Vector Online - In category Aircraft owner and aircraft

Read our special 'online' Vector stories here. Some are unique to the website, and some have featured in print issues of Vector.

Note: This archive dates back to 2015. So, the advice in some of the earlier articles may have changed.

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Critical info for airworthiness

Aircraft service information There’s a plethora of service information for an aircraft. Here’s a summary for you to digest, then read 'Ignore service information at your peril' down below.

Posted in Operators, Aircraft owner and aircraft, Engineering and maintenance,

Posted 35 days ago

“Don’t just start them up and rip the heck out of them.”

As the temps drop, regularly setting off in your piston-engine aircraft without pre-heating or warming it, is a safety, maintenance, and financial issue.

Posted in Aircraft owner and aircraft, Flight planning, Preflight and postflight, Engines and engine failure, Operators, Vector Technical,

Posted 2 months ago

Don't make life-threatening situations worse

Aircraft are a huge aid to a rescue when lives are at risk, but it’s critical that the safety of every rescuer comes first.

Posted in General safety, Rotary operations, Aircraft owner and aircraft,

Posted 4 months ago

Night flying: Beautiful but hazardous

A recent close call highlights the risks of flying VFR in darkness.

Posted in Aircraft owner and aircraft,

Posted 4 months ago

Dawn of the Tāwhaki era

Unmanned aircraft crews now have a dedicated bit of New Zealand airspace in which to test their cutting-edge aircraft.

Posted in Pilot performance flying practice and professionalism, Airspace, Aircraft owner and aircraft,

Posted 10 months ago

Out of the blue

A routine flight from Paraparaumu to Tākaka in November 2024 turns into a dramatic sea ditching.

Test flights for aircraft modifications

Lots of aircraft get modified so they can undertake new activities. The CAA has now made it more straightforward to apply for flight tests and related approvals.

Posted in Aircraft owner and aircraft, Pilot performance flying practice and professionalism,

Posted 15 months ago

Fix your seatbelt low and tight

It really is that simple. But another fatal crash shows complacency is winning.

Posted in Aircraft owner and aircraft, Pilot performance flying practice and professionalism, Rotary operations, Operators, General safety,

Posted 17 months ago

Lucky strike

It was supposed to be just another goat cull. But this pilot and his passenger narrowly escaped with their lives. Here’s their story.

It’s that time of year again folks…

We need your help, so we can help you stay safe.

Posted in Agricultural operations, Reporting, Aircraft owner and aircraft,

Posted 21 months ago

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