State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

La Compagnie to Launch Direct All-Business Class Service between New York and Dusseldorf
La Compagnie, the 100% Smart Business Class airline, has announced plans to launch nonstop service between New York’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) in Germany, beginning in Spring 2027. Operating up to five times weekly, the route will connect New York with Düsseldorf and the Rhine-Ruhr region, one of Europe’s most […]
Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet
Tecnam has announced that Epic Flight Academy has expanded its modern fleet with the acquisition of two Tecnam P2006Ttwin-engine aircraft. Founded in 1999 and operating out of multiple locations, Epic Flight Academy is currently recognized as the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States, supporting a robust roster of approximately 600 active flight […]
Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace
Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for […]
Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration
Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]

State News

Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet

Tecnam has announced that Epic Flight Academy has expanded its modern fleet with the acquisition of two Tecnam P2006Ttwin-engine aircraft. Founded in 1999 and operating out of multiple locations, Epic Flight Academy is currently recognized as the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States, supporting a robust roster of approximately 600 active flight students. The integration of the two new Tecnam P2006T aircraft will immediately bolster the academy’s multi-engine training capacity. The Tecnam P2006T offers Epic’s students an advanced, highly efficient alternative for their multi-engine ratings. Designed with unparalleled aerodynamics and a state-of-the-art glass cockpit, the aircraft provides an ultra-modern training environment. Furthermore, the P2006T introduces an airframe that is highly appealing to Epic’s diverse demographic of international students, perfectly bridging the gap between basic training and commercial airline operations. “We are continually looking for ways to make flight training more affordable while maintaining the modern, technologically advanced fleet our students have come to expect from us,” stated Josh Rawlins, COO of Epic Flight Academy. The P2006T’s exceptional fuel efficiency and low operating costs make it the ideal platform to support Epic’s mission of providing top-tier, cost-effective aviation education without compromising on safety or technology. Walter da Costa, Chief Sales Officer at Tecnam, added: “It is an absolute honor to see the P2006T join the fleet of Epic Flight Academy, the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States. Their commitment to providing affordable, state-of-the-art training perfectly aligns with Tecnam’s design philosophy. We are incredibly proud to support their growing operations and to play a role in developing the next generation of global commercial pilots.”
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Tulsa Students Awarded Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation Scholarships

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has announced that 13 students from its Tulsa campus aviation flight and aviation maintenance technology programs have been selected as recipients of scholarships through the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program. The nationally recognized scholarship program supports hardworking individuals pursuing training for careers in the skilled trades and essential industries that help keep America moving. Recipients are selected based on their commitment to personal responsibility, strong work ethic, and dedication to mastering in-demand skills. “These students represent the determination, discipline, and work ethic that define both the aviation industry and the skilled trades,” said Rob Polston, Chief Executive Officer of Spartan Education Group. “We are incredibly proud to see our Tulsa students recognized by the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation and look forward to the impact they will make in the aviation industry.” The following Spartan College Tulsa campus students were awarded scholarships through the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program: The Aviation Flight Recipients from left to right: Nolan Ploutz, David Sandbach Jr., Ian DeArmond, Avery Cannon, Owen Wright and Chase White. Aviation Flight Recipients Chase White Braden Evans Jaiden Graves Owen Wright Gabriel Hahn David Sandbach Jr. Nolan Ploutz Averry Cannon Rose Biggs Ian DeArmond Aviation Maintenance Technology Recipients Benjamin Ellis Derick James Shelby Mulama The Aviation Maintenance Technology Recipients from left to right: Ben Ellis, Shelby Mulama and Derick James. The Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program was created to help address the nation’s skilled labor gap by investing in students pursuing careers that require technical expertise, hands-on training, and a commitment to excellence. The program supports students preparing for careers across skilled industries, including transportation, manufacturing, construction, and aviation. The recognition comes as the aviation industry faces sustained demand for skilled professionals. According to Boeing’s 2026 Pilot and Technician Outlook, the global commercial aviation industry will need approximately 674,000 new pilots and 728,000 new maintenance technicians over the next 20 years. Boeing notes that effective training and an adequate supply of qualified personnel will remain critical to supporting the safety and growth of the global aviation ecosystem. Spartan’s History Includes Nearly a Century of Aviation Training in Tulsa Spartan College’s history in Tulsa dates back to 1928, when the institution was founded as Spartan School of Aeronautics. Since its founding, Spartan has played a longstanding role in aviation education and training, preparing generations of pilots and aviation technicians for careers in the industry. Over nearly a century, Spartan has trained more than 100,000 pilots and technicians, with students coming from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. Today, the Tulsa campus continues that legacy by offering hands-on aviation training designed to prepare students with the technical knowledge and practical skills used in the aviation industry. The recognition of these 13 Tulsa students through the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program reflects Spartan College’s continued commitment to aviation education and supporting students as they prepare to enter an industry with ongoing workforce needs.

National News

U.S. DOT Invests $481 Million to Improve Airport Infrastructure

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing $481 million to improve infrastructure and enhance safety at airports. The FAA is delivering 191 grants to airports in 36 states and two territories through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program, including: $100 million to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia for runway, taxiway and terminal reconstruction and runway safety area improvements. $32.5 million to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky to reconstruct the terminal. $30.3 million to San Diego International Airport in California for terminal construction. $14.2 million to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in Wisconsin for taxiway construction and rehabilitation. $8.7 million to El Paso International Airport in Texas to rehabilitate the apron. $2.5 million to general aviation airports in Wisconsin for terminal reconstruction, runway and taxiway rehabilitation and snow-removal-equipment building reconstruction “From our regional hubs to some of America’s busiest airports, we are investing in critical infrastructure that will provide American families with a more seamless, efficient travel experience for years to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation.” “We’re investing in airport infrastructure that keeps travelers safe and airports operating efficiently,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These grants will help airports across the country meet the demands of today’s travelers while preparing for the future.” Additional Information: AIG funding can be used for airport planning, development, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs. View a data visualization of the airports receiving funding.
GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve as exemplary models of character and excellence for the broader GA community. Community involvement in the awards program has decreased recently, resulting in fewer nominations and applications. GAA encourages flight schools, aviation organizations, universities, FSDOs, and other entities to nominate fellow aviators or submit applications. In nearly every aviation community, there are aviators and mechanics who deserve recognition for their efforts to improve and secure general aviation. The selection process begins following the November 30th deadline at the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO), where Honorees are chosen at the district level. These winners then advance to the national level, where a panel of judges, comprising of industry professionals and past Honorees, selects this year’s National Honorees. In addition to national recognition, winners present a live broadcast in which they share their knowledge and expertise, are awarded a trip to AirVenture, a commemorative plaque, and numerous gifts from industry sponsors. GAA is a nonprofit corporation run exclusively by volunteers and depends on financial support from sponsors and donations to provide these honors. Submissions and additional information about the process are available at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate.

International News

La Compagnie to Launch Direct All-Business Class Service between New York and Dusseldorf

La Compagnie, the 100% Smart Business Class airline, has announced plans to launch nonstop service between New York’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) in Germany, beginning in Spring 2027. Operating up to five times weekly, the route will connect New York with Düsseldorf and the Rhine-Ruhr region, one of Europe’s most important economic centers, providing a new premium option for transatlantic business and leisure travel. Upon launch, La Compagnie will be the only airline to offer nonstop service between New York and Düsseldorf. The new service responds to clear demand in North Rhine-Westphalia, a globally connected economic region with deep and longstanding ties to the U.S. Düsseldorf is one of the world’s leading trade show destinations and a hub for international companies across fashion, telecommunications, life sciences, professional services and advanced manufacturing. More than 24,000 international companies are based in the state, including approximately 1,700 U.S. companies. The United States is also North Rhine-Westphalia’s most important non-European export market, underscoring the value of direct service to New York. As the largest airport in Germany’s most populous federal state, Düsseldorf Airport combines a strong local market with accessibility, efficiency and a premium airport environment. For leisure travelers, Düsseldorf offers art, architecture, shopping and gastronomy, while also serving as a convenient gateway to the Rhineland’s historic towns, vineyards, castles and renowned river-cruise itineraries along the Rhine. The airport’s proximity to the Netherlands and Belgium also makes the route an attractive option for travelers from neighboring regions. “Düsseldorf represents a natural next chapter in La Compagnie’s development,” said Christian Vernet, President and CEO of La Compagnie. “At the heart of one of Europe’s most dynamic economic regions, with strong international businesses and longstanding ties to the United States, North Rhine-Westphalia is well suited to our unique all-business-class model. We look forward to welcoming travelers from the region on board, while also offering our American clientele a new and convenient gateway to Germany.” “This connection is an exceptional fit for Düsseldorf and North Rhine-Westphalia,” explains Lars Redeligx, CEO of Düsseldorf Airport. “The United States is a key market for our state’s economy, and New York is one of the world’s most important travel destinations. La Compagnie is bringing a clearly defined product to our airport: nonstop, comfortable and designed for people who want to cross the Atlantic efficiently and in a relaxed way. The fact that this offer, unique in Germany, is launching in Düsseldorf says a great deal about the strength of our airport and our catchment area.” NEW YORK–DÜSSELDORF SERVICE Beginning in Spring 2027, La Compagnie will offer up to five weekly flights between New York and Düsseldorf during the summer season aboard a new Airbus A321neo LR. Schedule details and tickets are now available at LaCompagnie.com, through the airline’s call center and via travel advisors. A SEAMLESS, ALL-BUSINESS-CLASS JOURNEY The Düsseldorf route will offer La Compagnie’s signature end-to-end experience, from lounge access at departure to its intimate, exclusively business-class cabin. At Düsseldorf Airport, passengers will have access to the DUS Sky Lounge in Pier C. In Newark, La Compagnie guests can access Lounge&Co, the airline’s recently renovated and dedicated private lounge. Aboard La Compagnie’s Airbus A321neo aircraft, every seat converts into a fully flat bed. The experience also includes complimentary gate-to-gate unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art entertainment, a generous baggage allowance, seasonal menus created by renowned chefs and paired with French wines and Champagne, and amenity kits featuring Beau Domaine skincare, all designed to create a more enjoyable journey. CONTINUED GROWTH ACROSS THE ATLANTIC The Düsseldorf launch marks another significant milestone for La Compagnie, which has been redefining business-class travel since 2014. The airline currently connects Newark with Paris Orly, Nice Côte d’Azur and Milan Malpensa, and recently announced the extension of its New York–Nice service into the winter season for the first time. La Compagnie’s route expansion will be supported by the planned arrival of a third Airbus A321neo LR in 2027, followed by a fourth Airbus A321neo XLR in 2028. As part of its commitment to more responsible air travel, the airline is investing in quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft designed to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 30% compared with its previous-generation fleet, placing them among the most efficient aircraft available for transatlantic operations. The additions will also deliver greater range and operational flexibility, further advancing La Compagnie’s long-term international growth while maintaining the distinctive all-business-class experience at the heart of its model.
Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace

Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for the integration of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) into European airspace. Dronamics has been selected as part of this elite group of organizations, which include EUROCONTROL, SAAB, Thales, Honeywell, BULATSA (full list below), as a leading developer and operator of large RPAS. Its flagship Black Swan platform is one of two European RPAS that will shape the project’s outcome. Live flights with the Black Swan will play a central role in setting the procedures for cross-border RPAS operations in Europe. Addressing barriers to scaling uncrewed aviation in Europe The central barrier to scaling uncrewed aviation in Europe is the fact that large remotely-piloted aircraft, such as Dronamics’ Black Swan, remain confined to segregated airspace because the air traffic management procedures and Detect and Avoid capabilities needed to fly them alongside crewed traffic are not yet mature enough for deployment. Dronamics’s role in the IRINA2 project will be key to addressing that and therefore unlocking the next phase for regular and commercial operations with RPAS. Building on the results of the IRINA project, IRINA2 will advance the coordinated conflict management concept that combines onboard Detect and Avoid systems with air traffic control procedures, targeting integration in controlled and uncontrolled airspace and will move these capabilities beyond TRL6 (technology readiness level) toward operational rollout. Key areas of IRINA2 project’s work include the development of operational concepts and procedures, flight planning, cross-border RPAS operations and coordination between the civil and military aviation sectors. The project will examine the integration of RPAS both in airspace where Air Traffic Control (ATC) provides separation of traffic and in airspace where ATC does not provide such separation. The project was based on the results of the first phase of IRINA, which explored the safe integration of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) RPAS into European airspace and ways to reduce the need for segregated airspace for these types of operations. Shaping the development of European regulatory and standardization frameworks for the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) Dronamics contributes the operational perspective of a commercial large RPAS platform, developing the operational concept and informing requirements for the integration of RPAS into controlled airspace. Live flights with the Black Swan, conducted jointly with The Bulgarian Air Traffic Services Authority (BULATSA), will enable different operational scenarios and interaction between RPAS and the Air Traffic Management system to be examined. Furthermore, the demonstrations will allow for assessment of the workload and performance of air traffic controllers when managing both manned and unmanned aircraft within the same operational environment. Validation exercises will subsequently translate into further certification and standardization work that will feed key regulatory and standardization bodies whom aviation safety relies on – the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), European Organization for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The SESAR IRINA2 project is funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe program. Participants in SESAR IRINA2: EUROCONTROL – EUROPEAN ORGANISATION FOR THE SAFETY OF AIR NAVIGATION SAAB AKTIEBOLAG DRONAMICS ENAIRE CENTRO DE REFERENCIA INVESTIGACION DESARROLLO E INNOVACION ATM, A.I.E. INGENIERIA Y ECONOMIA DEL TRANSPORTE SME MP SA DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FUR LUFT – UND RAUMFAHRT EV HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL SRO THALES LUFTFARTSVERKET OFFICE NATIONAL D’ETUDES ET DE RECHERCHES AEROSPATIALES SAFRAN ELECTRONICS & DEFENSE POLSKA AGENCJA ZEGLUGI POWIETRZNEJ C.I.R.A. CENTRO ITALIANO RICERCHE AEROSPAZIALI SCPA BULGARIAN AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES AUTHORITY – BULATSA DIRECTION DES SERVICES DE LA NAVIGATION AERIENNE

Unmanned Systems

Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace

Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for READ MORE
Phase 2 of FAA BEYOND Program Announced to Advance Drone Innovation

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching Phase 2 of the BEYOND program to expand the agency’s efforts to integrate drones into the national airspace system (NAS) and secure America’s leadership in aviation innovation. The FAA will double the program’s current size by selecting up to eight additional READ MORE

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet

Tecnam has announced that Epic Flight Academy has expanded its modern fleet with the acquisition of two Tecnam P2006Ttwin-engine aircraft. Founded in 1999 and operating out of multiple locations, Epic Flight Academy is currently recognized as the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States, supporting a robust roster of approximately 600 active flight READ MORE
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Tulsa Students Awarded Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation Scholarships

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has announced that 13 students from its Tulsa campus aviation flight and aviation maintenance technology programs have been selected as recipients of scholarships through the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program. The nationally recognized scholarship program supports hardworking individuals pursuing training for careers in the skilled trades READ MORE

La Compagnie to Launch Direct All-Business Class Service between New York and Dusseldorf

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

La Compagnie, the 100% Smart Business Class airline, has announced plans to launch nonstop service between New York’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) in Germany, beginning in Spring 2027. Operating up to five times weekly, the route will connect New York with Düsseldorf and the Rhine-Ruhr region, one of Europe’s most […]

Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tecnam has announced that Epic Flight Academy has expanded its modern fleet with the acquisition of two Tecnam P2006Ttwin-engine aircraft. Founded in 1999 and operating out of multiple locations, Epic Flight Academy is currently recognized as the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States, supporting a robust roster of approximately 600 active flight […]

Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for […]

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Tulsa Students Awarded Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation Scholarships

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has announced that 13 students from its Tulsa campus aviation flight and aviation maintenance technology programs have been selected as recipients of scholarships through the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program. The nationally recognized scholarship program supports hardworking individuals pursuing training for careers in the skilled trades […]

U.S. DOT Invests $481 Million to Improve Airport Infrastructure

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing $481 million to improve infrastructure and enhance safety at airports. The FAA is delivering 191 grants to airports in 36 states and two territories through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program, including: “From our regional hubs to some of America’s busiest airports, […]

MSP Airport to Close Runway 17-35 for Lighting Modernization

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) Runway 17-35 will close Sept. 8 for six weeks to upgrade electrical systems on the runway and connected taxiways. During the project, crews will replace all existing elevated and in-pavement halogen fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting along the entire runway — completing a multi-year effort to modernize airfield lighting. “This […]

GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve […]

GAMA Releases Second Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased overall shipments and an increase in the value of aircraft billings. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of […]

National Aeronautic Association Announces 2026 Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) recently announced the 2026 class of Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation. Established in 1954, this prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Americans who, through their dedicated efforts over many years, have made enduring contributions to aeronautics and spaceflight. “The Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation recognition reflects a lifetime of leadership, […]

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]