State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Ponca City Breaks Ground on $14.3 Million Regional Airport
State and local leaders joined the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the City of Ponca City to break ground on a new $14.3 million terminal at Ponca City Regional Airport, marking a significant investment in aviation infrastructure and economic development in north-central Oklahoma. The new 14,000-square-foot terminal will provide modern accommodation for […]
TransMedics Selects Gogo Galileo HDX for Nationwide Organ Transport Fleet
Photo caption: TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to provide reliable, high-performance connectivity across its fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft supporting time-critical organ transport missions. Gogo has announced that TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to equip its growing fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft operating across the United States. The aircraft play a […]
San Bernardino County Proclaims November 1 as ONT Day, Honoring Ontario International Airport’s Decade of Local Control
Photo – Members of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors present ONT CEO Atif Elkadi (center left) and OIAA Commission President Dr. Ronald Loveridge (center, right) with a proclamation declaring November 1 as ONT Day. Ontario International Airport is being honored by lawmakers at the county and state level, commemorating its return to local […]
Oklahoma Breaks Ground on $7.5 Million Dawn Aerospace Facility at Infinity One Spaceport
Oklahoma took another major step toward becoming a national hub for commercial spaceflight Tuesday as the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), and state leaders joined Dawn Aerospace to break ground on a new mission control facility and spaceplane hangar at Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport in Burns Flat. […]

State News

Young Artists Invited to Soar in 2027 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest

The N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation is accepting applicants for the 2027 Aviation Art Contest, an annual competition that encourages North Carolina youth to present their creativity. The competition, hosted on the statewide level by the NCDOT Division of Aviation, follows an aviation theme each year, giving students the chance to engage in flight. This year’s theme is “Forever First in Flight,” highlighting North Carolina’s legacy as innovators in aviation. “This contest has always been a great opportunity to inspire students to be creative and learn something new about aviation,” said NCDOT Division of Aviation Director Nick Short. “We are excited to be hosting a statewide competition for our North Carolina youth.” Since 2013, over 13,000 North Carolina students from over 825 schools have participated in the contest. Any student born between Jan. 1, 2009, and Dec. 31, 2020, is eligible to enter. Junior age category: Date of birth between Jan. 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2020 Intermediate age category: Date of birth between Jan. 1, 2013, and Dec. 31, 2016 Senior age category: Date of birth between Jan. 1, 2009, and Dec. 31, 2012 Winners and their schools are awarded cash prizes by the North Carolina Airports Association. Unlike previous years, this year’s contest will be limited to state-level competition and will not advance to the national or international level. To learn more about eligibility and the submission process visit the NCDOT Aviation Art Contest Page.
Ponca City Breaks Ground on $14.3 Million Regional Airport

State and local leaders joined the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the City of Ponca City to break ground on a new $14.3 million terminal at Ponca City Regional Airport, marking a significant investment in aviation infrastructure and economic development in north-central Oklahoma. The new 14,000-square-foot terminal will provide modern accommodation for pilots, passengers, and airport visitors while enhancing the airport’s ability to serve business and general aviation. Located west of the existing facility, the new terminal will also create space for a new aircraft apron, improving aircraft accessibility and positioning the airport for future growth. Additionally, the beloved Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant will relocate to the new terminal. The $14.3 million project is funded through a partnership that includes $9.4 million from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), $1 million from ODAA, and $3.9 million from the City of Ponca City. The federal investment was made possible through the congressional Community Project Funding (CPF) process, with former U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin playing a key role in securing funding for the airport’s infrastructure improvements. “An airport is often a community’s front door, creating the first impression for businesses, investors, and visitors considering opportunities in the region,” said Grayson Ardies, executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. “This investment is about more than constructing a new terminal. It’s about ensuring Ponca City has the infrastructure to compete for new business, support its aviation community, and create opportunities for future generations. We’re proud to partner with the city and the FAA to bring this project to life.” According to Oklahoma’s 2026 Aerospace and Defense Economic Impact Study, Ponca City Regional Airport supports approximately 237 jobs, generates $10.9 million in annual payroll and $16.4 million in spending, and contributes $27.4 million in total annual economic activity. That represents an increase of more than $17 million in economic impact since 2017, underscoring the airport’s growing importance to the regional economy. “Regional airports are critical economic engines for communities across Oklahoma, and Ponca City is a perfect example,” said Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City. “With the airport’s economic impact nearly tripling since 2017, this investment comes at an important time. By strengthening our aviation infrastructure today, we’re creating opportunities to attract new businesses, support existing industries, and keep north-central Oklahoma competitive for generations to come.” The city-owned airport features a 7,200-foot runway, is home to 53 based aircraft, and averages approximately 140 aircraft operations daily. Its aviation capabilities support local businesses, general aviation, and connectivity to destinations across Oklahoma and beyond. “Ponca City’s airport is an important asset for the businesses and families who call this region home,” said Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City. “A modern terminal and improved aircraft facilities will help us better serve existing aviation activity while opening the door to new opportunities. Investments like this strengthen our local economy and demonstrate that communities across Oklahoma deserve the infrastructure needed to thrive.” For the City of Ponca City, the groundbreaking represents an important milestone in its long-term vision for improving airport facilities and supporting the community’s economic future. “This is an exciting day for Ponca City and a testament to the partnerships that continue to move our community forward,” said Ponca City Mayor Kelsey Wagner. “Our airport is a gateway to our city, and this new terminal will provide a welcoming, modern facility that reflects the pride we have in Ponca City. With the support of our federal and state partners, we’re making an investment that will benefit our residents, businesses, and aviation community for decades to come.” Friday’s ceremony brought together elected officials, aviation stakeholders, and community leaders to celebrate the project. Following remarks from Ponca City Manager Craig Stephenson, Ardies, Coleman, Luttrell, and Wagner, attendees participated in a ceremonial groundbreaking at the future terminal site. The new terminal and associated apron improvements represent another step in Oklahoma’s ongoing efforts to modernize its public-use airports, strengthen regional connectivity, and ensure communities across the state have the infrastructure necessary to support future economic opportunities.

National News

TransMedics Selects Gogo Galileo HDX for Nationwide Organ Transport Fleet

Photo caption: TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to provide reliable, high-performance connectivity across its fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft supporting time-critical organ transport missions. Gogo has announced that TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to equip its growing fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft operating across the United States. The aircraft play a critical role in transporting donor organs for transplantation. During each mission, organs are continuously monitored in flight using TransMedics’ Organ Care System (OCS), making reliable, high-performance and high-speed inflight connectivity an essential part of the company’s operations. The Gogo Galileo HDX is now being installed on all TransMedics’ aircraft and the full fleet is expected to be equipped by 2027. “Every flight we operate carries the potential to save a life, which makes continuous, real-time visibility into each organ’s status during transport mission-critical,” says Andre Costa, VP of Global Logistics at TransMedics. “We are proud to pioneer this initiative. By mid-2027, Gogo Galileo will be operating across our entire fleet, making TransMedics the first and only organ transplant company to achieve this milestone, and we plan to extend this capability to our European fleet in 2028. We selected Gogo Galileo not only for the reliable, high-performance connectivity these critical missions demand, but also for the cybersecurity, system redundancy, and active monitoring that Gogo delivers to its customers.” Powered by Eutelsat OneWeb’s enterprise-grade low Earth orbit (LEO) network, Gogo Galileo delivers global, high-speed, low-latency connectivity for business aviation. The Galileo HDX electronically steered antenna (ESA) provides a compact, lightweight and low-power solution capable of supporting multiple simultaneous applications, including cloud-based monitoring, video communications and operational data exchange. “Business aviation supports far more than executive travel: it enables critical missions that communities rely on every day,” says Chris Moore, Chief Executive Officer for Gogo. “TransMedics is a powerful example of that. When you’re transporting donor organs, connectivity isn’t a convenience; it’s part of the mission. We’re proud that Gogo Galileo will help provide the resilient, high-performance connectivity their flight crews and medical teams depend on to support lifesaving work while giving them peace of mind that their data is secure.” As the TransMedics fleet enters service with Gogo Galileo HDX, the operator will also benefit from Gogo’s comprehensive suite of value-added services, including advanced cybersecurity protections, 24/7/365 multilingual customer support and future-ready technology designed to evolve alongside operational requirements.
New NASAO Chair Embracing Change on State and National Levels

By Kim Stevens – Frank Farmer has seen a lot of change during his more than thirty years in aviation. Perhaps the biggest change for the current Bureau Chief of the Alabama Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Bureau and recently elected Chair for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) has been in technology. Frank Farmer “When I started in aviation, we were developing Airport Layout Plans (ALP) and Airport Master Plans to prepare airports for the transition to GPS approaches. At the time, there was some discussion about Microwave Landing Systems, but GPS ultimately proved to be the more promising technology.” Fast-forward more than 30 years, and the Bureau is now preparing for the next generation of aviation, including advanced air mobility and other emerging aircraft technologies. “It has been interesting to see that evolution,” noted Farmer. The Bureau Chief has also experienced significant changes within Alabama’s aviation program. He started when the agency was still the Alabama Department of Aeronautics before becoming part of the Alabama Department of Transportation as the Aeronautics Bureau. That transition created new opportunities for them, including becoming a Channeling Act state and taking on a greater role in helping manage federal airport improvement funds. “One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you can’t be afraid of change. You have to keep learning and be willing to adapt as the industry evolves,” said Farmer. “Aviation has changed tremendously during my career, and I expect that pace of change will continue.” Farmer said their job is to look ahead, understand those changes, and make sure the airports in Alabama and the Bureau’s programs are ready to meet the future. Farmer believes his experience at the state level has given him a perspective that is very valuable at the national level. “Every state has many of the same challenges, but every state also has its own unique circumstances,” said Farmer. “After more than 30 years working in a state aviation agency, I’ve had the opportunity to experience a broad range of issues.” As the new NASAO Chair, that experience will go a long way in helping him lead the nearly 100-year-old agency through the coming year. “I’ve been involved with NASAO since the 80th NASAO Convention and Tradeshow held in Nashville, Tennessee, back in 2011, so I’ve had the opportunity to see the value that NASAO brings to state aviation agencies for many years,” said Farmer. “I’ve watched a lot of strong leaders serve as chairman during that time, and each of them has left their mark on the organization.” Farmer believes that working his way through the NASAO leadership structure has prepared him well for the chairmanship. “It has allowed me to work closely with other state aviation directors; understand the different challenges they face and learn how to build consensus among people who may not always see an issue the same way.” Looking back, aviation wasn’t something that Farmer had always planned to pursue. “I actually didn’t grow up in a family of aviators. I attended Auburn University and wasn’t particularly happy with the major I had originally chosen. One day, I was looking through the academic catalog and noticed a major called Aviation Management. I thought that sounded interesting, so I changed my major, and I never looked back.” At the time, Farmer had no idea just how fulfilling a career choice he had made. “I certainly couldn’t have imagined that it would lead to more than 30 years working in state aviation, becoming Chief of the Aeronautics Bureau, and now serving as Chairman of NASAO,” added Farmer. “It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with a lot of great people along the way.” Looking back, Farmer believes his experience working directly with Alabama’s airports has been one of the biggest things that prepared him for the position of Bureau Chief. “I started with the Department of Aeronautics as an intern and eventually became an airport inspector. I spent a lot of time visiting airports, conducting inspections and seeing firsthand the condition of Alabama’s airport system,” noted Farmer. Over the years, he has had the opportunity to watch many of the state’s airports grow and develop, but he’s also been through some of the challenges with them. “Alabama has historically had very limited state aviation funding, so we’ve had to be creative and work together to make the most of the resources available to us, said Farmer. “By being closely involved with our airports, I’ve developed a real appreciation for what our airport sponsors deal with every day.” The relationships that Farmer built over the years has been extremely important. “I’ve worked with many of our airport sponsors for decades, so when I became Bureau Chief, I already had a strong level of trust and familiarity with the people I was working with. That made the transition much easier.” Farmer said he was also fortunate for most of his career to have Dr. John Eagerton [retired Bureau Chief] as not only his supervisor but as a mentor. “He gave me opportunities to become involved in different aspects of the program and encouraged me to grow professionally,” said Farmer. “A lot of what I’ve learned over the years came from people who were willing to give me an opportunity and let me learn from the experience.” Looking ahead, Farmer thinks the future for aviation and aerospace in Alabama is very exciting. “Alabama has developed a remarkable aerospace and aviation ecosystem that reaches from Huntsville and north Alabama all the way to Mobile and the Gulf Coast.” Farmer believes that Alabama has the space and defense capabilities in Huntsville, major aerospace manufacturers such as Airbus in Mobile, and a strong network of companies, suppliers, universities and military installations throughout the state. “From the Aeronautics Bureau’s perspective, our job is to make sure the airport system is ready to support that growth. Airports aren’t just transportation facilities—they are economic development assets. Companies looking at Alabama need reliable airports, READ MORE

International News

Tennessee Valley Authority’s Tecnam P2012 SMP Puts an “Eye in the Sky” Over Its Power Grid

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is showing what the Tecnam P2012 Special Mission Platform (SMP) means in day-to-day operations. In a report broadcast on October 14 by WKRN News 2 Nashville, TVA’s aviation and transmission teams described how their P2012 SMP has become the utility’s “eye in the sky” over more than 16,000 miles of transmission lines, making line maintenance faster, cheaper and safer. The aircraft carries a LiDAR laser scanner able to survey more than three acres of land every second, together with four cameras that photograph every mile of TVA’s transmission network. Once the data is collected in flight, TVA’s transmission foresters can pinpoint vegetation threats and send crews to the exact location. Operating economics are at the heart of the program. TVA Aviation Manager Phil Kanagy, who previously flew the same survey missions in helicopters, explained that while helicopters remain extremely useful for getting in and out of tight places, their operating costs are 75% higher than those of the airplane. “We’re able to collect the data much faster than before, much cheaper than before, and at a higher altitude than we were with helicopters,” Kanagy told WKRN. Flying higher also makes the missions much safer for his crew. On the ground, the benefits are just as tangible. TVA surveyor Robert Byrd, whose job has moved from field equipment to GPS and now to airborne LiDAR over the past 20 years, recalled working “forty hours a week, hot or cold, snakes, ticks, chiggers” in the field. According to TVA Transmission Forester Matthew Townsend, work that used to take his team months now takes about 15 to 20 minutes. “Saves us a lot of time, a lot of money, and it saves us from any potential heat stress, snake bites, anything like that that could hurt us out in the field”, Townsend said. TVA’s aerial program, fully implemented in 2025 after five years of research, uses the P2012 SMP for the annual survey of the more than 5,000 miles of transmission lines in its vegetation management cycle. A two-pilot crew covers approximately 450 miles a day, compared with up to five miles for a ground crew, helping keep the lights on for 10 million people. The P2012 SMP was designed for exactly this kind of mission. Its twin Lycoming TEO-540-C1A piston engines, with electronic engine control, are efficient at the low and medium altitudes where survey work is flown, with a fuel consumption of around 31 US gallons per hour. Two ventral hatches and generous onboard electrical power make it straightforward to integrate LiDAR and multi-camera systems, while twin-engine redundancy allows crews to operate safely over forests, mountains and populated areas. “Special mission operators don’t buy flight hours, they buy data, and what matters is how much quality data each dollar delivers,” said Francesco Sferra, Tecnam P2012 – Special Mission Platforms Sales & Business Development Manager. “TVA’s experience says it better than any brochure: the data quality of a helicopter survey, collected faster, from a safer altitude and at a much lower operating cost. The P2012 SMP was conceived as an affordable twin-engine platform with the payload, power and stability to carry LiDAR and camera systems all day long. We are proud to see TVA’s teams turning that capability into real savings for the communities they serve.”
Daher Aircraft Highlights Expanding Role of Kodiak and TBM Aircraft in Wildfire Response

Photo – At Daher Aircraft’s Sandpoint, Idaho facility, the U.S. Forest Service’s new Kodiak 100 Series III airplane underwent a major system integration for its multi-mission duties – From Canada and the Pacific Northwest to Florida in the southeastern United States, Daher Aircraft-built Kodiak and TBM airplanes are on the front lines of wildfire response, providing aerial supervision, coordinating air tanker drops and delivering real-time situational awareness during demanding missions. Government agencies and private operators increasingly rely on the Kodiak 100 and the larger Kodiak 900 version for aerial firefighting support and multi-mission applications. The TBM 960 has entered service as an airborne command-and-control platform, with duties that include monitoring the fire zones, assessing risks, and strategizing the deployment of water/retardant by air tankers. “Our Kodiak and TBM bring complementary strengths to aerial wildfire operations,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, Daher Aircraft’s CEO. “The Kodiak combines ruggedness, excellent handling qualities and multi-mission adaptability; while the TBM delivers the speed, efficiency and versatility needed to cover distances quickly and respond to changing operational demands. Together, they demonstrate the breadth of Daher Aircraft’s capabilities in support of those working to protect communities and natural resources.” Integrating communications for demanding missions The unpressurized Kodiak’s advantages for aerial wildfire operations include long endurance and excellent handling qualities – particularly at low speeds – along with short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance that enables operations from backcountry and semi-prepared airfields. As the Kodiak and TBM fleets expand in wildfire response, Daher Aircraft has strengthened its in-house capabilities for integrating specialized multi-mission systems, enabling the company to respond to increasingly demanding customer requirements. One recent project involved a new-production Kodiak 100 Series III for the U.S. Forest Service. At Daher Aircraft’s Sandpoint, Idaho, facility, the airplane underwent comprehensive systems integration to support the agency’s wildfire management, aerial supervision, forest health and logistics operations. A central element of the integration was Daher Aircraft’s installation of the Canyon AeroConnect digital communications control system, which connects the pilot, copilot and cabin operator console. The configuration enables personnel at all three positions to communicate across multiple radios while retaining the flexibility to operate independently when required. This interoperability supports coordination among airborne crews, ground personnel and other agencies during complex missions. The project required extensive engineering and maintenance support to integrate the communications equipment and other mission systems while meeting the U.S. Forest Service’s operational and contractual requirements. “This integration represented a significant step forward for our team in both complexity and the level of capability delivered,” said Paul Carelli, Senior Director of Multi Missions and Business Development – Americas at Daher Aircraft. “The challenge goes well beyond installing individual pieces of equipment. The systems must work together reliably, the different crew positions must be able to communicate effectively, and the aircraft must meet the customer’s specific mission requirements. The experience on this project strengthens our ability to deliver this level of integration for future customers.” The U.S. Forest Service has operated Kodiak 100s since 2015. Acquiring the latest Kodiak 100 Series III airplane builds on this government agency’s experience – maintaining fleet commonality and established training and maintenance practices. A growing Kodiak customer base in the aerial firefighting sector Kodiaks are deployed by an increasing number of operators involved in aerial wildfire attack and other missions. One of the latest customers is the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), for which Daher Aircraft has completed a communications-focused integration on a new Kodiak 900. This airplane is intended for multiple applications that range from aerial fire attack to personnel transportation and conservation-related activities. Daher Aircraft performed a comprehensive system integration on the U.S. Forest Service’s new Kodiak 100 Series III airplane. The integration includes a Canyon AeroConnect digital audio control system and an expanded radio configuration, together with an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) capability. From the rear operators’ station, the observer can monitor radio communications while observing activity on the ground – supporting the coordination of aerial firefighting resources. The Montana DNRC project demonstrates how Daher Aircraft can tailor an airplane’s systems to different operational requirements. While the U.S. Forest Service’s Kodiak 100 Series III received a broader range of modifications, the Montana DNRC’s Kodiak 900 focused on communications and radio capabilities suited to its intended missions. Also based in the state of Montana is a long-time user of Kodiaks: Bridger Aerospace, which has a fleet of four Kodiak 100s deployed for air attack-related aerial supervision, mapping, detection operations and multi-mission intelligence. In the Pacific Northwest, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources operates two Kodiak 100s for firefighting missions. Across the country in the southeastern United States, the Florida Forest Service has acquired two Kodiak 100s for fire patrol, transportation and Air Tactical Group Supervisor duties. Equipped with advanced multipurpose infrared cameras, these Florida-based aircraft are capable of mapping fires and locating hotspots in support of wildfire response. Another U.S. operator is the North Carolina Forest Service’s Aviation Division, which utilizes a Kodiak 100 as a “load aircraft” to carry equipment and supplies to operational locations in support of aerial tankers in the wildfire suppression role. The TBM 960 as a “birddog” aircraft for the Conair Group Canada’s Conair Group has acquired and converted two new-production TBM 960s as airborne command-and-control platforms that coordinate airtanker drops and provide real-time strategic oversight during aerial firefighting operations. Conair selected the pressurized TBM 960 after evaluating 50 aircraft types, with the two Daher-built aircraft first entering operational service during the 2025 wildfire season in British Columbia. Benefits cited by Conair for the TBM 960 include the speed to keep pace with large air tankers and the visibility needed to maintain a clear view of aircraft operating in crowded airspace. The airplane’s stable handling at slower speeds also enables crews to guide air tankers toward designated drop locations over wildfires.

Unmanned Systems

University of North Dakota Joins Northern Plains UAS Test Site in Signing Agreement to Advance Counter-Drone Technologies

The University of North Dakota and Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site (NPUASTS) were part of a memorandum of understanding signing ceremony on Oct. 14, joining forces with the U.S. Department of War’s Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401). UND President Andrew Armacost (left), U.S. Sen. John Hoeven (center) and Col. Jason Idleman display READ MORE
MassDOT Aeronautics Division Receives 2026 Aerial Achievement Award for Program Excellence

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced that the MassDOT Aeronautics Division has been selected to receive the 2026 Aerial Achievement Award for Program Excellence, recognizing its innovative use of uncrewed aircraft systems to support the management and preservation of public infrastructure. The Aerial Achievement Awards are presented annually by drone manufacturer Skydio, Inc. to READ MORE

Aviation Education

Young Artists Invited to Soar in 2027 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest

The N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation is accepting applicants for the 2027 Aviation Art Contest, an annual competition that encourages North Carolina youth to present their creativity. The competition, hosted on the statewide level by the NCDOT Division of Aviation, follows an aviation theme each year, giving students the chance to engage in READ MORE
Texas State University Partners with Faithful Guardian Aviation to Expand Flight Training Opportunities

Texas State University (TXST) has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Faithful Guardian Aviation to expand its bachelor of applied arts and sciences (B.A.A.S.) degree in Aviation Science with a focus on fixed-wing aircraft. Through this agreement, TXST students enrolled in the Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies (OWLS) aviation curriculum will receive READ MORE

Tennessee Valley Authority’s Tecnam P2012 SMP Puts an “Eye in the Sky” Over Its Power Grid

November 2, 2026November 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is showing what the Tecnam P2012 Special Mission Platform (SMP) means in day-to-day operations. In a report broadcast on October 14 by WKRN News 2 Nashville, TVA’s aviation and transmission teams described how their P2012 SMP has become the utility’s “eye in the sky” over more than 16,000 miles of […]

Young Artists Invited to Soar in 2027 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest

November 2, 2026November 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

The N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation is accepting applicants for the 2027 Aviation Art Contest, an annual competition that encourages North Carolina youth to present their creativity. The competition, hosted on the statewide level by the NCDOT Division of Aviation, follows an aviation theme each year, giving students the chance to engage in […]

Daher Aircraft Highlights Expanding Role of Kodiak and TBM Aircraft in Wildfire Response

November 2, 2026November 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – At Daher Aircraft’s Sandpoint, Idaho facility, the U.S. Forest Service’s new Kodiak 100 Series III airplane underwent a major system integration for its multi-mission duties – From Canada and the Pacific Northwest to Florida in the southeastern United States, Daher Aircraft-built Kodiak and TBM airplanes are on the front lines of wildfire response, […]

IAWA Names Vanessa Blacknall-Jamison Its 2026 Woman of Excellence

November 2, 2026November 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

The International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA) has named Vanessa Blacknall-Jamison the recipient of its 2026 Woman of Excellence Award, recognizing her leadership, mentorship and contributions to advancing women in aviation and aerospace. Blacknall-Jamison will receive the award during the Gala Dinner on November 4 at IAWA’s Annual Conference in Philadelphia. Presented annually, the award honors […]

Ponca City Breaks Ground on $14.3 Million Regional Airport

November 2, 2026November 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

State and local leaders joined the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the City of Ponca City to break ground on a new $14.3 million terminal at Ponca City Regional Airport, marking a significant investment in aviation infrastructure and economic development in north-central Oklahoma. The new 14,000-square-foot terminal will provide modern accommodation for […]

Team Kentucky Cuts Ribbon on Expanded Terminal at Addington Field Regional Airport

November 1, 2026November 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

State transportation officials joined local elected officials and airport leaders to cut the ribbon on a terminal building expansion at the Elizabethtown Addington Field Regional Airport. The $2.65 million project was supported by a $2 million Team Kentucky investment to help expand and upgrade the airport, boost economic development and improve the experience for recreational […]

Texas State University Partners with Faithful Guardian Aviation to Expand Flight Training Opportunities

October 29, 2026October 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Texas State University (TXST) has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Faithful Guardian Aviation to expand its bachelor of applied arts and sciences (B.A.A.S.) degree in Aviation Science with a focus on fixed-wing aircraft. Through this agreement, TXST students enrolled in the Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies (OWLS) aviation curriculum will receive […]

Marshall to Receive Multi-Million-Dollar Grant to Advance Aerospace Development in Mountain State

October 29, 2026October 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Marshall University and partners are set to receive $3 million from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) that will support the Aerospace, Resilience, Manufacturing and Operations for Readiness (ARMOR) coalition focused on aerospace manufacturing workforce development in West Virginia. This award will establish a national hub for aerospace and defense innovation through airport renovations, equipment investments […]

TransMedics Selects Gogo Galileo HDX for Nationwide Organ Transport Fleet

October 27, 2026October 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo caption: TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to provide reliable, high-performance connectivity across its fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft supporting time-critical organ transport missions. Gogo has announced that TransMedics has selected Gogo Galileo to equip its growing fleet of 22 Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft operating across the United States. The aircraft play a […]

New NASAO Chair Embracing Change on State and National Levels

October 27, 2026October 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Kim Stevens – Frank Farmer has seen a lot of change during his more than thirty years in aviation. Perhaps the biggest change for the current Bureau Chief of the Alabama Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Bureau and recently elected Chair for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) has been in technology. “When […]

Ponca City Breaks Ground on $14.3 Million Regional Airport

TransMedics Selects Gogo Galileo HDX for Nationwide Organ Transport Fleet

San Bernardino County Proclaims November 1 as ONT Day, Honoring Ontario International Airport’s Decade of Local Control

Oklahoma Breaks Ground on $7.5 Million Dawn Aerospace Facility at Infinity One Spaceport