The decade from 2010 to 2019 for General Aviation was one of tremendous technological progress, from computer watches to autonomous flight control. Manufacturers also launched some amazing new planes, including a jet from Cirrus, the incredible globetrotting Gulfstream G650, a remarkable diesel twin, the DA-62, from Diamond, among others. At the same time we in GA continued to fight against onerous regulation, often but not always successfully, while working to keep the activity we love open, accessible and fun, challenges that won’t end with a new decade but that will certainly be met by a population of passionate aviators focusing on what really matters, the joy and freedom of flight.
Drones Everywhere
It was a story that affected GA but was far bigger than our cozy segment, and the subject of drones didnât disappoint, providing more controversy and hope than users, regulators, legislators or journalists knew what to do with. By the end of the decade it was clear that drones would, before long, dominate the skies. Next decade will tell just how that new vision plays out.