Order your New Airport Operations T-Shirt
In Black or Red / Men or Women Sizes. $17 each plus S&H
Go to http://teespring.com/myairops and reserve your shirt today.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Airport Operations T-Shirt
In Black or Red / Men or Women Sizes. $17 each plus S&H
Go to http://teespring.com/myairops and reserve your shirt today.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Fearless
http://fearlessnavyseal.com/
FEARLESS takes you deep into SEAL Team SIX, straight to the heart of one of its most legendary operators.
But long before Adam Brown became a member of the elite SEAL Team SIX—the counterterrorism unit that took down Osama bin Laden—there was a fun-loving country boy from Arkansas whose greatest goal had been to wear his high school’s football jersey. An undersized daredevil, prone to jumping off roofs into trees and off bridges into lakes, Adam was a kid who broke his own bones but would never break a promise to his parents … until he grew older, and his family watched that appetite for risk draw him into a downward spiral that eventually landed him in jail.
FEARLESS is the story of a man of extremes, whose determination was fueled by faith, family, and the love of a woman. It’s about a man who waged a war against his own worst impulses and persevered to reach the top tier of the U.S. military. Always the first to volunteer for the most dangerous assignments, Adam’s final act of bravery led to the ultimate sacrifice.
FEARLESS is the intimate story of a devoted man who was an unlikely hero but a true warrior, described by all who knew him as just that—fearless.
Adam was a Hot Springs native, his store is amazing. I had the privilege to help welcome him home in 2010 and was stunned by his story and by his friends. Eric Blehm wrote this outstanding story about Adam's life. Please check out the video and the book, a real American Hero!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Air Ops Keeping Airports Safe T-Shirts
Show the world what you do with an Air Ops "Keeping Airports Safe" T-Shirt
Heavyweight 6.1-ounce, 99/1 cotton/poly (preshrunk)
Sizes L, XL - $15.00 usd
Sizes XXL - $17.00 usd
Shipping - $5.00 for US. Email for International rates
You can pay using the button below or send a check to:
My Airport Operations
525 Airport Rd Room 200
Hot Springs AR 71913
Please be sure to include your size and a mailing address.
Monday, May 14, 2012
FAA issues warning to passenger who filmed bird strike
May 02, 2012|By Jim Barnett, CNN
A Delta Air Lines passenger who admitted using an
electronic device last month to videotape a bird strike minutes after
takeoff has been warned by the Federal Aviation Administration to
follow the rules or face a penalty the next time.
The plane bound for Los Angeles made an emergency landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on April 19 after encountering an engine problem the pilot said was caused by a bird strike, an incident caught on camera by Grant Cardone.
Watch Video Here
I saw this story and was shocked at first that the FAA would warn a passengers about filming during takeoff. I'm not sure what a camcorder could do to interfere with avionics but I would think they would be thankful to have this valuable video. I know that this video will be used in training and to educate pilots and inspectors of bird strikes. Sometimes a little thank you and common sense would go a long way. -Just my two cents-
For the latest about Airports and the people who operate them go to
The plane bound for Los Angeles made an emergency landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on April 19 after encountering an engine problem the pilot said was caused by a bird strike, an incident caught on camera by Grant Cardone.
Watch Video Here
I saw this story and was shocked at first that the FAA would warn a passengers about filming during takeoff. I'm not sure what a camcorder could do to interfere with avionics but I would think they would be thankful to have this valuable video. I know that this video will be used in training and to educate pilots and inspectors of bird strikes. Sometimes a little thank you and common sense would go a long way. -Just my two cents-
For the latest about Airports and the people who operate them go to
My Airport OperationsThursday, March 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Best way to educate the public in aircraft safety
Everyone has been on a commercial aircraft and has heard how to buckle your seat belt. And I get it, if the oxygen bag deploys put mine on first before helping someone else. I really don't think this is will be a problem since must people will save their own backside before saving someone else.
So when I saw this video I was captivated, the material was the same but the way it was presented was NEW and exciting. Check it out and see what you think.
So when you are conducting training, try to find new ways to encourage your students and keep them excited even about information they have heard many times over. Good luck in convincing your directors that you need her in your department, but what the worst they could say "no".
Not sure about everyone else but I'm ready for a trip on Cebu Pacific Air.
So when I saw this video I was captivated, the material was the same but the way it was presented was NEW and exciting. Check it out and see what you think.
So when you are conducting training, try to find new ways to encourage your students and keep them excited even about information they have heard many times over. Good luck in convincing your directors that you need her in your department, but what the worst they could say "no".
Not sure about everyone else but I'm ready for a trip on Cebu Pacific Air.
Cebu Pacific AirAffordable Training for MAO members in a Caribbean Paradise
For airport operations, management, or first responder there now is an affordable opportunity for you to acquire the technical skills and academic knowledge you need to succeed in your respective field.
Come learn and play or just relax after class on the shores of crystal blue waters in a balmy Caribbean paradise, on the island of Barbados.
The Barbados Civil Aviation Training Centre (BCATC) in partnership with Spranza LLC and the Barbados Civil Aviation Department have joined together to offer aviation professionals a truly unique learning experience. Developed to assist in ensuring airport and airline compliance with both their respective National and International standards, the Center offers participants a wide array of instruction in cost-effective and convenient modular in-residence classes and on-line interactive distance learning along with onsite client assistance through their consultancy service.
History
The BCATC provides training for local ATC personnel as well as ATC personnel from a number of States in the region. Training is also provided to other airport agencies such as, Fire Service and Security in subject areas pertaining to Telecommunications and Airside Safety Awareness among others. Over two hundred persons pass through this training institution yearly. The Training Centre previously used a Manual 3D Aerodrome Control (ADC) Simulator but is now equipped with a new ADC Virtual Realty Simulator. There is a state-of-the-art Radar Simulator, two classrooms and Relevant Training Aids. In addition, it is fully equipped with Printing and Copying facilities and the appropriate software and technical maintenance personnel.
In 1999 Barbados took a decision to enhance this training institution by seeking to join the ICAO TRAINAIR Programme. Approval was given and in 2002, an ICAO TRAINAIR expert was assigned to Barbados to assist in the qualification process. On the 12th of January 2005 the Barbados Civil Aviation Training Centre became an accredited member of the ICAO TRAINAIR Programme.
BCATC Center Activities for 2012
Designed for airport, airline, CAA and service provider personnel, the 2012 instructional program – consisting of 12 topical modules and six workshops, is complemented with a number of online learning opportunities and webcast special events. Among the interactive web events scheduled for September - a full scale Airport Emergency Exercise will be broadcast in real time from Grantley Adams airport in Bridgetown, Barbados. In-residence programs will be conducted at the Barbados Civil Aviation Training Center (An accredited Trainair Center) in Christ Church, Barbados, with several instructional modules also available to those who cannot attend in person, via our ‘virtual classroom’ portal on the World Wide Web.The Center offers airport and airline professionals continuing education programs drawn from Spranza developed classes appearing in the ICAO Training Directory. Students participate in intense programs of Competency Based Training in the areas of: aviation security, safety management, emergency response, aircraft accident/incident investigation, operations and management.
Coming up this Quarter
A complete calendar of courses and workshops can be found on the website at: http://bcatc.avsec-center.org.
Just for MAO Members
All MAO members are eligible to receive a 10% tuition discount on all BCATC/Spranza in-service training programs, webcasts or interactive distance learning modules. Please ensure to note your membership on the Registration Form to claim your discount.
Bring the family
Students are encouraged to bring their families and enjoy the history, culture, fine dining and just plain fun of this tropical paradise. On arrival, each Registrant receives a Welcome Packet containing valuable discounts on local attractions, dining and leisure time activities. To learn more visit: http://www.broadcastbarbados.com/ and select your adventure.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Get a Chance to Win Free CMMS Software for a Year
MILWAUKEE, WI - Jan 19, 2012 Eagle Technology, Inc. is offering the chance to win ONE FREE YEAR of Equip soft Computerized Management Maintenance Software (CMMS).
Equipsoft CMMS is an entry-level, web-based solution for computerized maintenance management. Easy to use, this full-featured maintenance and asset management solution helps companies streamline their maintenance operations. Equipsoft integrates asset management, maintenance management, inventory, labor, and purchasing functions for improved scheduling, cost reduction, resource planning, and more.
"[Equipsoft is a] CMMS package that provides a powerful and functional set of management tools at a competitive price for the low to mid size facility market.” said Dave Kenik, Account Manager at LONG Building Technologies.
Attend a webinar session in February or March to learn more about Equipsoft CMMS by Eagle and be entered into a drawing to win software and hosting worth nearly $4000. Visitors may sign up now at www.eaglecmms.com/dealsandsavings/Free-Equipsoft-CMMS-Contest.htm
Webinars will be held on the following Wednesdays at 10:00am CST: February 8, February 22, March 7, and March 21, 2012 One winner will be chosen from the attendees from all four webinar sessions. The winner will be announced on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 10:00 am on the Eagle website.
"Easy to use, Equipsoft provides all you’ll need to maintain assets and inventory," said Gary Miller, Senior Sales Representative at Eagle Technology.
Constant demands to do more with less are driving higher standards for efficiency, productivity, and performance, yet take away from the very efficiencies they aim for. Regulatory agencies are pushing for tighter controls and greater accountability across a wide range of industries. Most important, retiring maintenance workers who are leaving a significant maintenance knowledge gap behind when they go. One way to manage these issues is a well implemented CMMS or EAM system.
About Eagle Technology, Inc.: Eagle Technology, Inc. was founded in 1987 by Harshad Shah and is privately owned. Eagle’s Equipsoft products are used around the world in companies of all sizes. Eagle also has a wholly owned subsidiary in Monterey, Mexico and distributors and dealers throughout the world. For more information, visit www.eaglecmms.com or call the sales team at 1-800-388-3268 (USA and Canada) or 1-262-241-3845
www.EagleCMMS.com
11019 North Towne Square Road | Mequon, WI 53092 U.S.A.
tel: 1-262-241-3845 | toll free (usa & can): 1-800-388-3268 | fax: 1-262-241-5248
tel: 1-262-241-3845 | toll free (usa & can): 1-800-388-3268 | fax: 1-262-241-5248
Monday, January 23, 2012
Free Charlie Bravo Calendar
Here is your chance to get the greatest aviation calendar published. In collaboration with Charlie Bravo Aviation and My Airport Operations we are giving away a free calendar to the first 100 members to email me their mailing address.
In 2009, the company became the first broker and dealer of aircraft to hold a woman-owned business certification. This gives our clients that participate in supplier diversity programs a distinct advantage in meeting their goals.
So hurry and send me your address to gbarentine@myairportoperations.com Subject "Calendars"
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Lockheed Martin Celebrates Opening of NextGen Technology Test Bed
by Staff Writers Daytona Beach, FL (SPX) Nov 14, 2011
Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions is part of the corporation's Information Systems and Global Solutions-Civil business. IS and GS-Civil is responsible for a wide array of information technology systems and services in areas such as energy, health care, transportation, information and cyber security, citizen protection and space exploration.Lockheed Martin , the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and a consortium of industry partners have opened the Florida NextGen Test Bed, a laboratory where new and emerging Next Generation Air Transportation (NextGen) concepts and technologies can be demonstrated and validated.
The FAA's NextGen initiative is designed to improve travel through an integrated, adaptable air transportation system, enabling aircraft to adjust to factors such as weather, traffic congestion, flight patterns and security issues.
The NextGen Test Bed, located at Daytona Beach International Airport (DBIA), was established by the Integrated Airport Initiative (IAI), comprised of aviation industry leaders who wanted to share their expertise to advance NextGen. Lockheed Martin and ERAU created the IAI in 2006.
Today, its membership has grown to 15 partners, including DBIA, Barco, Boeing, CSC, ENSCO, Frequentis, GE, Harris, Mosaic ATM, NATS, Sensis and Volpe.
"The NextGen Test Bed enables real world validation of concepts that will enhance safety, capacity, efficiency and security at airports nationwide," said Sandy Samuel, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions.
"Lockheed Martin is proud to support the FAA in transforming our national airspace, and making travel easier than ever before."
As the prime contractor for the FAA's En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) program, Lockheed Martin is building and deploying the platform for NextGen air traffic control initiatives that will enable the FAA to transition to future concepts and functions.
ERAM is a replacement for the FAA automation systems and infrastructure used by controllers to manage airspace above 10,000 feet. It will process more than double the number of flight plans and utilize nearly triple the number of surveillance sources used by the current system.
Lockheed Martin is a member of the NextGen Advisory Committee (NAC), which is working with the FAA to develop a common understanding of priorities for NextGen capabilities and implementation constraints. Lockheed Martin will host the NAC's next public meeting at ERAU on Feb. 2.
"Lockheed Martin's leadership in helping develop the Test Bed has been very valuable," said Christina Frederick-Recascino, executive vice president for academics and research at ERAU. "From the beginning Lockheed and Embry-Riddle have worked together to make this facility a success."
Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions is part of the corporation's Information Systems and Global Solutions-Civil business. IS and GS-Civil is responsible for a wide array of information technology systems and services in areas such as energy, health care, transportation, information and cyber security, citizen protection and space exploration.
Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions is part of the corporation's Information Systems and Global Solutions-Civil business. IS and GS-Civil is responsible for a wide array of information technology systems and services in areas such as energy, health care, transportation, information and cyber security, citizen protection and space exploration.Lockheed Martin , the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and a consortium of industry partners have opened the Florida NextGen Test Bed, a laboratory where new and emerging Next Generation Air Transportation (NextGen) concepts and technologies can be demonstrated and validated.
The FAA's NextGen initiative is designed to improve travel through an integrated, adaptable air transportation system, enabling aircraft to adjust to factors such as weather, traffic congestion, flight patterns and security issues.
The NextGen Test Bed, located at Daytona Beach International Airport (DBIA), was established by the Integrated Airport Initiative (IAI), comprised of aviation industry leaders who wanted to share their expertise to advance NextGen. Lockheed Martin and ERAU created the IAI in 2006.
Today, its membership has grown to 15 partners, including DBIA, Barco, Boeing, CSC, ENSCO, Frequentis, GE, Harris, Mosaic ATM, NATS, Sensis and Volpe.
"The NextGen Test Bed enables real world validation of concepts that will enhance safety, capacity, efficiency and security at airports nationwide," said Sandy Samuel, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions.
"Lockheed Martin is proud to support the FAA in transforming our national airspace, and making travel easier than ever before."
As the prime contractor for the FAA's En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) program, Lockheed Martin is building and deploying the platform for NextGen air traffic control initiatives that will enable the FAA to transition to future concepts and functions.
ERAM is a replacement for the FAA automation systems and infrastructure used by controllers to manage airspace above 10,000 feet. It will process more than double the number of flight plans and utilize nearly triple the number of surveillance sources used by the current system.
Lockheed Martin is a member of the NextGen Advisory Committee (NAC), which is working with the FAA to develop a common understanding of priorities for NextGen capabilities and implementation constraints. Lockheed Martin will host the NAC's next public meeting at ERAU on Feb. 2.
"Lockheed Martin's leadership in helping develop the Test Bed has been very valuable," said Christina Frederick-Recascino, executive vice president for academics and research at ERAU. "From the beginning Lockheed and Embry-Riddle have worked together to make this facility a success."
Lockheed Martin's Transportation Solutions is part of the corporation's Information Systems and Global Solutions-Civil business. IS and GS-Civil is responsible for a wide array of information technology systems and services in areas such as energy, health care, transportation, information and cyber security, citizen protection and space exploration.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Team Eagle MAO Sponor
Team Eagle www.team-eagle.ca is a global leader in the advancement of safe airfield operations including Part 139 electronic airfield inspections and reporting, vehicle tracking, navigation and incursion management solutions, as well as ARFF and snow and ice control equipment. With over thirty years of industry presence and offices in both United States and Canada, Team Eagle tackles challenges faced by a wide variety of North American airports. Our staff spend a lot of time at airports, working side-by side with our airport partners to offer a wide variety solutions to assist in day-to-day operations, providing safety and situational awareness tools, and facilitating purchasing and maintenance of a variety of airfield equipment. Our Research and Development projects, such as the Braking Availability Tester (BAT) http://www.team-eagle.ca/downloads/BAT.pdf, are always pushing technology to its limits to make airports safer for all stakeholders.
Put our SmartAirport Product Suite http://www.team-eagle.ca/downloads/EIS_suite.pdf to work for your airport. Consisting of a number of applications that can be built modularly over time, SmartAirport Product Suite http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/ is tailored to the needs and processes of each individual airport, allowing users to have all the necessary information at their fingertips at their desk and out on the airfield.
ATIMS™ Asset Tracking and Incursion Management System provides tracking of all management selected airfield assets. More importantly, ATIMS™ allows airport operations to quarterback vehicle movement by assigning rules, restricted area reminders and incursion warnings in real time to airside vehicle operators.
http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/atims/
Please let our team know how we may be able to assist your airport. We are always happy to provide an on-site demonstration and a technology consultation at no charge and without any obligation.
Team Eagle www.team-eagle.ca - Your Airfield Solutions Partner.
Put our SmartAirport Product Suite http://www.team-eagle.ca/downloads/EIS_suite.pdf to work for your airport. Consisting of a number of applications that can be built modularly over time, SmartAirport Product Suite http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/ is tailored to the needs and processes of each individual airport, allowing users to have all the necessary information at their fingertips at their desk and out on the airfield.
ATIMS™ Asset Tracking and Incursion Management System provides tracking of all management selected airfield assets. More importantly, ATIMS™ allows airport operations to quarterback vehicle movement by assigning rules, restricted area reminders and incursion warnings in real time to airside vehicle operators.
http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/atims/
EagleEye™ (DEVS) provides a vehicle operator the tools to navigate in low visibility situtations such as fog, heavy rain or snow. EagleEye™ combines a moving map display with visual and audio feedback to help guide operators along their intended route. http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/eagleeye/
AIROps™ Digital Inspections is designed to make FAR Part 139, TP312 and other airport inspection and reporting paperless, consistent and more efficient.
ElectricalOps™ Pro Inspection and Maintenance software makes locating, marking and repairing defective lights and signs a simple and effective process within the highly complex airport environment.
WinterOps™ Pro gives you situational awareness on the airfield, crucial in a stressful environment. WinterOps Pro™ can help you keep the airfield open longer, reduce disruptions and decrease chemical
usage while improving overall effeciency and safety. http://www.team-eagle.ca/software/airops/
Team Eagle www.team-eagle.ca - Your Airfield Solutions Partner.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
My Airport Operations
Just wanted to share this with everyone.
By Betsy Hudson
If you are one of over 400 million people who have a profile on Facebook, you will understand my excitement when I stumbled upon a new website "created by airport operators for airport operators" - My Airport Operations.
After recently being introduced to Facebook by my teenage boys, I created a profile and suddenly I am overwhelmed with friends! Many are from my high school graduating class of '85! OMG! I enjoyed catching up with old friends and sharing real life stories on Facebook, so when I found this professional networking group focused on airports, I had to join.
My Airport Operations is a place where you will discover a wealth of information at your fingertips through the online community. It is a convenient way to find assistance with compliance and maintenance issues, share ideas, training, concerns, or just boast about your airport. The purpose of the MAO online community is for members to assist each other with operations issues by exchanging experiences and knowledge. Essentially, it's Facebook designed for aviation professionals.
So, whether if you are looking to network, share ideas, find solutions, seek training, etc., you can find it online at www.myairportoperations.com. My handle is BHudson - be sure to network with me!
By Betsy Hudson
If you are one of over 400 million people who have a profile on Facebook, you will understand my excitement when I stumbled upon a new website "created by airport operators for airport operators" - My Airport Operations. After recently being introduced to Facebook by my teenage boys, I created a profile and suddenly I am overwhelmed with friends! Many are from my high school graduating class of '85! OMG! I enjoyed catching up with old friends and sharing real life stories on Facebook, so when I found this professional networking group focused on airports, I had to join.
My Airport Operations is a place where you will discover a wealth of information at your fingertips through the online community. It is a convenient way to find assistance with compliance and maintenance issues, share ideas, training, concerns, or just boast about your airport. The purpose of the MAO online community is for members to assist each other with operations issues by exchanging experiences and knowledge. Essentially, it's Facebook designed for aviation professionals.
So, whether if you are looking to network, share ideas, find solutions, seek training, etc., you can find it online at www.myairportoperations.com. My handle is BHudson - be sure to network with me!
Monday, September 26, 2011
FAR Part 77 Objections Affecting Navigable Airspace
FAR Part 77 is one of the most important
aspects that must be considered when operating an airport. A duty of
airport operations is to keep a close eye on what is happening around
the field. It is very common to see unauthorized cranes just boom up.
They must have an airspace study performed. If construction is planned
within 20,000 ft of an airport or exceeds 200 ft in height, a study must
be performed. The form a contractor is required to fill out for this
study, FAA form 7460-1 can be downloaded here.
For those interested in how the primary
and transitional surfaces around an airport are designated and defined I
have provided two videos. For more information please go to www.myairportoperations.com
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Air Race Fans, Despite Crash, Remain Steadfast
By JENNIFER MEDINA
RENO, Nev. — The fans come here each year looking for, even craving, the thrill they say they get only from seeing planes race at speeds of more than 400 miles per hour. At a small airport at the edge of the city, they tilt their heads skyward for hours, relishing each roar overhead.
And as fans trickled in Monday to line up at the memorial that had cropped along the fence along the airport, a tribute to those who died after a plane crashed into the crowd Friday, they said they were determined to make sure that air races would go on again here next year.
Hospital officials said Monday that a 10th person had died from the crash in which a P-51 Mustang nosedived into the crowd at the National Championship Air Races and Air Show at Reno-Stead Airport. Four other patients were in critical condition at local hospitals.
But the crash did not deter the fans, who came to the memorial with a steely somberness. It was a freakish accident, they said, a one-in-a-million thing. Attending these races is dangerous, sure, they said, but so is driving. What should change? For the most part, they replied, absolutely nothing.
“The show must go on, even with something this tragic,” said Anna Marie Murphy, 44, who has come to the races since she was a child, when her family had a passion for building and flying small planes. She knew eight people who died in plane accidents, including her aunt and uncle, she said.
“I know that people die in this,” she said. “I don’t want it to happen, but I know I have to accept it might. And anyone who comes here better know it, too.”
Each year some 200,000 people attend the event, in which planes race around an eight-mile course. With a combination of air acrobatics and high speeds, the race is far more adrenaline pumping than air shows and car races. Many of the most ardent fans are pilots themselves, who know well the dangers.
“You are open to a certain kind of experience if you come here,” said Ross Kallenberger, a private pilot in Bakersfield, Calif., who saw the crash. He motioned to the vintage planes taking off at that moment. “Can you feel them? How often do you come to an event that you can actually physically feel through your body? There’s nothing like it.”
For the last 17 years, Bob Johnson and Scott Koerner, retired pilots, have come to the event with their wives. The couples, who also witnessed the accident, wore their custom-made polo shirts, with stitching in the back declaring them air race “junkies.” This year, the Koerners paid for their daughter and her husband to fly from Nashville to see the show for the first time. Their son-in-law, Ben Cissell, photographed scenes of the crash that were shown on the “Today” show on Monday.
They thought about the risks now and then, especially when an accident in 2007 scattered debris through the field, in one of three accidents that killed pilots that year.
“You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to realize that there are risks to coming here,” Mr. Johnson said.
His wife, Jan Johnson, believes strongly that the races should continue, and she said she was certain she would return to watch them. “This is a completely one-of-a-kind event, and we love every minute of it,” she said.
The fans were already anticipating new regulations. Would officials try to move the race to a less populated area? Would they place the course farther away from the stands?
But they dismissed those options. Moving a course a mile or two away would hardly matter given the speed of the planes, they reasoned. And being farther away from the city would only increase the risk of spectators getting into car accidents, they said.
The only opening for change may have to come from pilots themselves, said Dennis Gleason, 70, a retired plane mechanic who spent years working for Boeing. The pilot of the plane that crashed, Jimmy Leeward, was 74 and an experienced stunt pilot. Still, Mr. Gleason said, pilots should consider creating a self-imposed age limit.
“You can lose some of your sharpness, some of your reflexes,” Mr. Gleason said. “Those maneuvers are sharp and precise. I’m sure he was an excellent pilot, but you can’t help but wonder if he was alert enough to notice the smallest mistake.”
Ike Shim, 63, traveled from Tokyo for the last seven years to watch the race. The way he sees it, changing the race would be akin to a philosophical defeat.
“Any kind of endeavor that is about human progress is going to have some risk,” Mr. Shim said. “That’s how we move forward and advance. If we stop taking risks, we stop living.”
At least one message left at the memorial seemed to echo Mr. Shim’s sentiment.
“Jimmy’s flying with the best of ’em now,” the card read. It ended with the motto of the Reno races. “Let’s honor him the best way we can: fly low, fly fast and turn left.”
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Airport Security
In the world of Airport Operations, we tend to spend a great deal of time focused on airfield and airside issues. This is as it should be, since we are to be the Subject Matter Experts on such matters, capable of providing sound guidance and information to those relying upon us for both maintaining safety as well as decision-making. However, most of us are also involved in the security aspects at our respective airports, whether it is in formalized roles as Airport Security Coordinators or merely remaining vigilant and coordinating with local Law Enforcement. Since that is the case, it might be extremely beneficial to spend a few minutes considering the concept of Terminal Security. We usually focus on the Secure Areas and keeping them sterile, but what about the public side? Most of our time is spent on the possibility of explosive devices – unattended or suspicious bags and vehicles located near the terminal. While these are the tried and true methods generally used by terrorists around the world, there is another, even harder to detect, threat that we should be aware of and seriously consider: an Active Shooter.
Consider the following:
- On May 22, 2002, a man dining in a Denny’s restaurant across from the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) felt that a Southwest employee had been ridiculing his attire, specifically a turban. He followed her back into the Ticket Lobby, and shot her once in the stomach with a sawed-off 12-gauge shotgun. An airport employee (!) wrestled the weapon from him and the man was placed under arrest. The Southwest employee later recovered from her wounds
- On July 4, 2002 a man opened fire in the ticket lobby area at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), near the El Al counter, killing two and wounding three others before being shot dead.
- On March 2, 2011 a gunman opened fire on a bus containing US Air Force service members at the airport in Frankfurt, Germany, killing two and wounding two more. After the incident, the gunman fled into the terminal of the airport where he was arrested by authorities.
- In the hit video game Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, a pivotal scene is where a group of Russian terrorists conduct a massacre at a fictional Moscow airport, with the intent to begin a “false flag” operation against the United States. The player participates in the incident, and graphic examples of violence against unarmed civilians and security personnel ensue (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKqD3jHflOU)
- Just last week, a man armed with an AK-47 variant walked into an IHOP restaurant in Carson City, NV and opened fire. The assailant killed four, wounded seven, and then took his own life.
Terminal Security
We generally think of security in terms of checkpoints and fencing--all attempts to prevent the introduction of hazardous or lethal objects on board an aircraft. While the events of the September 11th terrorist attacks certainly justify such an approach, we should also give brief thought to the concept of preventing a mass-casualty incident at terminal facilities.
One particular cause for concern is the possibility of either single or multiple armed persons entering the public side of an airport terminal in order to cause casualties. The term “Active Shooter” has been developed by Law Enforcement agencies to define this type of incident. The term was developed after studying the Columbine High School shootings in the mid 1990s, and those fitting the term pose a difficult, and lethal, threat to large gatherings of people.
Methodology
The Active Shooter represents a paradigm shift in the intent and methodology of hostile acts against civilians; in the mid-1970s and 1980s, terrorists would take hostages in order to gain a form of public leverage in order to accomplish a goal, be it the release of imprisoned colleagues or gain notoriety for their cause. As such, Law Enforcement adapted over time to face such a threat, resulting in the Hostage Rescue Teams we see today. A crucial element of hostage incidents is that of time; where the aggressor usually holes up in a place and waits for their demands to be made. This gives the responding agencies time to either meet the demands or plan for a less diplomatic way to end the situation.
With the Active Shooter, the element of time disappears. According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, an Active Shooter is “…an armed person who has used deadly physical force on other persons and continues to do so while having unrestricted access to additional victims.” In short, the person is heavily armed, walks in, and continues killing others until they are killed or disabled themselves. There is no time to gather negotiators, argue over demands, or deploy specialized teams. As such, it is imperative that police immediately pursue and engage such a threat as soon as possible.
This methodology has been conducted by those that are criminally insane, such as Jared Loughner, the mentally-disturbed man charged with the Tucson AZ shooting in which six were killed and fourteen wounded, as well as the gunman in the IHOP situation mentioned earlier. However, this method may well prove to be especially attractive to those with terrorist ties; again, while most of our focus is upon foiling rather complicated attempts to turn an aircraft into a flying Weapon of Mass Destruction, the simple, low-technology approach of so-called “Lone Wolf” attacks may not receive the same attention. These methods have seen some growth in popularity among terrorist groups overseas due to their lack of necessary planning, simple equipment needs, and disturbingly effective results; one thinks of the Fort Hood shooting, in which a single man with two handguns killed 13 and wounded 30 more.
Prevention
Naturally, the purpose of an airport terminal is to provide efficient and pleasurable service to passengers seeking to board an aircraft; as such, it cannot become an armed camp in order to prevent an attack. Short of installing metal detectors at all entrances, there are few if any scientific methods of preventing such an attack before it begins. With that being said, there are some skills that Operators can develop and teach that may help with detection:
- A person wearing heavy clothing, such as a coat, in warmer weather is usually a sure sign of something concealed, be it a weapon or explosive device.
- Suspicious behavior may be noted prior to the beginning of the assault, such as pacing back and forth, profuse sweating, fidgeting, and talking to themselves.
- If a person is concealing a weapon in their clothing, there are certain visual cues and behaviors that can be noted by the trained eye; as they approach a crowd of people, they tend to turn the side with the weapon away from the crowd, lest someone bump into them and note that they are concealing a large metal object. If it is not secured in a holster, they will generally place their hand on it to keep it from shifting as they move, or they may constantly reach to the area to reposition the weapon. If they run, they may also keep their hand on the weapon to keep it from falling out or shifting in their clothing.
Unfortunately, while these methods may help detect a hostile act before it begins, it is more likely that the first real indication of an incident will be the sound of shots fired. As such, it is crucial that LEOs are trained to respond quickly to such an incident; in most Active Shooter cases, the assault did not stop until the assailant was disabled or they ran out of ammunition. While such an incident is not required by the FAA to be a part of our AEP (or ASP, for that matter), it would be an excellent idea to bring up the concept of response methods with the Lieutenant or Sergeant that oversees the LEO force at your airport. Remember: none of the airports, or restaurants, or schools, mentioned here ever considered that it could happen at their location either.
While the subject of this article is not a pleasant one (in fact the concept can be downright disturbing) I certainly hope that the possibility of these incidents has stimulated thought within our fairly small community. The few hours’ consideration of such a threat, and contingency plans to deal with it, may well save a number of lives in the future, though one hopes it remains a conjectural exercise.
-Brandon Guillot
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Small Airports On Terror Alert
Regional Airports Could Be Targeted By Terrorists Because Of Smaller Planes
POSTED: 9:13 pm MDT September 5, 2011
UPDATED: 10:52 pm MDT September 5, 2011GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- Small airports are on alert across the country with the ten year anniversary of 9/11 just one week away. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have issued warnings about possible terrorist attacks using small planes.The impact of that warning could be felt across the Western Slope where nearly every airport is home to dozens of single-engine aircraft.We spoke with passengers at Grand Junction Regional Airport about the warning and possibility of another attack on September 11.Ten years ago this month, terrorists brought the Twin Towers down in the largest attack ever on U.S. soil. Separate hijackings and plane crashes in Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania were also part of the plan and left a hole in the Pentagon while taking the lives of thousands of Americans.For one man caught in the middle of that tragedy, the anniversary brings back frightening memories. "Knowing what had happened to the Twin Towers and all of a sudden hearing something that felt to me like a safe landing on top of the floor above me," retired Army Major General Bill Bond said while waiting for a flight home out of Grand Junction. "I was in the Pentagon."Bond was in the "A Ring" and just yards from the "E Ring" that was hit by the plane. "So, I really could feel it," he said. "There was definitely a fire going on, you could see the smoke."Traveling now with his family, Bond always has the thought of those attacks in the back of his mind. But, he's still not convinced there will be another attack this month."I think it will pass... I'm much more likely to probably die from an automobile accident. Those are real concerns that we as Americans ought to have."Federal security officials, on the other hand, are not so sure.They have issued a national warning about Al Qaeda threats of using small planes at regional airports. And, western Colorado is home to dozens of those facilities."The threats are real and the stakes are high, we believe that we face a determined enemy who has not given up," John Pistole with the TSA said.Experts believe Al Qaeda may be shying away from the more massive attacks by planning smaller ones - using single-engine planes - that are less complicated."These planes are small you might not be able to put some huge device aboard them but the other side of that is if you were to put some biological or chemical agent in one of them, clearly that could cause some major damage depending on your target," Brad Garrett, a security consultant and former FBI agent, told ABC's Good Morning America.Federal officials are hoping to notify as many of these airports as possible before the weekend. Still though, Bond remains hopeful that nothing will happen."If we give into those fears, then we give into the terrorists," he said. "That's what they're trying to accomplish with anything."On average, each United States airport is home to 57 general aviation planes. The government admits that the number may be too much for them to monitor alone, but officials are still working to alert pilots all over the country.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Self Service Fueling Nightmare Stories
I need stories of bad self service stations, I will not use your name or airport unless given permission. I will use the stories and information to develop a power point presentation. This power point presentation will educate AAOA members of the dangers of not properly maintaining their fuel systems.
Please send me any pictures or information of a bad/good system.
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