Private Pilot Blog
Explore real flying stories, pilot training tips, and aviation insights. This private pilot blog is your go-to source for learning to fly, staying updated, and getting inspired—whether you're a student pilot or already licensed.
Luxembourg–Georgia Private Pilot Expedition 2026
Preparations have begun for the Luxembourg–Georgia Private Pilot Expedition 2026, a two-week pilot-to-pilot aviation journey departing Luxembourg on 29 August 2026. Pre-registration is now open for crews interested in joining this non-commercial long-distance flying adventure across Europe towards Georgia.
Returning to Georgia: A Decade Later, by Air
A decade after a memorable private aviation rally first connected Luxembourg and Georgia, we are preparing to fly back. What began in 2015 as a personal mission to open the skies between our countries grew into the historic 2016 “Memorial Hans Gutmann” expedition—12 aircraft and 45 aviators crossing Europe to the Caucasus. Today, Georgia thrives as a modern, aviation-friendly destination. In 2026, under the patronage of the Honorary Consulate of Georgia in Luxembourg, we set out once again on a 4,000 NM journey to celebrate shared values, deepen cultural ties, and experience one of Europe’s most beautiful regions by air.
SkyDemon vs ForeFlight in small aircraft
SkyDemon vs ForeFlight compared from a private pilot’s perspective, focusing on navigation, airspace handling, cockpit workflow and small-aircraft flying in Europe.
High-End ULMs: Regulation Must Catch Up With Reality
Europe’s high-end ULM segment (Blackwing, Shark, VL3, Risen, Bristel, Ellipse,…) is a mature European industry and regulation must catch up with reality. The 600 kg MTOW boundary is outdated; these aircraft deliver major safety (parachute, short-field margins), capability, and dramatic fuel-cost advantages—e.g. at 100 hours/year: ~€2,400 Mogas vs €10,000–€11,250 Avgas in typical certified touring aircraft. Europe should stop trying to regulate everything and focus on simple, proportionate rules and smoother cross-border flying.
A Winter Expedition to Utscheid: Sunshine, Coffee, and Temperature Inversions
A winter flight from Arlon (EBAR) to the German Eifel turned into a meteorological mystery. While the ground was freezing, our instruments showed a balmy 14°C at 3,500 feet. Read about our mini-expedition to Utscheid, meeting the locals, and experiencing a massive temperature inversion over Luxembourg in the speedy Blackwing.
When Automation Takes the Controls: A Glimpse into the Future of Flight
The first real-world autonomous emergency landing is no longer science fiction. From a Blackwing cockpit, this is what automation already means today — and where it is heading.
A Call to All Pilots and Aircraft Owners
Flying is a freedom that does not defend itself. After years of commitment to AOPA Luxembourg, a chapter comes to a close — and a new one begins. As we bid farewell to the outgoing board, AOPA is calling on pilots and aircraft owners to step forward and help protect the future of general aviation in Luxembourg.
Stepping down as President of AOPA Luxembourg — and proud of what we delivered for members
After eight years as President, I’m not running again. Ahead of the General Assembly on 17 January 2026, I look back at what AOPA Luxembourg delivered for members—and why a strong, engaged community still matters.
Soaring village – a new pilots’ base at the Riviera
A new airfield development on the Riviera: 16 apartments with hangar space underneath at Fayence–Tourrettes. High-end ULM finally gets a home base near Cannes. Delivery autumn 2026.