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

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.

If you have a Cessna 172N with the original Lycoming O-320-H2AD it's very likely that you've dealt with the issues that come along with the single housed dual magneto. If you are a rare breed where performance is just not what you are after, but are approaching TBO this may be a good option for you. Air Plains developed a solution many years ago to replace the original -H2AD engine with the -D2J or -D2G series. This is very similar to an engine remove and replacement and reusing many components on condition including the propeller. STC SA2714CE approves the removal of the original Lycoming O-320-H2AD and installation of Lycoming O-320-D2J or -D2G engine. This alleviates the problematic single housed mag with a more desirable engine. Air Plains provides a STC package for this optional solution. Contact us today. For more information, pricing and availability please contact us today or shop our online store: www.shopairplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.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.

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

Air Plains 180HP upgrade for the 172R takes full advantage of the horsepower originally designed into the Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine. The new propeller allows the engine to turn 2700 RPM, the full value of your engine is utilized. This simple upgrade pairs nicely when aircraft is down for engine overhaul. Or, can also easily incorporate 172R models into a fleet of 172S models. This upgrade is approved for Cessna 172R aircraft 1996-2004 without the G1000. Air Plains offers two options for the upgrade and if you're considering the upgrade it is worth considering both great options. Background There are two great options to consider. STC SA4428SW was approved in 1998 originally offered and still offered today by Air Plains Services. STC SA10406SC was approved in 2005 and offered by Alamo Aerospace. Air Plains Services acquired STC SA10406SC in 2018 and now offers it as an optional installation. The Comparison STC SA4428SW includes the installation of an optional alternate air system enables positive control of the alternate air system in the event that induction ice or the filter is blocked by ice, or other foreign material. The STC kit includes the airbox assembly, duct, clamps and cable. This option also requires the remarking of the existing airspeed indicator and tachometer per STC SA4428SW. This installation uses McCauley propeller 1A170E/JFA7658. This option is EASA validated. STC SA10406SC does not require the installation of the alternate airbox. This installation does require remarking of the existing airspeed indicator, tachometer, and fuel flow/EGT indicator per STC SA10406SC. McCauley propeller 1A170E/JHA7660 is used. Most commonly this is carried out with flight schools or other operation to provide similarity among the fleet. This option is accepted by Transport Canada for installation on Canadian-registered aeronatuical products. Both options allow for 100 lbs gross weight increase. The Air Plains 180 HP offers increased climb and cruise performance, along with the ability to increase your overall payload. Our upgrade flight tests have proven a 300-400 foot per minute increase in the rate of climb! 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

This installation instruction was written with the intent to help the installer position the throttle body assembly in its correct configuration. Following the instructions carefully will facilitate the rigging of the controls and assure that the throttle body is in the correct position. 1. Installation Tools The two tools shown below are used to place the throttle body into the correct position. The wood spacer tool 182TB01-TOOL is used to position the throttle body with the proper distance from the oil sump. Tool 182TB02-TOOL aids the installation of the engine controls and positioning of the induction air box. 2. Oil Sump Spacer Place the wood spacer (182TB01-TOOL) between the oil sump and the throttle body. Loosen the clamps on both ends of the intake elbows to place the throttle body into the correct position. Twist the elbows to break the bond between the elbow and the intake hose. This will allow the throttle body to float into position. 3. Position Place part number 182TB02-TOOL over the engine studs as shown in the picture. Removal of the nuts is not necessary. With the spacer 182TB01-TOOL in place between the oil sump and the throttle body and 182TB02-TOOL in position fasten the intake clamps as needed. 4. Support Straps Once the induction air box has been installed and the support straps bolted to the oil sump recheck the throttle body location and adjust as needed. 5. Mixture and Throttle Control Cables With the throttle body in the correct position the engine controls will clear the intake tube approximately ¼ inch during the rigging process. Prior to securing the engine on the firewall it is strongly recommended that installer completes the throttle and mixture cable rigging. Installer should support the engine with an engine hoist and route the control cables according to the installation instructions making sure that there is an adequate clearance between components. The picture above shows the mixture and throttle in idle cutoff position. If the controls cables contact the throttle body at any position it will result in increased wear of components. 6. Balance Tube Remove the clamp on the balance tube and secure with cable ties. Clearance between the balance tube and the intake duct is minimal. If the balance tube interferes with the cowl move the tube up, towards the oil sump. Light taps with a rubber mallet is the best way to move the balance tube into the desired position. Still have a question on the induction installation? Please contact our technical support at tech@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 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

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 (June 21, 2022) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today company representatives will return to EAA’s 2022 AirVenture in Oshkosh to meet with aircraft owners interested in the company’s popular Cessna piston engine and avionics upgrades. “Oshkosh is the heart of the general aviation industry, bringing in thousands of owners and enthusiasts from around the world every year,” said Katie Church, president of Air Plains. “We had a great time last summer, both developing new customers and meeting with many current customers, and we’re pumped about returning this year.” Once again, the company will be scheduling appointments with Air Plains experts prior to the show taking place this year July 25 through 31. “We will have representatives there who can meet with you so if you’d like to set up an appointment, please contact us, “Church said. “We’ll also have our 300hp Cessna 180 on site to show other products we offer including custom instrument panels and the Inpulse ADI System.” Appointments can be made ahead of time by calling the company at 1-800-752-8481 (+1-620-326-8904 outside the U.S.), or through email at sales@airplains.com Recent market reports show used aircraft prices rising over the past year, making modifications and upgrades a good value compared to other options. “Not only can you upgrade your aircraft for less money than buying new or even going with a used model, you can also make it fit your specific requirements based on the way you fly,” Church said. “We have eight engine STCs, new propeller STCs, an array of avionics options with custom panels, custom interiors, PMA parts, and expert advice based on your requirements and budget.” 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. Air Plains has also added new avionics products and is 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 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 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

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.

“I knew if I wanted to make it faster and with a better climb rate, I had to upgrade the engine.”

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 (November 22, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it has been approved by SureFly as an installation specialist for all SureFly electronic ignition modules. “We are big fans of SureFly electronic ignitions,” said Katie Church, head of customer experience at Air Plains. “Their product line meshes so well with the four- and six-cylinder Lycoming and Continental piston engines we’ve specialized in for 45 years. “SureFly ignition modules, or SIMs, have all solid-state electronics and no moving parts which means reliable performance and zero maintenance over the 2,400-hour life of the unit, and that saves time and money.” SureFly is a FAA certified electronic (solid state) magneto replacement. The SureFly Ignition Module (SIM) replaces one magneto - generally the left or impulse-coupled/starting magneto on most aircraft engines. According to SureFly, its SIM requires no inspections, rebuilds or overhauls usually required with traditional magnetos and delivers a more consistent spark with higher accuracy. “We think electronic ignition is a smart and economical option for 21st century operation of your piston airplane,” Church said. “We are happy to offer the SureFly ignition module to our customers.” For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904 For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

Installation, Operation, & Maintenance of Lycoming Electronic Ignition System(EIS) For assisting please reference the latest version of Lycoming Service Instruction 1569. For further assistance contact Air Plains technical support, tech@airplains.com

The instructions below will cover the proper way to install our airbox and support bracket in your Air Plains 172-180HP engine upgrade. 1. Apply silicone seal Apply a very thin bead of silicone to the airbox surface where it will make contact to the adaptor plate. 2. Attach airbox Use provided bolt for the left rear attachment. Do no tighten all the air box fasteners. They should be loose until all components are together. 3. Fasten the machine screws. Do not tighten! 4. Alternator bracket Attach Alternator bracket to the engine. Forward bolt will be used to attach the support bracket to the airbox. 5. Support Bracket Slide support bracket thru cover plate. Note that cover plate must be on forward side of the baffles. 6. Support bracket attachment. Slide support bracket thru cover plate. Note that cover plate must be on forward side of the baffles. 7. Install cover plate Use PK Screws and tinnermans to install the cover plate. 8. Final installation and fitment Once all the hardware is assembled tighten all the fasteners to ensure that the air box is installed without any binding or jamming. If your support bracket is too short it may need an aluminum filler plate between the bracket and the airbox. If the bracket is too long make sure you are using the correct attachment holes in the air box. Our bracket is identical to the factory size and although it should work with minimal modification it may require you to rework the bracket.

WELLINGTON, KS (November 24, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has been notified by Continental Aerospace Technologies of a price increase on IO-520 and IO-550 300hp engines, effective December 15. “We can still get orders in at the current price through December 14 so anyone considering an upgrade next year should call us now so we can start the process and lock in the price,” said Katie Church, head of customer experience at Air Plains. This is the second engine price increase from Continental this year. The two engines sold by Air Plains are 300 horsepower replacements for Cessna 180 and 182 single-engine piston aircraft. While Air Plains does installations at its Wellington facility, most are shipped to customers around the world as complete kits with a propeller and all the parts – sourced directly by Air Plains – needed for a smooth installation by the customer’s mechanic. “We’re going to have some flexibility in the shipping date, so the install doesn’t need to be planned right away,” Church said. “Unfortunately, there is no flexibility in the price increase.” For more information about Continental engine upgrade options or about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904. You can also see more information and technical details for the engines at www.airplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (August 2, 2021) – It’s back on! The annual (except for last year) Wellington Municipal Airport Open House has been scheduled for September 11, sponsored again by the local Chisholm Trail Chapter #1631 of the Experimental Aviation Association. Wellington Airport Manager Matthew Wiebe said details are still being finalized but preliminary plans include a pancake breakfast fly-in (to try out the new pancake maker), activities for kids including a bounce house (sponsored by airport resident Air Plains Services), Young Eagle introductory flights, helicopter rides, and more. “We’re still pulling together activities and sponsors, but it promises to be another fun day for everyone who visits,” Wiebe said. “We’ll have plenty of aircraft parking as well as parking for cars, and we’ll offer aircraft fuel discounts for pilots who fly in.” The open house has become an annual highlight for the City of Wellington, which is also celebrating its 150th anniversary. The airport (KEGT) recently underwent a runway renovation that also extended Runway 18/36 to 5,200 feet, opening it to larger aircraft that serve the local aerospace manufacturing cluster as well other businesses in the region. The Chisholm Trail EAA chapter will offer free introductory aircraft flights for young people, ages 8 to 17, through EAA’s famed Young Eagles program. Local food vendors will also be on hand. Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has been a resident of Wellington airport since the company’s founding by Mike Kelley in 1977. The airport also is home for a number of aerospace component manufacturers that not only serve the aircraft industry in nearby Wichita but companies around the world. First platted in 1871, Wellington grew as stop on the famed Chisholm Trail used to move cattle in the late 19th century from ranches in Texas north to Kansas City. It also became a railroad hub that still operates today. Along with aerospace, Wellington’s economy is based on agriculture and is known as the Wheat Capital of the World. Details for the open house will be announced at the airport’s website so be sure to check back. Wellington Airport (KEGT) is just north of Wellington at 441 N West Road (U.S. 81).