State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition
A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery […]
Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era
Photo – Alan Wapner (second from right), President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, and Curt Hagman, Vice President of the Board, unveil the new monument sign at ONT. Ontario International Airport (ONT) unveiled a striking new monument sign at Archibald Avenue and Airport Drive, marking a powerful visual statement of […]
UrbanLink Selects NOEMI Electric Amphibious Aircraft for Future Seaplane Operations in Florida
Elfly Group, developer of the all-electric amphibious aircraft NOEMI (No Emissions), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UrbanLink, a U.S.-based zero-emission mobility company backed by revered US airline entrepreneur Ed Wegel. The agreement includes a 10+10 soft order for the NOEMI electric amphibious seaplane, representing a potential order value of approximately […]
STARLUX Airlines Launches Nonstop Service Between Taipei and Phoenix
STARLUX Airlines, a Taiwan-based luxury carrier, launched nonstop service between Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Jan. 15, marking a milestone that expands the airport’s international connections and is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, STARLUX Airlines Chief Executive Officer Glenn Chai, airport […]

State News

NDOT Division of Aeronautics Announces Annual Awards

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 28-29. The Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) was named Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year. The Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field (LCG) was named the 2025 Airport of the Year for its strong commitment to community relations. The Valentine Miller Field (VTN) apron expansion was selected as the 2025 Project of the year for elevating the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality. Additionally, NDOT celebrated the creativity of young Nebraskans through the 2026 Aviation Art Contest. Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) Named Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year The Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) was selected as the Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year for combining outstanding aviation services with meaningful public engagement and education. Services include full fuel and line support, hangars, charter handling, crew cars, top notch pilot and passenger amenities, and world-class maintenance and repair services, reinforcing LNK’s role as a national aviation services hub. The airport dramatically elevated its public presence by hosting free community events, expanding national outreach through conference presentations, and delivering transformational commercial air service growth with new Breeze Airways and American Airlines routes. Robust educational programs, school partnerships, and hands-on experiences with EAA and Women in Aviation underscore LNK’s outstanding commitment to workforce development, inclusion, and inspiring the next generation. Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field (LCG) Named General Aviation 2025 Airport of the Year The Wayne Municipal Airport (LCG) was selected as the General Aviation 2025 Airport of the Year for demonstrating a strong commitment to community relations by providing quality pilot services, advancing aviation education, and actively promoting aviation across northeast Nebraska. Pilot services include self-service 100LL Avgas, courtesy cars, and on-field weather reports via AWOS. The airport is also a regional hub for promoting the aviation industry and public engagement. The Wayne America Fly-In, an event that brought STOL drag races and National STOL competition to Wayne, attracting participants from across the U.S. and Canada, was brought to the airport. In addition, LCG’s educational and safety social media outreach garners more than 100,000 views, with continued engagement through major community events. LCG also supported the creation of an” Introduction to Aviation” course at Wayne State College. Valentine Miller Field (VTN) Recognized for the 2025 Project of the Year The 2025 Project of the Year award went to Valentine Miller Field (VTN) for the apron expansion project at Miller Field. The project is a transformative investment that significantly elevates the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality. The project included construction of a new 400’x190’ apron and adding four new aircraft tie-downs, optimizing aircraft parking, improving circulation, and supporting increased aviation activity. Strategic relocation of existing tie-downs and the addition of new fillets on Taxiways A and C further enhance aircraft movement and reduce operational constraints. The project demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and efficiency through comprehensive airfield improvements, including reconfigured taxiway lighting, upgraded lighting along new fillets, clearly defined pavement markings, relocating the rotating beacon and tip-down tower, and installing new apron perimeter fencing. Overall, the Apron Expansion Project exemplifies excellence in planning, design, and execution. Winners of the 2026 Youth Aviation Art Contest The 2026 U.S. and International Youth Aviation Art Contest wrapped up at the state level, with more than 80 Nebraska artists illustrating the theme, “Fly to Save Lives”. Rory O’Donnell, age 13, Lincoln, NE More than 80 submissions were received by NDOT’s Aeronautics Division, who has proudly sponsored the contest since its inception in 1986. Nebraska winners were selected in three age categories — Junior (6–9), Intermediate (10–13), and Senior (14–17). Winners will receive cash prizes and trophies sponsored by the Nebraska Aviation Council and advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C. and then move on to the international competition. The nine winning art pieces will be displayed at various locations across the state to promote the contest and raise awareness about the importance of aviation in Nebraska. Aviation is critical for connecting communities, supporting economic growth, and providing essential services. To view all the artwork and learn more about the contest and traveling exhibit visit https://dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/. The 2027 competition will kick off in October 2026. To join the mailing list, please contact Mark Langrud, NDOT Division of Aeronautics chief pilot, at 402-471-2371 or mark.langrud@nebraska.gov. This year’s winners are: Junior Division (Ages 6-9) 1 Avery Powers 9 Plattsmouth 2 June Powers 6 Plattsmouth 3 Grace Schmidt 7 Cairo Intermediate Division (ages 10-13) 1 Rory O’Donnell 13 Lincoln 2 Holly Hepburn 10 Lincoln 3 Elena Powers 12 Plattsmouth Senior Division (Ages 14-17) 1 Kiersten Hans 15 Wynot 2 Graham Trompke 17 Loomis 3 Harlow Sides 16 Gering
Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition

A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery into a luminous environment that promotes calm and contemplation. Each of the 15 artists on display offers their own interpretation of light, from cosmic and celestial imagery to expressions of “inner light,” using materials like paint, neon, glass and digital animation. Visitors approaching the gallery cannot miss the large-scale video installation by Phoenix-based artist Kenaim Al-Shatti. Spanning nearly 30 feet wide, the immersive artwork envelops viewers in a dreamlike, moving image that feels like stepping inside a living painting. The exhibition also features collaborative mixed-media works with neon, emphasizing light’s physical presence. Paintings by Phoenix artist Pierston Doctor present visual narratives rooted in generational storytelling about the sky, while Tucson artist Christina Thomas explores themes of inner light and healing in her painting, Bail Out My Spirit. From glowing neon to mystical subjects, the exhibition highlights both the beauty of light and the meaning we attribute to it. Set apart from the bustle of the terminal and designed with subdued lighting, the Phoenix Airport Museum Gallery offers a quiet space for reflection and respite. Travelers are encouraged to pause, reset and recharge with art as part of their airport experience. The Phoenix Airport Museum spans more than 40 exhibition spaces throughout Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and is one of the largest airport art museums in the United States with a collection of nearly 1,000 artworks. The Terminal 4 Museum Gallery is open to the public, including non-travelers, and is always free to visit. For more information about Spectral Alchemy and other exhibitions, visit skyharbor.com/museum.

National News

BrightPortal Celebrates 17 Year Milestone

BrightPortal Resources is celebrating its 17th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their journey to provide innovative solar-powered lighting solutions for taxiways, runways, and heliports. “For 17 years, we have been a trusted partner for airports and heliports, delivering cost-effective solutions that enhance safety and efficiency,” said Tim Cowsert, with BrightPortal. “We offer a turnkey project experience, from design and layout to installation.” As the company looks to the future, they remain committed to their mission of providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable lighting solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. “With a proven track record of successful projects, we continue to innovate and improve our services, ensuring that our customers receive the best possible solutions for their lighting needs,” noted Patti Cowsert, President of BrightPortal.
Bizav Industry Leaders DeMoor, Swanson Inducted into NBAA CAM Fellow Program

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) will recognize two new members of the Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Fellow Program at its Leadership Conference, Feb. 2-4 in San Antonio, TX. The new members, who were industry-nominated and chosen by a peer-evaluated process, are: Ryan DeMoor: head of aviation tax at MySky. Stuart Swanson: chief pilot for S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. DeMoor oversees the tax vertical in MySky’s suite of technology forward aviation finance products. He runs the fully outsourced MySky Managed Tax department and is also in charge of building out of MySky’s SaaS platform to include MySky Tax and MySky Pay. DeMoor also is a former chair of the NBAA Tax Committee and serves on the board of the West Michigan Aviation Academy Foundation. Swanson leads a 16-member team operating Falcon 7x and 8x aircraft globally. Prior to assuming the chief pilot role, he served as the S-76B helicopter operations supervisor and Falcon 900B captain for five years. He currently serves as the chair of the Chief Pilots Roundtable and vice chair of the NBAA CAM Governing Board. The CAM Fellow Program, which was launched in 2024, pays tribute to exceptional individuals who have demonstrated a substantial and ongoing commitment to the business aviation industry and the CAM program’s vision: “Committed to Excellence, Prepared to Lead.” The first fellow class included 19 inductees, and going forward up to two professionals receive the honor each year. Those recognized consistently go above-and-beyond in multiple facets and embody CAM’s values “SERVICES”: safety, ethics, relevance, vision, innovation, commitment, efficiency and security. “The CAM Fellow program recognizes those whose exceptional performance and commitment span every aspect of business aviation,” said Tyler Austin, NBAA senior director, events and credentialing. “Ryan and Stu exemplify the values of the CAM credential and have distinguished themselves as trusted leaders within our industry.” To be considered for recognition as a CAM Fellow, candidates must currently hold the CAM designation, receive at least one nomination by another Certified Aviation Manager, be an NBAA member and be a recognized leader currently employed in business aviation. The CAM Fellow recognition follows on the heels of the CAM certification award for tenure, which was implemented in 2023, and includes levels ranging from traditional CAM to CAM Silver and CAM Gold.

International News

New Board of Directors Appointed at Everdrone Ahead of Accelerated Expansion

Everdrone AB has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors, following a decision at an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. The newly elected board brings broad strategic experience to support the company’s next phase of national and international expansion. Mats Sällström “The new board members will support Everdrone’s next steps to accelerate growth and scale our drone-based solutions to additional regions, healthcare systems, and markets,” says Mats Sällström, CEO of Everdrone. Everdrone is currently in a strong expansion phase both in Sweden and internationally. At this stage, the company requires clear strategic governance, and the shareholders have therefore appointed a board with solid experience in developing and leading companies through a scaling phase. “The new board will primarily focus on ensuring access to capital, while prioritizing investments in market expansion, R&D, and regulatory matters.” The board brings together expertise in aviation, healthcare, commercialization, growth companies, and financial governance. The elected members are Ann-Christine Hvittfeldt (Chair), and board members Richard Tejme, Åke Lundén, Mats Sällström, and Magnus Hallberg von Geijer. Ann-Christine Hvittfeldt, Chair, has more than 15 years of experience in board work as a member and chair of owner-led, listed, and state-owned companies, including nine years as a board member of the Swedish Transport Agency (LFV). She is currently active at the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI), where unmanned aviation is one of the transport modes under research. Ann-Christine contributes strategic focus, structure, and a growth perspective. Richard Tejme is an investor, advisor, and board member with more than 25 years of experience from senior leadership roles as CFO and CEO across multiple industries. He is Chairman of the Board of Capitainer and Copture, and a board member of Mindler. Richard contributes deep financial expertise, strategic leadership, and hands-on experience in building and scaling growth companies. Åke Lundén is an entrepreneur and business angel, and founder of Benify and Friends Capital. He has extensive experience from board roles in startup companies, with a particular focus on go-to-market strategies and B2B SaaS. Mats Sällström has more than 20 years of experience in business development, marketing, and technical project management. Prior to Everdrone, he worked as a production and project manager at HiQ Gothenburg, where he was responsible for delivering innovative solutions to clients including Lego, Volvo Cars, and Electrolux. Mats is CEO and co-founder of Everdrone and has led the company from concept stage to commercial operations. Magnus Hallberg von Geijer has more than 25 years of experience in Life Sciences, with a background at international corporations such as GSK and Johnson & Johnson, and in recent years as an entrepreneur and investor. He has a strong focus on translating innovation into commercial value within healthcare. Magnus is Chief Commercial Officer at Everdrone.
Farnborough International Airshow 2026 Unveils New Features to Accelerate Global Aerospace Growth as Trade Tickets Launch

Trade tickets for the most important aerospace and defense event of the year, Farnborough International Airshow 2026, are officially on sale, marking an unparalleled edition of the global aerospace showcase. Returning from 20–24 July 2026, the airshow will be the largest and most ambitious in its 78-year history, following record-breaking demand and the addition of a brand-new sixth exhibition hall. With exhibitor space selling out exhibition halls and chalets 12 months in advance, and a waiting list of more than 50 organizations, the 2026 airshow is set to welcome more international participation than ever before, reinforcing the airshow’s position as the premier platform for innovation, collaboration, and investment across aerospace, defense, space, and adjacent sectors. This landmark edition introduces major new features designed to influence and accelerate financial innovation across the sector, strengthen global industry ecosystems and empower SMEs: Defense SME Zone Highlighting Farnborough’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and innovation in defense, the Defense SME Zone will make its debut as a dedicated showcase for high-potential international organizations specializing in defense and security technologies. Designed exclusively for businesses with a turnover under £10 million, the zone provides an unprecedented opportunity for SMEs to engage directly with the global defense supply chain; connect with primes, investors, media, and government delegations; participate in exclusive networking events; and showcase innovations to more than 100,000 visitors. Sponsored by FTSE 100 defense company Babcock International, the Defense SME Zone will accelerate the visibility and growth of next-generation defense suppliers. Growing businesses, including the likes of Cognitive Design by CDS, Elite EMC Ltd, Emergent, Infortecorp Solutions Limited, Inspectahire, and Needles And Pins Aerospace, will have a presence during the show. The Enterprise Gateway: Where Knowledge Meets Opportunity Launching at the heart of the show alongside the renowned Business Connections Exchange, The Enterprise Gateway is a three-day expert-led program designed to drive supply chain development and unlock growth opportunities for SMEs and primes across multiple sectors. Speakers include a Partner at Mercurea, General Partner at Twin Track Ventures and Managing Director of Alatar Ltd. Taking place 21–23 July 2026, this new feature will provide practical workshops on procurement, regulation, exports, and funding; keynotes and mentoring from industry leaders and policymakers; live pitching sessions connecting SMEs with investors and primes; and insights aligned with the UK Government’s Plan for Change. Built to transform insight into action, The Enterprise Gateway equips businesses with the tools, connections, and confidence to scale sustainably in an evolving global market. A Record-Breaking Airshow Ahead With the largest-ever international industry presence, the 2026 edition underscores the demand from the world’s most influential organization to do business at one of the most trusted airshows in the world, and Farnborough’s unmatched ability to convene the global industry. Twenty-six international pavilions, including India, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, and Switzerland, are already confirmed. The week concludes with Pioneers of Tomorrow on Friday, 24 July, welcoming thousands of young people for a dedicated STEM day, inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. Exhibitors, known as Champions of Tomorrow, will be demonstrating the opportunities within the sector and enable businesses to engage with the future workforce throughout the day directly helping to solve the skills-gap. The day will include dedicated features and activity, including a Careers Fair and digital Job Board to advertise apprenticeships, graduate schemes and entry-level roles, as well as competitions and on-stand experiences targeted at young people. Organizations already involved include Babcock International Group, Parker Aerospace and Belcan. Ticket Information Trade visitor ticket sales for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are officially open. With demand at an all-time high, attendees are encouraged to secure their place early for what promises to be the most dynamic and future-focused edition yet. Prices start from £59+VAT. To purchase your airshow tickets or for more information, visit: https://www.farnboroughairshow.com/ The Farnborough International Airshow is held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, Hampshire, UK.

Unmanned Systems

New Board of Directors Appointed at Everdrone Ahead of Accelerated Expansion

Everdrone AB has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors, following a decision at an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. The newly elected board brings broad strategic experience to support the company’s next phase of national and international expansion. Mats Sällström “The new board members will support Everdrone’s next READ MORE
Indiana’s National Drone Site Puts Arrive at the Center of Autonomous Delivery Scale

Arrive AI highlighted last week the strategic importance of Indiana’s selection as a newly designated federal Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) testing site. It’s the first such designation in more than a decade. Announced by U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, the designation places Indiana at the center of READ MORE

Aviation Education

Pilot Training Market 2025: Ab Initio Growth Contrasts with Type Rating Slowdown

The global flight training market in 2025 was largely defined by contrasts. Initial pilot (ab initio) and MPL (Multi-crew Pilot License) training expanded as airlines invested in future pilot pipelines. Type rating activity, on the other hand, faced headwinds from aircraft delivery delays and market adjustments. For training organizations, 2025 required balancing immediate constraints with READ MORE
Enid High School Aviation Program Reaches New Heights with Inaugural Flight of Student-Built Aircraft

Several Garfield County community members were on hand to see Enid High School’s aviation students’ hard work take to the skies Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2026 at Woodring Regional Airport. Enid celebrated the inaugural flight of its student-built RV-12iS Light Sport Aircraft as part of the Tango Flight (TFI) aircraft construction program. Enid High School celebrated READ MORE

NDOT Division of Aeronautics Announces Annual Awards

February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 28-29. The Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) was named Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year. The Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field (LCG) was named the 2025 […]

Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition

February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery […]

Yuma International Airport Becomes GoodMaps’ First Scan & Go Airport, Pioneering Self-Service Navigation for Regional Airports

February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

Yuma International Airport (YUM) has launched GoodMaps’ comprehensive indoor navigation platform, becoming the first airport to implement GoodMaps’ Scan & Go technology. This milestone demonstrates how regional airports can independently deliver world-class, accessible passenger experiences using mobile navigation and interactive, multilingual terminal maps accessible through any web browser. Through Scan & Go, YUM staff used […]

New Board of Directors Appointed at Everdrone Ahead of Accelerated Expansion

January 31, 2026January 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Everdrone AB has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors, following a decision at an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. The newly elected board brings broad strategic experience to support the company’s next phase of national and international expansion. “The new board members will support Everdrone’s next steps to […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Adopts 2025 Strategic Plan to Strengthen and Modernize Oregon’s Aviation System

January 31, 2026January 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has officially adopted its 2025 Strategic Plan, marking a major step forward in strengthening, modernizing, and futureproofing Oregon’s aviation system. Developed through a robust, statewide engagement process, the Strategic Plan sets a clear course for how ODAV will enhance safety, resilience, sustainability, and innovation across Oregon’s 96 public-use airports—while […]

BrightPortal Celebrates 17 Year Milestone

January 31, 2026January 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

BrightPortal Resources is celebrating its 17th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their journey to provide innovative solar-powered lighting solutions for taxiways, runways, and heliports. “For 17 years, we have been a trusted partner for airports and heliports, delivering cost-effective solutions that enhance safety and efficiency,” said Tim Cowsert, with BrightPortal. “We offer a turnkey […]

Bizav Industry Leaders DeMoor, Swanson Inducted into NBAA CAM Fellow Program

January 26, 2026January 26, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) will recognize two new members of the Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Fellow Program at its Leadership Conference, Feb. 2-4 in San Antonio, TX. The new members, who were industry-nominated and chosen by a peer-evaluated process, are: DeMoor oversees the tax vertical in MySky’s suite of technology forward aviation finance […]

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 Unveils New Features to Accelerate Global Aerospace Growth as Trade Tickets Launch

January 25, 2026January 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

Trade tickets for the most important aerospace and defense event of the year, Farnborough International Airshow 2026, are officially on sale, marking an unparalleled edition of the global aerospace showcase. Returning from 20–24 July 2026, the airshow will be the largest and most ambitious in its 78-year history, following record-breaking demand and the addition of […]

New Streamlined Parking System Announced for Kona and Hilo Airports

January 25, 2026January 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has launched a new streamlined parking system at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) that will make it more convenient and efficient for drivers to enter and exit the airport parking lots. HDOT has partnered with Metropolis, an artificial intelligence parking […]

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era

January 25, 2026January 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Alan Wapner (second from right), President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, and Curt Hagman, Vice President of the Board, unveil the new monument sign at ONT. Ontario International Airport (ONT) unveiled a striking new monument sign at Archibald Avenue and Airport Drive, marking a powerful visual statement of […]

Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era

UrbanLink Selects NOEMI Electric Amphibious Aircraft for Future Seaplane Operations in Florida

STARLUX Airlines Launches Nonstop Service Between Taipei and Phoenix