State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Inside EAMS: How FL Technics Turns Aging Aviation Assets into Market Opportunities
As airlines continue to face engine shortages and extended repair timelines, demand for serviceable material is rising, pushing the market to increasingly rely on dismantled aircraft as a faster and more cost-effective source of components. At FL Technics, Adriana Wheeler, SVP of Business Development, and Modestas Valiusevicius, SVP of Strategic Asset Purchasing, focus on sourcing, […]
Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year
The skies over Kitsap County will come alive once again as the Bremerton Air Show takes flight for its fourth consecutive year at the Bremerton National Airport July 11th & 12th. This show promises a thrilling weekend of high-flying excitement, historic aircraft, and family-friendly entertainment. More than just an air show, this event is a […]
Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird
Photo Credit floridapanthers.com By Andrew Stevens I always love it when different worlds we appreciate come together for an experience. I’m a big hockey fan and obviously this is the best time of the year with the Stanley Cup Playoffs ongoing (Go Ducks!). My hockey journey is a bit wild, but that’s not the story […]
B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026
The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]

State News

More Than $13.6 Million Announced for Airport Improvements Across Maine

U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that multiple Maine airports will receive a total of $13,647,939 to support important infrastructure improvements. The funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Senator Collins helped to author. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue working to ensure we make investments that benefit the State of Maine, allowing airports across our state to make much-needed improvements, some of which are long overdue. Ensuring that transportation needs across the state are met is a priority of mine,” said Senator Collins. “A key focus of our negotiations over the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021 was addressing outdated infrastructure at our nation’s airports. That is why we included historic investments in airport grant programs so that municipal, regional, and international airports and jetports across the country can provide safer and more efficient travel. Today’s funding announcement builds on those investments.” Specifically, the funding from the AIP has been allocated as follows: Millinocket Municipal Airport (MLT) – $6,845,251 to reconstruct 3,200 feet of Runway 11/29 to maintain pavement integrity and minimize foreign object debris. Knox County Regional Airport (RKD) – $3,618,016 to rehabilitate and reconstruct portions of the main apron pavement that has reached the end of its useful life. Portland International Jetport (PWM) – $2,620,106 to design and reconstruct 17,600 square yards of terminal apron pavement that has reached the end of its useful life. Wiscasset Municipal Airport (IWI) – $468,816 to reconstruct 4,100 square yards of main apron pavement that has reached the end of its useful life. Oxford County Regional Airport (81B) – $53,000 to update the existing airport layout plan. Presque Isle International Airport (PQI) – $42,750 to acquire two acres of land for future development. Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine. Additionally, in the past five years, Senator Collins has secured more than $25.7 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for improvement projects at airports in Presque Isle, Fryeburg, Machias, and Brunswick. In addition to her work as Chair of the Senate Appropriation Committee, Senator Collins was one of 10 senators who negotiated the IIJA, which provided $15 billion for federal airport improvement grant programs.
Federal Funding of More Than $21 Million Announced to Upgrade 8 Virginia Airports

U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $21,024,663 in federal funding to improve airport infrastructure across Virginia. This funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which the senators have supported robust funding for through the annual federal budget process. “Travelers deserve the comfort of knowing they can move safely and efficiently through Virginia airports,” said the senators. “We’re proud to announce this funding to modernize and improve our airport infrastructure and passenger experience.” The program grants are allocated as follows: $18,397,704 for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to conduct projects at Ronald Reagan Washington Airport to reconstruct existing paved runways that have reached the end of their useful lives. $600,000 for the Stafford Regional Airport Authority to rehabilitate existing taxiways, associated taxiway connectors, and taxiways connectors lighting systems to extend their useful lives. $465,500 for the County of Fauquier to conduct projects at the Warrenton-Fauquier Airport to reconstruct runway lighting, end identifier lights systems, and precision approach path indicator systems, as well as rehabilitate existing paved runway to maintain structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. $450,000 for the Winchester Regional Airport Authority to reconstruct existing terminal apron pavement, as well as construct a new terminal apron and parallel taxiway to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. $439,850 for the City of Danville to conduct projects at the Danville Regional Airport to rehabilitate existing taxiway and runway lighting that have reached the end of their useful lives. $300,000 for the County of Louisa to conduct a project at the Louisa County Airport to update the existing airport layout plan. $261,647 for the Tazewell County Airport Authority to fund a portion of the new construction of a non-exclusive use hanger for aircraft storage to assist the airport in its mission to generate new revenue and be self-sustaining. $109,962 for the County of New Kent to carry out projects at the New Kent County Airport to remove trees identified as obstructions by the FAA and purchase an avigation easement. Sens. Warner and Kaine have been fierce supporters of efforts to modernize Virginia’s airports. Last year, the senators announced almost $106 million in federal funding for airports across Virginia. Many of these grants were made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, legislation the senators helped pass that has secured billions in federal funding for airport infrastructure since 2021.

National News

Secretary Duffy Announces $835.8 Million for Air Traffic Control Facility Upgrades Across U.S.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced the Department’s investment of over $750 million to replace eight air traffic control towers and Terminal Radar Approach Controls (TRACONs) with brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is providing $85.8 million to upgrade Federal Contract Towers (FCTs) at 41 airports across 24 states. “This administration is laser focused on ushering in the Golden Age of Transportation and investing in our aging air traffic control towers is critical to that mission,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Under the last administration’s watch, these facilities were neglected and left to deteriorate rapidly. We need a system and supporting infrastructure that is built for the future to attract top talent for our air traffic control workforce.” The FAA chose the replacement locations based on the safety and efficiency needs of the nation’s airspace system. Many air traffic facilities are decades old. Failing infrastructure such as HVAC systems, pest issues, and leaking roofs have led to interruptions in providing air traffic services. The FAA is replacing facilities in the following locations: Charleston, South Carolina Grand Forks, North Dakota Greer, South Carolina Lawton, Oklahoma Pocatello, Idaho Sacramento, California San Jose, California Tamiami, Florida “Our controllers are the best in the world and they deserve to work in the best, most modern facilities,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These investments will replace aging infrastructure with modern, state-of-the-art towers and equipment that strengthens safety, improves reliability, and supports the future of the National Airspace System.” The FCT Grant Program provides $20 million annually over five years to modernize towers, improve infrastructure, and install critical air traffic control and communications equipment at FCTs, which are staffed by contract personnel rather than FAA employees. Projects include: Acadiana Regional Airport receiving $915,000 for facility improvements Marana Regional Airport receiving $800,000 to support the design of a new sponsor-owned FCT Missoula County Airport Authority receiving $1 million to modernize key infrastructure Wiley Post Airport receiving $10 million to construct a new sponsor-owned FCT Additional information: The new towers will also have modern equipment as part of the Brand-New Air Traffic Control System that the Trump Administration is building. The separate facility-upgrade projects will include new windows, heating and cooling systems, elevators, and roof replacement. The funding will also replace obsolete tower equipment, including radios, automated voice recorders, and airport lighting controls. The replacement and modernization projects will create high-paying jobs for Americans and ensure America has the envy-of-the-world aviation infrastructure. The FAA continually evaluates air traffic facility conditions and traffic levels to prioritize modernization and replacement projects.
AOPA Holds Annual Member Meeting, Elects New Trustees

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) recently held its annual member meeting at the National Aviation Community Center in Frederick, Maryland, where it elected two new members to the Board of Trustees and heard feedback from 17 members. “This is a game of inches, I want to be clear,” said AOPA Board of Trustees Chairman Luke Wippler as the meeting began. “We need all of our stakeholders pulling in the right direction. I recognize that we need to rebuild your trust.” Acting Co-President Katie Pribyl then discussed the state of AOPA’s advocacy efforts, while Acting Co-President Jill Baker presented about the state of AOPA’s finances. General Counsel Fernando Campoamor then provided details about the seven potential bylaw changes announced in April, noting that the bylaws have not changed in decades. “There are seven potential changes that have been outlined, and those are the things that were perhaps most essential for all of us to focus on,” said Campoamor. “We did this fairly quickly in the past eight weeks. But there is more that can clearly be done, and so when you’re thinking about commenting on what we should be doing or thinking about, not only think about the things that we have proposed, but also think about what else you think needs to happen so that it can be considered by the Board.” The Board continues to solicit feedback from members on any potential changes until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, June 5, ahead of a vote to implement them this fall. Chairman Luke Wippler then opened the floor to invite members to speak. Prior to the meeting, Wippler announced a change to previously announced rules that limited speaking slots to 20 AOPA members and said any member who wanted would be allowed to speak. A total of 17 members spoke, highlighting both the successes and challenges that AOPA faces, and issues they want AOPA to work on. Members then voted to elect all 11 board members on the slate of candidates to a one-year term, including Peter Burwell and Ryan Samples, who are joining the board for the first time. Burwell has been an AOPA member for more than 15 years, and flies both fixed-wing and rotor, pistons and turbines. His aircraft of choice are a Cessna Skywagon for weekend flying and a Beechcraft Baron when he flies for business. He leads Burwell Enterprises, a family-owned diversified holding company, alongside his two brothers. Samples has been a member of AOPA for nearly 30 years and earned his private pilot certificate while in high school. He currently flies a Beechcraft V35 Bonanza, a Carbon Cub, an Icon A5, and a Cessna Citation CJ4. He founded BankOnIT in 2003, building it into one of the country’s leading providers of private cloud and IT infrastructure for community banks, and is a passionate advocate for bringing young people into flying. “My commitment to you is I value transparency,” said Wippler. “We won’t always agree, but we’ll know where each other stands, and I value optimism. I believe that this group gathered here today in Frederick because you care about GA and the need for a strong and vibrant AOPA. I ask that you lean in, that you be solution-oriented, and be additive to the organization.”

International News

USTDA Backs New Airport Development in the Philippines

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the development of a new international airport in Metro Manila, Philippines, that will strengthen secure transportation links with the United States. USTDA announced funding today for a feasibility study on the proposed Sangley Point International Airport, which would ease congestion at Manila’s existing airport and serve as a key international aviation gateway for the Philippines. The study will further high-quality infrastructure to serve the Philippines’ projected aviation needs and define strong security measures to protect direct flights to several major U.S. aviation hubs. Front (L-R) Seated: Cavitex President and CEO Leonides J.M. Virata and USTDA Indo-Pacific Regional Director Verinda Fike. Standing (L-R): U.S. Ambassador Heather Variava, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. to the Philippines Robert Ewing, and S-A-P Group President Bill Matz. “The high volume of direct international travel between the United States and the Philippines reflects the steadfast friendship of our two countries, and we share a desire to see passenger traffic flourish safely and efficiently,” said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA’s Deputy Director. “This project is one of many shared priorities with the Philippines government to achieve our collective goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific.” USTDA awarded the funding to Philippine project developer Cavitex Holdings Inc. (Cavitex), which selected California-based The S-A-P Group, LLC (SAP) to conduct the study. SAP will provide U.S. technical expertise to guide the airport’s development, including air traffic forecasts, financial analyses, and recommendations for advanced security screening at an airport expected to have direct flights to the United States. The study will also promote the adoption of trusted U.S. solutions, including screening technologies, airport construction components, safety and security equipment, telecommunications networks, and consulting services. The project aligns with the Luzon Economic Corridor effort aimed at strengthening connectivity and economic resilience across a key region of the Philippines. Sangley’s construction will address Manila’s rising travel demand and air traffic congestion by expanding the city’s capacity for both cargo and passenger traffic. Metro Manila is currently served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which served approximately 52 million travelers in 2025. Leonides J.M. Virata, President and CEO of Cavitex said: “Cavitex Holdings Inc welcomes the grant from the USTDA, highlighting its importance in accelerating the development of the SPIA, a key infrastructure project under the SPIA Devt Consortium. USTDA’s technical assistance will help advance project planning and implementation by enabling access to advanced U.S. expertise, innovative technologies, and global best practices. The SPIA initiative will deliver transformative benefits for the country – creating tens of thousands of jobs, enhancing mobility, and unlocking billions in long-term economic activity.”
Inside EAMS: How FL Technics Turns Aging Aviation Assets into Market Opportunities

As airlines continue to face engine shortages and extended repair timelines, demand for serviceable material is rising, pushing the market to increasingly rely on dismantled aircraft as a faster and more cost-effective source of components. At FL Technics, Adriana Wheeler, SVP of Business Development, and Modestas Valiusevicius, SVP of Strategic Asset Purchasing, focus on sourcing, evaluating, and returning assets to service, as well as generating material through teardowns, helping operators reduce downtime and bypass lengthy repair cycles. Understanding EAMS Adriana Wheeler and Modestas Valiusevicius. Within FL Technics, Engines, Airframes & Materials Services (EAMS) functions as a one-stop shop that handles all aspects of spare parts trading, repairs, and engine management. The team focuses on supplying materials at a lower cost and shorter lead times compared to new OEM parts. This is achieved through a structured process: acquiring airframes and engines, disassembling them, recertifying the components, and returning them to the market as serviceable material, helping airlines lower overall aircraft ownership costs. In parallel, inventory is continuously replenished through the sourcing of additional parts and material packages, ensuring consistent availability. According to SNS Insider, the global used serviceable material market is projected to reach $10.86 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.51%. This growth is driven by increasing aircraft retirements and the adoption of USM as part of airlines’ cost-reduction and sustainability strategies. What is asset trading? The definition of an “asset” varies across the industry. At FL Technics, the term is used broadly and includes airframes, engines (and major engine modules), landing gear, and auxiliary power units (APUs). Once an airframe is acquired and disassembled, these high-value assemblies become individual assets in their own right. Assets deemed unserviceable can hold significant value. When FL Technics purchases unserviceable engines, for example, it develops tailored solutions to repair and return them to service at lower cost, significantly extending their lifecycle. “We receive a constant flow of opportunities, which are then assessed by our evaluation team. They review each case in detail to determine the asset’s condition, potential value, and the work required to return it to service. This also includes assessing any additional equipment that may need repair or replacement,” notes Mr. Valiusevicius. The asset lifecycle: acquisition to market EAMS projects are inherently complex and long-term in nature. Success depends not only on technical expertise but also on strong relationships across the industry. At FL Technics, this involves close collaboration with lessors, airlines, and engine and asset management companies, supported by ongoing engagement through trade shows and direct client interaction. “We have developed relationships with all major leasing companies, airlines, and asset management companies and regularly receive RFPs (Requests for Proposal) for whole aircraft, engine, or airframe acquisitions. We conduct a detailed assessment of each opportunity, evaluating the asset’s current condition, required work scope, and investment needed before submitting a bid,” explains Ms. Wheeler. Once an asset is awarded, the process transitions into execution. FL Technics’ in-house legal team supports transaction efficiency, while technical teams conduct comprehensive reviews of records, certifications, and traceability. All repair work is performed at FAA-and-EASA certified shops, with strict requirements for serviceability, certification, and full traceability of all components. “One of the key problems that this model solves is time. Sending an engine for repair can be both lengthy and costly. For mid-life engines, we can often provide a serviceable solution that meets requirements at reduced cost and within a shorter timeframe,” says Ms. Wheeler. This value proposition is becoming increasingly relevant. According to the latest forecast by Aviation Week, engine spending is projected to account for 53% of total commercial aftermarket revenue in 2026 (up from 46% just two years prior), as rising parts costs and supply chain pressure push maintenance expenditure steadily higher. EAMS risk management Material availability can be unpredictable. In some cases, it takes longer to find the right module with the required configuration and remaining cycles, without over-building. To manage these challenges, FL Technics relies on clear internal standards, experienced personnel and vertically integrated capabilities, including ownership of its own engine shop, FL Technics Engine Services. This integration enables better cost control, reduced lead times, and greater operational flexibility. “We can secure maintenance slots in advance for assets arriving within weeks. This would be much harder if we had to rely on third-party service providers. There would simply be too many uncertainties. This gives us precious time and flexibility when we are searching materials,” says Mr. Valiusevicius.

Unmanned Systems

Embry-Riddle, FDOT Host Inaugural Summit to Shape Future of Advanced Air Mobility in State

More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic READ MORE
VIRTOWER Enhances Airspace Safety With Remote ID Drone Detection Upgrade

Photo – Virtower Government Support Vehicles with Drone Detection Virtower LLC has announced the successful upgrade of its sensor systems to support Remote ID drone detection—marking a major advancement in airspace safety for general aviation and commercial airport environments. With this upgrade, Virtower’s platform can now detect and display Remote ID-equipped drones in real time, READ MORE

Aviation Education

New Jersey Governor Recognizes History and Service to State and Nation of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, as New Jersey “Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Day.” The proclamation, the Governor stated, commemorates the Wing’s 85th Anniversary of service to the State and Nation, “as a fitting occasion to recognize its enduring contributions and honor the commitment of all READ MORE
Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day Brings Together a Wide Coalition to Promote The Commonwealth’s Industry

By Eric Blinderman Pa. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Photos by Eric Blinderman, Narrative Aviation Industry leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and students came together to connect, collaborate and share at the 3rd annual Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg. The event emphasizes the high-wage jobs and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s READ MORE

More Than $13.6 Million Announced for Airport Improvements Across Maine

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that multiple Maine airports will receive a total of $13,647,939 to support important infrastructure improvements. The funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Senator Collins helped to author. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, […]

Secretary Duffy Announces $835.8 Million for Air Traffic Control Facility Upgrades Across U.S.

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced the Department’s investment of over $750 million to replace eight air traffic control towers and Terminal Radar Approach Controls (TRACONs) with brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is providing $85.8 million to upgrade Federal Contract Towers (FCTs) at 41 airports across 24 states. “This […]

Federal Funding of More Than $21 Million Announced to Upgrade 8 Virginia Airports

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $21,024,663 in federal funding to improve airport infrastructure across Virginia. This funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which the senators have supported robust funding for through the annual federal budget process. “Travelers deserve the comfort of knowing […]

USTDA Backs New Airport Development in the Philippines

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the development of a new international airport in Metro Manila, Philippines, that will strengthen secure transportation links with the United States. USTDA announced funding today for a feasibility study on the proposed Sangley Point International Airport, which would ease congestion at Manila’s existing airport and serve as […]

McFarland Johnson Opens Syracuse Office to Strengthen Central New York Infrastructure Services

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

McFarland-Johnson, Inc. (MJ) recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Syracuse office with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by elected officials, CenterState CEO representatives, MJ leadership, clients, associates, and community guests underscoring the significance of MJ’s partnership with the region. The new office expands MJ’s local presence in Central New York and positions the firm […]

Updated Statewide Plan Guides Investments in 134 Public-Use Airports

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

For the first time since 2017, Washington has a new playbook for the skies. A recently completed, comprehensive roadmap called the Washington Aviation System Plan (WASP) guides how the state invests, protects and modernizes its 134 public-use airports over the coming decade. This update arrives at a pivotal moment, as Washington’s aviation system has faced […]

Embry-Riddle, FDOT Host Inaugural Summit to Shape Future of Advanced Air Mobility in State

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic […]

North Dakota Air Travel Set New April Record

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its April 2026 airline passenger statistics for the state’s eight commercial service airports. North Dakota’s commercial airports recorded 105,393 passenger boardings during April, establishing a new statewide passenger record for the month and surpassing the previous April high of 104,271 boardings set in 2025. Four North Dakota […]

AOPA Holds Annual Member Meeting, Elects New Trustees

May 17, 2026May 17, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) recently held its annual member meeting at the National Aviation Community Center in Frederick, Maryland, where it elected two new members to the Board of Trustees and heard feedback from 17 members. “This is a game of inches, I want to be clear,” said AOPA Board of Trustees […]

Airport Directors: Stop Telling Aviation Stories

May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Eric Blinderman Something recently said to an airport director caused a cocked head and a puzzled look. “Your story is not an aviation one,” he was told. For someone who lives and breathes airport operations and making sure it fits the needs of the pilot community, it was an understandable reaction. That’s his world. […]

Inside EAMS: How FL Technics Turns Aging Aviation Assets into Market Opportunities

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year

Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026