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.
Low Lead Albatross
While the rest of the world has done away with its lead addiction as a fuel additive decades ago, General Aviation still clings to its 100 Low Lead fuel, and for good reason. Itâs the only thing that will work across a wide variety of engine types. The FAA over the course of the last decade has sponsored initiatives to help develop new forms of unleaded aviation fuel, but despite everyoneâs best efforts, we havenât yet come up with a drop-in replacement fuel thatâs up to snuff with the Feds.