Serving Midwest Aviation Since 1960

Articles written by Mina Carlson


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  • A Day in the Life of an Airport 5010 Inspector

    Mina Carlson|Dec 1, 2024

    An airport inspector is a critical role at the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Aeronautics office. They maintain the safety and operational standards of airports across the state. These inspectors ensure that all airport facilities, ranging from large public airports to small private airstrips, comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and Minnesota state rules. The typical inspection season runs from spring to fall, during which inspectors travel...

  • Helicopter Air Ambulances Are Key Aviation Players

    Mina Carlson, MnDOT Office of Aeronautics|Sep 1, 2021

    In my time as a pilot the air medical flying was never in my purview. It wasn't in alignment with any of my disciplines. Or, so I thought. As a pilot, each flight is mission-centric. Whether it be for training, traveling, or to do a bit of sunrise appreciation flying, there is a mission. My flights have not been medical related. I've been fortunate to enjoy the North Shore tourist sort of flying mostly. It wasn't until 2010 when a close family member hit a deer coming home from Mille Lacs Lake...