ALBERTVILLE AL- During a full one-day aircraft Inspector Authorization seminar held at Alabama Aviation Training Center, the FAA issued 58 renewal certificates. Aircraft mechanics who attended the event will receive credit for IA Renewal Training at FAASAFETY.GOV on-line AMT training. Pilots attending will receive WINGS credit. As the first annual IA renewal event ends, plans are now underway to hold a similar 1-day program next February, 2013.
FAASTeam Program Manager Billy Hattaway and Albertville Mayor Lindsey Lyons opened the meeting introducing the seminar support staff:
●Richard Henry, Airworthiness Supervisor for the Alabama Northwest Florida Flight ●Standards District Office BHM FSDO
●Jack Clark, an Aviation Safety Inspector, BHM FSDO
●Angela Bogus; Aviation Safety Assistant, BHM FSDO
●Thomas Mullin; Southern Region FAASTeam Program Manager airworthiness
●Tim Gauntt; Hartzell Engine Technologies
●Bill Ross; Continental Motors
●Jim Dove; FAASTeam Rep
●Jerry Cofield; Aviation and Economic Development for the City of Albertville
●Danny Owens; Director for Alabama Aviation Training Center
Tim Gauntt from Hartzell Engine Technologies kicked off the training with an excellent presentation on aircraft electrical systems, discussing the progression of aircraft electrical systems and several common maintenance issues. After a short break, Mr. Richard Henry gave two presentations back to back about local and national FAA issues.
Bill Ross of Continental Engines
Bill Ross from Continental Motors of Mobile gave an excellent presentation before the lunch break about Care and Operation of Continental Engines. After lunch, Mr. Ross continued with "Engine Flight Management" with an in-depth discussion about lean of peak EGT operations vs. best power leaning procedures which help resolved several ambiguous philosophies on the matter.
Audience at Alabama Aviation Training Center's 1st IA Seminar in Albertville
After a short break, Tim Gauntt from Hartzell Engine Technologies enlightened everyone about Turbo Chargers by explaining some of the different types of systems. The difference between Boosted and Turbo Normalized was detailed as well some of the differences in boosted systems controllers. Images of a glowing red-hot turbo charger and exhaust system really emphasized the critical importance of proper care and inspection of turbo and exhaust systems.
Continental Motor's Bill Ross presentation concluded the event with "Alternative Fuel Technology". This discussion generated considerable interest from the participants as Mr. Ross explained the new technology that is being developed by Continental Motors. This will surely continue to be an area of interest as avgas continues to become harder to find or afford and as the new technology finds its way into the general aviation market.
Tom Mullin, Southern Region FAASTeam Program Manager airworthiness
Thomas Mullin rounded out the seminar presentations with an important review of runway safety. Door prizes were distributed in a drawing. At the conclusion of the seminar, Jim Dover awarded certificates of appreciation to presenters, signed by the Mayor of Albertville Lindsey Lyons.
Danny Owens, Director of the Alabama Aviation Training Center was acknowledged for their generous support. Owens promoted the new Aviation Maintenance training program now offered at the school. Jerry Cofield was recognized for his dedicated efforts supporting aviation and the Albertville Airport. "Without his support, the event would not have been possible", commented Billy Hattaway. He welcomed everyone back as we plan for an even bigger event next year. -Staff Report, Images special to Alabama Aviator