This week in Midweek Updates
Sonex is back.
Join us for the Tedderfield Sling Frost 'n Flight Breakfast Fly-In.
EAA 322 Members and fellow Aviators we welcome you to participate in our Young Eagles Day 11 July 2026 Kitty Hawk Airfield, Pretoria.
GFC 500 Autopilot now approved for the Cessna 172/175.
Robinson R88 helicopter named “Best of the Best: Aviation 2026” by Robb Report.
Væridion and Deutsche Aircraft join forces to advance sustainable regional aviation.
Africa to lead Super Tucano sales.
AutoFlight unveils world's first 5-ton class eVTOL Aircraft.
Worldwide Incidents and Accidents
Bonus video - Aerotrike Cobra at Hazyview
Sonex is Back!
Sonex Aviation is open, in production, and entering the most ambitious chapter in its history. In March 2026, the future of this company was uncertain as former owner Mark Schaible announced the permanent closure of Sonex, pending an 11th hour buyer or investor.
Shortly thereafter, ON Capital, Inc., led by aviator and general contractor Stephen Osborne, has acquired all assets of Sonex LLC and Sonex Aerospace LLC, and reopened operations to full production as of May 1st, 2026.
With more than 80 pre-orders for the highly anticipated Sonex High Wing, the Sonex design and production teams are working against the clock to push kits out to customers by mid-summer! Tail kits are already shipping and the fuselage and wing components are close behind. The Sonex High Wing is no longer a promise - it is a product in motion.
With a resurgence in interest in the high wing for both standard and quick build kits, the factory expects to begin filling the calendar quickly. Customers interested in building a kit are encouraged to place orders as soon as possible to secure 2026 build/shipping slots.
As part of the acquisition and ownership transfer, the ON Capital team has committed to long-term support of the entire Sonex aircraft line of products. Our goal is to get as many Sonex aircraft flying as possible and keep them flying as long as possible.
Join us for the Tedderfield Sling Frost 'n Flight Breakfast Fly-In
Join us for a festive morning at Tedderfield as we celebrate Frost 'n Flight - a fly-in for aviation lovers, future Sling owners, and the whole Sling community.
Enjoy a free breakfast and beverages, browse Sling Store merchandise, and soak up the atmosphere with a Sling factory tour. The event is fur co-pilot friendly, and for those wanting to stay over, camping is available on site with deluxe ablutions, a kitchen, bar, braai area, fire pits, and access to all clubhouse facilities.
Demo Flights Available
Sling High Wing and Sling TSi demo flights will be available on the day, so this is the perfect opportunity to experience one firsthand. Please note, this is not about a quick, fun flip for your kids - these demo flights are intended for serious pilots or pilots in training who are genuinely considering the purchase of a Sling. Please remember to book your demo flight in advance via the link below, as this is essential for planning purposes on the day.
Factory Tour
From 08h00, guests are invited to enjoy a Sling Tedderfield factory tour for a behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens.
Sling Store
We'll also have Sling merchandise available for purchase. No cash will be accepted on site but card facilities will be available.
Need More Info?
For general and camping queries:
Alan - 083 702 3680
We look forward to welcoming you, and all aircraft, for a morning of flying, community, and autumn vibes - and don't forget to register for your Sling High Wing and Sling TSi demo flight via the link provided below!
EAA 322 Members and fellow Aviators we welcome you to participate in our Young Eagles Day 11 July 2026 Kitty Hawk Airfield, Pretoria
In the past, we have received questions from pilots regarding the selection process for Young Eagles participants. While we acknowledge that we cannot accommodate all requests, we strive to select candidates who are most suited to the programme, with the primary requirement being a genuine interest in aviation.
For this event, we are looking for boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 17 who have a clear enthusiasm for aviation and have never flown before. They do not necessarily need to aspire to become pilots, as aviation offers many rewarding career paths. We may well include an short introduction to some of these career paths, if time allows. Ideally, candidates should be performing well in subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Science, and Geography, and demonstrate curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn.
As members, we also have an opportunity to strengthen the selection process by inviting suitable young people from our own families and circles of friends who are aviation enthusiasts and have never had the opportunity to fly before. We are looking for the right candidates, as opposed to a large event, as we have done in the past. We have opened applications up outside of membership nominations, so please do encourage them to apply as soon as possible, as numbers will be limited.
If you know a young person who fits this description, please encourage them to apply. Together, we can help inspire and guide the next generation of South African aviators. This could be the opportunity that changes their life.
GFC 500 Autopilot now Approved for the Cessna 172/175
If you own a straight-tail Cessna 172 or 175, you can now fit Garmin's GFC 500 digital autopilot. Garmin has received STC approval for the GFC 500 in these models, and because South Africa accepts FAA-approved STCs, the system is available for SA-registered aircraft. Here is what that means for your aeroplane and your flying.
The GFC 500 autopilot is now approved for installation in straight-tail Cessna 172 and 175 models. The approval covers the full GFC 500 system, and Garmin has also released two new variants of the GMC 507 mode controller specifically for these aircraft - one with the yaw-damper function omitted, and one with both yaw-damper and VNAV omitted, matching the way these airframes are typically equipped.
One practical note before anything else: eligibility is determined per airframe. Approval lists work to specific model, serial, and equipment combinations, and the GFC 500 interfaces with your existing flight display and navigator. The honest first step is to confirm your individual aircraft against the approval - which is exactly what we will do for you before quoting.
Why a GFC 500 is worth it on a 172 or 175
The 172 and 175 are honest, stable training and touring aircraft - and that is precisely where a modern autopilot earns its place. It is not about replacing hand-flying; it is about reducing workload on the parts of a flight where fatigue and distraction creep in.
Workload reduction on long legs and in IMC - the autopilot holds heading, altitude, and tracks your navigator while you manage radios, weather, and planning.
Altitude pre-select and vertical speed - set your level-off and let the system fly to it, smoothly and repeatably.
Garmin ESP (Electronic Stability and Protection) - gentle nudges back toward level flight if the aircraft is hand-flown towards an unusual attitude or airspeed extreme, a genuine safety layer for single-pilot operations.
Coupled approaches - fly LPV and ILS approaches coupled to the autopilot, which materially lowers single-pilot workload in low weather.
A digital, solid-state system - far more reliable and capable than the legacy vacuum-driven or analogue autopilots many of these aircraft still carry, if they have one at all.
A GFC 500 fit is a structured panel job: servos on the relevant control axes, the GMC 507 mode controller in the panel, and integration with your flight display and navigator. The exact configuration depends on what is already in your panel, which is why the quote starts with a look at your specific aircraft rather than a generic price.
We carry out the work from our SACAA-approved AMO at Lanseria International Airport. Our CEO, Clinton Carroll, is an aircraft owner and pilot - every autopilot installation includes a personal familiarisation on the system, on the ground and in the air, so you leave understanding how to use it, not just signed off on it.
If you fly a straight-tail 172 or 175, send us your registration and a short note on your current panel. We will confirm your aircraft's eligibility against the approval, work out the right GFC 500 configuration for your panel, and come back to you with a tailored quotation and a provisional installation slot within two working days.
Robinson R88 Helicopter Named “Best of the Best: Aviation 2026” by Robb Report
The all-new R88 from Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), the global leader in civilian rotorcraft, has been named to the 2026 "Best of the Best" in the Aviation category by the Robb Report. The recognition highlights the R88's alignment with evolving customer and operator requirements, balancing enhanced performance metrics with practical reliability, accessible operating economics and modern style, central to the Robinson product line.
The R88 represents a significant development for Robinson, expanding the company's portfolio into a highly competitive, premium segment of the helicopter market. Early flight evaluations and industry reviews have validated the aircraft's design objectives, emphasizing its optimized cabin architecture, reduced acoustic signature, and advanced safety systems. Global market demand remains strong, with the company having secured more than 150 formal purchase deposits. The R88 program is progressing through its multi-year flight test regimen, with Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on track before the end of the decade.
"Winning the Robb Report award proves that the market wants a capable and modern helicopter with attractive styling and design," said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. "We designed the R88 with multiple configurations for both fleet operators and individual luxury buyers who need utility without unnecessary complexity. Whether you are traveling with family or packing mountain bikes, camping gear, and extra luggage, this aircraft delivers reliable, safe, cost-effective and stylish performance for every adventure."
For over three decades, Robb Report's Best of the Best has been the ultimate accolade. Annually celebrating exceptional engineers, artisans, and innovators, the awards recognize the finest new products and experiences across 15 distinct categories, including automotive, yachting, aviation, style, and travel, representing the absolute pinnacle of human achievement and craftsmanship.
The Robb Report Best of the Best awards are determined through an annual review process spanning a 12-month period. A specialized editorial board and independent aviation consultants evaluate nominees based on engineering innovation, functional design, safety advancements, and overall performance relative to category peers. To qualify for the accolade, an aircraft must demonstrate distinct technological or operational progress that materially benefits the end-user, moving beyond incremental updates to establish a new benchmark for its segment.
Væridion and Deutsche Aircraft Join Forces to Advance Sustainable Regional Aviation
Vaeridion GmbH and Deutsche Aircraft GmbH have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly explore technical and non-technical enablers in the field of R&T and development in furtherance of their leadership realizing sustainable regional aviation.
The collaboration brings together two companies with very different, yet best-in-class approaches in their respective field of operation and class.
VÆRIDION's with its unique CS-23 all-electric Microliner-a cost-effective, short-haul commuter aircraft for 9 passengers and Deutsche Aircraft, the D328 TC-holder and CS-25 OEM, currently advancing the 40-seat D328eco®, a 100% SAF-ready regional aircraft.
Under the MoU, Deutsche Aircraft, the only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in Germany with full system integration capabilities, supports VÆRIDION in their pursuit of flight testing their advanced battery technology on the flying test bed UpLift D-CUPL from the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Additionally, Deutsche Aircraft will contribute its expertise in structural design, industrialization and testing of new aircraft to the Microliner development.
This partnership aligns with both parties' ongoing commitment to revitalizing local communities and underserved routes with the most innovative aviation solutions.
“This MoU marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward emission-free regional flights,” said Markus Kochs-Kämper, CTO and Managing Director of VÆRIDION. “By uniting our technological expertise with Deutsche Aircraft's long-standing engineering excellence and design quality, we aim to accelerate the Microliner programme and provide sustainable, cost-effective air travel solutions to underserved markets in Europe and beyond.”
Frederic Fischer, Head of R&T of Deutsche Aircraft, added, “We are proud to collaborate with VÆRIDION in shaping the future of regional aviation. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the transformation of air mobility.”
With both organizations based in the greater Munich area and maintaining a presence at the AirTech Campus at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport, the collaboration is firmly embedded in the German and broader European innovation ecosystem - once again showcasing the strength of aviation innovation made in Bavaria.
Africa to Lead Super Tucano Sales
By Guy Martin www.defenceweb.co.za
Africa is expected to account for the majority of Super Tucano sales over the next two decades, with Embraer predicting about 150 orders from the continent, where the light attack and trainer turboprop already has a solid customer base.
The aircraft, pitched for light attack, armed reconnaissance, training, and now counter-unmanned aerial system (CUAS) missions, has to date been selected by 22 air forces, with over 300 aircraft ordered, including 39 aircraft added to Embraer's order book in less than 24 months, with Uruguay (5 aircraft), Panama (4) and the United States' Sierra Nevada Corporation (1) the latest customers. An undisclosed client ordered four in January - this is believed to be Togo.
Global customers include Angola, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Indonesia, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Portugal, Uruguay, United States, and four undisclosed customers. They have accumulated 625 000 flight hours, including 65 000 combat hours.
The Super Tucano has spent two decades leading the light attack market segment, according to Embraer, which provided an update of the programme during a media trip to its Brazilian facilities on 10 June. Over the last seven years, the Super Tucano has secured a 72% market share, with 71 aircraft sold since 2019 compared to seven Paramount Mwaris, eight Textron AT-6 Wolverines, and five Turkish Aerospace Industries Hurkus-Cs.
According to Marcio Monteiro, Chief Marketing Officer for Embraer Defence & Security, the company expects to secure a market share of about 500 aircraft over the next 20 years, with Africa accounting for the majority (28%) of Super Tucano contracts. Demand is also expected to come from South America (23%), the Middle East (18%), Asia (18%), and Europe (13%).
This demand is not just for replacing older aircraft but includes adding new capabilities to air forces. “This platform remains relevant because of its multi-mission capabilities,” Monteiro said.
The Super Tucano is suitable for a wide range of missions such as close air support, air patrol, special operations, air interdiction, forward air controller (FAC), air and tactical coordinator (TAC), armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), border surveillance, reconnaissance, air escort, basic, operational and advanced training, transition to air superiority fighters, lead-in fighter and FAC training.
A recent addition to the Super Tucano's mission list is countering unmanned aerial systems. It does this with electro-optical sensors, data link, laser-guided rockets and/or guns. Last year Embraer partnered with a US company Valkyrie Aero for its Gunslinger AI target classification suite to counter drones. Embraer hopes to have a counter-UAS offering ready soon after demonstrations later this year. The company sees this option as an urgent one to pursue given the proliferation of UAVs in combat theatres, from Iran to Ukraine.
“We continue to expand the A-29's capabilities to address the most recent challenges faced by many nations worldwide,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defence & Security when announcing the counter-UAS addition to the aircraft's mission portfolio in November 2025.
“The continued challenges in modern warfare and the recent conflicts worldwide have shown the urgent need for solutions to fight drones. The A-29 is the ideal tool to counter UAS effectively and at low cost, adding to the aircraft's already extensive mission set that includes close air support, armed reconnaissance, advanced training, and many others,” he said.
Developed in response to the demanding requirements of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), the A-29 Super Tucano is equipped with a variety of fourth generation avionics and weapons, including an electro-optical/infrared system with laser designator, night vision goggles, secure communications and data-link package. Its systems allow the gathering and sharing of time-critical information, and the aircraft can operate as part of a networked environment.
Armament comprises one 12.7 mm machinegun in each wing. Five hardpoints can carry a maximum external load of 1 550 kilograms. Weapons options include gun pods, bombs, rocket pods, and (on the two outboard stations) air-to-air missiles.
As the Super Tucano was designed from the start to have a light attack capability, it features built-in machinegun mounts, self-sealing fuel tanks and armour in critical locations. Its combat abilities have been well proven in Afghanistan and Colombia, during Amazon protection operations in Brazil and counter-narcotics operations in the Dominican Republic and Brazil, and in Nigeria and other African nations against terrorist organisations.
Monteiro noted many African customers use the Super Tucano for armed reconnaissance and border patrol. He is excited about new Super Tucano orders, with the company's KC-390 Millenium airlifter and Super Tucano key defence products. Production stands at about 12 A-29s per year, depending on demand.
Aircraft are manufactured in Brazil or by Sierra Nevada Corporation in Jacksonville, Florida, for US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers such as Nigeria, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. This facility has also manufactured some white tail aircraft in anticipation of future demand. Monteiro said Embraer is also considering a production line in Portugal.
AutoFlight Unveils World's First 5-Ton Class eVTOL Aircraft
AutoFlight has unveiled Matrix, the world's first 5-ton class electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which successfully completed a public full transition flight demonstration at the company's low-altitude flight test facility center.
During the demonstration, Matrix completed the full mode transition flight sequence, transitioning from vertical take-off through cruise flight to vertical landing. The achievement validates AutoFlight's eVTOL technologies across complex aerodynamic systems, high-power electric propulsion, and advanced flight control systems, marking the first time a 5-ton eVTOL has achieved full transition flight.
Matrix features a 20-metre wingspan, 17.1-metre length, and 3.3-metre height, with a maximum take-off weight of 5,700kg.
The aircraft will be available in passenger and cargo variants. The passenger version offers flexible seating configurations, accommodating either 10 business-class seats or six VIP seats.
The cargo variant uses hybrid power system,supporting a maximum payload of 1,500kg, and features a large forward-opening door capable of accommodating two AKE standard air cargo containers, enhancing operational efficiency for ton-scale cargo transport.
AutoFlight's CEO and Founder, Tian Yu said: “Matrix is not only a rising star in the aviation industry but also an ambitious industry disruptor. It will break the industry perception that eVTOL = short-haul, low-load, and will reshape the rules of eVTOL routes. Through economies of scale, it significantly reduces transportation costs per seat-kilometer and ton-kilometer, revolutionizing costs and embracing profitability. It covers all scenarios from urban commuting to intercity feeder routes, driving the expansion of the entire low-altitude ecosystem.”
Matrix employs AutoFlight's compound wing Lift and Cruise configuration with a distinctive triplane layout and six-arm structure, ensuring aerodynamic stability throughout all flight phases. The pure electric version offers a maximum range of 250km, while the hybrid-electric variant extends range to 1,500km.
U
SA, Boston-Logan International Airport, MA (BOS/KBOS): Delta Air Lines Flight DL2351, an Airbus A319-114 (N238NB) and American Airlines Flight AA3161, a Boeing 737-800 (N316PF) were involved in an incident at Boston-Logan Airport, MA (BOS). Air traffic control cleared AA3161 to line up and wait on Runway 27 and issued a warning that traffic was landing on the intersecting Runway 33L. At that time a PC-12 was on final approach for Runway 33L, followed by DL2351. After DL2351 reported over NIMOY, ATC cleared the flight to land, adding that traffic was holding on Runway 27. After the PC-12 had landed, ATC cleared AA3161 for take-off. When AA3161 began their take-off roll, DL2351 was on short final for runway 33L and aborted their approach from a position just before the runway threshold. They executed a go-around and circled for another approach and uneventful landing. AA3161 continued to their destination.
Czechia, Frydlant (LKFR): A Zlín 226, which was taxiing on the airport apron, collided with a man moving on the Frýdlant nad Ostravicí airport apron. The man (+59) suffered serious injuries and died on the spot. A glider competition was taking place at the airport at the time of the tragedy. According to the investigator, the tow plane landed, taxied on the ground, and when it approached the aircraft, unfortunately the man stepped into its path and the plane hit him with its propeller. The deceased had permission to move around the airport.
USA, near Geauga County Airport (7G8), Middlefield, OH: A Piper PA-24-250 Comanche, N6403P, was substantially when it crashed in a field while on approach to land on runway 29 at Geauga County Airport (7G8), Middlefield, Ohio. The commercial pilot, private pilot, and student pilot were all fatally injured. ADS-B data shows that the airplane entered a high rate of descent towards the end of the track with decaying groundspeed values. The last few ADS-B data points showed the airplane imitating a right turn towards an open field with a reported groundspeed of 56 knots and a vertical rate of -4200 feet per minute (fpm). The wreckage was located 1.1 mile east of runway 29 and was largely intact and not consumed by fire. Weather conditions at the time included winds gusting up to 20 knots.
USA, 4 km S of Laredo International Airport (LRD/KLRD), Laredo, TX: A Cessna 680A Citation Latitude, N523QS, was destroyed when it crashed during an emergency landing on a highway near Laredo Airport (LRD), Texas, USA. One of the six occupants, a passenger, was killed. The flight departed from San José del Cabo (SJD) at 01:18 UTC (18:18 local time) on a flight to Austin (AUS), Texas. It climbed to the cruising altitude FL430. At 02:27 UTC the flight commenced a descent towards LRD. It made a 270 degree descending turn and lined up for an approach to runway 36L. On final approach the aircraft veered right and lined up for an emergency landing on Texas State Highway Loop 20. The aircraft came down on the concrete barrier at the side of an elevated section of road and broke in two. A fire broke out in the forward fuselage section. According to the Laredo Airport Director, the crew reported low fuel and a power outage. Dashcam footage of a car travelling on the lane opposite of the aircraft performing its emergency landing showed the plane knocking down 3 lamp posts, 2 of them got wrapped around the forward half of the fuselage.
