OSH RUNWAY 9/27 PHASE II RECONSTRUCTION BEGINS
The second phase of the Runway 9/27 reconstruction project at Wittman Regional Airport (OSH) Oshkosh, Wisconsin, will begin Monday, March 31. This phase of the project will include reconstruction of Runway 9/27 east of taxiway Alpha, grooving the entire Runway 9/27, removal of the 230 foot overrun on the east end of Runway 9/27, grooving the new pavement of runway 13/31, and marking all new surfaces. Several runway and taxiway closures will be in effect, please check for NOTAM updates before every flight. The project is scheduled for completion July 1, 2008.

NEW GARMIN GPSMAP 495 ANNOUNCED
Garmin International Inc., announced details of its new GPSMAP 495, a device for pilots who want many of the same features as the GPSMAP 496 for less cost. The 495 includes Garmin's SafeTaxi airport diagrams; Garmin's Smart Airspace; enhanced high-resolution terrain database; aviation database with private airports and heliports; accelerated GPS update rate; and European VFR reporting waypoints.

The GPSMAP 495 has the same higher resolution terrain database as the 496. Its land graphics have over 10 times as much data as other Garmin handhelds and vividly display proximity hazards. In aviation mode, pilots get terrain and obstacle alerting, pop-up alerts, and customizable minimum clearance limits that give audible terrain alerts at specified altitudes. Garmin's Smart Airspace feature automatically highlights airspace close to current altitude and de-emphasizes airspace away from the current altitude. The GPSMAP 495 is expected to be available April 8-13, 2008, at Sun 'n Fun. The expected street price is $1,595. To learn more, visit the Garmin website.

SONEX AIRCRAFT OFFERS AEROVEE 2.1
Sonex Aircraft, LLC announced the latest evolution in the AeroConversions product line this week with the introduction of the AeroVee 2.1 Engine Kit. AeroVee 2.1 incorporates new features, such as a purpose-built custom crankshaft with a larger diameter and longer prop hub interface. This new design eliminates the distributor drive gear and the racer spacer, making assembly easier, Sonex officials say. To learn more, visit www.sonexaircraft.com.

CESSNA DELIVERS MUSTANG TO UND AEROSPACE
Cessna Aircraft Company delivered the first Citation Mustang this week to the University of North Dakota (UND). The university's flight school will use this entry-level Citation jet for executive travel as well as flight training for undergraduate and contract students. 2008 marks the 125th anniversary of UND and the 40th anniversary of the university's John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences (UND Aerospace). The school averages more than 1,000 flight students at any given time and has more than 120 aircraft available to its students.  Visit www.cessna.com for more information. 

FIRST FLIGHT: LANCAIR EVOLUTION
Lancair International, Inc. announced the latest addition to its line of aircraft kits. The Evolution kit is the result of more than three years of engineering, research, and development to produce a more spacious aircraft that will meet all flight handling characteristics required by FAA Part 23, including a 61 knot stall speed, while maintaining the Lancair tradition of high performance. The Evolution includes a BRS parachute system, and is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A, producing true airspeeds in excess of 385 mph. Independent test pilot Len Fox said it was a "successful first flight." Visit www.lancair.com or call 541-923-2244 for more information.

NATIONAL AIR CARE CONFERENCE
The National Air Care Conference will be held April 25-26 in Atlanta, Georgia. The conference offers the opportunity to learn from industry leaders the topics that impact non-profit and public-benefit flying organizations. The Air Care Alliance holds its annual conference to bring together leaders, staff members, and supporters of public-benefit flying. Attendees share knowledge and build relationships with industry professionals and peers. Learn more at www.aircareall.org/aircare2008.htm

SYNERGYAIR OFFERS QUICKBUILD STRATEGIES WORKSHOP
So you've been thinking of building a quick-build RV, but you have questions. Is it something I can really do? Do I have to do everything myself? Is professional assistance legal? Well, one thing has never been questioned: preparing and educating yourself before you start an airplane project is legal…and smart.

Quickbuild Strategies, a workshop scheduled for May 19-23 in Sunriver, Oregon, offers presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on learning projects. Noted RV builder Wally Anderson and his staff will lead the five-day seminar, designed to help build your airplane quickly and efficiently. For more information, call Synergyair at 541-913-0610 or register online at www.synergyair.com.

AVIATION CAREER EXPO IN MICHIGAN
Michigan Institute of Aviation and Technology will host more than 70 aviation and aerospace companies at the 3rd annual Aviation Career Expo. Many companies will do same-day interviews and hire for a variety of positions. The event takes place in Belleville, Michigan, at the Willow Run Airport (YIP) on Thursday, May 1 from 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Attendees can visit with aviation colleges, organizations, and military representatives. Admission and parking is free for job seekers. For more information, contact Amy at akienast@miat.edu.

CONCRETE, WASHINGTON HOLDS FLY-IN NO. 22
The Concrete, Washington airport advisory committee and the Town of Concrete will host its 22nd annual fly-in July 25, 26, and 27. Catering to homebuilts, antiques, classics, and warbirds, the event also attracts a significant number of general aviation aircraft. The local Short Wing Piper Club holds its annual get-together concurrently. Last year, 150 airplanes participated in the three-day event. To learn more, email Jim Jenkins at geebee856y@yahoo.com.