We start off by hanging out with Anthony and talking about his career in aviation and more, including:

• He has an older brother who’s also a pilot
• He’s from Western Australia, learning to fly at Jandakot in Perth
• He did the usual hour building & quickly found himself in a Cessna 310 then on to First Officer on a Brasillia before stepping up to Second Officer on 747-400, after which he proceeded to his current gig as First Officer on a 767
• Anthony started flying aerobatics with friends and also scored a flight with Matt Hall
• His aerobatic training really kicked in with a Pitts and he now has his own Pitts
• We talk about G-Tolerance, G-LOC and beating the effects of high-G manoeuvres
• We discuss the recent tragic accident at the Reno Air Races, including the NTSB’s preliminary report & talk further the effects of pulling-G’s
• A discussion about stalls that leads into how advanced training really helps dispel some of the many myths, how the stall stick position works and standard GFPT training vs advanced training by groups like Red Baron in Sydney (Hi Joel! :)

You can find Anthony on his Flying Ant Online website as well as following him on Twitter where he’s known as AntCB.

We then move into the interview that Steve & Anthony recorded with Grant Piper, the President of the Australian Aerobatics Club, featuring:

• An overview of aerobatic manoeuvre’s
• How aerobatic competitions are managed & scored
• Australia’s return to the World Aerobatic Championship
• How to improve the standard in Australia with coaching by current champs
• Grant’s career in aviation including his start in the RAAF
• The benefits of including aeros in primary training

We then return to a chat with Anthony about:

• The challenges of flying competition aerobatics
• Standard aerobatic figures (loop, cuban-8, etc)
• How scoring each manoeuvre starts at 10 points then deducts points for any errors
• How it all has to look right from the ground
• The issues in dealing with wind & power
• What is the aerobatic box
• Types of propeller blades and their benefits (blade numbers, sizes, etc)

Finally we start to wrap it up with some listener mail:

• Ian Allen from New Zealand sent us some great ideas for more Kiwi Content
• Errol Cavit points us at a possible Kiwi aviation podcast
• Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page and our forums on Downwind

We then wind up with some shout outs:

• Phil Unicomb from Action Aerobatics and Combat Dragon
• Steve Tupper at the Airspeed Podcast who has a great new episode out on air show safety
• The NSW Aerobatic Champs will be held at Temora on Friday 28th Oct to Monday 31st October with more information available at the Australian Aerobatic Club’s web page

Eagle Microlight at Porepunkah

• Tom Vincent from Asia Pacific Aircraft Storage (APAS) talking about the new “boneyard” facility they are creating at Alice Springs in the middle of Australia
• Angelina Morino from Aus Air Services joins us again to review their past year of operation and discuss their involvement with Brentwood College (Steve’s old high school) to provide aviation study to students. They’re also planning to extend this out to other high schools in the area. NOTE: As with Peter Dow at TVSA, it’s great to see local flying schools thinking outside the box to make it easier and/or cheaper to learn to fly)
• Some more content from Avalon, including:
  • The crew of a KC135 tanker
  • Flying Officer Johnno Pearson on flying the F/A-18 Hornet
  • Flight Lt Liam Webler, a techo who helps to keep the F/A-18 Hornet in the air
• Steve & Lisa Ruffles talk about their Eagle School of Microlighting at Porepunkah

The view of the runway and "ramp" at Porepunkah

• Miles Rados wrote in about gliding at Tocumwal
• Toby Robb wrote in about Steve’s recent microphone levels and had some comments on our recent chat with Dick Smith
• The Airplane Geeks podcast reaches episode 150 – well done, guys!
• Kudos to the RAAF social media team for helping to promote our work via the “I love jet noise” Facebook page
• There’s a new aviation podcast – The Stuck Mic AvCast – from the folks at The Pilot Report. They’re two episodes in and have been producing great content so far
• PCDU can now be found on Stitcher & SlapDash Radio
• Thanks to all those who’ve left feedback at the iTunes store – much appreciated and keep it up!
• Don’t forget to check out our website where we’ve made some recent layout changes plus we’ve also been loading more videos on our YouTube channel.

Once again this discussion with Dick is sure to generate divided commentary from those in aviation, both old & new. If you’ve not already listened to our previous chat with Dick about his early flying adventures, you really should check it out now.

Following our chat with Dick we have a dramatic change of scene as the Infrequent Flyer (aka Anthony Simmons) returns to give us his View From the Lounge angle on the Avalon Airshow. Then, to answer Anthony’s question of “How it all flows together” we have ATC_Ben return to present his latest Controller’s Corner where he explains just what went on at Mercat Manor.

Following that we have a few interviews recorded at Avalon:

• FLT LT Pete Komar, an F-18F Super Hornet pilot with the RAAF
• BAe Hawk Mk127 techo LAC Brian Dick
• Pilot Officer Emmanuel “Muz” Murray talks about flying the BAe Hawk Mk127
• SGT Kerry Dimar who works in logistics with the BAe Hawk Mk127

To keep with the Fast Jets angle, we’ve thrown in some cockpit audio from Steve’s flight with Mark Pracy in JetRide’s L39 Albatros.

For this episode, we’ve dived into the mailbag to bring out:

• Calum Tsang from Toronto lists some of his favourite episodes
• Carl Rossi says PCDU is going to cost him $13,000 … and he doesn’t mind!
• Peter Haans tells us he appreciated our Avalon 2011 coverage
• We remind you to check out our listener survey
• Listener “Raptor” has created a thread about CASA’s “Flight Planning Kit” on our forum at DownWind.com.au

We also give a shout out to:

• The Airplane Geeks podcast for their great episodes with Igor Sikorsky III and Mikey McBryan from Ice Pilots
• The Flaps Podcast from the UK for being nominated for an award in New York and winning an award in the UK – awesome effort from a great podcast (if you’re not listening to these guys, you’re REALLY missing out on an amazing show!)
• Tod McClamroch from My Flight Blog also had a ride in an L39 and scored some stick time (great, another person Grant is jealous of :)

We were fortunate to be invited to attend along with the team from Aviation Advertiser, setting up our mobile recording studio in one of the Temora Aviation Museum’s hangars (along with their Mk VIII Spitfire and Cessna A37). We arrived on the Friday morning and departed on the Saturday evening, experiencing two very busy days packed with interviews, discussions, aircraft & equipment inspections and a couple of demo flights.

Suffice to say there was plenty of material captured and we’ve managed to squeeze the best of it into yet another very large episode. We considered splitting it over two but there’s more great content on the way on other topics so we felt it best to pack it all into one large package.

The content we present in this episode is:

• An introduction with Steve, Grant, Ben & Bas
• Brumby Aircraft with Paul Goward
• Laurie Hines and his Revolution Mini-500 helicopter
• John Garton from Leisure Sport Aircraft talks about the Paradise P1 aircraft from Brazil
• Gyrocopter pilot Sam Polyak talks about the EVA Aviacion ELA 08
• Gary Flood from Bert Flood Imports discusses the latest Rotax engines
• Owen Zupp joins us to chat about how he undertakes an air test
• Paul Chernikeef talks with us about Rotec Engineering’s latest radial engines
• Nick Sharples talks about the AVOCET aircraft his father Mike has created from a Jabiru 230
• Tony Blair talks to us about flying aerobatics and RAAF ab initio training
• Jon Johansen from Flymore steps us through the TruTrak EFIS, EMS & autopilot systems on offer
• John Lindner gives us a visitor’s view of the show
• Bryce Hughes joins us from Cub Crafters
• Matthew Maude from Performance Metals Australia gets detailed on metal
• Some of the cockpit audio from Steve’s test flight of a Brumby R600
• John Conte from Aerochute talks to us about their powered parachutes
• Gary Sargeant discusses the amazing EQ1 Wireless Headset he’s invented

We then wrap up the episode with a review of the show between Steve, Grant, Ben & Bas along with a quick chat about the OzRunways application that Bas has been developing.

We also have some other great chats in this show, including:

• Steve Ahrens talking about the upcoming Barossa Airshow (May 1st, 2011)
• A chat with the crew of an RAAF Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft that we recorded back at Avalon Airshow
• A collection of quick chats with some RA-Aus pilots at Avalon, including:
  • Peter Harlow from Foxbat Australia
  • John Callahan with his Typhoon Glider
  • Peter Kane with his Kitfox
• Ben Morgan then rejoins us to discuss the state of the second hand aircraft market in Australia and a couple of the aircraft available for sale on Aviation Advertiser

• Our chat with Squadron Leader Matt Harper, an RAAF pilot on exchange with the USAF who’s flying the F22 Raptor
• Steve’s in-cockpit discussion with David Wheatland, the chief pilot for the GippsAero GA-8 Airvan
• Talking with Flight Lieutenant Skye Smith about RAAF Public Affairs, her career to date & where it may lead in the future
• Today’s tarmac updates from Timbo with the warbirds & Taffy reluctantly agrees to cover for Papa Smurf at the Keyhole

These Avalon Quick Cast episodes are being sponsored by Aviation Advertiser and supported by Red Baron and Temby Automotive.

• An interview with a B1B pilot & systems operator
• A chat Grant recorded with Squadron Leader Phil O’Donnell, the RAAF’s only permanent hot air balloon pilot
• Catching up with Owen Zupp
• Talking with Squadron Leader Louise Burr about base construction, administration & juggling family life with RAAF life
• Today’s updates from Timbo & Papa Smurf on movements at the Warbird and Keyhole tarmacs

These Avalon Quick Cast episodes are being sponsored by Aviation Advertiser and supported by Red Baron and Temby Automotive.

• A chat with RAAF staff operating & managing the Heron Remotely Piloted Vehicle, the RAAF’s first unmanned front-line aircraft
• A chat with Lockheed Martin’s team behind their ISR testbed aircraft
• Today’s update from Timbo on movements at the Warbird, Combat Jet and Keyhole tarmacs

These Avalon Quick Cast episodes are being sponsored by Aviation Advertiser and supported by Red Baron and Temby Automotive.

March 1st: Day 1:

• Brendan Nelson – past Defence Minister
• Mark Robinson & Martin Hoffensetz from SAAB – Remote Tower system
• Peter Dow from TVSA Pilot Training – Flight Camp & VET FEE-HELP system
• Timbo’s Tarmac & Through the Keyhole with Papa Smurf segments

Click here to listen to the full Day 1 audio quick cast

March 2nd: Day 2:

• RAAF Heron operators
• Lockheed Martin’s ISR flying testbed aircraft
• Timbo’s Tarmac

Click here to listen to the full Day 2 audio quick cast

March 3rd: Day 3:

• Matt Hall
• USAF F22 Raptor pilot & maintainer
• Timbo’s Tarmac & In the Keyhole with Papa Smurf segments

Click here to listen to the full Day 3 audio quick cast

March 4th: Day 4:

• B1B crew
• RAAF Hot Air Balloon pilot
• Owen Zupp
• Squadron Leader Louise Burr
• Timbo’s Tarmac & In the Keyhole with Papa Smurf tarmac reports

Click here to listen to the full Day 4 audio quick cast

March 5th: Day 5:

• SQDN LDR Matt Harper, RAAF F22 Pilot
• David Wheatland & the GA8 Airvan
• Flight Lieutenant Skye Smith
• Timbo’s Tarmac & Taffy covers the keyhole for Papa Smurf

Click here to listen to the full Day 5 audio quick cast

March 6th: Day 6:

• Paul Simmons, CA27 Sabre pilot
• Nikolay Timofeev, world champion aerobatics pilot
• A view from the B52′s Lounge
• Kent Pietsch & Chris Williams from the Jelly Belly team
Colonel Seth Bretscher, USAF
• Ian Honnery
• Ed Stubbs
• The final Timbo’s Tarmac & In the Keyhole with Papa Smurf tarmac reports

Click here to listen to the full Day 6 audio quick cast

These Avalon Quick Cast episodes are being sponsored by Aviation Advertiser and supported by Red Baron and Temby Automotive.

Video summary entries produced by Steven Pam.

From the early days of the airshows produced by the Schofields Flying Club through to today, a consistent presence throughout it all has been Ian Honnery. CEO of Airshows Downunder. We were fortunate to spend some time with Ian to discuss the history of the Avalon Airshow and it makes for fascinating listening.

Sadly, our sound gear wasn’t configured correctly for the space we were in and so the audio quality is not up to our show’s (and especially Steve’s :) usual standards. The content itself is incredible so after doing as much work as could be done to correct the sound issues, we’re finally able to release this interview. Our thanks go to Domenic at Audio Visual Media for his help in massaging the raw audio.

We’re looking forward to attending the airshow in March this year as it will be the 90th anniversary of the RAAF. Look out for more content about Avalon, how it’s managed and what to expect this year as we get closer to March 1st.

This is our longest episode to date so you may want to make use of the PAUSE button to get through it all. Like the PIG, it’s big, but we think the content is just too good to leave any of it out. The F111 has been a major part of our lives over the last 30 years in Australia and New Zealand and anyone who has experienced the RAAF’s trademark “Dump & Burn” display will have some idea why we’re so sad to see them go.

From seeing an F111 doing 4-point hesitation rolls, aileron rolls and a loop at Avalon to watching them racing past while sitting on the beach on a summer’s day, the F111 became an icon of Australia’s military as they provided us with a long range projection of power. They leave a large gap in our force structure now that they have been retired and a hole in the hearts of many who kept them flying.

So long, pig and remember: That’ll do, Pig. That’ll do!

The contents of this episode include:

• The Media Day’s opening press conference (starts at 06:08)
   
• A discussion with David Vanderhoof about the history of the F111 including its inception and service with the USAF & RAAF (starts at 32:06)
   
• We talk to Wing Commander Terry Deeth about his time as a bombadier/navigator (or Weapons Systems Officer) with the F111 while on rotation to the USAF (starts at 51:33)
   
• We visited the F111 simulator on the base and got to meet:
  • Steve Clark, an ex-RAAF F111 pilot who has more hours in an F111 than almost anyone else in the world (starts at 1:05:40)
  • Brett Denton, a computer technician who helps to keep the simulator operating (starts at 1:11:29)
     
• While everyone likes to focus on the guys in the cockpit, an F111 needs a lot of maintenance between flights so we managed to catch up with a few of the techos:
  • Flight Lieutenant Adam Firth & Sergeant Chris Walker (starts at 1:15:32)
  • Corporal James Morton (starts at 1:30:19)
  • Corporal David Bash, an American now living in Australia (starts at 1:35:50)
     
• We talk with Flight Lieutenant Vlad Bismark about flying the F111 (starts at 1:47:25)
   
• We have a chat with Brendan Cowan from ADF Serials about the history of the RAAF’s F111s and with Chris Daley from the Save the F111 page on Facebook about how the page developed and where it’s going now (starts at 1:55:28)
   
• We interview Wing Commander Al Curr who ejected from an F111 on take off from RNZAF Ohakea in New Zealand (starts at 2:14:12)
   
• Our final chat is with Wing Commander Michael (Micka) Gray, officer commanding 6 Squadron and the world’s last F111 unit commander (starts at 2:20:42)

We also have a couple of “Shout Outs” in this episode:

• Flight Lieutenant Skye Smith for her tireless efforts in making the Media Day run smoothly, not to mention herding us about the base and ensuring we didn’t wind up where we shouldn’t be (wonder if there’s a “Keeping media on track” medal in the ADF??? :)
• Listener Chris Whyte who we met at RAAF Amberley has produced an F111 tribute video called “RAAF F-111 tribute feat. TV Rock – ‘In the Air’” – you can find it on YouTube and it’s well worth watching a few times

Given we couldn’t do a whole episode around the concept of “gas” in different countries, we also discuss recent aviation news items (so many to chose from lately) and have a collection of interviews we recorded at the RAAF’s Air Pageant at Point Cook.

Here’s how the episode hangs together this time:

• We have yet another opinionated discussion on recent news items:
  • QANTAS are very much in the news due to an engineering dispute and maintenance woes
    • Qantas jumbo with damaged engine lands safely at Sydney airport (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Tyres burst on Qantas A380 (Australian Aviation)
    • Qantas denies industrial action could delay flights (ABC News)
    • Engineer strike compounds Qantas woe (ABC News)
    • Qantas engineers in overtime bans for Easter (Australian Aviation)
    • Qantas bosses accused of breaches on safety (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Engineers demand watchdog investigate Qantas (ABC News)

  
  

  • Virgin Blue has signed up with Boeing for new 737s
    • Virgin Blue signs order for 50 new Boeing 737 jets (Bill Lindsay @ The Australian)
    • The Blue’s big Boeing buy (Australian Aviation)

  
  

  • New boss to aim for bigger Tiger (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
     
  • Tower, ILS upgrades for Melbourne (Australian Aviation)
     
  • Sydney Airport flags huge rise for plane berths (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
     
  • Last boarding calls for Sydney’s tarmac tours (Ben Sandilands @ Crikey)
     
  • Brindabella closes flying school (Australian Aviation)
     
  • Rhinos arrive (Australian Aviation) (First 5 RAAF Super Hornets land in Australia)
     
  • CASA are converting our GAAP airports to Class D in June. Have you booked in to attend one of their workshop seminars on the transition? You’d better. Check out the CASA web page about the transition.
     
  • We shamelessly rip off UCAP’s “Off field landing of the week” segment
    • Plane lands on Hobart highway (Yahoo! 7 News)
    • Pilot praised over highway crash landing (ABC News)




• We recorded a few interviews with pilots at the RAAF’s Air Pageant at Point Cook airbase
  • Jim & Jenny Wickham (Yak9 & Robinson R22)
  • Jim Whalley (CA-13 Boomerang)
  • Murray Colquhoun (chief experimental test pilot with Pilatus & the PC21)




• Anthony Simmons returns with his “View from the Lounge” segment




• What’s in our mailbag for this episode?
  • Luke Harris raises the issue of laser pointers being used to tag aircraft
  • Bob Livingstone makes some comments about the B24
  • Damien Rose provides some in-cockpit audio (we play his intro but the cockpit audio is at the end of the episode)




• We definitely have some shout outs this episode
  • Marty at Flight.org has been of great assistance to us, helping to promote the podcast & much more
  • Thanks to those folks mentioning @pcdu in their Follow Friday tweets
  • Check out errolwi on Twitter for his tweets while at the Warbirds over Wanaka air show in New Zealand (and yes, you’re welcome for the F18s :)
  • Good luck to Zyola from the Mile High Flyers podcast as she’s going through the “joys” of losing her job recently. We also want to know if our photos on our About us page scared off her friends who thought our accents were cool/hot/sexy :)
  • Thanks to Stuart Stevenson of the Pilots Journey podcast for setting up the Aviation Podcasts Network aggregator site

As usual, our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5) and our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com.

Very few of these aircraft still exist (see the list of remaining B24s) and in Australia, only a single example remains. It is currently being restored by a group of dedicated and passionate individuals, many of whom flew B24s during or immediately after the war.

Based in Werribee, just outside Melbourne, the Australian B24 Restoration project is definitely worth visiting and supporting. We were fortunate to visit the team, admire the aircraft and interview John Temby (President of the association) and Ed Crabtree (ex B24 pilot). Another trip down is currently being planned and we expect to have more great content from the restoration team in a later episode.

Here’s how the episode came together this time:

• Indian company buys Gippsland Aeronautics and Aerostaff (Australian Aviation)
• CASA ups GAAP circuit limit, to use FAA Class D (Australian Aviation)
• Satellite-based navigation system to allow air-traffic controllers to pinpoint aircraft (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• Air N.Z. More Affected by 787 Delay Than Slump, Airlines Says (Tracy Withers @ Bloomberg.com) plus interview with Rob Fyfe on IATA.org
• Qantas to launch A380 Melbourne-London services (Australian Aviation) and Qantas to operate A380 on Melbourne-London route
• Defence Dept to fix Amberley base creek pollution
• Tiger Airways IPO reduced following luke-warm reactions and may be withdrawn
  • Tiger confirms IPO (Australian Aviation)
  • Tiger Air cuts IPO size (Kevin Lim @ AsiaOne)
  • Investors Cool Toward Tiger Airways IPO (Shares Investment)
  • Two major shareholders may jettison Tiger stake (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• QANTAS 747-400 has an engine failure not long after take off at Changi (Singapore)
  • Qantas flight turns back after ‘flames from engine’ (Thomas Hunter @ SMH.com.au)
  • Qantas denies engine fire forced return (ABC News)
  • Qantas engine failure terrifies passengers (ABC News)
• QANTAS pilots union upset over JetConnect pilots
  • Pilots union to launch legal action to fight for Kiwi pay equality (Ewin Hannan @ The Australian)
  • Qantas ‘underpaying NZ pilots’ (ABC News)
  • Australian union seeks more for Qantas’ Kiwi pilots (Kathy Marks @ NZ Herald)
  • NZ-based pilots paid ‘half of Aussie counterparts’ (Stuff.co.nz)
  • APIA takes action on Jetconnect pilot pay (Australian Aviation)>
• Interview with Michael Gilmour from Downwind.com.au
• We review our Listener Mail
• It’s Christmas, so of course everyone’s going on strike
  • Qantas faces more strike action (ABC News)
  • Qantas engineers to begin 5-day strike from tomorrow (Cynthia Koons @ The Australian)
  • Christmas strikes looming on two fronts for Qantas (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Qantas, Jetstar engineers ‘overworked’ (Nine News)
  • Work bans threaten air travel (Ben Schneiders @ The Age)
  • Qantas engineers set for more industrial action (Australian Aviation)
• Here’s our end of year wrap
  • Special thanks to the podcasts that inspired us to start PCDU
    • Uncontrolled Airspace
    • Airspeed
    • Pilot’s Flight Podlog
    • Podcast Answerman
    • Airplane Geeks
  • Our great guests in 2009 were
    • Matt Hall
    • Nigel Lamb
    • Owen Zupp
    • Bas Scheffers
    • Saj Ahmad
    • Ben Ipolito & Jeremy Peck
    • Michael Gilmour
    • David Vanderhoof
    • Lang Kidby
    • Joel Haski
    • Shashank Nigram
    • Karla Courtney
    • Carlo Santoro
    • Nick Brau
  • Special thanks also to
    • Dane Golden & Leo Laporte
    • Adam Visscher (about to be our photographer)

  As from now, we have a forum. Yes, that’s right, a place where you can come and chat about our episodes and anything else related to PCDU. Thanks to Michael @ Downwind for making a space available to us.

  As usual, our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5) and our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com.

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/12/31/episode-22-farewell-2009/feed/ 13 2:01:41 It’s the Christmas & New Year holiday period, plus down here it’s Summer so we’re totally into listening to long aviation podcasts when we’re not distracted by having fun. So, for all of our listeners who have long drive[...] It’s the Christmas & New Year holiday period, plus down here it’s Summer so we’re totally into listening to long aviation podcasts when we’re not distracted by having fun. So, for all of our listeners who have long drives or lots of chores to do around home, we give you our longest episode yet. With a bit of Christmas cheer, we produce just over two hours of PCDU goodness including an interview with Michael Gilmour from Downwind.com.au, our usual opinionated review of the news and listener mail. We also wrap up the year with a tip of the wing to the podcasts that inspire us and the guests who have helped give us some great content. Here’s how the episode came together this time: Indian company buys Gippsland Aeronautics and Aerostaff (Australian Aviation) CASA ups GAAP circuit limit, to use FAA Class D (Australian Aviation) Satellite-based navigation system to allow air-traffic controllers to pinpoint aircraft (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Air N.Z. More Affected by 787 Delay Than Slump, Airlines Says (Tracy Withers @ Bloomberg.com) plus interview with Rob Fyfe on IATA.org Qantas to launch A380 Melbourne-London services (Australian Aviation) and Qantas to operate A380 on Melbourne-London route Defence Dept to fix Amberley base creek pollution Tiger Airways IPO reduced following luke-warm reactions and may be withdrawn Tiger confirms IPO (Australian Aviation) Tiger Air cuts IPO size (Kevin Lim @ AsiaOne) Investors Cool Toward Tiger Airways IPO (Shares Investment) Two major shareholders may jettison Tiger stake (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) QANTAS 747-400 has an engine failure not long after take off at Changi (Singapore) Qantas flight turns back after ‘flames from engine’ (Thomas Hunter @ SMH.com.au) Qantas denies engine fire forced return (ABC News) Qantas engine failure terrifies passengers (ABC News) QANTAS pilots union upset over JetConnect pilots Pilots union to launch legal action to fight for Kiwi pay equality (Ewin Hannan @ The Australian) Qantas ‘underpaying NZ pilots’ (ABC News) Australian union seeks more for Qantas’ Kiwi pilots (Kathy Marks @ NZ Herald) NZ-based pilots paid ‘half of Aussie counterparts’ (Stuff.co.nz) APIA takes action on Jetconnect pilot pay (Australian Aviation)> Interview with Michael Gilmour from Downwind.com.au We review our Listener Mail It’s Christmas, so of course everyone’s going on strike Qantas faces more strike action (ABC News) Qantas engineers to begin 5-day strike from tomorrow (Cynthia Koons @ The Australian) Christmas strikes looming on two fronts for Qantas (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Qantas, Jetstar engineers ‘overworked’ (Nine News) Work bans threaten air travel (Ben Schneiders @ The Age) Qantas engineers set for more industrial action (Australian Aviation) Here’s our end of year wrap Special thanks to the podcasts that inspired us to start PCDU Uncontrolled Airspace Airspeed Pilot’s Flight Podlog Podcast Answerman Airplane Geeks Our great guests in 2009 were Matt Hall Nigel Lamb Owen Zupp Bas Scheffers Saj Ahmad Ben Ipolito & Jeremy Peck Michael Gilmour David Vanderhoof Lang Kidby Joel Haski Shashank Nigram Karla Courtney Carlo Santoro Nick Brau Special thanks also to Dane Golden & Leo Laporte Adam Visscher (about to be our photographer) As from now, we have a forum. Yes, that’s right, a place where you can come and chat about our episodes and anything else related to PCDU. Thanks to Michael @ Downwind for making a space available to us. As usual, our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5) and our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com. Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/12/05/episode-19-interview-with-a-vampire-pilot-other-stories/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/12/05/episode-19-interview-with-a-vampire-pilot-other-stories/#comments Sat, 05 Dec 2009 02:27:37 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=264 Steve’s out sick (he must have eaten the fish :) so Grant’s flying solo on this one and cheating madly by assembling a few interviews and a slightly modified version of the Australia Desk segment we recorded for the Airplane Geeks’ Thanksgiving episode. The interviews include:
  Matt Hall & Nigel Lamb Carlo Santoro from Flight . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 19: Interview with a Vampire … Pilot (& Other Stories)]]> Steve’s out sick (he must have eaten the fish :) so Grant’s flying solo on this one and cheating madly by assembling a few interviews and a slightly modified version of the Australia Desk segment we recorded for the Airplane Geeks’ Thanksgiving episode. The interviews include:
  • Matt Hall & Nigel Lamb
  • Carlo Santoro from Flight Experience Melbourne
  • Nick Brau on flying hot air balloons over Melbourne city

  The news items we covered include:

  • British Airways again discussing a merger with QANTAS
  • The US FAA wil be conducting an Air Safety examination of Australia’s air operations
  • 30th Anniversary of Air New Zealand’s DC10 crashing on the side of Mt Erebus in Antarctica
  • Virgin Blue likely to have a profit in FY09/10
  • QANTAS to purchase additional aircraft and will be assigning more of their 787s to Jetstar
  • QANTAS introduces the airport of the future concept
  • Airport capacity in Sydney and the need for a second airport
  • Australian Transport Safety Bureau provides interim reports on the QANTAS A330 ADIRU issues and QANTAS 747 oxygen bottle incidents
  • RAAF to purchase 14 F35 fighters even though Lockheed has admitted the project is running late
  • The first two Wedgetail AEW aircraft have been delivered
  • Last flight of the Caribou in Australia & it’s potential replacement

  We hope you enjoy the show and we will return to our usual levels of interviews, discussions & opinionated news reviews in a week or so.

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/12/05/episode-19-interview-with-a-vampire-pilot-other-stories/feed/ 0 0:58:22 Steve’s out sick (he must have eaten the fish :) so Grant’s flying solo on this one and cheating madly by assembling a few interviews and a slightly modified version of the Australia Desk segment we recorded for the Airplane Geeks’[...] Steve’s out sick (he must have eaten the fish :) so Grant’s flying solo on this one and cheating madly by assembling a few interviews and a slightly modified version of the Australia Desk segment we recorded for the Airplane Geeks’ Thanksgiving episode. The interviews include: Matt Hall & Nigel Lamb Carlo Santoro from Flight Experience Melbourne Nick Brau on flying hot air balloons over Melbourne city The news items we covered include: British Airways again discussing a merger with QANTAS The US FAA wil be conducting an Air Safety examination of Australia’s air operations 30th Anniversary of Air New Zealand’s DC10 crashing on the side of Mt Erebus in Antarctica Virgin Blue likely to have a profit in FY09/10 QANTAS to purchase additional aircraft and will be assigning more of their 787s to Jetstar QANTAS introduces the airport of the future concept Airport capacity in Sydney and the need for a second airport Australian Transport Safety Bureau provides interim reports on the QANTAS A330 ADIRU issues and QANTAS 747 oxygen bottle incidents RAAF to purchase 14 F35 fighters even though Lockheed has admitted the project is running late The first two Wedgetail AEW aircraft have been delivered Last flight of the Caribou in Australia & it’s potential replacement We hope you enjoy the show and we will return to our usual levels of interviews, discussions & opinionated news reviews in a week or so. Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/20/episode-17-the-ipanator-says-rivet-shower-not-on-my-watch/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/20/episode-17-the-ipanator-says-rivet-shower-not-on-my-watch/#comments Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:46:24 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=237 How many of you folks have wanted to be Air Traffic Controllers? Do you dream of Pushing Tin around the skies? Think you can keep The Flick in your head? Want to tell pilots in aircraft of all sizes where to go? (ahem! :) Steve & Grant both applied for ATC and were both knocked . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 17: The Ipanator says “Rivet Shower? Not on *my* Watch!”]]> How many of you folks have wanted to be Air Traffic Controllers? Do you dream of Pushing Tin around the skies? Think you can keep The Flick in your head? Want to tell pilots in aircraft of all sizes where to go? (ahem! :) Steve & Grant both applied for ATC and were both knocked back for a number of reasons. Fortunately, we know a couple of guys who weren’t.

  Join us as we chat with Ben Ippolito (the Ipanator) and Jeremy Peck, discussing being selected for ATC, the long hard slog of learning & practicing in the simulator and the terrors (ummm, joys) of taking their first few steps in the real world outside of the academy.

  We also discuss GAAP changes, oceanic control, airspace classes, working with the RAAF and much more.

  You can find out more about becoming an Air Traffic Controller on the Air Services ATC page. Recruitment for the 2010 class closes by January 3rd.

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/20/episode-17-the-ipanator-says-rivet-shower-not-on-my-watch/feed/ 16 1:27:55 How many of you folks have wanted to be Air Traffic Controllers? Do you dream of Pushing Tin around the skies? Think you can keep The Flick in your head? Want to tell pilots in aircraft of all sizes where to go? (ahem! :) Steve & Grant both app[...] How many of you folks have wanted to be Air Traffic Controllers? Do you dream of Pushing Tin around the skies? Think you can keep The Flick in your head? Want to tell pilots in aircraft of all sizes where to go? (ahem! :) Steve & Grant both applied for ATC and were both knocked back for a number of reasons. Fortunately, we know a couple of guys who weren’t. Join us as we chat with Ben Ippolito (the Ipanator) and Jeremy Peck, discussing being selected for ATC, the long hard slog of learning & practicing in the simulator and the terrors (ummm, joys) of taking their first few steps in the real world outside of the academy. We also discuss GAAP changes, oceanic control, airspace classes, working with the RAAF and much more. You can find out more about becoming an Air Traffic Controller on the Air Services ATC page. Recruitment for the 2010 class closes by January 3rd. Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/01/episode-15-and-now-for-something-completely-different-here-is-the-news/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/01/episode-15-and-now-for-something-completely-different-here-is-the-news/#comments Sun, 01 Nov 2009 04:37:51 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=192 We’re back to being our opiniated selves with a backlog of news stories to work through and discuss. Once again Bas Scheffers joins us for some of the news and to discuss a number of RA-Aus items. From Beavers to Tigers and even Kiwi Skyhawks doing battle with bureaucracy, we cover a diverse range of . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 15: And now for something completely different, here is the news]]> We’re back to being our opiniated selves with a backlog of news stories to work through and discuss. Once again Bas Scheffers joins us for some of the news and to discuss a number of RA-Aus items. From Beavers to Tigers and even Kiwi Skyhawks doing battle with bureaucracy, we cover a diverse range of topics including:
  • QANTAS shareholders fail to block Dixon’s $3m payment
    • Shareholders blast Qantas over Dixon payout (ABC News)
    • Qantas shareholders slam Dixon payout (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Jetstar tight-lipped on Facebook ‘sacking’ (ABC News)
  • RedBull AirRace returns to Perth in 2010 (see Tourism West Australia’s release)
  • Rocket Lab Primed To Launch New Zealand’s First Rocket Into Space (Voxy.co.nz)
  • Crash fears after 10 near misses a year in NSW (Sydney Morning Herald
  • Qantas unveils Socceroos 747 (Australian Aviation)
  • Jetstar plane evacuated after engine fire (ABC News)
  • Virgin Blue 737′s nose wheel ‘disintegrates’ on landing
    • Plane wheel ‘disintegrates’ on landing (ABC news)
    • Virgin Blue hits back at ALAEA after wheel issue
    • Virgin Blue denies plane wheel disintegrated
  • Police guard staff after Tiger passengers left stranded (Mex Cooper @ Sydney Morning Herald)
  • Qantas passengers stranded for 26 hours(Kate Schneider @ News.com.au)
  • Next QANTAS A380s delayed due to technical issues
    • Technical issues force delay to Qantas’s next two A380s (Australian Aviation)
    • Qantas talks straight on Airbus problem (ABC News)
  • Qantas A380 project takes out award (Australian Aviation)
  • Russian jets ‘refused’ on Black Saturday (Melissa Jenkins @ NineMSN)
  • General Aviation & RA-Aus round-up
    • Australia’s centenary of powered flight to be celebrated at Diggers Rest between March 18th & 21st, 2010 (see Victorian government’s release
    • RFDS enters jet age (Australian Aviation)
    • The Last Super Beaver (Australian Aviation)
    • Mayor calls for Jandakot curfew
    • Bas reports on his experiences at the Jamestown airshow
    • Discussion on changes coming up in RA-Aus (25nm over water, 600kg for non-ISA but no increase of weight to 760kg)
    • Bas talks about the AeroScene flying group
  • RNZAF A4 Skyhawks battle bureaucracy to get sold
  • Update on RAAF Airbus KC-30 MRTT
    • Third tanker enters conversion facility (Australian Aviation)
    • Second RAAF tanker flies (Australian Aviation)
  • $1bn industry package & early availability for a RAN Romeo buy

  As usual, our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5).

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/11/01/episode-15-and-now-for-something-completely-different-here-is-the-news/feed/ 15 1:33:07 We’re back to being our opiniated selves with a backlog of news stories to work through and discuss. Once again Bas Scheffers joins us for some of the news and to discuss a number of RA-Aus items. From Beavers to Tigers and even Kiwi Skyhawks [...] We’re back to being our opiniated selves with a backlog of news stories to work through and discuss. Once again Bas Scheffers joins us for some of the news and to discuss a number of RA-Aus items. From Beavers to Tigers and even Kiwi Skyhawks doing battle with bureaucracy, we cover a diverse range of topics including: QANTAS shareholders fail to block Dixon’s $3m payment Shareholders blast Qantas over Dixon payout (ABC News) Qantas shareholders slam Dixon payout (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Jetstar tight-lipped on Facebook ‘sacking’ (ABC News) RedBull AirRace returns to Perth in 2010 (see Tourism West Australia’s release) Rocket Lab Primed To Launch New Zealand’s First Rocket Into Space (Voxy.co.nz) Crash fears after 10 near misses a year in NSW (Sydney Morning Herald Qantas unveils Socceroos 747 (Australian Aviation) Jetstar plane evacuated after engine fire (ABC News) Virgin Blue 737′s nose wheel ‘disintegrates’ on landing Plane wheel ‘disintegrates’ on landing (ABC news) Virgin Blue hits back at ALAEA after wheel issue Virgin Blue denies plane wheel disintegrated Police guard staff after Tiger passengers left stranded (Mex Cooper @ Sydney Morning Herald) Qantas passengers stranded for 26 hours(Kate Schneider @ News.com.au) Next QANTAS A380s delayed due to technical issues Technical issues force delay to Qantas’s next two A380s (Australian Aviation) Qantas talks straight on Airbus problem (ABC News) Qantas A380 project takes out award (Australian Aviation) Russian jets ‘refused’ on Black Saturday (Melissa Jenkins @ NineMSN) General Aviation & RA-Aus round-up Australia’s centenary of powered flight to be celebrated at Diggers Rest between March 18th & 21st, 2010 (see Victorian government’s release RFDS enters jet age (Australian Aviation) The Last Super Beaver (Australian Aviation) Mayor calls for Jandakot curfew Bas reports on his experiences at the Jamestown airshow Discussion on changes coming up in RA-Aus (25nm over water, 600kg for non-ISA but no increase of weight to 760kg) Bas talks about the AeroScene flying group RNZAF A4 Skyhawks battle bureaucracy to get sold Update on RAAF Airbus KC-30 MRTT Third tanker enters conversion facility (Australian Aviation) Second RAAF tanker flies (Australian Aviation) $1bn industry package & early availability for a RAN Romeo buy As usual, our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5). Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/20/episode-13-the-only-way-is-zupp/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/20/episode-13-the-only-way-is-zupp/#comments Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:15:07 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=180 Of all the times for the technical gremlins to strike, it had to be for our “Lucky” 13th episode. We recorded a great discussion with Owen Zupp and, despite a fault in the call recorder that made us repeat a part, we thought we had it in the bag. We even feature our first ever . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 13: The Only Way is Zupp]]> Of all the times for the technical gremlins to strike, it had to be for our “Lucky” 13th episode. We recorded a great discussion with Owen Zupp and, despite a fault in the call recorder that made us repeat a part, we thought we had it in the bag. We even feature our first ever give away in this episode and it’s a beauty (see the notes below for details).

  However, it seems that it’s not just the Apollo missions that have problems at 13 as, sadly, the sound quality in this episode is not at all up to our usual levels of quality. Poor Steve has been tearing what’s left of his hair out but has managed to work his magic once again and produce an episode that preserves most important part of all, our guest’s great content.

  We start off discussing Owen’s early work with the Ambulance Service of New South Wales and how that provided a foundation for dealing with flying’s more “interesting” moments. Moving into flying, Owen talks about learning to fly with his father, an ex-RAAF instructor, then moving on to instructing others with the Royal Aero Club of NSW (sadly no longer in existence) and eventually shifting to his times flying with Ansett Airlines.

  During this discussion we review the pros & cons of the Multi-crew Pilot License (MPL) and various aircraft, including the Skycraft Scout. Owen also discusses Bert Hinkler, the town of Bundaberg, Hinkler House and the Hinkler Hall of Aviation.

  With the collapse of Ansett, Owen moved into flight instruction and also started writing articles. A regular contributor to Australian Aviation (our favourite flying magazine, thank you :) and other publications, Owen has also written a book called “Down to Earth,” the story of Squadron Leader McGlashan, a pilot during WWII.

  There And Back, a charity flight for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

  Next year (2010) will mark the 100th anniversary of powered flight in Australia so Owen is flying a light aircraft around Australia, visiting various historic landmarks and promoting aviation in Australia as well as raising funds for the RFDS. His sponsors include:

  • Jabiru aircraft
  • Spidertracks tracking & monitoring systems
  • Champagne PC Services flight planning software
  • Australian Aviation magazine
  • Global Aviator magazine

  Our First Ever Give Away

  Owen has graciously donated a signed copy of his book, Down to Earth, for one of our lucky listeners to win. All you have to do is go to the There and Back website and see where Owen’s journey is taking him (check out The Route for details). Then, suggest a location you think Owen should go to during his journey and say why he should go there.

  Send your recommendation to us at PlaneCrazyDownUnder@gmail.com” and we’ll review them with Owen. He will then select a winner and we’ll contact them to send them the book.

  Easy, isn’t it? So, what are you waiting for? It doesn’t matter where you live, come up with a suggestion and send it to us.

  Please note that Owen’s decision is final and that all submissions become the property of Owen to use as he sees fit.

  ---

  As usual, our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5).

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/20/episode-13-the-only-way-is-zupp/feed/ 3 1:27:34 Of all the times for the technical gremlins to strike, it had to be for our “Lucky” 13th episode. We recorded a great discussion with Owen Zupp and, despite a fault in the call recorder that made us repeat a part, we thought we had it in[...] Of all the times for the technical gremlins to strike, it had to be for our “Lucky” 13th episode. We recorded a great discussion with Owen Zupp and, despite a fault in the call recorder that made us repeat a part, we thought we had it in the bag. We even feature our first ever give away in this episode and it’s a beauty (see the notes below for details). However, it seems that it’s not just the Apollo missions that have problems at 13 as, sadly, the sound quality in this episode is not at all up to our usual levels of quality. Poor Steve has been tearing what’s left of his hair out but has managed to work his magic once again and produce an episode that preserves most important part of all, our guest’s great content. We start off discussing Owen’s early work with the Ambulance Service of New South Wales and how that provided a foundation for dealing with flying’s more “interesting” moments. Moving into flying, Owen talks about learning to fly with his father, an ex-RAAF instructor, then moving on to instructing others with the Royal Aero Club of NSW (sadly no longer in existence) and eventually shifting to his times flying with Ansett Airlines. During this discussion we review the pros & cons of the Multi-crew Pilot License (MPL) and various aircraft, including the Skycraft Scout. Owen also discusses Bert Hinkler, the town of Bundaberg, Hinkler House and the Hinkler Hall of Aviation. With the collapse of Ansett, Owen moved into flight instruction and also started writing articles. A regular contributor to Australian Aviation (our favourite flying magazine, thank you :) and other publications, Owen has also written a book called “Down to Earth,” the story of Squadron Leader McGlashan, a pilot during WWII. There And Back, a charity flight for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Next year (2010) will mark the 100th anniversary of powered flight in Australia so Owen is flying a light aircraft around Australia, visiting various historic landmarks and promoting aviation in Australia as well as raising funds for the RFDS. His sponsors include: Jabiru aircraft Spidertracks tracking & monitoring systems Champagne PC Services flight planning software Australian Aviation magazine Global Aviator magazine Our First Ever Give Away Owen has graciously donated a signed copy of his book, Down to Earth, for one of our lucky listeners to win. All you have to do is go to the There and Back website and see where Owen’s journey is taking him (check out The Route for details). Then, suggest a location you think Owen should go to during his journey and say why he should go there. Send your recommendation to us at PlaneCrazyDownUnder@gmail.com” and we’ll review them with Owen. He will then select a winner and we’ll contact them to send them the book. Easy, isn’t it? So, what are you waiting for? It doesn’t matter where you live, come up with a suggestion and send it to us. Please note that Owen’s decision is final and that all submissions become the property of Owen to use as he sees fit. As usual, our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5). Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/12/episode-12-its-not-that-late-in-adelaide/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/12/episode-12-its-not-that-late-in-adelaide/#comments Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:39:02 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=169 Despite his better judgement, Bas Scheffers comes back to hang out with us once again as we discuss some of the news items from the past week or so. Topics of discussion in this episode include:
  Jetstar flight attendant gets in trouble with Facebook:
  Jetstar attendant contacted 15yo passenger on Facebook (ABC News) Jetstar worker . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 12: It’s not that late in Adelaide…]]> Despite his better judgement, Bas Scheffers comes back to hang out with us once again as we discuss some of the news items from the past week or so. Topics of discussion in this episode include:
  • Jetstar flight attendant gets in trouble with Facebook:
    • Jetstar attendant contacted 15yo passenger on Facebook (ABC News)
    • Jetstar worker in strife over Facebook incident (ABC News)
  • Mile-high matchmaking: social networking service (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Jetstar eyes growth in Asia, India (David McIntyre @ Brisbane Times)
  • Mid-air dramas trigger action: Qantas (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Qantas criticised over foreign butter (ABC News)
  • Air New Zealand says demand recovering, no capacity cuts (Reuters)
  • Investigations into fatal plane crashes begin (ABC News)
  • Regional Express (REX) flying into Northern Queensland again:
    • New airline arrives in town (Bianca Clare @ the Daily Mercury)
    • New routes launched during the last week (Saturday 26 September – Friday 2 October) (from Airline Network News & Analysis – scroll down to the end of the article)
    • Landing scare at Wagga airport (ABC News)
  • Smelly, fat, seat-kickers worst plane passengers (ABC News)
  • Boeing Receives Australian Industry Award For F-111 Support (Aero-News.net)
  • Defence told to clean up creek contamination (ABC News)
  • New delay for RAAF KC-30s (Australian Aviation)
  • More news of air traffic system improvements
    • Qantas calls for air traffic overhaul (ABC News)
    • Qantas has called for ‘smarter skies’ (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • 
      Airlines to save millions as defence flight paths open (Sydney Morning Herald)
  • Virgin Blue and The Black Eyed Peas join music’s Mile High Club (Access All Areas)

  Please note that our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5).

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/10/12/episode-12-its-not-that-late-in-adelaide/feed/ 4 1:08:10 Despite his better judgement, Bas Scheffers comes back to hang out with us once again as we discuss some of the news items from the past week or so. Topics of discussion in this episode include: Jetstar flight attendant gets in trouble with Faceboo[...] Despite his better judgement, Bas Scheffers comes back to hang out with us once again as we discuss some of the news items from the past week or so. Topics of discussion in this episode include: Jetstar flight attendant gets in trouble with Facebook: Jetstar attendant contacted 15yo passenger on Facebook (ABC News) Jetstar worker in strife over Facebook incident (ABC News) Mile-high matchmaking: social networking service (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Jetstar eyes growth in Asia, India (David McIntyre @ Brisbane Times) Mid-air dramas trigger action: Qantas (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Qantas criticised over foreign butter (ABC News) Air New Zealand says demand recovering, no capacity cuts (Reuters) Investigations into fatal plane crashes begin (ABC News) Regional Express (REX) flying into Northern Queensland again: New airline arrives in town (Bianca Clare @ the Daily Mercury) New routes launched during the last week (Saturday 26 September – Friday 2 October) (from Airline Network News & Analysis – scroll down to the end of the article) Landing scare at Wagga airport (ABC News) Smelly, fat, seat-kickers worst plane passengers (ABC News) Boeing Receives Australian Industry Award For F-111 Support (Aero-News.net) Defence told to clean up creek contamination (ABC News) New delay for RAAF KC-30s (Australian Aviation) More news of air traffic system improvements Qantas calls for air traffic overhaul (ABC News) Qantas has called for ‘smarter skies’ (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Airlines to save millions as defence flight paths open (Sydney Morning Herald) Virgin Blue and The Black Eyed Peas join music’s Mile High Club (Access All Areas) Please note that our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com and our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5). Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/22/episode-9-airplane-geeks-down-under/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/22/episode-9-airplane-geeks-down-under/#comments Tue, 22 Sep 2009 02:17:38 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=128 Andrew Temby
  This episode we’re joined by Dan, David & Rob from the Airplane Geeks podcast to discuss airline news and have a great discussion about air traffic control issues here & in the USA. We also have interviews with Dr Bruce Searle, dean of the Australian Centre for Mission Aviation, and Andrew Temby, . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 9: Airplane Geeks Down Under]]>

  Andrew Temby

  This episode we’re joined by Dan, David & Rob from the Airplane Geeks podcast to discuss airline news and have a great discussion about air traffic control issues here & in the USA. We also have interviews with Dr Bruce Searle, dean of the Australian Centre for Mission Aviation, and Andrew Temby, aerobatic pilot & owner of a YAK-52TW. Both were recorded at the Mission Aviation Fellowship airshow held at Coldstream Airport (YCEM) a few weeks back.

  While Max Flight from the Airplane Geeks couldn’t be with us, having the other guys from the show record with us was a hoot and certainly generated a LOT of content for a future “Bloopers Only” episode. We’re definitely looking forward to recording with them again once our sanity recovers.

  

  Dr Bruce Searle

   

  The topics discussed in this episode include:

  • A general discussion of airline issues down under with the Airplane Geeks
    • Emirates and V Australia to codeshare on Tasman routes (Leithen Francis @ FlightGlobal)
    • V Australia to Codeshare with…Emirates? (Dan Webb @ Things in the Sky)
    • High fuel prices may clip recovery (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Premium passengers slowly return to flights (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Qantas CEO: See No Further Room For Capacity Cuts In This FY (Wall St Journal)
    • INTERVIEW: Qantas CEO: Passenger Demand Higher Than Expected (Wall St Journal)
    • Qantas jettisons JAL merger rumour (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Virgin in talks to buy $4b planes (Matt O’Sullivan @ The Age)
    • Virgin Blue to buy 30 to 50 737s? (Australian Aviation magazine)
    • Virgin Blue’s plan to seat more passengers (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Brett Godfrey true believer in 50pc Virgin share (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Talking about Air Traffic Control issues with Rob & David
    • Staff shortage sparks national flight delays (ABC News)
    • Flights delayed or cancelled as air controllers “unavailable” (Sydney Morning Herald)
    • Sydney’s flight schedule ‘to return to normal’ (ABC News)
    • Airservices, staff on collision course (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Virgin Blue to pursue AirServices Australia for compensation for its air traffic failures (Ben Sandilands @ Crikey)
    • Military to lose airspace in $300m savings push (Cameron Stewart & Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • David Vanderhoof presents “This week in Australian aviation history” covering the official approval for the establishment of the Central Flying School at Point Cook (now referred to as RAAF Williams)
  • Grant went to the Mission Aviation Fellowship airshow at Coldstream Airport (YCEM) and recorded these interviews
    • Dr Bruce Searle, Dean of the Australian Centre for Mission Aviation
    • Andrew Temby, aerobatics pilot and owner of a Yak-52TW
  • Matt Hall came 3rd at the Porto RedBull AirRace in Portugal – YAY!
  • We discuss some military news
    • Questions over F-35′s stealth capability (ABC News)
    • Air Marshall Mark Binskin wants more fighters (Mark Dodd @ The Australian)
    • F-111 maintenance blamed for creek contamination (ABC News)
  • We review some of the “Traffic” entries from the latest Australian Aviation magazine
    • OzJet 737-200s
    • V Australia’s latest 777
    • RAAF KC30 MRTT
    • Air New Zealand’s 767 with blended winglets

  Please note that our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5) and our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com.

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/22/episode-9-airplane-geeks-down-under/feed/ 4 1:30:06 Andrew Temby This episode we’re joined by Dan, David & Rob from the Airplane Geeks podcast to discuss airline news and have a great discussion about air traffic control issues here & in the USA. We also have interviews with Dr Bruce [...] Andrew Temby This episode we’re joined by Dan, David & Rob from the Airplane Geeks podcast to discuss airline news and have a great discussion about air traffic control issues here & in the USA. We also have interviews with Dr Bruce Searle, dean of the Australian Centre for Mission Aviation, and Andrew Temby, aerobatic pilot & owner of a YAK-52TW. Both were recorded at the Mission Aviation Fellowship airshow held at Coldstream Airport (YCEM) a few weeks back. While Max Flight from the Airplane Geeks couldn’t be with us, having the other guys from the show record with us was a hoot and certainly generated a LOT of content for a future “Bloopers Only” episode. We’re definitely looking forward to recording with them again once our sanity recovers.Dr Bruce Searle   The topics discussed in this episode include: A general discussion of airline issues down under with the Airplane Geeks Emirates and V Australia to codeshare on Tasman routes (Leithen Francis @ FlightGlobal) V Australia to Codeshare with…Emirates? (Dan Webb @ Things in the Sky) High fuel prices may clip recovery (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Premium passengers slowly return to flights (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Qantas CEO: See No Further Room For Capacity Cuts In This FY (Wall St Journal) INTERVIEW: Qantas CEO: Passenger Demand Higher Than Expected (Wall St Journal) Qantas jettisons JAL merger rumour (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Virgin in talks to buy $4b planes (Matt O’Sullivan @ The Age) Virgin Blue to buy 30 to 50 737s? (Australian Aviation magazine) Virgin Blue’s plan to seat more passengers (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Brett Godfrey true believer in 50pc Virgin share (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Talking about Air Traffic Control issues with Rob & David Staff shortage sparks national flight delays (ABC News) Flights delayed or cancelled as air controllers “unavailable” (Sydney Morning Herald) Sydney’s flight schedule ‘to return to normal’ (ABC News) Airservices, staff on collision course (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Virgin Blue to pursue AirServices Australia for compensation for its air traffic failures (Ben Sandilands @ Crikey) Military to lose airspace in $300m savings push (Cameron Stewart & Steve Creedy @ The Australian) David Vanderhoof presents “This week in Australian aviation history” covering the official approval for the establishment of the Central Flying School at Point Cook (now referred to as RAAF Williams) Grant went to the Mission Aviation Fellowship airshow at Coldstream Airport (YCEM) and recorded these interviews Dr Bruce Searle, Dean of the Australian Centre for Mission Aviation Andrew Temby, aerobatics pilot and owner of a Yak-52TW Matt Hall came 3rd at the Porto RedBull AirRace in Portugal – YAY! We discuss some military news Questions over F-35′s stealth capability (ABC News) Air Marshall Mark Binskin wants more fighters (Mark Dodd @ The Australian) F-111 maintenance blamed for creek contamination (ABC News) We review some of the “Traffic” entries from the latest Australian Aviation magazine OzJet 737-200s V Australia’s latest 777 RAAF KC30 MRTT Air New Zealand’s 767 with blended winglets Please note that our theme music track is “YouNameIt5″ by Brian Simpson (aka t3cat5) and our sound effects come from SoundSnap.com. Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/11/episode-8-riding-our-segways/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/11/episode-8-riding-our-segways/#comments Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:48:27 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=114 We thought we’d have this episode out within a few days of our previous one, but there was so many news items to review, so much to discuss and so many bits to splice together that it took a whole week to bring it to you. Weighing in at almost 2 hours, this episode has . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 8: Riding Our Segways]]> We thought we’d have this episode out within a few days of our previous one, but there was so many news items to review, so much to discuss and so many bits to splice together that it took a whole week to bring it to you. Weighing in at almost 2 hours, this episode has interviews, GA, follow ups and much much more.

  With some brilliant segways between topics (and a few clangers), this episode includes the following items:

  • Changes after the Kokoda accident
    • Australia pledges $2m for Kokoda airstrip upgrade (ABC News)
  • Virgin Blue and Delta rebuttal against Air New Zealand
    • Virgin and Delta slam Air NZ attacks (Ari Sharp @ The Age)
  • As we predicted, JetStar are going to Fiji
    • Qantas and Virgin Blue in Fiji fight (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Jetstar to spoil V Australia’s Fiji flights? (Alex @ AusAviation)
  • Webjet pressured by competition to drop fees
    • Pressure On Webjet As Zuji and Expedia Drop Fees (Martin Kelly @ Travel Trends)
  • Listener comments about laser pointers and aircraft
  • @DanWebbage from the Airplane Geeks provides feedback on United Airlines and their 747-400s on the Pacific route
  • @DanWebbage also gives us a report on a recent conference where he got to try different aircraft seats
  • Some QANTAS stories from mechanical to financial
    • 
      Qantas makes emergency landing in Perth (Geoffrey @ The West Australian)
    • Qantas yields remain under pressure (Bill Lindsay @ The Australian)
    • Qantas feels the heat from the east (Geoff Easdown @ the Herald Sun)
    • Qantas braces for long haul in red: IATA figures (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Qantas yield contractions continue, but appear to have stabilised; SIA downgraded on yield squeeze (Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation)
    • Discounted tickets lure more to Qantas in July (news.com.au)
    • It’s a Jetstar a rising at Qantas (Ben Sandilands @ Crikey)
  • The Australian Government is putting its travel management up to tender
    • Federal air travel tender to hit Qantas (Scott Rochfort @ the Sydney Morning Herald)
    • More bad news for Qantas – Federal air travel tender up for grabs (eTravel Blackboard)
    • Virgin hails move to tighten airfare policy (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Interview with Karla Courtney from the QANTAS Travel Insider
  • Tiger Airlines aircraft hits a flock of birds
    • Bird strike grounds Tiger plane at Adelaide Airport (Sam Rodrigues @ Adelaide Now)
    • Airplane hits flock of birds in Australia, take off rejected (AvioNews)
  • Airline review results are in
    • Australians reveal their worst airline (Angela Saurine @ news.com.au)
  • Jetstar Pacific in Vietnam may have breached the law
    • Jetstar Pacific told to quit using the orange star and ‘Jet’ logo (Look At Vietnam)
  • Interview with Shashank Nigam” from SimpliFlying
  • Final missing RAAF aircrew from the Vietnam conflict found and returned for burial
    • Diggers’ bodies to return from Vietnam (news.com.au)
    • Vietnam airmen’s remains flown home (Max Blenkin @ The Courier Mail)
    • 39yr wait over as Toowoomba farewells Vietnam pilot (Sam Burgess @ ABC News)
    • State funeral for Vietnam War airman (ABC News)
    • http://www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum/research/aircraft/series2/A84.htm
    • About #2 Squadron in Vietname and more about #2 squadron
    • History of Canberras with the RAAF
    • Images of the Canberra that crashed
    • Thanks to David Vanderhoof for the research

  Student pilot makes emergency landing after engine fails (same pilot as the runway overrun reported a few weeks ago)

  • Plane makes emergency landing in paddock (ABC News)
  • Man survives plane crash in Abbotsbury (Michael Chammas & Stacey Vanoska @ the Fairfield City Champion)
  • Student pilot crash lands in paddock in Prospect (Vikki Campion @ the Daily Telegraph)
  • NOTE: Thanks to @DavidOptimal for the info
  • Observer has to fly King Air until pilot recovers (thanks to @DavidOptiimal and others for the inside story)
    • Passenger flies plane after pilot passes out (ABC News)
  • Government is taking steps to halt inappropriate development on airports
    • Airport building hopes reined in: Bankstown (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • We mention some web sites:
    • Owen Zupp’s website about his trip around Australia to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (There and Back)
    • Noel Kruse has released some free flight training books online (Fly Better)
  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/11/episode-8-riding-our-segways/feed/ 0 1:49:06 We thought we’d have this episode out within a few days of our previous one, but there was so many news items to review, so much to discuss and so many bits to splice together that it took a whole week to bring it to you. Weighing in at almost[...] We thought we’d have this episode out within a few days of our previous one, but there was so many news items to review, so much to discuss and so many bits to splice together that it took a whole week to bring it to you. Weighing in at almost 2 hours, this episode has interviews, GA, follow ups and much much more. With some brilliant segways between topics (and a few clangers), this episode includes the following items: Changes after the Kokoda accident Australia pledges $2m for Kokoda airstrip upgrade (ABC News) Virgin Blue and Delta rebuttal against Air New Zealand Virgin and Delta slam Air NZ attacks (Ari Sharp @ The Age) As we predicted, JetStar are going to Fiji Qantas and Virgin Blue in Fiji fight (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Jetstar to spoil V Australia’s Fiji flights? (Alex @ AusAviation) Webjet pressured by competition to drop fees Pressure On Webjet As Zuji and Expedia Drop Fees (Martin Kelly @ Travel Trends) Listener comments about laser pointers and aircraft @DanWebbage from the Airplane Geeks provides feedback on United Airlines and their 747-400s on the Pacific route @DanWebbage also gives us a report on a recent conference where he got to try different aircraft seats Some QANTAS stories from mechanical to financial Qantas makes emergency landing in Perth (Geoffrey @ The West Australian) Qantas yields remain under pressure (Bill Lindsay @ The Australian) Qantas feels the heat from the east (Geoff Easdown @ the Herald Sun) Qantas braces for long haul in red: IATA figures (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Qantas yield contractions continue, but appear to have stabilised; SIA downgraded on yield squeeze (Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation) Discounted tickets lure more to Qantas in July (news.com.au) It’s a Jetstar a rising at Qantas (Ben Sandilands @ Crikey) The Australian Government is putting its travel management up to tender Federal air travel tender to hit Qantas (Scott Rochfort @ the Sydney Morning Herald) More bad news for Qantas – Federal air travel tender up for grabs (eTravel Blackboard) Virgin hails move to tighten airfare policy (Steve Creedy @ The Australian) Interview with Karla Courtney from the QANTAS Travel Insider Tiger Airlines aircraft hits a flock of birds Bird strike grounds Tiger plane at Adelaide Airport (Sam Rodrigues @ Adelaide Now) Airplane hits flock of birds in Australia, take off rejected (AvioNews) Airline review results are in Australians reveal their worst airline (Angela Saurine @ news.com.au) Jetstar Pacific in Vietnam may have breached the law Jetstar Pacific told to quit using the orange star and ‘Jet’ logo (Look At Vietnam) Interview with Shashank Nigam” from SimpliFlying Final missing RAAF aircrew from the Vietnam conflict found and returned for burial Diggers’ bodies to return from Vietnam (news.com.au) Vietnam airmen’s remains flown home (Max Blenkin @ The Courier Mail) 39yr wait over as Toowoomba farewells Vietnam pilot (Sam Burgess @ ABC News) State funeral for Vietnam War airman (ABC News) http://www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum/research/aircraft/series2/A84.htm About #2 Squadron in Vietname and more about #2 squadron History of Canberras with the RAAF Images of the Canberra that crashed Thanks to David Vanderhoof for the research Student pilot makes emergency landing after engine fails (same pilot as the runway overrun reported a few weeks ago) Plane makes emergency landing in paddock (ABC News) Man survives plane crash in Abbotsbury (Michael Chammas & Stacey Vanoska @ the Fairfield City Champion) Student pilot crash lands in paddock in Prospect (Vikki Campion @ the Daily Telegraph) NOTE: Thanks to @DavidOptimal for the info Observer has to fly King Air until pilot recovers (thanks to @DavidOptiimal and others for the inside story) Passenger flies plane after pilot passes out (ABC News) Government is taking steps to halt inappropriate development on airports Airport building hopes reined in: Ba[...] Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/05/episode-7-matt-hall-were-not-worthy/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/05/episode-7-matt-hall-were-not-worthy/#comments Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:37:04 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=102 This episode detours from our usual opinionated discussion of the news and instead features an interview we were fortunate enough to arrange with Matt Hall, an ex-RAAF F18 pilot who has flown the F15 on exchange with the USAF and is currently flying an MXS aerobatic aircraft in the RedBull AirRace. We were expecting to . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 7: Matt Hall, we’re not worthy!]]> This episode detours from our usual opinionated discussion of the news and instead features an interview we were fortunate enough to arrange with Matt Hall, an ex-RAAF F18 pilot who has flown the F15 on exchange with the USAF and is currently flying an MXS aerobatic aircraft in the RedBull AirRace. We were expecting to get a half hour or so to chat with Matt and were thrilled to discover an hour had passed before we all thought to double check the time.

   

  The discussion ranges from Matt’s early days learning to fly through to his experiences with the RAAF and USAF then on to flying in the RedBull AirRace. Matt talks with us on many topics, including gliders, air-to-air refuelling, pylon hits and the dreaded bridge.

   

  We were delighted that Matt accepted our request for an interview and cannot sufficiently express our gratitude for his time. We’re looking forward to following his progress through the remaining races this year and chatting with him again at the end of the season.

   

   

  You can find Matt on his home page, Wikipedia, FaceBook, Flickr and Twitter. Be sure to join up to follow his progress in the races and show your support.

   

  ]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/09/05/episode-7-matt-hall-were-not-worthy/feed/ 13 1:03:54 This episode detours from our usual opinionated discussion of the news and instead features an interview we were fortunate enough to arrange with Matt Hall, an ex-RAAF F18 pilot who has flown the F15 on exchange with the USAF and is currently flying[...] This episode detours from our usual opinionated discussion of the news and instead features an interview we were fortunate enough to arrange with Matt Hall, an ex-RAAF F18 pilot who has flown the F15 on exchange with the USAF and is currently flying an MXS aerobatic aircraft in the RedBull AirRace. We were expecting to get a half hour or so to chat with Matt and were thrilled to discover an hour had passed before we all thought to double check the time.   The discussion ranges from Matt’s early days learning to fly through to his experiences with the RAAF and USAF then on to flying in the RedBull AirRace. Matt talks with us on many topics, including gliders, air-to-air refuelling, pylon hits and the dreaded bridge.   We were delighted that Matt accepted our request for an interview and cannot sufficiently express our gratitude for his time. We’re looking forward to following his progress through the remaining races this year and chatting with him again at the end of the season.     You can find Matt on his home page, Wikipedia, FaceBook, Flickr and Twitter. Be sure to join up to follow his progress in the races and show your support.   Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/08/07/episode-4-hand-propped/ http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/08/07/episode-4-hand-propped/#comments Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:47:41 +0000 Grant (Falcon124) http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/?p=58 This week’s episode comes out a little late as Steve’s still in the USA and Grant was up in Sydney for the PCDU / SimpliFlying TweetUp that happened along side the Asia / Pacific Aviation Outlook Summit 2009. A great time was had by all who attended the event but now it’s back to work . . . → Read More: PCDU Episode 4: Hand Propped]]> This week’s episode comes out a little late as Steve’s still in the USA and Grant was up in Sydney for the PCDU / SimpliFlying TweetUp that happened along side the Asia / Pacific Aviation Outlook Summit 2009. A great time was had by all who attended the event but now it’s back to work as there’s news to read, interviews to arrange and a podcast to produce.

  This week’s episode includes the following topics:

  • Jetstar launches world first SMS based boarding pass
    • Jetstar’s SMS boarding passes (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Comparing Geoff Dixon with Alan Joyce at QANTAS
    • Qantas boss a cautious optimist (Matt O’Sullivan @ The Age)
    • Global aviation faces slow return to profits: Dixon (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Joyce rules out Qantas merger (Matt O’Sullivan @ The Age)
    • Alan Joyce kills off IPO plans amid Pacific rationalisation forecast (Ross Kelly @ The Australian)
  • QANTAS fights back
    • Qantas vows to slug out fare ware (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Qantas relaunches branded website (The Age)
    • Qantas business blitz to hit Virgin (Steve Creedy @The Australian)
  • Swine Flu impacts air travel and Cathay Pacific struggles
    • Asia-Pacific travel recovery falls foul of flu (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
    • Times are turbulent for Cathay as it faces storm (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Virgin fights back, raises money and has a health scare
  • V Australia Launches New One Way Fares to USA
  • Virgin share offer takes flight (Matt O’Sullivan @ WA Today)
  • Food poisoning scare on Virgin flights (ABC News)
• Tiger Improves its Act
  • Complaints drop as Tiger Airways listens to customers (John Wright @ The Courier Mail)
• Remains of last missing RAAF airmen returned from Vietnam
  • Missing Vietnam airmen’s remains found (ABC News)
• Merpati Twin Otter crashes
  • Plane wreckage found in Papua (ABC News)
• Bangkok Airways ATR72 crashes at Koh Samui
  • Pilot killed as plane skids off runway (ABC News)
• RNZAF Upgrades Tech Training Fleet
  • NZAF to Upgrade Aircraft for Training (Aviation Today)
• Hand Propping Accident
  • Cessna takes off without pilot (ABC News)
• Steve Visscher presents an update from the USA including flying an old tail dragger, seeing more C130s than the RAAF could ever own and starting the long flights back home

• Singapore Airlines to fly A380 to Melbourne
  • Superjumbo threat to Qantas stepped up (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• British Airways cutting flights to Australia
  • British Airways to cut flights to Australia (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• Garuda ends their only flight to Darwin
  • Plea for Garuda to retain Darwin flights (Daniel Bourchier @ the Northern Territory News)
• Tiger Airlines protests V Australia’s agreement with Delta
  • Tiger Airlines out to disrupt Delta Airways deal (Geoff Easdown @ the Courier Mail)
  • Virgin’s joint venture deal with Delta has upset Tiger (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• Steve says Tiger Airways’ reality show is terrible but he’s going to keep watching it (Airways)
• Virgin Blue halts shares and appears to be seeking more money
  • Virgin defers on call for funds (Matt O’Sullivan @ WA Today)
  • Virgin goes to Gulf for cash (Adele Ferguson @ The Australian)
• Push for second Sydney area airport to be at the Richmond RAAF base
  • Airlines push for second airport at RAAF base (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
  • Wikipedia information on RAAF Richmond airbase
• RAAF Sabre jet flies again
  • Temora Aviation Museum
  • Australian RAAF Sabre Flies Again (AVweb)
• We comment on Robyn Riley of the Sunday Herald Sun panning Air New Zealand’s Nothing To Hide campaign
• QANTAS ground staff in Perth are upset with management leaving them to deal with angry passengers
  • Perth ground staff lash Qantas inaction (Steve Creedy @ The Australian)
• Jockeys smuggle beer onto REX flight and drink them while returning from a responsible drinking course
  • Drunken flight lands jockeys in hot water (ABC News)

• Emirates EK407 tailstrike – the Captain tells his story and we comment on fatigue issues
• The RAAF’s first F/A-18F Super Hornet rolls off the production line plus comments on the pending F-111 & DH4C Caribou retirements
• Tiger Airways adds a 7th aircraft to get an incredible increase in capacity out of Melbourne and their reality TV show launches
• QANTAS has bad customer service (and associated PR) in Perth following a lightning strike on an A330, cops freight fines in Canada and has an A380 go around at LHR
• Jetstar apologises for their bad service in New Zealand
• Virgin Blue’s V Australia is experiencing low yields so far
• Delta operates their first flight into SYD
]]> http://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2009/07/16/episode-1-and-so-it-begins/feed/ 4 0:27:19 Weighing in at a whole 27 minutes and 18 seconds, here’s the first episode of the Plane Crazy Down Under podcast. During this episode, we discuss the following news items: Emirates EK407 tailstrike – the Captain tells his story and we c[...] Weighing in at a whole 27 minutes and 18 seconds, here’s the first episode of the Plane Crazy Down Under podcast. During this episode, we discuss the following news items: Emirates EK407 tailstrike – the Captain tells his story and we comment on fatigue issues The RAAF’s first F/A-18F Super Hornet rolls off the production line plus comments on the pending F-111 & DH4C Caribou retirements Tiger Airways adds a 7th aircraft to get an incredible increase in capacity out of Melbourne and their reality TV show launches QANTAS has bad customer service (and associated PR) in Perth following a lightning strike on an A330, cops freight fines in Canada and has an A380 go around at LHR Jetstar apologises for their bad service in New Zealand Virgin Blue’s V Australia is experiencing low yields so far Delta operates their first flight into SYD Podcasts Steve Visscher & Grant McHerron (www.planecrazydownunder.com) no no