Topic: Private Aviation

Otto Aviation has unveiled the Celera 500L, a new aircraft that utilizes "laminar flow" to drastically reduce drag and fuel costs. The plane reportedly operates at $328 per hour compared to $2,500 for traditional jets. With a 4,500 nautical mile range and a 60,000-foot ceiling, the "flying pickle" could revolutionize regional private aviation.

President Obama cited not having to take off his shoes for airport security as a top presidential perk. The hosts mock the elitism of the President and Barbara Walters, noting their disconnect from the travel experiences of average citizens who must endure TSA screenings and commercial flight delays.

In an "Ask Adam" segment, the hosts debate why billionaires like Paul Allen or Larry Ellison do not purchase retired Concorde jets for private use. Adam explains the logistical hurdles, including the need for a five-person crew and the political optics of such high-fuel consumption. The conversation shifts to the massive super yachts owned by tech moguls and the specific maintenance they require.

The TSA is attempting to impose commercial airline security rules on private aviation, including liquid restrictions. Additionally, a federal anti-terror law now requires "mule skinners" at historic parks to undergo biometric background checks. These measures are ridiculed as overreach, with the hosts suggesting the regulations are nonsensical and target unlikely threats.

Severe weather in Northern Europe, including snow and high winds, disrupted travel plans between the UK and the Netherlands. The economic downturn has led to a "fire sale" in the private aviation market, with banks like Fortis offering high-end Cessna jets at a fraction of their original value. The high cost of aircraft maintenance is noted as a deterrent for potential buyers during the financial crisis.

A discussion on private aviation covers the logistics of flying small aircraft between the UK and mainland France. Specific locations like Le Touquet and the Champagne region are mentioned as popular destinations for UK pilots. The technical requirements for a preferred aircraft include pressurization and a high service ceiling to avoid weather turbulence.

Pilots flying private aircraft into the United Kingdom must submit a "General Declaration" (Gen Dec) 24 hours before arrival. While some airports like Biggin Hill have dedicated passport control, smaller fields like Fair Oaks rely on faxed documentation to authorities. The segment notes that while checks are frequent on weekends, enforcement can be inconsistent during the week.

John C. Dvorak recounts returning from Las Vegas on a Hawker 800 private jet. The hosts discuss the logistics of corporate aviation, noting that most private jets are now shared through services like NetJets rather than being individually owned. They list various tech billionaires who own aircraft, including Paul Allen and the founders of Google and eBay.