Our friend Kent Orr, just north of us in Nebraska, was recently profiled in Cessna Flyer. Read about his salvage business and his "weekend" project, Frankenhawk.

Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has developed a new three-point engine primer kit for its 180hp engine upgrade STC, providing enhanced cold engine starts compared with the standard single-point primer. “Our new three-cylinder primer is particularly effective in cold-weather locations, but it gives anyone a smoother, quicker start,” said Katie Church, Air Plains president. “If you have an Air Plains 172XP 180hp upgrade that was done prior to 2021, it’s very likely the original primer system was reinstalled with the new engine. While the previous process works just fine for most customers, we wanted to develop an option that was even more reliable for cold-weather customers.” Air Plains engineers worked directly with Lycoming to develop the new primer system to be compatible with the more than 2,700 existing 172XP 180hp upgrades, and to be an option for new customers. Air Plains also worked with Lycoming to develop the installation manual. The standard primer uses a single nozzle in the #3 cylinder for priming while the new kit adds nozzles for cylinders #2 and #4. The new three-point primer is one of the new products to be featured by Air Plains at the annual Sun ‘N Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Fla., March 28 through April 2. Air Plains will be in a larger exhibit space this year- MD-23 - and will show off several customer airplanes featuring various Air Plains upgrades. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

The demand for flight training has increased in the last few years as airlines struggle to find qualified pilots. Flight schools are busy providing training to the new generation of pilots and finding a competitive advantage is quintessential to sustain growth. Flight Schools are required to modernize to attract young pilots and are faced with the predicament of purchasing new OEM aircraft and equipment and further delaying the return on investment. In the last 45+ years, Air Plains Services has enabled several flight schools to become more profitable with the legacy Cessna 172 aircraft. Fleet operators are pleased with the substantial decrease in operation costs, enhanced safety and dedicated support they receive, consequently, they are able to make better decisions to invest profits. All business owners are aware that operation costs must be controlled. Utilizing a modernized legacy fleet of aircraft provides much better ROI when compared to new OEM aircraft because the initial investment is substantially less. On average the payoff is achieved in half the time. The cost of replacement of OEM parts is very high and the lack of availability could ground an aircraft for a few days. Our STCkits are produced with certified parts that we manufacture in our own facility with controlled costs and a fraction of OEM prices. We stock over 1200 of our kit parts to enable our customers to get back into the air safer and reduce downturn. Fleet standardization enhances safety with added simplicity and cross-training between different aircraft. We strive to make our flight manuals standard and we provide operators with additional data when necessary. The added horsepower and lighter airframe weight provide a better margin of safety to reach pattern altitude quicker and perform well on hot, sunny days. Utilizing the most famous trainer aircraft, the Cessna 172 with added power and superb handling characteristics, enables students to learn the basics of stick-and-rudder flying. Air Plains is also equipped with the ability to provide a modern cockpit environment with glass instruments, metalized panels, and a new interior that is customized and branded. The best advantage Air Plains can provide is a partnership and dedicated support. We take care of the fleet support while the customer can concentrate on running the business operations. Customers prefer one place to call to get parts on the shelf and use our expertise to find solutions fast. Our excellent relationship with Lycoming Engines and Continental Motors enables us to take care of maintenance items and provide a fleet discount. We strive to provide continual engineering and improvement to our kit parts and our goal is to provide the quickest turnaround possible even when custom parts need to be fabricated for customers. A prudent manager must consider all available options to sustain growth and stay competitive. Investing in legacy aircraft that are safe, modernized, and maintained by an industry expert to meet customer demand is an excellent strategy for a healthy operation and provides much steeper growth when compared to the initial investment necessary to purchase new OEM aircraft. Air Plains is well-positioned to support flight schools to pursue this strategy and we offer several packages that are customized to work with flight schools of different sizes.

Air Plains has provided reference performance data for Air Plains Cessna 172-180HP installations in PDF format. This data is to be used as reference only and reflects performance for aircraft at 2550 Lbs. Takeoff distance, maximum rate of climb, time, fuel and distance to climb are all included in this reference only document. If you have additional technical questions please contact our technical support at tech@airplains.com For more product information view our online store or other blog posts within our site. Call: 800-752-8481 or 620-326-8904 Email: Sales@airplains.com

Cessna 172 Battery Tray Kit for manifold style battery with Air Plains 180HP engine upgrade, STC SA4428SW. The original battery box may be replaced with a manifold battery as approved under type certificate or PMA for serial numbers 17272885 thru 17274009. This installation is recommended for new and previous installed 180HP engine upgrades. Air Plains new battery tray design is lighter than the original Cessna design and has less corrosion potential. The simplicity of the tray makes it easy to access the battery for maintenance or charging. Also there is more clearance to access the LH magneto. Complete kit includes new tray, bolts, new venting tube, and installation instructions. Manifold style battery is required and sold separately. Part Number: 1728509-KIT Applicable serial number range: 17269310 thru 17272884, 24V. For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.com

The benefits and increased performance offered for the Cessna 180 and 182 aircraft by either the Continental IO-520-D engine or the IO-550-D engine are impressive, with a few differences. The IO-520-D engine generates 300 horsepower at an RPM of 2850, which is allowed for 5 minute intervals. On take off, at full throttle, 300 horsepower are available for five minutes, then a power change is made to bring the engine back to 285 horsepower (maximum continuous horsepower). The IO-550-D engine generates 300 horsepower at 2,700 rpm, and has no limitations. The basic difference between the IO-520 engine and the IO-550 engine is the stroke of the piston within the cylinder, the 550 being longer, thus creating more cubic inches, and 300 sustainable horsepower through increased torque. Both the IO-520 and 550 engine is fuel injected, equipped with a new starter, Bendix 1200 series magentos, harness and plugs, heavy duty non-congealing oil cooler, high capacity oil pump, VAR crankshaft, Heavy crankcase (7th Stud), integral oil filter and Continental Warranty. For more information on engine upgrades contact Air Plains today. Phone: 1-800-752-8481 Email: Sales@airplains.com

A well balanced spinner will reduce cabin vibration and give you a more comfortable ride. Often the forward spinner bulkheads is damaged under stress because of an improper installation. For additional installation support please send an email to our technical support. Tech@airplains.com or call 1-800-752-8481

Air Plains Services is pleased to announce the FAA PMA Approval for replacement airbox arm. This new arm is one piece billet machined and comes complete with the hardware shown in the photo. This is a replacement for part number: 0750111-19 Model Eligibility: 172Q, 175, 175A, 177, 177A, 177B, 180 S/N: 30000-53203 182, 182A, 182B, 182C, 182D, 182E, 182F, 182G, 182H, 182J, 182K, 182L, 182M, 182N, 182P, 182Q, 182R, F182P, F182Q, A182 S/N: 0001-0136, 185, 185A, 185B, 185C, 185D, 185E S/N: 658-1149, A185E S/N: 1150-1300, 188, 188A, 188B Assembly Includes: APS0750111-19, Arm APS0750111-19-1, Clamp MS16562-16, Pin AN960-10L, Washers, two MS21083N3, Nut ICA available for download below For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.com

Installation tips for Cessna 180 and 182 aircraft with Air Plains 300HP engine upgrade to assist in positioning the throttle body assembly correctly. Document number 1821601 is available for download and contains 11 step by step instructions with photos to assist. The required tools are included in our STC kit. If you have additional questions please contact our technical support at tech@airplains.com For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: tech@airplains.com

R182 with McCauley three blade propeller with original engine can be reused with Air Plains 260HP engine upgrade. Here's how: McCauley STC SA00797CH approves the same propeller that Air Plains uses with the 260HP engine upgrade. The McCauley Propeller Model would be B3D36C431/80VSA-1 or B3D36C433/80VSA-1 depending on the aircraft serial number. So, what that means is when it comes time to overhaul the original propeller you could plan ahead for the 260HP engine upgrade and upgrade the propeller ahead of the engine. The propeller then can be reused with the new engine when you reach TBO. The blade angles would need to be set per the STC at the time of engine replacement. For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.com

If you are considering a very light composite propeller please read on. Because a light weight propeller lacks inertia (which creates a fly-wheel effect during start) we often suggest to our customers that they should always pay attention to the condition of their battery. A few factors are listed. #1 Your Battery Always check the condition of your battery before starting. Using a battery tender to keep it in tip-top shape is a great investment. We recommend purchasing a battery that can deliver the most amperage possible during start. #2 Battery Cables If the existing battery cables are original, it is likely that they are corroded (oxidized) and some of the crimped ends could be very loose. Bogert Aviation's cable kit is a great option to incorporate a new, sealed and isolated from the engine and environmental exposures. We recommend replacement at the time of the propeller swap. #3 Starter Adapter We believe the classic style starter adapter is the best combination for either the Continental IO-520 or IO-550 with the composite propeller. We recommend removing the new style adapter and replacing with the classic at the time of the propeller swap. Link to helpful hints for a successful classic style starter adapter installation.

WELLINGTON, KS (Dec. 13, 2022) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it would exhibit again in 2023 at the annual Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Fla., March 28 through April 2. “We’re eager to return to Sun ‘n Fun for our second year to visit with current customers and develop new relationships,” said Katie Church, Air Plains president. “We’ll feature our popular Cessna engine upgrades as well as new products introduced over the past year.” Air Plains will be in a larger exhibit space this year at MD-23 and will show off several customer airplanes featuring various Air Plains upgrades. Air Plains boasts eight engine upgrade STCs, the widest range of engine upgrades for Cessna single-engine pistons in the industry. Five of the upgrades are branded Extreme Performance, or XP upgrades: two STCs for the 180hp XP upgrade for the 172; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 180; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182; and a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182RG. The company also offers a 260hp upgrade for both the Cessna 182S and T models and a 260hp upgrade for the Cessna 182RG. Earlier this year, Air Plains introduced the new 172XPα Advanced Instrument Panel developed specifically for Cessna 172 owners either planning to upgrade with its 180hp STC, or for the more than 2,500 172XP upgrades already in operation. The new avionics panel, like the engine upgrade, can be installed by Air Plains at its Kansas facility or shipped as a complete kit for local installation. “The new 172XPα panel combines the best from Dynon and Avidyne to completely transform the 172XP cockpit for 21st century operations and to take full advantage of the 180-horsepower engine upgrade,” Church said. “We’ve already installed a number of new panels and we’re very happy with the performance.” The 172XPα panel also enhances the utility of a 180hp upgraded Cessna 172 in a training environment as it meets all the requirements under FAA FAR 61.129(j) for a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) needed for a commercial pilot rating. Air Plains added to its stable of aircraft components, including the addition of a vernier throttle control cable for Cessna 180 and 182 developed exclusively for Air Plains by McFarlane Aviation that allows more precise throttle settings by simply twisting the knob. Air Plains operates a full-service machine shop and will feature a number of PMA parts for a variety of aircraft parts including airboxes, adjustable airbox brackets and airbox gaskets, baffle assemblies, exhaust components, and a variety of miscellaneous parts, many available at the company’s online shop. Air Plains also offers a variety of propeller STCs from top brands including McCauley, Hartzell, Sensenich and MT. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (June 28, 2022) – The Air Plains Services popular 180hp engine upgrade for Cessna 172s – the 172XP – is about to get even better. The company is now offering an Advanced Instrument Panel Kit – the 172XPα – developed specifically for Cessna 172 owners either planning to upgrade with its 180hp STC, or for the more than 2,500 172XP upgrades already in operation. The new avionics panel, like the engine upgrade, can be installed by Air Plains at its Kansas facility or shipped as a complete kit for local installation. “Our engine upgrade customers almost always consider adding a new instrument panel as well to really complete the upgrade experience for legacy Skyhawk airframes,” said Katie Church, president of Air Plains. “That led us to develop a new, advanced panel kit, available to be shipped along with the engine upgrade, that’s easy for your mechanic to install at the same time, giving the customer essentially a new airplane at a fraction of the cost of a factory model.” The 172XPα Advanced Instrument Panel Kit arrives wired, interfaced, plumbed (pitot-static), and configured for the Air Plains 172XP 180hp engine upgrade STC SA4428SW and STC SA2196CE, if applicable. The instrument panel will be test fit for instrumentation, powder-coated and laser engraved, with pilot holes pre-drilled for final fitment and installation. The installer will need to finish the remaining installation items in the aircraft including antenna, magnetometer, coax cabling, mic/phone jacks, radio & transponder rack, leveling, and return to service. Mechanics will find Air Plains technical support quick and easy to access for any questions that come up during the process. The 172XPα Advanced Instrument Panel Kit includes: Avidyne IFD540 GPS/Nav/Com* Avidyne AMX240 Bluetooth Audio Panel w/ 4 place Intercom Dual Dynon HDX 10” PFD & 7” MFD Dynon EFIS-D10A Backup Flight Instrument Dynon ADS-B In Traffic and Weather Dynon Mode S Transponder with 2020-Compliant ADS-B Out Dynon Com Radio Dynon Autopilot Dynon Engine Monitoring Air Plains Custom Pilot & Copilot Instrument Panels * IFD540 may be substituted for IFD440 or IFD550. Flight schools that want to take advantage of the performance enhancements of the 180hp engine in a training environment will see an added payoff with the 172XPα advanced instrument panel kit since it meets all the requirements under FAA FAR 61.129(j) for a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) needed for a commercial pilot rating. “Training academies are finding benefits in the 180hp upgrade that set their programs apart from the competition, such as greater reliability, more efficient operation, fleet standardization, better aircraft performance, and, with the Gross Weight Increase, they now have a true four-place trainer,” Church said. “With the Alpha avionics upgrade, they can offer a wider range of training programs in one airframe, and they get a trainer that meets a student’s idea of 21st century flying.” Expert avionics panel fabrication, a company specialty, is key feature of the Air Plains 172XPα.“We take the guesswork out of fabricating the panel,” Church said. “Most maintenance facilities do not have the capability to fabricate and powder coat an instrument panel. With the 172XPα, we deliver a new, modern panel to your mechanic for final fitment and installation.” Church said another benefit of adding the 172XPα advanced instrument panel kit to an Air Plains engine upgrade order is it can be installed at the same time the mechanic is installing the engine with no need to wait on other parts or vendors to complete the project. “You didn’t get your airplane for it to be worked on,” Church said. “If you’re planning on a new Air Plains 180hp upgrade, get the most out of your planned downtime during your engine upgrade and leave the maintenance facility with an essentially new 172. “Over our 45 years in business, we’ve sold more than 2,500 180hp engine upgrades to customers worldwide, making it one of the most popular engine upgrades around. And with our new 172XPα Advanced Instrument Panel Kit, it just got better.” For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, or visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

Wellington, KS. (Dec. 19, 2017) – Air Plains Services announced solid sales across its product line in 2017, its 40th anniversary year, anchored on sales of more than 50 XP Extreme Performance Cessna engine upgrade kits across the U.S. and to 10 other countries around the world. “We are very happy with our overall sales and with the variety of products installed here or shipped worldwide,” said Mike Kelley, founder and owner of Air Plains Services. “Most of all, we’re thrilled with the high level of satisfaction expressed to us by our customers who have built the business with their loyalty over 40 years.” The foundation of the company’s success built over 40 years is its industry leadership in offering Cessna 172, 180 and 182 owners a turn-key solution for higher horsepower engines, opening the door to more power, better climb performance and speed, and greater agility and range. Specifically, Air Plains offers 180 horsepower engine upgrade solutions for the Cessna 172 based on the Lycoming O-360, and 300 horsepower engine solutions based on either the Continental IO-520 or IO-550 for the Cessna 180 and 182. Air Plains installed or shipped more than 50 XP Extreme Performance engine upgrade kits in 2017 for Cessna 182s and 172s to 17 different U.S. states and 10 other countries in the Americas, Europe, Scandinavia and the Pacific Rim. Air Plains is also an FAA Certified Repair Station, a Certified Cessna Service Center, owns more than 20 Supplemental Type Certificates including five for engine upgrades, and its machine shop produces more than 500 PMA part numbers for a variety of aircraft. Some of the more popular parts and part kits at Air Plains sold this past year included 40 baffle kits for 172XP/180HP customers, and more than 50 airboxes for Cessna 172, 180 and 182 customers as well as 172XP owners. “Our airbox assemblies are really gaining in popularity,” Kelley said. “Because of where they are on the engine assembly, airboxes are in a position to develop cracks. We make our own FAA-certified airboxes so we control the quality, and our price is a fraction of buying it from the OEM.” In addition to the company’s 40th birthday celebration this year, a well-known member of the Air Plains family also marked a birthday. Lady, a rescue dog who is very familiar to customers visiting the Wellington facility, celebrated her 12th birthday as well. Air Plains Services was founded in 1977 by Kelley and has since grown to become an industry leader in engine and airframe modifications. In addition to delivering more than 3,000 engine upgrades to owners around the world, Air Plains continues to support some of the biggest names in aviation with advice and expertise in developing new products and technologies, particularly in aircraft engine technology. Air Plains also performs a wide array of scheduled maintenance and inspection activities, custom airframe and interior work and specializing in custom avionics panels, avionics upgrades including ADS-B, airframe repair, and complete tech support. “The real foundation of our success this past year is the same as in the past 40 years and that is the staff we have here at Air Plains,” Kelley said. “Our attention to detail and our devotion to making the customer happy is what we hear most as the reason people come back time after time to Air Plains.”

While both fuel injection and carburetors have been used in the aircraft industry for decades the debate continues on which is better. Cessna began using fuel injected 470 and 520 cu. in. engines in 1960 in Cessna 210's and Cessna 182's. As different models of aircraft were added to production they were equipped with fuel injected engines. Cessna chose the Fuel Injected engines for horsepower and economy. Fuel injection provides even distribution of the fuel to all cylinders since a fuel nozzle is placed in each cylinder and fed individually with a line from the flow divider valve. In carbureted engines the fuel is introduced into the induction system at the carburetor venturi thru a single nozzle and then must make its way along a circuitous route to be introduced into the cylinder for combustion. The result of this circuitous route is that some cylinders get excessive amount of fuel and some get an insufficient amount of fuel. Fuel injection allows the engine to perform to its full potential. A Fuel injected engine from Continental will produce 300HP for both the IO-520 and the IO-550 engine. An engine built as an O-520 or O-550 engine is de-rated and will produce significantly less horsepower. A side note to the fuel injected vs carbureted discussion, Continental has never produced a carbureted O-520 or O-550 engine. Continental engineering determined that the most efficient was to operate the high horsepower engine is with fuel injection. Besides a more efficient engine, another big advantage to fuel injection is the potential of carburetor ice is eliminated. Carb ice is caused by rapid expansion of air as it passes thru the venturi in the carburetor which in itself cause’s the air temperature to decrease. That temperature drop is enhanced by atomization of the fuel which is introduced to the air at the same point. On engine’s that have the carburetor suspended from the induction system like the O-470 and O-520 engines the creation of carb ice can be a significant problem. On days of high humidity and 50° F frost may form on the induction system just above the carburetor. Cessna 180’s and 182’s are actually approved in the owner’s handbook to operate with partial carb heat during takeoff, climb and cruise. So what does Air Plains do to a Cessna 180 or 182 to change it from a carbureted O-470 engine to a fuel injected IO-550 engine? The airframe has some slight changes made to accommodate the change to fuel injection. The O-470 Engine is removed and replaced with 300HP IO-520 or IO-550 engine. Along with a factory remanufactured engine, Air Plains installs a new 2 or 3 blade propeller and propeller governor. A fuel reservoir tank is added to provide a constant supply of fuel to engine in all attitudes. This fuel reservoir tank is installed in every Cessna single engine aircraft that has fuel injection installed. These would include restart 172’s, 182’s and 206’s. Instead of beating on the firewall with a hammer to provide clearance for the high capacity oil pump and the engine driven fuel pump, Air Plains installs a small relief panel in the firewall. An electric fuel pump is added to the aircraft which aids starting and serves as a backup to the engine fuel pump. The result is a smooth running, fuel efficient engine system that is designed to give many years of safe operation. There are no excuses and no compromises with a fuel injected engine. For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (Feb. 15, 2022) – Mike Kelley started doing aircraft maintenance in 1977 in a hangar on Wellington’s municipal airport, hanging out his shingle as Air Plains Services, a nod to both the Great Plains of southcentral Kansas and the region’s reputation for aviation. Just a few miles north is Wichita, home to aviation legends Clyde Cessna, Walter Beech and Lloyd Stearman and known today as the Air Capital of the World. It wasn’t long, though, before Kelley and his wife, Carolyn, turned a passion for flying and for innovation into an industry leader as an airplane transformer, turning legacy Cessna pistons into power singles with STCs for Extreme Performance engine upgrades. Forty-five years later, the company still ranks as the leader in engine upgrade STCs and has added a wide range of avionics upgrades, propeller STCs, PMA parts, specialty manufacturing, interiors, and, of course, full aircraft maintenance. “Mike started out doing business the way he expected to be treated as an aircraft owner and it’s become the foundation of the company,” said Katie Church, president of Air Plains Services. “The second most important factor in our success is our skill at listening to our customers, adding products and services we know they want. “Combine those strengths with passionate employees and you have the formula for a company people want to do business with,” she said. Shortly after opening as a maintenance shop in 1977, Air Plains developed a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for a 180hp engine upgrade for the Cessna 172, using the Lycoming O-360 for the upgrade. Kelley then expanded the STC that started with one airframe approval for the Cessna 172 into an STC that now includes 14 Skyhawk models. This 180hp upgrade for 172 B through R model Cessnas remains the company’s most popular upgrade, with more than 3,000 installed or delivered to owners around the world. Today, Air Plains offers eight engine upgrade STCs, five of which are branded Extreme Performance, or XP upgrades: two STCs for the 180hp XP upgrade for the 172; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 180; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182RG; a 260hp upgrade for both the Cessna 182S and T models; and a 260hp upgrade for the Cessna 182RG. “Higher horsepower upgrades not only enhance performance like faster take-offs, climbs and increased speed, they make flying more fun than it already is,” said Rafael Soldan, Air Plains vice president and head of engineering. In addition to basic performance enhancements for pleasure flying, upgrades are particularly popular for backcountry flying, including for floatplanes, and for business use where faster flight time is important. The 180hp upgrade is popular with flight schools where the increase in performance adds to flexibility in training and the increased payload makes it a true four-place trainer. Air Plains installs engine upgrades at its facility in Kansas or ships complete kits almost anywhere in the world. Air Plains also offers a variety of propeller STCs from top brands including McCauley, Hartzell, Sensenich and MT. Responding to customer input in recent years, Air Plains has become an authorized avionics dealer for Dynon, Avidyne, Appareo, L3, Aspen, TruTrak, Guardian, and Genesys Aerosystems. The company also specializes in custom avionics panels giving the cockpit a “like-new” appearance. Air Plains also operates a full-service machine shop and has gained Parts Manufacturing Authority (PMA) for a variety of aircraft parts including airboxes, adjustable airbox brackets and , baffle assemblies, exhaust components, and a variety of miscellaneous parts, many available at the company’s online shop. Through the years, Air Plains has worked with some of the industry’s biggest names on major projects that have included early development and testing of turbochargers, electronic engine controls, and alternate fuel systems including diesel, and Air Plains’ own unleaded auto fuel (Inpulse) system. Air Plains has collaborated with other suppliers on several AOPA sweepstakes airplanes such as installing its 300hp IO-550 upgrade in a Cessna 182 for the AOPA 2011 Crossover Classic and supporting Yingling Aviation on its 172 Ascend program. “We’re eager to work on innovative development programs with other companies to help bring new technologies to the market,” Soldan said. “This also gives our customers access to a unique knowledge base that helps us provide expert advice for almost any aviation issue.” For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (Jan. 4, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it has gained a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to offer the Hartzell Trailblazer composite propeller on all its 300hp XP Extreme Performance engine upgrades for Cessna 180 and 182 aircraft. “We’re very excited to be starting off the year with a new propeller STC, adding another option for our customers flying the upgraded 300 horsepower engine,” said Katie Church, head of marketing. “The Trailblazer enhances performance, really looks great on the airplane, and it’s the ultimate backcountry prop. “We’ve been flying it on N180AP, our own Cessna 180 with the 300-horsepower upgrade and we’re very happy with the performance we’ve seen,” Church said. Hartzell says its Trailblazer propellers all have unlimited blade life and are approximately 20 percent lighter than comparable propellers with aluminum blades. “Our STC is unique in that it also uses Hartzell’s lightweight hub design, which means our conversion is 10 pounds lighter than any other available Trailblazer STC for these aircraft,” Church said. “We are sure that 180 and 182 owners looking at their options will appreciate the added useful load.” The swept-tip, scimitar-shaped airfoil is designed for optimal take-off acceleration and climb performance and offers improved low-speed thrust as well as cruise speed improvement when compared with wood core props. The Hartzell Trailblazer’s carbon fiber construction features an innovative mesh erosion shield and field-replaceable, nickel-cobalt leading edge, ensuring it can withstand demanding backcountry and bush flying. The Trailblazer is approved for use with wheels, floats, and skis. For more information about Hartzell propeller options or any of Air Plains other products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the new Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

Wellington, KS. (Sept. 15, 2017) -Air Plains Services, a world leader in extreme performance upgrades for a variety of general aviation aircraft models, today announced it recently sold its 500th 300 horsepower 182XP engine upgrade, this one for a Cessna 182 owner in Kansas City. “This was special for us, not only as the 500th 300 horsepower upgrade, but because it ended up sparking a tip-to-tail aircraft refurbishment by the owner and was our most complete aircraft project in our more than 40-year history,” said Mike Kelley, founder and owner of Air Plains Services. “While a lot of our upgrade engines are shipped as complete kits for installation to other parts of the world, this one was installed at our shop in Kansas so there is an added measure of pride for our team.” In addition to the Air Plains 182XP 300 hp kits for Cessna 180 and 182 model aircraft, the company also sells and installs 180 hp engine upgrades kits, the 172XP, for Cessna 172 models, with more than 2,500 of those sold around the world – more than 3,000 total XP kits. The owner, Mike McRobert, was so pleased with his upgrade, he renumbered his airplane to N182AP for Air Plains. McRobert was prompted to tell the story of his massive refurb project in a current three-part series in Cessna Flyer magazine, the official publication of the Cessna Flyers Association (Part 1 appeared in the May issue, with the final two in June and July). “Every time I looked to add something, I would ask “how much” and Air Plains would always give me a good estimate, and a quick update if anything changed, which rarely did,” McRobert writes in his article. “Air Plains cost estimates were solid and allowed me to make good decisions. Air Plains was always fair, and I could not be happier.” The Air Plains 182XP engine upgrade for this project consisted a completely new firewall-forward assembly centered on a new Continental IO-550 engine with a three-blade Hartzell Scimitar prop. The Air Plains XP upgrades can be installed by Air Plains in Kansas or shipped as a complete kit anywhere in the world. “Air Plains XP kits are shipped complete every part, screw, bolt and assembly your mechanic needs for a smooth installation,” Kelley said. “We also offer complete tech support whenever a customer calls – something they tell us is the best in the business. “It is certainly one reason we do so much repeat business,” Kelley said. Air Plains also performs a wide array of scheduled maintenance and inspection activities, custom airframe and interior work and specializing in custom avionics panels, engine analyzer installations, ADS-B solutions, airframe repair, and complete tech support. Air Plains offers more than 500 PMA spare parts including many hard-to-find part numbers at affordable prices. Another Air Plains product is the INPULSE ADI system that enables the operator to use 91-octane unleaded automotive fuel (MOGAS) in some high compression engines. For more information about Hartzell propeller options or any of Air Plains other products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the new Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (Jan. 20, 2020) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has gained Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) from the Federal Aviation Administration to manufacture new replacement airboxes for a variety of Cessna 180, 182 and 188 aircraft. The airbox, Part Number APS0750144-33, is certified for use on Cessna 180s produced since 1960 (C thru K), Cessna 182s produced from 1959 thru 1986 (B thru R), and Cessna 188s produced from 1966 thru 1975 (thru B). This airbox is also eligible for installation on French Built (REIMS F182). “We’re excited to now offer our customers new PMA airboxes to complement our popular airbox repair business,” said Katie Church, Air Plains Services head of marketing. “Our new PMA airboxes, like our certified repaired airboxes, are a fraction of the cost of an OEM part, and that makes a big difference for the discerning aircraft owner.” Air Plains has incorporated several improvements into the new PMA airboxes based on its extensive experience repairing OEM airboxes. Improvements include: A carburetor heat control arm made from a thickened, machined billet that reduces wear; Oil-impregnated bronze bushings replacing needle bearings, also reducing wear and eliminating the possibility of detached needles being ingested into the engine; Precision-ground, corrosion-resistant shaft to prevent accelerated wear due to corrosion; Adhesive bonded joints at select connections to distribute stress and reduce fatigue cracking. “The improvements we’ve designed into our new PMA airboxes give our customers added value when compared with other options on the market,” Church said. “Foremost, our high-quality design and manufacturing process means they will last longer, and that cuts downtime and cost that comes with more frequent repair.” Because of its location, airboxes are subject to engine vibration which can lead to cracking and significant wear to moving components. Depending on the damage, the OEM airboxes can be repaired but eventually will need to be replaced. In addition to the new PMA airboxes, Air Plains also offers standard, like-new, repaired airboxes for Cessna 172 aircaft, usually in stock for immediate shipment. Air Plains is best known for its Cessna engine upgrades, installed in Kansas or shipped as a complete kit anywhere in the world. The XP line of upgrades consists of a 300 hp upgrade for Cessna 182 H through R model aircraft; a 300 hp upgrade for Cessna 180s, a 300 hp upgrade for Cessna retractable gear models R182, and a 180 hp upgrade for a large number of Cessna 172 models. The company recently added new STCs for a 260 hp upgrade for Cessna 182 S and T model aircraft, a 260 hp upgrade for Cessna RG182s, and a 180 hp upgrade for Cessna 172R models. Air Plains offers other replacement PMA parts not only for its XP upgrade kits, but for a variety of aircraft. For more information about Hartzell propeller options or any of Air Plains other products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the new Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (August 8, 2022) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades and an Authorized TRIG dealer, is now offering the new TRIG TX56 and TX57 stack Nav/Com unit. “The availability of the TRIG Nav/Com gives aircraft owners and flight schools a second option in the current market for new units,” said Eric Papon, manager of O&M Services for Air Plains. “It provides a lot of functionality in a small package and integrates smoothly with almost any panel.” Trig’s EASA and FAA certified TX56 and TX57 Nav/Com units are an ideal platform to update legacy avionics and at only 1.3 inches high, the unit saves valuable space while containing an impressive selection of practical features for any pilot. The TX56 family of products is available with 8.33 kHz channel spacing or conventional 25 kHz spacing and 10-watt (TX56) or 16-watt (TX57) transmit power. The TX56A and TX57A are 760 channel radio versions (non 8.33 kHz for use outside Europe). Features of the Nav/Com unit include a clear, bright display showing both primary and secondary frequencies along with airfield/VOR identifiers, and a ‘Push Step’ knob that allows the fastest change from 8.33 kHz to 25 kHz (TX56/TX57) or 25 kHz to 50 kHz (TX56A/TX57A) so you can tune the Nav/Com quickly while focusing on flying. The Dual Watch feature allows you to monitor two Com or Nav frequencies at the same time. The radio has a ‘Say Again’ feature where a single button press replays the last radio transmission, ideal for student pilots. Both the TX56 and TX57 will decode Morse, identifying VORs or ILS. The Nav receiver can monitor a second VOR which significantly enhances route navigation. This means that a standby VOR radial can be displayed in addition to the primary VOR, allowing the pilot to quickly calculate an accurate position fix. The unit display features a graphical CDI (course deviation indicator) that allows the pilot to navigate without an external CDI. The TX56 also provides support for various display options, using a range of external cockpit instruments. For more information about the new TRIG TX56 Nav/Com family or any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, or visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.