< Back Mandatory Technical Directive issued for Sting S4 29 Sept 2023 LAA has been working with TL StingUK to correct an issue found during the flight testing of the factory-built version of the aircraft. It was found that the type would consistently drop the starboard wing more than the permitted maximum during a wings-level stall. LAA Mandatory Technical Directive MTD-01-2023 has been issued that requires the installation of a stall strip on the starboard wing and two stall strips on the port wing, along with restricting the elevator travel, in accodance with TL StingUK service bulletins 0002 and 0003, before further flight. Next Previous

< Back LAA members - Make your views known! 25 Jan 2024 Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council's consultation on their draft Local Plan – which includes a proposed new Popham Garden Village on Popham Airfield, has opened. It runs until 4 March 2024. This proposal is not in line with either Government policy or their stated aim to make the UK the best place in the world for General Aviation. The Government's policy can be found in their publication ' Flightpath to the Future " and makes repeated references to the vital importance of airfields, forming a critical part of national infrastructure. You can have your say and tell Basingstoke & Deane Council that their proposal is contrary to Government policy and insist the proposal is removed from the current ‘draft’ strategic plan. Visit the Local Plan Update ' Have Your Say ' section of their webiste. Next Previous

Jabiru Engine Course Price Member - £213, Non-Member - £233 Duration Arrival 09:00. Finish 17:00. < Back About the Course It is widely accepted that a good working knowledge of an engine will help a pilot to service and maintain it to a satisfactory standard. This course is designed to give pilots sufficient knowledge to be confident that their engines are both serviceable and airworthy and; if an issue is detected, to know whether they have the ability to resolve the issue or need to seek assistance. The course will also cover the common engine weaknesses and the important Jabiru modifications. The course primarily focuses on the 4 and 6 cylinder generation 1-3 engines. The course will also benefit owners of the latest generation 4 engine, but information will be limited due to the overall hours flown to date for this type of engine. The Aim of the Course The aim of the course is to give Jabiru engine operators sufficient knowledge to maintain and operate their engines. Method A classroom slide presentation will be given , supported by a demonstration engine and parts, detailing the build of a Jabiru engine from the crankshaft up. The slide presentation will also use the knowledge gained from the virtual build and cover how to check for engine serviceability prior to flight. Course Instructor: Clive James. Clive has owned and operated a Jabiru for over 20 years and in that time has worked on many engines, including 4 and 6 cylinder engines. Clive also provides technical assistance to many Jabiru engine owners, helping them maintain their engines to an airworthy standard. Your Instructor Clive James Dates Date to be confirmed Times Arrival 09:00. Finish 17:00. Duration One day course Venue LAA HQ, Turweston Aerodrome, NN13 5YD Price Member - £213, Non-Member - £233 Booking Pls call the LAA on 01280 846 786 to enquire/book or email [email protected] . *Please note that payment is required when booking, to confirm your place. NO place will be held without confirmed payment* **Please note that your booking payment is non-refundable unless we can fill your place timeously or there are exceptional circumstances**

< Back More new LAA Inspectors - Patryk Nelkowski & Pete Nicholson 2 Feb 2024 It is time to introduce you to two more new LAA Inspectors - Patryk Nelkowski and Pete Nicholson, who both attended an LAA Inspector Assessment Day in January, with our Chief Inspector, Lucy. Patryk is a UK CAA licensed aircraft engineer (B1.1/B1.2/B3) based in the south west of England. Currently in the Greater London area on Pilatus, Cirrus and Tecnam aircraft as part of his day job. He has a wide-ranging aircraft maintenance background, with experience on commercial aircraft, such as the A220, Dash 8, and Embraers right through to Cessnas, Pipers, RVs and a variety of other aircraft including warbirds. In his spare time, he is involved in the maintenance and restoration of classic cars and historic military vehicles and their engines. After studying an engineering degree, Pete's professional career covered a wide range of electronic and communications systems, during which flying and maintaining both powered aircraft and gliders was a passionate hobby. After being lucky enough to take early retirement, his hobby has become a significant part of his activities and he particularly enjoys using his background and experience to work on Avionic systems. Next Previous

< Back Grass Roots Fly-In Slots and Tickets now available! 26 Jul 2023 Not long to go now!! Details on slot bookings, entrance tickets, camping, exhibitor information, trophies and awards, opening times, other attractions etc are now available Fly-in details can be found here . Next Previous

< Back MTD-02-2025 issued - Mission M108 Nose Leg Failures 6 Jun 2025 MTD-02-2025 - 'Nose leg failures' was issued today for Mission M108 aircraft. This MTD can be found HERE and is also attached below. Three instances of nose leg failure have occurred in the past 12 months, two of which recently. This MTD mandates the regular inspection of this area until a long-term fix has been put in place. Lambert Aircraft Engineering is working to finalise a solution as soon as possible, working closely with the LAA. We will update the MTD as appropriate once a solution is in place. MTD-02-2025 - Mission M108 Nose Leg .pdf Download PDF • 212KB Next Previous

< Back Francis Donaldson is awarded the Honourable Company of Air Pilots Sword of Honour 22 Sept 2023 This year’s Sword of Honour – which recognises an outstanding contribution to General Aviation – goes to Francis Donaldson. For more than 30 years, as Chief Engineer of the then Popular Flying Association and then Light Aircraft Association, Donaldson has recommended the issuing of permits to fly for more than 3,000 aircraft and overseen the engineering and handling reviews of around 200 different types. He stood down from his role at the beginning of 2022 but has remained involved as a consultant. Few people have been more influential to the progress and development of light aircraft in the past three decades, with an encyclopedic knowledge backed by real world engineering and flight testing expertise. Press release - Air Pilots Trophies and Awards 2023 (2) .pdf Download PDF • 167KB . Next Previous

An Introduction to Permit Aircraft Avionics Price Member - £224, Non-Member - £244 (includes printed course material) Duration Arrival 09:00. Finish 17:00. < Back About the Course This course is an introduction to permit aircraft avionics. The course starts with explaining the LAA rules and guidance regarding avionics fit in your aircraft, discusses how to plan and install your avionics including panel design, explains how modern avionics connect with each other and the various protocols (electronic languages) that they commonly use. The course takes you through selection of your avionics including EFIS, ELTs and PLBs, Autopilots, Antennas, Transponders, Radios and Audio Panels including some of the more common options available, including redundancy options where applicabl The course also includes practical demonstration and practice in wiring the most commonly used avionics connectors, the ubiquitous D Sub connector, and provides advice on minimising interference and best practice for shielding connections. The course finishes with an introduction to avionics considerations for Permit Aircraft planning to apply for permission to fly in IMC or at night. Your Instructor Mark Castle-Smith Dates Sunday 19 April 2026 Times Arrival 09:00. Finish 17:00. Duration One day course Venue LAA HQ, Turweston Aerodrome, NN13 5YD Price Member - £224, Non-Member - £244 (includes printed course material) Booking Pls call the LAA on 01280 846 786 to enquire/book or email [email protected] . *Please note that payment is required when booking, to confirm your place. NO place will be held without confirmed payment* **Please note that your booking payment is non-refundable unless we can fill your place timeously or there are exceptional circumstances**

< Back ROTAX® Service Bulletins – Inspection of the Propeller Gearbox 2 Dec 2025 Inspection of the propeller gearbox of ROTAX® 915 i and 916 i(Series) Aircraft Engines ROTAX has issued new Service Bulletins regarding the inspection of the propeller gearbox on ROTAX® 915 i and 916 i (Series) aircraft engines. These bulletins below outline the required inspection procedures, affected serial numbers, and any necessary corrective actions. · ASB-915 i-021R1 / ASB-916 i-009R1 · ASB-915 i-021iS R1 / ASB-916 i-009iS R1 Compliance with these bulletins is important to ensure continued airworthiness and safe operation of your aircraft. ASB_915 i-021R1_916 i-009R1 .pdf Download PDF • 1.31MB ASB_915 i-021iSR1_916 i-009iSR1 .pdf Download PDF • 85KB Next Previous

< Back Van's Aircraft laser-cut parts - update 20 Oct 2023 Since our mention of this issue in the August edition of Light Aviation , Van’s Aircraft have been toiling away analysing and testing various structural elements to establish the effect that the laser cutting of parts has had on their strength and fatigue life. Detailed updates can be found on their website, but understandably UK builders and operators are seeking clarity on what the endgame will be on this issue. As the issue generally affects potential fatigue life, there is no immediate need to take action. In discussion with Rian Johnson, Van’s President and Chief Engineer, he tells us that they’re working on service information for the fleet that they expect to be published by the end of the year. Having worked closely with Van’s over many years, our expectation is that we will endorse their position. Next Previous

< Back GAA Position on Electronic Conspicuity 29 Jan 2024 General Aviation Alliance Unveils Updated Electronic Conspicuity Position Paper - GAA recognises the importance of EC in collision avoidance GAA Position on Electronic Conspicuity .pdf Download PDF • 364KB The General Aviation Alliance (GAA, www.gaalliance.org.uk ) is pleased to announce the release of its updated Electronic Conspicuity Position Paper, a comprehensive document outlining the organisation's stance on the integration and advancement of electronic conspicuity technologies for all UK aviation. In response to the rapidly evolving landscape of aviation technology and the increasing need for enhanced safety measures, the GAA has undertaken a thorough review and revision of its Electronic Conspicuity policy. This updated position paper reflects the Alliance's commitment to fostering innovation, ensuring airspace safety, and promoting a collaborative approach for all UK aviation. Key highlights of the updated Electronic Conspicuity Position Paper include: 1. Technology Integration : The GAA supports the widespread adoption and integration of electronic conspicuity technologies across all general aviation aircraft. The GAA recognises the potential of these advancements to significantly reduce the risk of mid-air collisions. 2. Standardisation and Interoperability : The GAA advocates for the establishment of industry-wide standards and protocols to ensure the seamless interoperability of electronic conspicuity systems. Standardisation will facilitate the integration of various technologies and contribute to a more cohesive and efficient airspace environment. 3. Government and Regulatory Engagement : The GAA encourages active engagement with regulatory bodies to promote the development of clear and practical regulations that support the safe and effective deployment of electronic conspicuity technologies. The GAA is already working collaboratively with government agencies to address regulatory challenges. 4. Research and Development Investment : To drive further innovation, the GAA encourages increased investment in research and development for electronic conspicuity technologies. The GAA believes that sustained efforts in this area will result in the development of more advanced and cost-effective solutions for all UK aviation. The General Aviation Alliance invites stakeholders, industry partners, and the general public to review the updated Electronic Conspicuity Position Paper, which is available on the alliance's website https://gaalliance.org.uk/position-and-data-papers . About the General Aviation Alliance The GA Alliance is a group of organisations representing the interests of many in the UK GA industry. The members of the GAA are: British Balloon and Airship Club (BBAC) British Gliding Association (BGA) British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) British Skydiving Helicopter Club of Great Britain (HCGB) Light Aircraft Association (LAA) PPL/IR Europe - European Association of Instrument Rated Private Pilots Royal Aero Club of the United Kingdom (RAeC) Airfield Operators Group (AOG) The GAA coordinates about 72,000 subscription paying members of these bodies. Next Previous

Air to Ground Radio Operator's Course Price Member - £320, Non-Member - £340 (Additional fee of £50 to CAA for ROCC certificate) Duration Day 1: 09:15 for 09:30 PROMPT start. Finish 17:00 (approx). Day 2: 08:30 PROMPT start. Finish 16:00 < Back About the Course About the Course This course, held at Popham Airfield is hosted by Chris Thompson, an experienced AGCS person, CAA examiner, and LAA member. It will provide both the theoretical and practical training required to sit the examinations for the CAA Radio Operator's Certificate of Competence (ROCC) qualification required by operators of ground-based radio equipment at flying sites and events where an air-to-ground radio service is provided. The course is in two parts. Day One is made up of the core training and radio procedures practice on simulated ground-to-air communications. Day Two will consist of the CAA written and practical examinations which will allow candidates to directly apply for the CAA ROCC Certificate. Why two days? This course spends a good deal of time giving background to your practical usage of the ROCC Certificate. The Practical exam is highly developed to give a representation of what it is like to operate an Air/Ground service when you commence any future employment. All delegates SHOULD have some basic knowledge of GA airfield circuit procedures and a level 6 English language proficiency or you may find this course difficult. AGCS RADIO OPERATOR'S CERTIFICATE OF COMPETANCE - IMPORTANT NOTES: Note 1 - This Course is to enable a person to operate a Ground Radio Station running AGCS (Air-Ground-Communication-Service) and not be confused with an aircraft FRTOL (the Flight Radio Telephony Operator Licence, which is required to operate the radio in an aircraft). Note 2 - All ROCC Certificates currently in existence are valid until 31st December 2028. The CAA CAP2192 (July 2021) stating an end date of 31st December 2025 is no longer valid and has been superseded. Note 3 - All new ROCC issued will be valid until 31st December 2028. The revalidation process is under review by the CAA and will be notified here when available. Note 4 - The only pre-requisites that the CAA state for an ROCC “Air Ground” Course are that the applicant should be over the age of 18 and pass the exams. The CAA are no longer using the “paper” application process and are now only using the CAA online Portal. You must have a CAA Portal Username and Verified ID to submit your ROCC application. This can be done by visiting the CAA Portal (search Google for https://portal.caa.co.uk .) website and supplying them with the required documentation. The instructions for this are on the CAA website and not part of the LAA course process. Note 5 -You will be asked to bring your verified Portal Username to the course. Without this, any exam results will not be able to be processed by your Examiner and the CAA. Note 6 - The course also assumes that you speak English to level 6 (CEFR/C2) and that you will have a basic understanding of airfield and light aircraft circuit procedures, hence a "pilot" background is best. Note 7 - This AGCS ROCC "Air/Ground" course should not be confused with other ROCC types, OCS, PARA,CDO, FDD, and OPC as these are not part of the LAA mandate. Note 8 - There will be an additional fee of £50.00 to the CAA for the issue of the ROCC certificate. Your Instructor Chris Thompson Dates 30th & 31st May 2026 Times Day 1: 09:15 for 09:30 PROMPT start. Finish 17:00 (approx). Day 2: 08:30 PROMPT start. Finish 16:00 Duration Two day course Venue Popham Airfield Price Member - £320, Non-Member - £340 (Additional fee of £50 to CAA for ROCC certificate) Booking Pls call the LAA on 01280 846 786 to enquire/book or email [email protected] . *Please note that payment is required when booking, to confirm your place. NO place will be held without confirmed payment* **Please note that your booking payment is non-refundable unless we can fill your place timeously or there are exceptional circumstances**