce, The Space Hipsters, Textron Aviation, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Boom Aerospace, and Embraer.

To secure reservations or acquire further information, please visit www.nationalaviation.org or contact 937-256-0944 ext.16.

Vermont Wing of CAP Continues Support for Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation with Aerial Detection Surveys

Kim Stevens

Photo above – Left to right are Capt Anthony Derderian, CAP mission pilot; Lina Swislocki, Assistant Invasive Plant Coordinator; and Josh Halman, Forest Health Program Manager. The Vermont Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has completed its fourth consecutive year of support for the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Photo by 1st Lt Peter Steinerman, Burlington Senior Squadron–Vermont Wing, Civil Air Patrol.

The Vermont Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has launched its fourth year of collaboration with the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR). The Department monitors forest health in the state, including annual surveys from the air and on the ground.

The survey missions have been flown by Capt Anthony Derderian, a mission pilot with the Burlington Senior Squadron (VT-002). Capt John Compo, Vermont Wing Director of Operations, supervises the missions. The missions utilized fuel-efficient CAP Cessna 182 aircraft flown out of Wing headquarters at Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport.

The flights enable the Vermont Department of FPR to survey the entire state of Vermont and identify areas of forest disturbance. These disturbances include defoliation by forest pests, areas of tree mortality, and forest damage due to weather events, among other causes. 

“These missions have afforded our department the ability to quickly, and cost efficiently, monitor Vermont’s forests,” said Joshua Halman, Forest Health Program Manager with the Vermont Department of FPR.

“This past summer, we paid particular attention to assessing any damage done by the late spring frost, flooding, and past infestations of the spongy moth caterpillar, a particular threat to Vermont’s forests. Data on disturbances caused by other threats, as well as effects of abiotic factors, were also collected.”

Volatus Infrastructure Signs MOU with Ace VTOL

Kim Stevens

Volatus Infrastructure, LLC has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australian-based electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) company Ace VTOL. The MOU names Volatus as Ace’s preferred infrastructure partner and establishes a joint business development relationship designed to expand opportunities in the rapidly growing eVTOL market.

“Borne out of mutual respect and a shared commitment to accessibility, this partnership brings us even greater credibility among customers in Australia. We commend the visionary leadership of their Founder and CEO, Brett Northey and the whole team at Ace,” said Dan Sloat, Volatus Infrastructure CEO. “Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world — a full 1,300 miles from the next city of note, so strategically located vertiports will be a key enabler to growth.”

“Ace is incredibly proud to be working hand in hand with the team at Volatus Infrastructure, undoubtedly one of the premier vertiport developers in the global eVTOL market. Volatus Infrastructure offers a unique understanding of the Australian climate and culture with their timeless style and practical vertiport design, offering a comfortable solution for all Australians in this new transport demographic,” added Brett Northey, Ace VTOL Founder and CEO.

Ace VTOL is a game-changing technology and transportation company focused on delivering safe and sustainable eVTOL aircraft to the global market with multirole airframes for commercial, logistics and municipal applications. eVTOL aircraft, or flying taxis as they are commonly known, will serve as a steppingstone to a flying car future, accessible to anyone through the company’s AI and personal flying “Muscle Car” eVTOLs. Ultimately, Ace is committed to alleviating the issues associated with the existing transport ecosystem, increasing property and business valuation through connectivity and safely placing Australia at the leading edge of this exciting new transport demographic.

Founded in 2021, Volatus Infrastructure, LLC is connecting communities to the future with bestin-class eVTOL infrastructure technology to ensure society is ready for the future. Volatus offers three main eVTOL infrastructure designs, a vehicle agnostic charging station, plus an app and maintenance programs. By tailoring to specific needs while incorporating the latest technologies their work positively impacts clients and the communities they serve. Join the future with Volatus Infrastructure.

Clean and Safe Drones to Replace Aircraft for Banner Advertising Operations

Kim Stevens

‍Sustainable Skylines has announced that it has become the first drone banner towing operation in the U.S. to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for commercial operations. The Section 44807 exemption approval, combined with a banner towing authorization currently under review, will allow Sustainable Skylines to launch full-size banner advertisements towed by a drone along Miami Beach.

Traditional banner advertising is both environmentally harmful and sometimes deadly for pilots, as crashes and other mishaps are a significant risk for aircraft towing banner advertisements. Using a drone to pull banners minimizes pollution and risks for pilots and people on the ground. 

For the past decade, the commercial drone industry has been working towards regulatory approvals for a wide range of applications. For Sustainable Skylines, regulatory approval has been the most significant hurdle in transforming aerial advertising.

Relative to traditional aircraft banner towing, Sustainable Skylines’ drone operations are environmentally friendly, safe, and scalable; traditional aircraft banner towing does not easily scale due to constraints caused by small plane logistics and the proximity of events to airfields where banner towing originates. Unlike traditional aircraft banner towing, drones capable of vertical take-off and landing do not require the use of a nearby airport or runway. By eliminating the need for airport or runway access, drone banner towing operations can occur in a wide variety of locations where traditional banner towing operations are not possible.    

Additionally, drone advertising brings measurable attention analytics to banner advertising, which is not possible with traditional aircraft towing. Sustainable Skylines’ drones fly the banners and can utilize anonymized data to measure the size of crowds within sight of their banners, giving agencies and brand advertisers confidence their messages reach their intended targets. Drones also have unique maneuvering capabilities, which brings a new dynamic to banner flights and generates increased interest from people on the ground.   

“This is a significant milestone for Sustainable Skylines and the broader drone industry, explained Jacob Stonecipher, founder and CEO of Sustainable Skylines. “Our team has worked tirelessly toward this regulatory approval; we wouldn’t be here without the guidance of Lisa Ellman and her team at Hogan Lovells. We’re excited to work with our partners to safely launch and integrate banner advertising by drone into the local airspace and community.” With this regulatory approval, Sustainable Skylines can prepare for its launch in Miami Beach and to bring this new medium to brands and agencies.

“Banner advertising is another exciting example of the new opportunities that commercial drones bring to our economy, while enhancing the safety of the National Airspace System,” said Lisa Ellman, chair of the Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) practice at global law firm Hogan Lovells, which facilitated Sustainable Skyline’s FAA approval. “Sustainable Skylines is reinventing an old industry with a new technology and delivering exponential value through the use of safe, clean drone technology that can scale, entertain and create new jobs, too.”

For more information on Sustainable Skylines banner towing operations or to talk with a brand representative, please visit https://www.sustainableskylines.com/

Sisters of the Skies Named Recipient of 2023 Clifford Henderson Trophy

Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) has announced that Sisters of the Skies™ has been chosen as the recipient of the 2023 Clifford Henderson Award.

The Henderson Trophy, founded in 1960, is named after Clifford W. Henderson, an enthusiastic aviation proponent. The Trophy is awarded annually to a living individual, group of individuals, or an organization whose vision, leadership or skill made a significant and lasting contribution to the promotion and advancement of aviation and aerospace. Nominees are proposed by the NAA President and approved by the NAA Executive Committee.

Sisters of the Skies, Inc™ is being honored for their commitment to increase awareness of the opportunities in aviation and increase the number of Black female pilots who are introduced, celebrated, and supported through their scholarship, mentorship, professional development, and outreach programs.

“The growth of aviation as an industry and as a career is threatened by the lack of a broad pipeline for talent,” said NAA President & CEO Greg Principato. “Sisters of the Skies makes an incredible contribution to solving that problem. They are building the future of aviation. It is exactly this kind of passion and commitment that we seek to honor with the Clifford Henderson Trophy, and it will be an honor to present the 2023 award to Sisters of the Skies.”

Sisters of the Skies, Inc™, originated in 2016 by two pilots, was initially founded to connect the few Black female pilots flying commercially and for the U.S. Military. As they began to turn to current aviators for support, they soon discovered that more was needed. Since its founding, Sisters of the Skies, Inc™ has grown to a multifaceted organization that attracts and retains aviation professionals as well as provides representation to a new generation of pilots.

“The Henderson Trophy holds profound significance for Sisters of the Skies, serving as a testament to our unwavering dedication and commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry,” said Sisters of the Skies, Inc™ Co-Founder Nia Gilliam-Wordlaw. “This prestigious award validates our mission, recognizes our accomplishments, and powerfully affirms the impact we are making in the field of aviation. We are honored to be a recipient.”

Please join us in celebrating this award at the Sisters of the Skies Scholarship Gala on February 3, 2024. More information about the event can be found here.

Lochner Announces Formation of National Aviation Practice

Kim Stevens

H.W. Lochner, Inc. (Lochner), has announced the establishment of a national aviation practice and the associated leadership team. This pivotal step marks an expansion of the company’s commercial, general, and military aviation service offerings following the recent acquisitions of Armstrong Consultants and K Friese + Associates.

Chris Nocks

Chris Nocks, PE, is leading the Western Division, overseeing operations throughout Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. He brings to the role more than 20 years of experience servings as a principal and engineering operations manager for Armstrong Consultants and a Captain/Civil Engineer Officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Kirk Evans

Kirk Evans, PE, is leading the Central Division, with a focus on Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. Kirk has more than 16 years of airport experience, most recently serving as Lochner’s aviation director. He also holds the role of senior project manager and business development leader, orchestrating the firm’s transition to servicing larger commercial service airports such as Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, among others.

Justin Pietz

Justin Pietz is leading the National Planning Division, spearheading aviation planning services on a national scale. Leveraging his former role as principal and planning director for Armstrong Consultants, Justin has more than 23 years of aviation and planning experience. As an FAA-licensed private pilot, he brings firsthand understanding of airport user needs.

Lochner Board Chairman and CEO Terry Ruhl emphasized the significance of the promotions, stating, “Chris, Kirk, and Justin are highly respected and exceptional leaders within our organization. They will assume responsibility for driving strategy execution, business operations, and growth and sales for our national aviation practice, as well as furthering our staff development and recruitment initiatives. I have full confidence that their leadership will be impactful for our organization and our airport clients.”

Lochner acquired Armstrong Consultants in December of 2022 expanding its geographic presence and service offering to aviation clients throughout the Western U.S. In May of 2023, Lochner acquired K Friese + Associates, adding additional aviation experience in Central Texas, with a focus on work at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, one of the fastest growing airports in the country.

Kamaka Air Provides Aid Amid Maui Crisis: Over 65,000 Pounds of Supplies Airlifted to Support the Lahaina Community

Kim Stevens

In a remarkable display of deep-rooted commitment and solidarity, Kamaka Air, a regional air freight delivery company serving the State of Hawaii, has expanded its relief efforts to support the citizens of Maui after deadly wildfires ravaged the island beginning Tuesday, August 8.

In continuation of its legacy to impact affected communities, Kamaka Air facilitated 10 evacuation flights and multiple free cargo flight deliveries with over 65,000 pounds of essential supplies, such as food, clothing, medicine, and household goods for citizens affected by the crisis.

“Our hearts are with the people of Maui during this challenging time, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends who experienced the loss of a precious life. We hope that the essential supplies shipped, and our passenger charter flights provide comfort and relief for citizens who relocated temporarily for shelter,” expressed Jim Petrides, President at Kamaka Air.

When news broke of the devastation in Maui, Kamaka Air received donations from over 41 contributors, such as the Hawaii Veterinary Medical Association, Hawaiian Humane Society, Nā Kama Kai, Ka Oni Canoe Club, Hawai’i State Teachers Association, United Public Workers, RevoluSun, and the Four Seasons Resorts among others. The collective effort of these organizations demonstrates the spirit of unity across the region in times of hardship.

“We recognize our donors and community heroes, such as Archie Kalepa, a world-renowned waterman, surfer, and retired lifeguard who, with his team of volunteers, responded quickly to the needs of the Lahaina community and provided much-needed medical supplies, essentials, and life-sustaining food to those in need. His immediate response to the disaster saved hundreds of lives in Lahaina,” stated Joelle Aki Aoki, Government Affairs Officer and Lana’i Station Manager at Kamaka Air.

As the Lahaina community seeks to rebuild and restore Maui, Kamaka Air’s actions underscore its dedication to supporting neighboring communities and alleviating distress during crises. The air freight delivery company’s contributions stand as a testament to the remarkable impact that collective goodwill can achieve.

North Dakota Airline Passenger Boardings up 12% in July

Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released the monthly report for July providing information relating to the airline passenger traffic at the eight commercial service airports within the state.

Commercial airline boarding numbers for July 2023 reached 99,448 passengers, representing a 12% increase from the same period last year. Seven of the commercial service airports also had higher passenger numbers than during July of 2022.

North Dakota’s air travel demand during the summer months remains elevated. Many of the commercial flights originating and arriving into North Dakota are full or near full with the average aircraft load factor for the month of July estimated at 86%. As always, it is recommended to plan ahead and purchase tickets multiple weeks ahead of any trips, if possible, to ensure that each traveler has the desired available seat.

July 2023 Boarding Records:

  • The Fargo Hector International Airport achieved a new monthly passenger record with 44,902 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for month of July was set in 2019 with 43,437 passengers.
  • The Devils Lake Airport also achieved a new monthly passenger record with 1,032 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for month of July was set in 2019 with 873 passengers.

View July Boarding Reports

July 2023 Statewide Airline Passenger Statistics

  • Total Airline Passenger Boardings: 99,448
  • Available Airline Departure Seats: 115,614
  • Average Aircraft Load Factor: 86%
  • Number of Successful Airline Departure Flights: 1,418
  • Number of Airline Departure Flight Cancellations: 12
  • Airline Departure Flight Cancellation Rate: 0.8%