State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership
Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]
Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI
Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, […]
Belgian Aero Club U.E.S. Expands Fleet With 14th Tecnam Aircraft
Tecnam announced that the Belgian ultralight flight school U.E.S., operating as “FLY4FUN” at Avernas-le-Bauduin (EBAV), has confirmed the order of a new Tecnam P92 MkII. Scheduled for delivery in spring 2027, this highly anticipated addition will mark the fourteenth Tecnam aircraft to join the school’s fleet over its history. Founded in 2000 as a small […]
Universidad de San Martin de Porres Elevates Aeronautical Training in Peru with Acquisition of Two New Tecnam Aircraft
Tecnam has announced a new strategic partnership with the Universidad de San Martin de Porres (USMP) in Peru, a leading institution in higher education in the region. The university has officially welcomed its first two (2) Tecnam P2008JC MkII aircraft, destined to transform the training experience for its future pilots. Currently, the Aeronautical Sciences program […]

State News

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed by the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) in partnership with Marshall University. Sparked by a need for skilled workers in careers ranging from technicians to air traffic controllers, the program is headed to schools across the state this fall. State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt and Marshall University President Brad Smith signed a ceremonial memorandum of understanding Thursday at Marshall’s Bill Noe Flight School in Charleston to announce the partnership. AIRWV is an industry-aligned program that introduces students in Grades K-12 to the aviation industry. Through a specially designed curriculum, students may participate in engaging experiences as they connect with unique learning opportunities at all grade levels. Upon graduation, students may enter the aviation workforce or continue their journey through post-secondary education. The WVDE developed the program after aviation representatives expressed interest in introducing students to this viable career option. Working closely with industry and higher education partners, the WVDE developed AIRWV as a coordinated system that connects students to real careers and positions in the state. The pathway will offer specializations including pilot, maintenance/technician, airport operations (including air traffic control), and aerospace engineering. Recent national and federal reports have outlined the need to boost specializations in the aviation industry. Due to a national shortage of 17,000 technicians/mechanics in North America – a shortfall that is projected to peak in 2028 at approximately 30,000 – aggressive efforts are underway across the country to meet this demand. Even though advances in technology offer some relief, the Federal Aviation Administration reports a target of more than 12,000 air traffic controllers needed to properly support the airline industry. “This is another example of how public education works with higher education and industry partners to respond to the ever-changing needs of our workforce,” Blatt said. “This vertically aligned system builds on knowledge, skills and experiences from elementary to middle and on to high school. At the end of their journey, students will be prepared for any number of careers that are the foundation of the aviation and aerospace industry.” Smith said the program is about opening doors, expanding opportunities and helping young people across West Virginia imagine possibilities they once considered out of reach. “This program creates pathways that lead to future pilots, maintenance technicians, airport operations leaders, aerospace engineers, or careers and innovations we cannot even envision today,” Smith said. “West Virginia has always produced extraordinary people, and we have a proud heritage in aviation. Today’s announcement represents the next chapter in our aviation journey as we build an even stronger future for West Virginia.” Educators and instructors will begin their training this summer, with the five pilot counties prepared to roll out the new offering this fall. These counties are Barbour, Clay, Jackson, Kanawha and Logan. More information on Marshall’s aviation programs may be found here. Specific information on the new WVDE pathway program is available here.
ONT 5K at the Runway Raises Nearly $83,000 for Local USO in Support of Military Servicemembers

Ontario International Airport’s annual 5K at the Runway continues to gain momentum as one of the Inland Empire’s most unique community events, raising nearly $83,000 this year in support of the USO at ONT and military servicemembers traveling through Southern California. The Ontario International Airport Authority presented a check for $82,918.99 to representatives of the USO at ONT, reflecting net proceeds from the fourth annual 5K at the Runway. From left: OIAA CEO Atif Elkadi, OIAA Board Vice President Curt Hagman, OIAA Board Member Julia Gouw, USO Operations Manager Brandi Elias, OIAA Board President Alan D. Wapner and OIAA Board member Jim Bowman. Officials with the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) on Thursday presented a check for $82,918.99 to representatives of the USO, reflecting net proceeds from the fourth annual race held earlier this year. More than 2,000 runners, walkers, sponsors and supporters participated in the event, which has quickly become a signature fundraiser for the airport and the region. “The success of this event reflects the tremendous appreciation our community has for the men and women who serve our country,” said Alan D. Wapner, President of the OIAA Board of Commissioners and member of the USO California Advisory Board. “We are proud that this race not only brings people together in a memorable setting but also helps support the USO’s important mission of caring for servicemembers and their families.” Held February 14, the 5K once again gave participants the rare opportunity to run through the National Guard hangar area adjacent to ONT’s runways, combining aviation, fitness and patriotism into a one-of-a-kind experience. This year’s fundraising total represented a 54% increase over 2024. “The enthusiasm surrounding this event grows every year,” said OIAA Vice President Curt Hagman. “That’s because people understand what the USO means to military families and how important its presence is here at Ontario International Airport. We’re grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s race such a tremendous success.” Staffed by volunteers, the USO at ONT serves military travelers from installations throughout the region, including Fort Irwin, Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow and March Air Reserve Base. Open every day of the year, the facility provides a welcoming place for service members and their families to rest, recharge and connect while traveling. The center opened in 2006.

National News

Connico Welcomes Three New Hires to Support Continued National Growth

Connico has announced the additions of Spencer Grassi as scheduling project specialist, Melanie Moorhouse as analyst 1 and Gaurang Bhimani as analyst 2. Their expertise enhances Connico’s ability to provide detailed cost insights, support project schedules and strengthen field coordination, helping clients navigate complex project decisions with enhanced data and insight. “We’re building a team that can think deeper, move faster, and provide sharper insight for our clients,” said Sri Kumar, Connico president and CEO. “Spencer, Melanie, and Gaurang each bring practical expertise that strengthens how we show up in the field and at the table. This is exactly the kind of talent that helps Connico deliver innovative solutions.” Spencer Grassi, scheduling project specialist Grassi comes to Connico with nine years of construction industry expertise. He possesses a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Eastern Michigan University and is a certified project management professional from the Project Management Institute. In his role, Spencer will support the firm’s aviation and infrastructure scheduling services, ensuring deliverables remain efficient and aligned with client goals. Melanie Moorhouse, analyst 1 Moorhouse previously joined Connico as an intern while earning her bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from the University of Cincinnati. In her new role supporting cost estimating, Melanie develops data-driven cost projections for infrastructure and field services projects, helping clients make informed decisions, manage risk, and maintain budget alignment from planning through execution. Gaurang Bhimani, analyst 2 Bhimani joins Connico with five years of construction industry experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in construction management. In his role, Gaurang contributes to developing data-driven solutions and collaborates across Connico’s team to support successful project outcomes.
NBAA Welcomes New Website to Track ATC Modernization Progress

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) expressed its support for a new online dashboard developed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide updates on the status of modernization of the country’s air traffic control (ATC) network. The new Modern Skies dashboard provides information about ATC modernization projects already underway and updates at more than 4,600 FAA sites across the country, accompanied by a map overlay detailing specific efforts. Users can also enter their zip code for more information about ATC upgrades and their benefits in their communities. “We are pleased to see the administration continuing to make progress on the most significant transformation of our National Airspace System (NAS) since the dawn of the jet age,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “This project is a national imperative, and the new, user-friendly dashboard is a helpful tool to monitor and measure the work being done to enhance the safety and efficiency of the NAS for all stakeholders and ensure that America remains the world’s aviation leader for decades to come.” View the Modern Skies dashboard. ATC modernization programs now underway include replacing legacy copper telecommunications lines and equipment with fiber-optics and wireless infrastructure; replacement of legacy radios and control equipment across 1,581 ATC facilities with modern digital communications systems; automation upgrades to streamline surface and terminal operations; improvement or replacement of facilities; and a sharp focus on rebuilding the controller workforce. NBAA is an executive member of the Modern Skies Coalition, a powerful group of more than 60 aviation associations dedicated to building a brand-new air traffic control system with the support of an initial $12.5 billion investment approved by Congress last year as a downpayment on ATC modernization. While the new Modern Skies dashboard is separate from the coalition, Bolen noted its significance in furthering understanding and transparency of what is ultimately expected to be a $35 billion project. The nation’s ATC system serves approximately 45,000 flights and 2.9 million passengers every day.

International News

GAMA Releases First Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the first quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report last week. The results for the first three months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased shipments in the piston airplane and business jet sectors and an increase in the overall value of aircraft shipments. Cirrus Aircraft Aircraft shipments through the first quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston airplanes increase 6.4% with 381 units, turboprops decrease 3.1% with 124 units, and business jets increase 14.9% with 162 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the first quarter of 2026 was $6.1 billion, an increase of 19.1%. Helicopter shipments through the first quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston helicopters decrease by seven units to 47, and turbine helicopters decrease by 9.0% with 121 units. The value of civil-commercial helicopter deliveries was $789 million. Three Month Aircraft Shipment & Billing Aircraft Type20252026% ChangePiston Airplanes358381+6.4%Turboprops128124-3.1%Business Jets141162+14.9Total Airplanes627667+6.4%Total Airplane Billings$5.1B$6.1B+19.1%Piston Helicopters5447-13.0%Turbine Helicopters133121-9.0%Total Helicopters187168-10.2%Total Helicopter Billings$769M$789M+2.5% GAMA’s complete 2026 first quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI

Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, NASAO, NAA and currently finishing up his second year as president of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale World Air Sports Federation. Greg Principato “When I was at NAA the legendary flight instructor and pioneer John King used to tell me I get to hang around with “unusual people” meaning people who have done unusual, unique, and great things,” said Principato. “I never take that for granted.” Notably, Principato was the first American elected President to the FAI board since Clifton F. von Kann – 1988-1990. And, before that Jacqueline Cochran – 1958-60. “When I learned that I would be in the same sentence as Jackie Cochrane I was honored and more than humbled,” said Principato. “There is no world where that should be possible.” Principato, left, with ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, 2025. The FAI President is elected by a vote of the global membership at the General Conference. At the time, Principato’s name was suggested by the Swedish representative. “I had put forward a pretty aggressive reform agenda and got 84% of the vote, which was nice,” said Principato. His two-year term ends in October. Outside the air sports world, FAI is very little known. Until Greg began working at NAA in 2016, he’d never heard of them, even though FAI is the oldest global aviation organization, having been founded in 1905. “I think most people assume world records are certified and acknowledged by the Guiness people, but in reality, FAI is the record certifying body,” noted Principato. Rigorous procedures and rules are in place that ensure all records are certified with integrity. “I also don’t think most people know that FAI is recognized as the global air sports federation by the International Olympic Committee,” continued Principato. “FAI is to air sports what FIFA is to soccer, for example. You may also not know that the Karman line, which for generations has defined the boundaries of space, was established by the FAI.” Greg with Amy Spowart, CEO of FAI’s US member, National Aeronautic Association, at the site of a world record parachute jump attempt, Ottawa Illinois August, 2025. In preparation for his role at FAI, Principato had already spoken with a majority of the members, so he had a good sense of what was on their minds, and to date there have been few surprises. NAA is the U.S. member of FAI, so Principato was well familiar with the workings of the organization. “FAI is viewed differently in many countries. In some, the national organization is part of that country’s Olympic Committee and may have a very close association with a ministry of sports. That is not the case here,” said Principato. “Some national organizations tightly control air sports in their countries; others delegate much of this authority to airsport organizations as is the case in the United States. So, that poses a challenge, though it is one I was well prepared for having been so involved in the global airport community as a part of Airports Council International earlier in my career and, of course, NAA’s involvement in FAI when I was CEO there.” Principato said in terms of tensions, political or otherwise, that tends to be kept to a minimum, though it occasionally creeps in. “Russia and Belarus, for example, were suspended after the Invasion of Ukraine in 2022.” Reflecting on his time at FAI, Principato said he is always amazed at how many people he has met who are involved in the aviation industry – from bag slingers to astronauts – who got started with air sports. Whether flying their own models or perhaps being inspired by someone at an air show like Oshkosh, Principato believes you are never too young, or too old, to be inspired by, or to inspire someone, through air sports. “Air sports are a gateway to aviation careers, and I am always especially impressed with those who want to share their career path with youngsters.” The FAI Executive Board (Timo Hyvonen, Finland; Agust Gudmundsson, Iceland; Gillian Rayner Deputy President, France; Greg Principato; Marina Vigorito, Italy; Mary Anne Stevens, Canada; Igor Erzen, Slovenia; Markus Haggeney, FAI Secretary General. Several months ago, Greg had a chance to meet Bertrand Picard, who flew the Solar Impulse around the world, powered by solar power. He talked to him at a bookstore, where he was talking about a book he had written for children. “He was inspiring to listen to and also struck by the fact that he was inspired by the fact that he could inspire others.” Although Principato’s term expires later in this year, he is eligible to run again. “There are a lot of changes we are bringing forth into FAI. Our members have asked for many of these things for a long time, and we are now acting on them. We will see what happens.”

Unmanned Systems

Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale

As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end READ MORE
Vantis Expands BVLOS Capabilities as Frontier Precision Joins as New Champion Operator

Vantis, North Dakota’s beyond‑visual‑line‑of‑sight (BVLOS) system, has reached another major milestone with the onboarding of Frontier Precision as its second champion operator. Frontier Precision has secured a new FAA waiver for BVLOS operations, expanding their operational capabilities available through the Vantis service volumes. The waiver is fully aircraft‑agnostic for systems under 55 pounds, allowing Frontier READ MORE

Aviation Education

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed READ MORE
Embraer Grants $35,000 Toward Marshall’s Division of Aviation to Support Student Experiences

The Marshall University Foundation has announced a grant of $35,000 from Embraer and the Embraer Foundation through its Educational Partnership Program to support student experiences in the Division of Aviation at Marshall University. “Embarking on a career in aviation starts with opportunity,” said Monica Newman McCluney, head of U.S. corporate social responsibility and the Embraer READ MORE

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]

Connico Welcomes Three New Hires to Support Continued National Growth

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Connico has announced the additions of Spencer Grassi as scheduling project specialist, Melanie Moorhouse as analyst 1 and Gaurang Bhimani as analyst 2. Their expertise enhances Connico’s ability to provide detailed cost insights, support project schedules and strengthen field coordination, helping clients navigate complex project decisions with enhanced data and insight. “We’re building a team […]

ONT 5K at the Runway Raises Nearly $83,000 for Local USO in Support of Military Servicemembers

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Ontario International Airport’s annual 5K at the Runway continues to gain momentum as one of the Inland Empire’s most unique community events, raising nearly $83,000 this year in support of the USO at ONT and military servicemembers traveling through Southern California. Officials with the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) on Thursday presented a check for […]

NBAA Welcomes New Website to Track ATC Modernization Progress

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) expressed its support for a new online dashboard developed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide updates on the status of modernization of the country’s air traffic control (ATC) network. The new Modern Skies dashboard provides information about ATC modernization projects already underway […]

Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Names Laura Rudicel Director of Communications and Marketing

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has named Laura Rudicel as its new Director of Communications and Marketing. An award-winning communications strategist, Rudicel brings extensive experience leading high-profile brand, media, and public engagement initiatives across Oklahoma. Rudicel joins ODAA from OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, where she served as Director of Marketing and […]

GAMA Releases First Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the first quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report last week. The results for the first three months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased shipments in the piston airplane and business jet sectors and an increase in the overall value […]

Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI

May 28, 2026May 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, […]

Belgian Aero Club U.E.S. Expands Fleet With 14th Tecnam Aircraft

May 25, 2026May 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tecnam announced that the Belgian ultralight flight school U.E.S., operating as “FLY4FUN” at Avernas-le-Bauduin (EBAV), has confirmed the order of a new Tecnam P92 MkII. Scheduled for delivery in spring 2027, this highly anticipated addition will mark the fourteenth Tecnam aircraft to join the school’s fleet over its history. Founded in 2000 as a small […]

Embraer Grants $35,000 Toward Marshall’s Division of Aviation to Support Student Experiences

May 25, 2026May 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Marshall University Foundation has announced a grant of $35,000 from Embraer and the Embraer Foundation through its Educational Partnership Program to support student experiences in the Division of Aviation at Marshall University. “Embarking on a career in aviation starts with opportunity,” said Monica Newman McCluney, head of U.S. corporate social responsibility and the Embraer […]

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI

Belgian Aero Club U.E.S. Expands Fleet With 14th Tecnam Aircraft

Universidad de San Martin de Porres Elevates Aeronautical Training in Peru with Acquisition of Two New Tecnam Aircraft