State Aviation Journal

Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One
The next important milestone has been reached at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center currently under construction at Frankfurt Airport: the tail unit has now been mounted on the Lockheed L-1649A Super Star. The three-part rudder is characteristic of this particular aircraft series. It has a wingspan of over 15 meters […]
Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport
The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has announced the completion of the Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45). The project included resurfacing the aging north two-thirds of the runway and repairing low pavement sections on the south end, as well as replacing the airport’s nearly 40-year-old airfield electrical system. The […]
Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8
International Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse ceremonially retired its Douglas DC-8 cargo aircraft and dedicate its new Boeing 767 at its Airlift Response Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. This event marks a new era for the ministry’s global aviation operations and advances its ability to help suffering families around the world in Jesus’ Name. For […]
CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region
CubCrafters has announced that Ray and Melisa Fowler of Adventure Flying LLC have joined the company’s elite team of Certified Sales Centers (CSC) as representatives for the MidAtlantic region. Ray and Melisa will manage new, used, and kit aircraft sales across six Mid-Atlantic states: Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Ray […]

State News

Osage LLC Hosts Osage Nation Congress for Tour and Presentation of Future Skyway Range Plans

Osage LLC welcomed members of the Osage Nation Congress for an in-depth tour and lunch briefing at Skyway Range, offering a first look at an ambitious vision to transform the area into a leading center for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) innovation, testing, and economic growth. The visit provided Osage leaders with a comprehensive overview of current operations and long-term development plans to position the Osage Nation at the forefront of advanced aerospace technologies. Group photo of Osage Nation Congress, Osage LLC Board Members, Osage LLC team and executives at Windshape, Osage LLC’s first tenant and world-class drone testing facility. “The tour provided the opportunity to hear and see the potential in Osage LLC’s vision,” said Osage Nation Congressional Speaker Pam Shaw. “I’m looking forward to seeing what is next for Skyway Range. Utilizing this property for the benefit of the Osage people is what it’s all about.” Skyway Range is already a nationally recognized asset due to its expansive Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) capabilities, encompassing nearly 1,200 square miles of urban and rural testing environments within 114 nautical miles of airspace. The range’s proximity to Tulsa International Airport’s Class C airspace and its unique blend of terrain make it one of the most flexible and capable UAS test ranges in the United States. Osage LLC is also part of the Tulsa Regional Advanced Mobility (TRAM) Cluster, a collaboration between public, private, non-profit, tribal, and academic partners committed to building a thriving, inclusive advanced mobility ecosystem in northeast Oklahoma. Through this partnership, the region received a Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) award from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. BBBRC investments are helping Osage LLC and partners, such as Oklahoma State University and Tulsa Innovation Labs, expand research and development capacity, build testing infrastructure, develop industrial facilities, strengthen workforce pathways, and support entrepreneurs—laying the foundation for commercial UAS testing, manufacturing, research, office development, and future mixed-use opportunities. “We were honored to host members of Congress and showcase the incredible opportunities taking shape at Skyway Range,” said Russell Goff, CEO of Osage LLC. “The investments made by the Osage Congress are already opening the door for high-value partnerships, new technologies, and long-term economic opportunities for our Nation. As we expand Skyway Range and the surrounding district, our focus is to leverage these assets to create jobs, attract industry, and generate sustainable benefits for the Osage people.” Osage Nation Congress tours Osage LLC’s Skyway Range and related facilities, sharing future plans for the site. Long-term plans for Skyway Range include: • A phased development strategy beginning with critical infrastructure north of 36th Street in Tulsa. • A new Command Center and enhanced operations hub to support Skyway’s growing commercial testing capabilities. • A 50,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility designed for UAS assembly, prototyping, and light industrial research. • Infrastructure and signage improvements to increase commercial readiness and operational capacity. • Future expansion opportunities for additional manufacturing, office, and mixed-use facilities tied to customer demand and Nation-driven land-use decisions. Phase One includes $6 million in capital investments approved by Osage Nation Congress, with anticipated completion of office and small-scale manufacturing components by late 2026 to early 2027. Osage LLC recently secured its first tenant, Windshape, a Swiss aerospace technology company that specializes in advanced indoor weather simulation and drone performance testing. Windshape held a demonstration for Osage Congressional members and shared how this technology is used globally to validate the safety, reliability, and durability of UAS systems. As Osage LLC grows its footprint in Osage County and the Tulsa region, the company remains committed to utilizing tribal lands in a way that aligns with the Nation’s priorities, strengthens sovereignty, and drives long-term economic self-determination for the Osage people.
Oregon Department of Aviation Welcomes New Airport Programs Specialist

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has welcomed Christian Berge as the agency’s new Airport Programs Specialist. Berge brings a wealth of experience in aviation, law enforcement, and public service, strengthening ODAV’s mission to ensure a safe and efficient aviation system for Oregon. Christian Berge Berge began his aviation career as an Aviation Operations Specialist in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following his military service, he spent two decades in law enforcement as a police officer, building a reputation for professionalism and dedication to public safety. With over ten years of experience in the aviation industry, Berge has worked as a flight attendant and operations agent with Southwest Airlines and as a ground service agent and team captain with Horizon Air. Most recently, he served as a Patient Advocate with the Portland VA Medical Center, where he worked to ensure veterans received compassionate and effective care. Outside of work, Berge enjoys traveling and boating on the Willamette River with his wife, Deborah, and their four children. “We’re excited to welcome Christian to the ODAV team,” said Kenji, Sugahara, Director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. “Christian’s extensive experience in customer service, aviation, and public safety makes him a welcome addition to our agency. We are looking forward to his contributions to our aviation community.”

National News

NBAA Welcomes Senate Bills to Protect Pilot and Controller Safety, Support Mental Health

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcomed the introduction of the Mental Health in Aviation Act and the Aviation Medication Transparency Act, which will improve transparency surrounding medication guidelines and increase access to mental health resources, while reducing the stigma surrounding such needs and protecting the livelihood of controllers and pilots. Both bills were introduced in the Senate by Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and John Hoeven (R-ND). Earlier this year, the House of Representatives passed the Mental Health in Aviation Act and introduced the Aviation Medication Transparency Act. The Mental Health in Aviation Act would: Modernize mental health guidance regulations for pilots and air traffic controllers to encourage the early disclosure and treatment of mental health conditions. Annually review the FAA’s Special Issuance Medical Certification process. Allocate $15 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) to the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine to expand and train additional medical examiners, including specialists, to improve the efficiency of the FAA’s Special Issuance Medical Certification process. Allocate $1.5 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) for a public information campaign to help reduce the stigma around mental health care. “NBAA strongly supports the Mental Health in Aviation Act, which aims to address the stigma surrounding mental health in the aviation community. It’s essential that we foster an environment where pilots, air traffic controllers and others feel safe to seek help without fear of retribution or repercussion,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. NBAA is a longtime advocate of improving the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) approach to mental health and represented business aviation on the 2023 Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC), which made similar recommendations to the FAA. Learn more about the Mental Health in Aviation Act. The Aviation Medication Transparency Act would require the FAA to publish within one year of enactment—and update annually—a comprehensive, user-friendly and accessible list of medications that are safe for pilots, air traffic control specialists and trainees, developed in consultation with various stakeholders. This information is currently available to aviation medical examiners, but not in an easy-to-understand format to pilots and air traffic controllers. The act also would: Indicate what, if any, period of time individuals holding an FAA medical certificate must have limited or no duties while taking certain medication. Indicate a list of medications the FAA has designated as “can be safely prescribed,” and “Do Not Issue.” Provide information for doctors to contact the FAA should they have any questions. “The Aviation Medication Transparency Act will establish a streamlined mechanism for pilots, air traffic controllers and others to access vital information about medications that may be safely prescribed,” said Bolen. “Ultimately, this legislation will enhance safety by empowering individuals with essential information to work with their doctors to find treatments that minimize the impact to their certification.” Learn more about the Aviation Medication Transparency Act.
NATA’s 2025 Aviation Business Conference Draws Strong Turnout, Tackles Key Challenges, and Highlights a Unified Industry Vision

Leaders from virtually all segments of the aviation business sector gathered in Dallas on November 17-18 to tackle a wide range of pressing issues, identify strategies to keep the aviation industry thriving, and outline pathways for moving forward. NATA’s (the National Air Transportation Association) annual Aviation Business Conference brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and key decision-makers for robust panel discussions, insightful presentations, and an energetic exchange of best-practice strategies. Attendees represented the full spectrum of the aviation business ecosystem, including fixed base operators, air charter operators, flight schools, maintenance companies, airports, and advanced air mobility entities. “A healthy aviation ecosystem requires balance, including safety with access, stability with flexibility, and strong collaboration across the community,” stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. “NATA’s Aviation Business Conference embodies that collaborative spirit by bringing together industry leaders to ensure we are prepared, aligned, and ready to lead in a rapidly evolving business environment.” A common thread woven through the sessions centered on customer experience and the value of all aviation businesses, regardless of industry segment, understanding market conditions and applying that insight to maintain powerful and lasting connections. “Whether the discussion focused on sustainability, infrastructure, the current political and regulatory environment, or customer experience, a common theme emerged: a better understanding of industry dynamics strengthens our community and enables us to lead with confidence and agility,” Castagna added. “We must also understand and appreciate what matters most to our customers in order to develop and align effective strategies. This year’s conference equipped attendees with the insight, perspective, and resources needed to make more informed decisions for their businesses and better advocate for the industry.” The agenda comprised a wide breadth of perspectives, offered by visionaries committed to the industry’s success and dedicated to sharing their deep knowledge. Insightful sessions included such thought-provoking topics as the following: Are Business Aviation Customers Paying What the Service is Worth? Navigating Rates, Fees, and Leases: Building a Sustainable Aviation System AAM at the Airport: Turning Innovation into Future Revenue Opportunities Charting a Sustainable Course in Shifting Political Landscapes The conference also featured a frank, far-reaching conversation between Castagna and FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau, a veteran of both the public and private aviation sectors. The discussion highlighted the deep and mutually beneficial relationship between the FAA and aviation businesses associations like NATA, and how collaboration enables sound policy decisions that foster aviation business safety, security, and industry growth. During the discussion, Castanga made it clear that the nation’s aviation sector – powered by its common mission and collaborative spirit – remains strong, even after a difficult government shutdown. “This year’s Aviation Business Conference came at a pivotal moment for our industry, occurring just days after the longest federal government shutdown in history,” said Castagna. “The impact of the resulting Emergency Orders and NOTAMs underscored how interconnected the NAS truly is and reinforced the essential role of air charter and general aviation. Our members responded with professionalism, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to safety, and both their recent experiences and the depth of their past operational insight helped shape the conversations throughout the day.” The day was anchored by the annual NATA Industry Excellence Awards Luncheon, which celebrates individuals and organizations that demonstrate superior service to the aviation community and advance a safety-first culture in general aviation. NATA’s top honor, the William A. “Bill” Ong Memorial Award, was presented to Million Air CEO Roger Woosley for his lifetime of achievement in advancing the general aviation industry and for exemplifying Ong’s enduring commitment to service, safety, and advocacy. Profiles of the award winners can be found on NATA’s Aviation Business Journal website. The Aviation Business Conference also provided an opportunity to recognize NATA’s 85th anniversary of dedicated service to the industry, and commitment to businesses that keep our nation’s airspace and industry the strongest and safest in the world. But as NATA Chief Operating Officer Hector Huezo emphasized in closing the event, our members are only as strong as they are bonded together in support of the entire industry. “It’s clear that the same spirit of industry collaboration that has guided this association through generations of change continues to guide us today,” Huezo said. “The resilience and forward-thinking leadership that has defined NATA through the years are the same qualities that have been reflected in this room this week.”

International News

Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One

The next important milestone has been reached at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center currently under construction at Frankfurt Airport: the tail unit has now been mounted on the Lockheed L-1649A Super Star. The three-part rudder is characteristic of this particular aircraft series. It has a wingspan of over 15 meters and weighs around 1.4 tons. The assembly was carried out using two forklifts operating in parallel. With this, all the large components of the Super Star have now been successfully assembled. The historic aircraft, once a symbol of innovation and elegance, was painted this summer at Münster/Osnabrück Airport in its classic 1950s livery. The fuselage, wings, engines, and tail were then transported to Frankfurt by heavy haulage. The various aircraft parts were assembled in the new building at Frankfurt Airport over the past few weeks. Now, with a total length of around 35 meters and an impressive wingspan of more than 45 meters, the Super Star shines again in all its former glory. Together with the legendary Junkers Ju 52, the Lockheed Super Star will be the main attraction of the “Lufthansa Group Hangar One.” Due to a glass facade, visitors can also admire the two icons of aviation history from the outside. The opening of the conference and visitor center coincides with the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Deutsche Luft Hansa and underscores the importance of aviation history for the Lufthansa Group.
WAI Announces the 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame Inductees

Women in Aviation International (WAI) has selected the 2026 inductees for its international Pioneer Hall of Fame. These three female trailblazers will be honored at the 37th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference during a ceremony and celebration dinner at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, March 20, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees are: Olga Custodio As the first Latina pilot in the U.S. Air Force and a pioneering Hispanic female captain in commercial aviation, Olga Custodio defines her success through three principles: overcome self-doubt, stay open to possibilities, and see yourself as an equal. After flying the T-38 as an instructor pilot, she served 24 years in the Air Force and retired as a lieutenant colonel. Olga then flew with American Airlines on the Boeing 727, Fokker 100, Boeing 757 and 767, accumulating over 11,000 hours of flight time and retiring as a captain. As a STEM advocate, Olga is a speaker serving as a role model for aspiring aviators. She is a tireless volunteer to inspire and educate students, especially from underserved communities. Her memoir Flightpath of Fortitude includes Olga’s essential life insights on how to overcome barriers and achieve your dreams. Joan Sullivan Garrett Joan Sullivan Garrett began her medical career as a flight nurse who envisioned a worldwide solution for travel safety on air, land, and sea, anywhere in the world, after losing a young patient in the remote Arizona mountains. She founded MedAire in 1985 and pioneered global telemedicine through radio, teletype, and satellite communications. She personally trained flight crews and corporate pilots in emergency response, bringing a hands-on approach to a challenge the industry had largely overlooked. But her most transformative innovation came with the creation of MedLink, a 24/7 air-to-ground response center staffed by emergency physicians. Serving as CEO until 2008, Joan details her journey in her autobiography One Life Lost, Millions Gained. She has received numerous awards and accolades as a visionary healthcare leader and aviation safety pioneer, and served on various aviation boards. Nadine Berniece Ramsey The late Nadine Berniece Ramsey was a pioneering female pilot of military aircraft and a member of the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II. As the first woman in the United States to fly military aircraft, she helped pave the way for today’s women military aircraft pilots. Nadine’s flying achievements came early and often, including being the first Kansas woman to earn a commercial pilot license, among the earliest women to fly the U.S. Air Mail, as well as a successful aircraft businesswoman, stunt flier, and racer. She was also a first squadron commander for the Civil Air Patrol Program and one of only about 50 women to provide wartime service training instruction during the war. Her legacy to the nation is detailed in the book Taking Flight. “We want to ensure that the rich history of women’s accomplishments in aviation is not lost in time,” says Lynda Coffman, WAI CEO. “Our international Pioneer Hall of Fame honors women who made remarkable contributions to aviation, as well as open doors for future generations of women who choose aviation as a career. This year’s inductees reflect their unique contributions to aviation, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.” The Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame was established in 1992 to honor women who have made significant contributions as record setters, pioneers, or innovators. Special consideration is given to individuals or groups who have helped other women be successful in aviation or opened doors of opportunity for other women. Each year, WAI solicits nominations from throughout the industry for its Pioneer Hall of Fame. To learn about the more than 130 inductees over the past 30+ years, visit WAI.org/pioneers. This event is a registration-required event with an additional fee. Guest tickets can be purchased through WAI2026 registration here. Space is limited for this special celebration with attire cocktail, business formal, or military formal. Register for WAI2026 here!

Unmanned Systems

Osage LLC Hosts Osage Nation Congress for Tour and Presentation of Future Skyway Range Plans

Osage LLC welcomed members of the Osage Nation Congress for an in-depth tour and lunch briefing at Skyway Range, offering a first look at an ambitious vision to transform the area into a leading center for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) innovation, testing, and economic growth. The visit provided Osage leaders with a comprehensive overview of READ MORE
Virginia Launches Advanced Air Mobility and Unmanned Systems Test Site Program

The Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV) have announced the launch of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Advanced Air Mobility Test Site Program, a new pilot initiative to evaluate and integrate next-generation aviation technologies across Virginia’s transportation and innovation ecosystem. Developed to support the deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), READ MORE

Aviation Education

InstructAir and Skyfarer Academy Finalize Acquisition, Uniting Two Aviation Training Innovators

Skyfarer Academy has announced the completion of its acquisition of InstructAir, a leading platform connecting flight instructors and pilots across the United States. This strategic acquisition brings together two pioneering forces in aviation education to create the most comprehensive digital ecosystem for student pilots, flight instructors, schools, and aviation enthusiasts nationwide. A Unified Platform for READ MORE
WAI and Harvard University Partner for the Class of 2026 Emerging Leaders Courses

Rising women leaders in the aviation and aerospace industry are encouraged to apply to attend Women in Leadership: A Program for Emerging Leaders, a professional development program hosted by Women in Aviation International and conducted by Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE). In 2026, WAI will expand the program to offer both an on-campus READ MORE

Osage LLC Hosts Osage Nation Congress for Tour and Presentation of Future Skyway Range Plans

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Osage LLC welcomed members of the Osage Nation Congress for an in-depth tour and lunch briefing at Skyway Range, offering a first look at an ambitious vision to transform the area into a leading center for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) innovation, testing, and economic growth. The visit provided Osage leaders with a comprehensive overview of […]

Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The next important milestone has been reached at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center currently under construction at Frankfurt Airport: the tail unit has now been mounted on the Lockheed L-1649A Super Star. The three-part rudder is characteristic of this particular aircraft series. It has a wingspan of over 15 meters […]

NBAA Welcomes Senate Bills to Protect Pilot and Controller Safety, Support Mental Health

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcomed the introduction of the Mental Health in Aviation Act and the Aviation Medication Transparency Act, which will improve transparency surrounding medication guidelines and increase access to mental health resources, while reducing the stigma surrounding such needs and protecting the livelihood of controllers and pilots. Both bills were introduced […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Welcomes New Airport Programs Specialist

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has welcomed Christian Berge as the agency’s new Airport Programs Specialist. Berge brings a wealth of experience in aviation, law enforcement, and public service, strengthening ODAV’s mission to ensure a safe and efficient aviation system for Oregon. Berge began his aviation career as an Aviation Operations Specialist in the […]

NATA’s 2025 Aviation Business Conference Draws Strong Turnout, Tackles Key Challenges, and Highlights a Unified Industry Vision

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Leaders from virtually all segments of the aviation business sector gathered in Dallas on November 17-18 to tackle a wide range of pressing issues, identify strategies to keep the aviation industry thriving, and outline pathways for moving forward. NATA’s (the National Air Transportation Association) annual Aviation Business Conference brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has announced the completion of the Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45). The project included resurfacing the aging north two-thirds of the runway and repairing low pavement sections on the south end, as well as replacing the airport’s nearly 40-year-old airfield electrical system. The […]

Kapalua Airport to Get New EV Charging Station

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) is notifying the public that construction work will begin this week for a new electric vehicle charging station at the Kapalua Airport. A portion of the mauka side of the parking lot will be closed 24/7 during the work. There will be no impact to flights or airport operations. […]

AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Releases 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Air Safety Institute (ASI) has released the 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report—formerly the Joseph T. Nall Report—which analyzes general aviation accidents that occurred in 2023, the most recent year for which full data are available. The report provides the most comprehensive review of general aviation safety, with accident data […]

WAI Announces the 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame Inductees

November 23, 2025November 23, 2025 Kim Stevens

Women in Aviation International (WAI) has selected the 2026 inductees for its international Pioneer Hall of Fame. These three female trailblazers will be honored at the 37th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference during a ceremony and celebration dinner at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, March 20, from […]

Hawaiian Airlines Debuts Exclusive Collectibles Available Only Inflight

November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 Kim Stevens

Guests flying on Hawaiian Airlines can now ask a pilot for one of four exclusive trading cards designed and produced in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA). Each card features one of our four aircraft — the Boeing 717, Airbus A321neo, Airbus A330 and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner […]

Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One

Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport

Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8

CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region