State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia
Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most […]
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 […]

State News

NASAO Concludes Successful 95th Annual Convention, Announces Newly Elected Board of Directors

NASAO News Release The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) concluded its 2026 Annual Convention and Trade Show in Grand Forks, North Dakota held Sept. 13 -16, 2026, drawing more than 340 attendees and representatives from 37 states, NASAO leadership called the event a resounding success. 2026 State Director Class Photo (Courtesy of Shahn Sederberg) “NASAO’s 95th annual meeting once again brought the nation’s state aviation leaders together to discuss critical policy issues as well as access information on new developments in airport infrastructure, workforce development, and emerging aeronautical technologies,” said Greg Pecoraro, the association’s president and CEO. “It also brought state officials together with their partners at the FAA to exchange ideas on solving common problems and identifying opportunities to improve processes and information sharing vital to the maintenance and improvement of America’s airports.” “It was a tremendous honor for North Dakota to host the 95th NASAO Annual Convention and Trade Show in Grand Forks,” said Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “The theme ‘50 States, One Sky’ captured the spirit of the convention—state aviation leaders coming together to share ideas, confront common challenges, and help shape the future of our national aviation system. We were proud to showcase North Dakota’s aviation and UAS ecosystem and the remarkable partnerships that continue to move our industry forward. I am deeply grateful to our Aeronautics Commission staff, our local partners, and the NASAO team whose dedication and collaboration made this convention such a success.” The three-and-a-half day event featured trade show floor demonstrations and exhibits, keynote addresses from leadership coach Stephanie Goetz and BETA Technologies Head of Sales & Support Simon Newitt, as well as panel sessions, and networking opportunities. 2026-2027 BOARD OF DIRECTORS NASAO state members also elected the 2026-2027 NASAO Board of Directors. Frank Farmer, Bureau Chief for aeronautics at the Alabama Department of Transportation, began his tenure as NASAO Board Chair on Sept. 15. The NASAO Board of Directors is comprised of NASAO’s Executive Committee and Regional Directors. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Frank Farmer, Alabama Department of Transportation – Chair Bryan Budds, Michigan Department of Transportation – Vice Chair Colette W. Edmisten, A.A.E., Georgia Department of Transportation – Treasurer Kenji Sugahara, Oregon Department of Aviation – Secretary Clayton Stambaugh, Illinois Department of Transportation – Immediate Past Chair REGIONAL DIRECTORS Jeremy Borrell, Nebraska Department of Transportation – Central Region Greg Campbell, Virginia Department of Aviation – Eastern Region Ryan Gaug, AICP, Minnesota Department of Transportation – Great Lakes Region Denise Garcia, Massachusetts Department of Transportation – New England Region Shawn Burke, Wyoming Department of Transportation – Northwest Mountain Region John Paul Saalwaechter, P.E., Tennessee Department of Transportation – Southern Region Jessi Litz-Rowden, New Mexico Department of Transportation – Southwest Region Tarek Tabshouri, California Department of Transportation – Western-Pacific Region FUTURE CONVENTIONS The 2027 NASAO Annual Convention and Trade Show will be held Sept. 26-29 in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by Seattle, Washington in 2028.
Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s reputation as a national leader in aerospace maintenance and repair. The authorization allows Mint Turbines to perform Pratt & Whitney Canada-approved overhaul services for PT6A and PT6T series engines, which power business aircraft, agricultural aircraft, utility helicopters, air ambulances and other aircraft. Mint Turbines must meet the manufacturer’s rigorous standards for quality systems, technical capabilities and regulatory compliance. For operators, the designation provides access to OEM-authorized overhaul services combined with Mint Turbines’ responsive decision-making, 24/7 customer support and field service expertise. “This authorization represents years of investment in our people, our quality systems and our commitment to doing things the right way,” said Rob Ruck, chief operating officer of M International, the parent company of Mint Turbines. “We believe customers shouldn’t have to choose between responsive service and OEM-certified quality. Becoming a Pratt & Whitney Canada DOF reflects the trust we’ve earned through decades of supporting operators and reinforces the standard our team brings to every engine that comes through our facility.” As one of the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada supports operators through a global network of company-owned and designated service facilities. DOFs are selected for their demonstrated ability to deliver OEM-approved maintenance while meeting the company’s standards for quality, technical expertise and customer service. For Oklahoma, the designation represents more than a milestone for one company. Aerospace is one of the state’s largest economic drivers, and Oklahoma has earned national recognition for its concentration of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul expertise. Mint Turbines’ latest authorization further showcases the technical capabilities found in Oklahoma companies and reinforces the state’s growing role in supporting commercial, government and defense aviation around the world. This designation joins Mint Turbines’ growing portfolio of OEM authorizations, including General Electric, Ozark Aeroworks and Rolls-Royce through sister company Airborne Engines in Canada. Together, these relationships position the company among a select group of independent MRO providers trusted by multiple leading engine manufacturers. For more than 45 years, Mint Turbines has grown its Stroud operation into a globally recognized turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul provider serving commercial, government and defense operators.

National News

GAMA Applauds Committee on Passage of Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act

The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed this week the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act (H.R. 7553). The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) applauds the committee on passage of the bill, which has the potential to support innovation in aviation and the development of new and novel technologies by improving the accountability and transparency of the FAA’s type certification process. “The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act provides refinements to the FAA type certification process that can assist in bringing innovative technologies and new products more effectively into the global marketplace. If implemented broadly for advanced air mobility as well as for other manufacturers who are innovating and developing safer and more efficient products, the legislation would begin to facilitate a future state of certification that will improve safety oversight and enhance aviation manufacturing leadership,” said James Viola, GAMA President and CEO. The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act would improve accountability and transparency by requiring FAA to publish expected time ranges for various certification activities; enhance the efficiency of the issue paper process for certification applicants and the FAA; and increase the transparency of the rules of the road for delegation activities. “GAMA is grateful for the committee’s work to advance the bill as well as the leadership of Representatives Nehls, Carson, Obernolte, Panetta and others to champion this important legislation. With the Senate Commerce Committee favorably reporting its version of the bill earlier this year, we look forward to further progress on the measure,” Viola added. On June 23, Viola testified before the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation and stressed the need to modernize FAA certification processes to keep pace with innovation and safety technologies. Viola’s testimony can be found HERE.
Turning Economic Impact Data into a Case for General Aviation

Submitted by Devin Osting Across the country, general aviation airports connect communities to jobs, businesses, health care, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, and the broader transportation system. Demonstrating that value to decision-makers and the public requires credible data showing the economic contribution these facilities make and real-world examples showing what those numbers mean for communities. That is the idea behind the newly updated Impact of General Aviation on State and Local Economies developed by the Alliance for Aviation Across America in partnership with the National Association of State Aviation Officials and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. The publication brings together economic-impact data from all 50 states, drawing heavily on studies conducted by state departments of transportation and aviation agencies. It provides a national resource for understanding the jobs, economic activity, infrastructure, and public benefits supported by general aviation while highlighting how those impacts vary across states and communities. The Alliance’s website also includes a more dynamic tool that allows users to explore economic impacts at the local level, including within 25, 50, and 100 miles of a ZIP code and across congressional and state legislative districts, where localized data is available. Together, the publication and online tool are intended to make it easier to connect statewide economic-impact data with the communities, businesses, public services, and elected officials most directly affected by local airports. For the Alliance, this information is also an essential advocacy tool. For nearly 20 years, our work has focused on building a broader understanding of the importance of general aviation by bringing together a diverse coalition of not only aviation organizations, but also local elected officials, small businesses, agricultural groups, first responders, health care providers, community organizations, state and local transportation officials, and others who see firsthand how their local airports support their communities. An important part of that work is identifying compelling examples from around the country, building relationships with the people behind them, and helping bring those stories to policymakers and wider public audiences. That approach is important because many of the strongest advocates for general aviation do not work in aviation at all. They are mayors who know that a local airport helps employers remain competitive. They are farmers and agricultural organizations that depend on aviation for crop protection. They are doctors, patients, emergency responders, and charitable organizations that rely on aircraft to connect people with specialized medical care. They are local economic-development officials trying to attract investment, manufacturers reaching customers across the country, and community leaders who understand the importance of maintaining transportation connections in rural and geographically isolated areas. These voices can often communicate the value of general aviation in ways that resonate far beyond the aviation community. When policymakers hear from a local business owner about why an airport matters to a manufacturing facility, or from a mayor about its importance to economic development and emergency response, the discussion becomes less about aviation as a specialized industry and more about infrastructure that supports the broader community. Economic data gives those advocates a strong quantitative foundation. State studies can demonstrate how many jobs an airport supports, the economic activity it generates, and the broader contribution of aviation to a state or regional economy. But numbers alone rarely tell the entire story. That is why the Alliance pairs those findings with qualitative examples of how aviation infrastructure is used every day. A regional airport may support local manufacturers that need reliable access to customers and suppliers. It may serve as a base for air ambulance flights, firefighting, law enforcement, agricultural operations, disaster response, or charitable medical transportation. Increasingly, airports are also becoming platforms for emerging technologies, new aircraft, alternative fuels, and other innovations that could create new economic opportunities for communities. This combination is particularly important when communicating with people who have little direct exposure to general aviation. For many Americans, aviation primarily means airline service at major commercial airports. They may never have visited their local general aviation airport or seen the medical flight arriving late at night, the aircraft supporting a local employer, the aerial applicator serving nearby farms, or the emergency crews using the airport during a natural disaster. One of the Alliance’s central goals is to make those connections visible. That means taking information that can sometimes seem technical or industry-specific and showing how it relates to issues people already care about: jobs, health care, public safety, agriculture, transportation access, economic opportunity, and the resilience of their communities. It also means helping local stakeholders tell their own stories and ensuring that policymakers hear from the people and organizations whose work depends on aviation, even when aviation is not their primary business. Bringing these pieces together—credible quantitative analysis, concrete examples of community impact, and trusted local voices—helps turn economic-impact research into a compelling public case for aviation investment. The new publication is intended to make that case easier to tell. By combining state-level data with examples of how general aviation serves communities across the country, it helps advocates and local leaders demonstrate both the scale of general aviation’s economic contribution and why it matters to people who may never think of themselves as part of the aviation community. If your airport, business, school, nonprofit, public agency, or community is using general aviation in an innovative or particularly meaningful way, we would welcome the opportunity to learn more and help bring those stories to a broader audience. Devin Osting is the executive director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America.

International News

Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s reputation as a national leader in aerospace maintenance and repair. The authorization allows Mint Turbines to perform Pratt & Whitney Canada-approved overhaul services for PT6A and PT6T series engines, which power business aircraft, agricultural aircraft, utility helicopters, air ambulances and other aircraft. Mint Turbines must meet the manufacturer’s rigorous standards for quality systems, technical capabilities and regulatory compliance. For operators, the designation provides access to OEM-authorized overhaul services combined with Mint Turbines’ responsive decision-making, 24/7 customer support and field service expertise. “This authorization represents years of investment in our people, our quality systems and our commitment to doing things the right way,” said Rob Ruck, chief operating officer of M International, the parent company of Mint Turbines. “We believe customers shouldn’t have to choose between responsive service and OEM-certified quality. Becoming a Pratt & Whitney Canada DOF reflects the trust we’ve earned through decades of supporting operators and reinforces the standard our team brings to every engine that comes through our facility.” As one of the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada supports operators through a global network of company-owned and designated service facilities. DOFs are selected for their demonstrated ability to deliver OEM-approved maintenance while meeting the company’s standards for quality, technical expertise and customer service. For Oklahoma, the designation represents more than a milestone for one company. Aerospace is one of the state’s largest economic drivers, and Oklahoma has earned national recognition for its concentration of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul expertise. Mint Turbines’ latest authorization further showcases the technical capabilities found in Oklahoma companies and reinforces the state’s growing role in supporting commercial, government and defense aviation around the world. This designation joins Mint Turbines’ growing portfolio of OEM authorizations, including General Electric, Ozark Aeroworks and Rolls-Royce through sister company Airborne Engines in Canada. Together, these relationships position the company among a select group of independent MRO providers trusted by multiple leading engine manufacturers. For more than 45 years, Mint Turbines has grown its Stroud operation into a globally recognized turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul provider serving commercial, government and defense operators.
Eternity Technologies Completes Major GSE Charging Infrastructure Project Across 41 Airports in Spain

Eternity Technologies has successfully completed the acceptance and certification of a major charging infrastructure project for AENA, supporting the electrification of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations across 41 airports in Spain. The project involved the supply, installation, commissioning and subsequent certification of an extensive charging infrastructure designed to support the operational requirements of ground handling equipment across the AENA airport network. Delivered across multiple airport locations and ground handling operations, the project encompasses: 41 airports 58 ground handling operators 2,080 GSE vehicles managed 1,106 DC chargers 451 dual charging stations 66 single charging stations 136 DC charger replacements The scale of the deployment demonstrates Eternity Technologies’ capability to deliver complex, multi-site charging infrastructure across demanding airport environments. Alongside the physical charging infrastructure, the project incorporates a web-based charging control and reporting platform, providing greater visibility and management of charging operations. The platform enables GSE identification and charging control, energy consumption monitoring, management of operators and users, charging session reporting and integration of data with SAP ERP. As of August 2026, the platform has managed more than 6 GWh of energy across the charging network. Installation and commissioning took place between September 2023 and March 2024, requiring extensive coordination across multiple airports, customers and operational teams. Final acceptance and certification was completed in July 2026, marking the conclusion of a project spanning almost three years from its initial stages through to final approval. Mark Stevenson, CEO of Eternity Technologies, said: “The successful completion of this project demonstrates the scale and complexity of the solutions Eternity Technologies is capable of delivering. “Supporting charging infrastructure across 41 airports and more than 2,000 GSE vehicles required significant coordination, technical expertise and collaboration across our teams. “As airports and ground handling operators continue their transition towards electrified fleets, reliable charging infrastructure and effective energy management will become increasingly important. We are proud to have supported AENA with a solution designed around the demands of real-world GSE operations.” The completion of the AENA project comes ahead of Eternity Technologies’ participation at GSE Expo Europe 2026, taking place from 15–17 September at FIL, Lisbon, Portugal. The exhibition brings together GSE manufacturers, suppliers, airports, airlines and ground handling professionals from around the world. Eternity Technologies will showcase its energy and charging solutions for Ground Support Equipment and discuss how its technologies can support the transition towards more efficient and electrified ground operations. The event will take place between 15–17 September 2026. It is being held at FIL – Feira Internacional de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal. Eternity Technologies can be found located at Stand F00. Visitors attending the exhibition are invited to meet the Eternity Technologies team to discuss GSE battery, charging and energy solutions. For more information about the event, visit GSE Expo Europe 2026.

Unmanned Systems

Commercial Drone Alliance Welcomes Christopher Todd, Founder and President of Airborne Response to Its Board of Directors

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has announced that Christopher Todd, Founder and President of Airborne Response Corp has joined its Board of Directors. The CDA’s Board acts on behalf of the entire membership, helping to shape the organization’s strategic direction. Christopher Todd Todd has over 30 years of business technology experience advising Fortune 500 companies, READ MORE
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

Aviation Education

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most READ MORE
Spartan Flight Academy Offers Students New Financing Path Through Sallie Mae

Spartan Flight Academy (SFA), a full-service FBO and Part 141 flight school in Grand Prairie, Texas, announced that prospective and current students now have access to private student loan financing through Sallie Mae to help fund their pilot training. Sallie Mae’s aviation and professional pilot training financing is designed to help students cover the costs READ MORE

GAMA Applauds Committee on Passage of Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act

September 17, 2026September 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed this week the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act (H.R. 7553). The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) applauds the committee on passage of the bill, which has the potential to support innovation in aviation and the development of new and novel technologies by improving the accountability and […]

Turning Economic Impact Data into a Case for General Aviation

September 17, 2026September 17, 2026 saj_admin

Submitted by Devin Osting Across the country, general aviation airports connect communities to jobs, businesses, health care, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, and the broader transportation system. Demonstrating that value to decision-makers and the public requires credible data showing the economic contribution these facilities make and real-world examples showing what those numbers mean for communities. That […]

NASAO Concludes Successful 95th Annual Convention, Announces Newly Elected Board of Directors

September 16, 2026September 16, 2026 saj_admin

NASAO News Release The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) concluded its 2026 Annual Convention and Trade Show in Grand Forks, North Dakota held Sept. 13 -16, 2026, drawing more than 340 attendees and representatives from 37 states, NASAO leadership called the event a resounding success. “NASAO’s 95th annual meeting once again brought the […]

Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s […]

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most […]

Intermountain Health Flight & Ambulance Services Opens New Base at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Intermountain Health caregivers can now respond more quickly when patients need urgent care thanks to the opening of a new Intermountain Flight & Ambulance Services base at Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital. The new base brings crews, equipment, maintenance and support spaces together just steps from the hospital’s helipad and Emergency Department. With quicker […]

Spartan Flight Academy Offers Students New Financing Path Through Sallie Mae

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Spartan Flight Academy (SFA), a full-service FBO and Part 141 flight school in Grand Prairie, Texas, announced that prospective and current students now have access to private student loan financing through Sallie Mae to help fund their pilot training. Sallie Mae’s aviation and professional pilot training financing is designed to help students cover the costs […]

Eternity Technologies Completes Major GSE Charging Infrastructure Project Across 41 Airports in Spain

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Eternity Technologies has successfully completed the acceptance and certification of a major charging infrastructure project for AENA, supporting the electrification of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations across 41 airports in Spain. The project involved the supply, installation, commissioning and subsequent certification of an extensive charging infrastructure designed to support the operational requirements of ground handling […]

Cape Air Selects Cessna Grand Caravan EX to Support Montana Network

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Cessna Grand Caravan EX single-engine turboprop has been selected by Cape Air for a fleet order of eight aircraft to support the airline’s regional passenger operations, further strengthening its ability to connect the communities it serves. Cape Air plans to introduce the Cessna Grand Caravan EX turboprops into its Montana network beginning in 2027, […]

Contour Airlines Announces New Seasonal Nonstop Service from Cape Girardeau to Orlando/Sanford, FL

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Contour Airlines has announced the launch of new seasonal nonstop service between Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Beginning December 16, the new service will connect travelers throughout Southeast Missouri and the surrounding region directly to Central Florida, offering convenient access to Orlando and the area’s many popular attractions. Flights […]

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

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

Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet

Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace