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As reported on AIN Online, a new FBO chain has officially entered the market following Tallvine Partners’ acquisition of Odyssey Aviation’s U.S. assets. The Miami-based private investment firm is making its first move into the highly competitive FBO sector, with plans to expand its presence across North America.

The newly acquired network includes three locations:

✈ Willow Run Airport (KYIP) Detroit, MI
✈ Kissimmee Gateway Airport (KISM) – Kissimmee, FL
✈ St. Simons Island Airport (KSSI) – St. Simons Island, GA

Together, these sites span 270,000+ sq ft of facilities and 57 acres of ramp space, forming the foundation of a larger FBO platform led by industry veteran Chad Farischon (formerly of Lynx FBO). Tallvine aims to drive growth through hangar expansions, operational improvements, and future acquisitions across the U.S. and Canada.

Pilots can stay updated on fuel pricing and FBO services through iFlightPlanner—your go-to tool for saving fuel, time, and money every time you fly!

In a recent statement, AOPA President Darren Pleasance emphasized the organization's dedication to a transparent and safe shift toward unleaded aviation gasoline (avgas).

AOPA maintains neutrality regarding specific unleaded fuel options, advocating instead for a "burn and learn" approach. This method involves real-world testing of FAA-approved unleaded fuels to gather data and share findings with the aviation community. AOPA's own experience with General Aviation Modifications Inc.'s G100UL fuel has been positive, and the organization plans to evaluate Swift Fuels' 100R as it becomes available.

Pleasance underscores the importance of rapid and transparent assessments by both the FAA and fuel producers to address any concerns promptly, ensuring the entire industry benefits from shared knowledge.

AOPA encourages pilots to report their experiences with unleaded fuels, contributing to a collective effort to achieve a safe and effective transition to an unleaded future.

» 100-Octane Unleaded Fuel User Experience Survey

In anticipation of the large number of aircraft operating to and from areas hosting major sporting and entertainment events, the FAA has published updated procedures in its Domestic Notices valid from January 23, 2025 to enhance safety and minimize air traffic delays.

• 2025-0211, NFL Super Bowl LIX
• 2025-0224, NASCAR Ambetter Health 400

THESE PROCEDURES MAY BE REVISED OR UNAVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF THE EVENT.  PILOTS SHOULD CHECK NOTICES AND TRAFFIC ADVISORIES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TO ENSURE THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION. THESE NOTICES DO NOT SUPERCEDE RESTRICTIONS PERTAINING TO THE USE OF AIRSPACE CONTAINED IN FDC NOTICES.

Official airport, navigation and chart data for the FAA's 28-day AIRAC cycle beginning January 23, 2025 became current today as of 09:01Z.  This includes updated georeferenced data for airport diagrams and instrument approach procedures available in iFlightPlanner for iPad and iFlightPlanner for iPhone.

Anytime you access iFlightPlanner or iFlightPlanner for AOPA from your desktop, laptop, or smartphone browser you can be confident you're seeing the most current and accurate data available.

To ensure iFlightPlanner is current on your iPhone or iPad, simply tap "Check for Updates" in the upper-left corner of the Downloads tab.  Each app will quickly tell you which packages need to be updated!

The iFlightPlanner Crew
PLAN. FLY. LOG.

General aviation pilots operating in Florida should be aware of the reinstatement of Presidential Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) accompanied by updated TSA requirements. These changes are crucial for ensuring compliance and maintaining safety during Presidential visits.

Key Updates:

• Active Flight Plans: All flights within the TFR zones must operate under an active IFR or VFR flight plan. Continuous communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) is mandatory throughout the flight.
• Security Screening: Pilots are required to undergo security screening at designated gateway airports before entering the TFR area. This measure aims to enhance security protocols during the President's presence.
• Operational Limitations: Certain operations, including banner towing, aerial inspections, and flight training, may face restrictions or prohibitions within the TFRs. Pilots should review the specific NOTAMs issued for each TFR to understand the limitations in place.

Recommendations for Pilots:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check for NOTAMs related to Presidential TFRs in your intended flight area. The FAA's official website and NOTAM search tools are valuable resources for the most current information.
• Plan Ahead: Anticipate potential delays due to security procedures and airspace restrictions. Incorporate these factors into your flight planning to ensure timely operations.
• Maintain Communication: Ensure that your aircraft's communication equipment is functioning correctly and that you are prepared to maintain continuous contact with ATC as required.

By adhering to these updated requirements and staying vigilant, pilots can contribute to the safe and efficient management of airspace during Presidential visits. For detailed information, refer to the official NOTAMs and consult with local flight service stations.

iFlightPlanner for iPad and iFlightPlanner for iPhone users may now download airport and navigation data as well as aeronautical charts, georeferenced airport diagrams and terminal procedures for the FAA Data Cycle that goes into effect on January 23, 2025.  Simply tap the button in the upper-left corner of the Downloads tab to "Check For Updates."

Pilots using iFlightPlanner for AOPA or iFlightPlanner on their desktop, laptop, or mobile device will see iFlightPlanner automatically make the transition to the new data at 9:01Z on January 23.

As Super Bowl LIX approaches, the FAA has issued critical guidance for general aviation (GA) pilots operating in the New Orleans area from February 6 to 11, 2025. Due to anticipated increased air traffic, special procedures and restrictions will be in effect to ensure safety and efficiency.

» FAA's Safety Plan for Super Bowl LIX

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR):

A TFR will be active on Sunday, February 9, 2025, centered on the Caesars Superdome. The restriction is expected from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time, encompassing a 10-nautical-mile inner core and a 30-nautical-mile outer ring. Pilots must review the specific details of the TFR, which will be published closer to the event. 

Special Event Reservation (PPR) Program:

To manage the high volume of air traffic, a Prior Permission Required (PPR) program will be in effect for arrivals and departures at several New Orleans-area airports between February 6 and 10. Participating airports include Louis Armstrong International (MSY), New Orleans Lakefront (NEW), Slidell (ASD), Hammond Northshore Regional (HDC), and Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional (APS). Pilots should contact the FBO at their intended airport to secure reservations and obtain additional information. 

Operational Considerations:

• Flight Plans: File flight plans at least 6 hours, but not more than 24 hours, prior to departure to assist in traffic management and minimize potential delays.
• VFR Operations: VFR arrivals may experience significant delays during peak periods. Practice approaches, touch-and-goes, and training operations may be limited or suspended due to increased traffic.
• Security Measures: Enhanced security protocols, including two-way communication and discrete transponder requirements, will be enforced. Pilots are advised to check NOTAMs frequently for the most current information.

For comprehensive details, including specific arrival and departure procedures, pilots should consult the FAA's Super Bowl LIX webpage and review the associated NOTAMs as they become available. Staying informed and adhering to these procedures will contribute to a safe and efficient flying environment during the event.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) in the Washington, D.C. area on January 9, 2025, to ensure security during President Carter's State Funeral. These restrictions will expand the existing Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area Special Flight Rules Area (DC SFRA) and Flight Restricted Zone (DC FRZ).

iFlightPlanner.com/AviationCharts

Key Restrictions:

DC SFRA:

• Transit flights not landing or departing within the DC SFRA are prohibited.
• VFR traffic pattern operations at DC SFRA airports are suspended.

DC FRZ:

• Only Department of Defense, law enforcement, and air ambulance operations authorized by the Airspace Security Operations Center (ASOC) are permitted.
• All other flights, including those to and from Joint Base Andrews (KADW) and Davison Army Airfield (KDAA), must coordinate with the ASOC at (866) 598-9524.

Prohibited Operations:

Activities such as flight training, practice approaches, aerobatic maneuvers, glider operations, parachute operations, ultralights, balloon operations, agricultural spraying, banner towing, utility/pipeline patrols, model aircraft, model rockets, maintenance flights, and unmanned aircraft operations are prohibited within the DC SFRA and DC FRZ during this period.

Recommendations for Pilots:

Pilots are advised to frequently check Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for updates, as restrictions may change with little notice. Prior to flight, contact a Flight Service Station at 1-800-WX-BRIEF to obtain current information. For specific inquiries regarding the airspace restrictions, reach out to the National Capital Region Coordination Center (NCRCC) at (703) 563-3221.

» FLIGHT ADVISORY: President Carter's State Funeral