Page 4 - Sept23T

A World-Class Racing Event Like no Other
In the aviation world, September in northern Nevada has been known for something special for quite some time, National Championship Air Racing, or the Reno Air Races. At once, the event is a throwback to past eras and a showcase for the latest and greatest in the aviation industry. This month’s cover feature pays homage to the race’s home at Reno-Stead airport for almost 60 years.
I’ve had the pleasure to experience the races twice, once in 2011 and another in 2017, with a third coming this year.
The HawkerBeechcraft team at Reno in 2011. Our team photo was signed by brand ambassador, Robert “Hoot” Gibson, a Beechcraft pilot, Space Shuttle commander and Reno racer.
In addition to learning about and seeing the sights at Reno in this issue, Ed Verville teaches the importance of flying stabilized non-precision approaches.
The Irwin family of Fullerton, California, has provided aviators with specialty products for generations. We talk to the second-gen owner of Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co., Jim Irwin, and learn about the third-generation preparing to take the reins in the future. Jim talks about what has made his family’s business successful and tells us about the aircraft that have helped him get there.
Following on one of the historical Irwin family aircraft, I highlight a similar rarely discussed or seen plane. Edi- tor’s Pics looks into unique airplanes captured on film or digital sensors in sometimes unusual places. I found one of those rarities at a very high elevation a few years ago.
Finally, David Miller takes us through the decision- making process an aviator navigates after losing (selling) a much-loved aircraft.
lance@twinandturbine.com
Editor’s Briefing
by Lance Phillips
2017 Reno Air Races and the incredible Mooney M20 Acclaim Ultra.
As storms approached Reno-Stead in 2017, Strega and Voodoo were wisely taken to a hangar for the night.
The pit area for Merlin-powered P-51 Strega.
2 • TWIN & TURBINE / September 2023