State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration
Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]
Carbon Cub UL Flies from Yakima, Washington to Australia in Epic Around-the-World Adventure
Photo – David Green’s Carbon Cub UL “Dusty,” N456DG, arrives at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during its nearly 17,000 NM journey from the United States to Australia. Photo Credit: Toru Yajima CubCrafters recently announced the successful completion of an extraordinary international journey by Australian pilot and aircraft owner David Green, […]
Cirrus Expands Grand Forks Manufacturing Facility to Support Growing Demand
Photo – Dignitaries at the Cirrus Grand Forks expansion ribbon cutting. On Friday, Cirrus celebrated the opening of its expanded manufacturing facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued investment in manufacturing excellence, safety and quality as well as long-term growth. The multi-million-dollar expansion provides the additional production capacity […]
Plans Unveiled to Transform Washington Dulles International Airport
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy alongside President Donald J. Trump in the Oval Office unveiled last week renderings for a landmark transformation of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Backed by a $20+ billion capital investment program, a historic collaboration between USDOT, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), and United Airlines will oversee the transformation […]

State News

MSP Airport to Close Runway 17-35 for Lighting Modernization

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) Runway 17-35 will close Sept. 8 for six weeks to upgrade electrical systems on the runway and connected taxiways. During the project, crews will replace all existing elevated and in-pavement halogen fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting along the entire runway — completing a multi-year effort to modernize airfield lighting. “This final phase of work will bring the entire MSP airfield to all LED lighting, improving airfield visibility, advancing long-term sustainability, reducing energy use and enhancing operational reliability,” said Bridget Rief, vice president of planning and development for the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which owns and operates MSP. “It’s a formative milestone given the extensive phasing and coordination required to install more than 6,100 airfield lights while maintaining safe operations during those various projects.” MSP’s Runway 17-35 will close on Sept. 8 for six weeks to upgrade electrical systems on the runway and connected taxiways. Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission There are no major impacts to aircraft operations expected during the Runway 17‑35 closure. Air traffic control will be able to assign departing or arriving flights to any of MSP’s three other runways based on wind direction, air traffic demand and other operational factors. Air traffic will return to pre-construction operational patterns once the runway work is completed, currently scheduled no later than Oct. 17. The LED lighting project will involve converting hundreds of fixtures from 20 to 6.6 input amperage. The conversion will provide a significant reduction in energy usage and improved equipment longevity — runway lights decrease from 120 watts to 50 watts, while taxiway lights decrease from 45 watts to 15 watts. Life expectancy increases from 2,000 hours for incandescent to 50,000 for LED. “Modernizing airfield lighting supports our efforts to enhance resiliency and reduce the airport’s total emissions, a key MAC sustainability goal,” said Rief. “These upgrades will also reduce maintenance frequency and operational downtime with fewer replacement cycles due to the improved life expectancy of the new lights.” For the Runway 17‑35 project phase alone, crews will install 436 runway lights and 617 taxiway lights — approximately 27% of the airfield’s total light output. The project also includes LED upgrades to airfield signage and the replacement of regulators and transformers associated with the runway lighting system. MSP’s airfield consists of four runways, 19 taxiways and 58 taxiway feeders with a total concrete pavement area that equals 210 lane miles (over 600 acres). The MAC began reducing airfield lighting energy use at MSP in 2019 by converting Runway 4-22 taxiway lighting and signage from incandescent to LED. It later completed LED conversions on runways 12L-30R in 2024 and 12R-30L in 2025.
Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United States. Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Nick M. Donohue The demonstration showcased Electra’s EL2 Ultra Short technology, which has the ability to take off and land in as short as 150 feet, opening new locations for air service to underserved urban environments and making regional travel faster, more affordable, and more accessible. The event underscored the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing innovation, strengthening the regional aerospace industry, and positioning Virginia as a hub for emerging aviation technologies. The demonstration is part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA)’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) to accelerate the safe deployment of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles in the National Airspace System. Advanced Air Mobility represents the next generation of technology in air transportation. AAM encompasses a new generation of aviation, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that are quieter, cost effective, and lower‑emission than traditional aircraft. This emerging technology creates near-endless opportunities for connecting communities more easily, improving access to essential services, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and supporting economic growth through faster, more flexible transportation options. Virginia’s continues to lead the way in AAM advancement and the Commonwealth’s participation in the eIPP initiative marks one of the nation’s first operational demonstrations of this innovative technology. The inaugural flights highlight the vast potential of the next generation of aviation, showcasing just a few of its many real‑world applications, from cargo transport and medical deliveries to public safety operations, workforce mobility, and future passenger travel. Through these early demonstrations, Virginia is helping to establish the national framework for safely and seamlessly integrating AAM aircraft into the existing aviation system and positioning the Commonwealth as a national leader in the deployment and real‑world utilization of this transformative technology. Electra EL2 “Advanced Air Mobility represents one of the most significant innovations in aviation in decades,” said Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. “Virginia is committed to supporting these emerging technologies because they will expand access, strengthen communities, and create new opportunities for citizens across the Commonwealth. We are proud to help lead the nation in demonstrating how AAM can be safely integrated into our existing aviation system.” Earlier this summer, Beta Technologies successfully conducted the first test flight as part of the eIPP initiative. The demonstration highlighted a fully electric aircraft’s ability to conduct controlled operations within an active airspace environment and provided valuable data on performance, communications, and air traffic integration. The completion of these AAM flights marks a significant milestone for Virginia and demonstrates the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing safe, sustainable, and forward-looking aviation technologies that will shape the future of transportation in Virginia.

National News

U.S. DOT Invests $481 Million to Improve Airport Infrastructure

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing $481 million to improve infrastructure and enhance safety at airports. The FAA is delivering 191 grants to airports in 36 states and two territories through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program, including: $100 million to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia for runway, taxiway and terminal reconstruction and runway safety area improvements. $32.5 million to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky to reconstruct the terminal. $30.3 million to San Diego International Airport in California for terminal construction. $14.2 million to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in Wisconsin for taxiway construction and rehabilitation. $8.7 million to El Paso International Airport in Texas to rehabilitate the apron. $2.5 million to general aviation airports in Wisconsin for terminal reconstruction, runway and taxiway rehabilitation and snow-removal-equipment building reconstruction “From our regional hubs to some of America’s busiest airports, we are investing in critical infrastructure that will provide American families with a more seamless, efficient travel experience for years to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation.” “We’re investing in airport infrastructure that keeps travelers safe and airports operating efficiently,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These grants will help airports across the country meet the demands of today’s travelers while preparing for the future.” Additional Information: AIG funding can be used for airport planning, development, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs. View a data visualization of the airports receiving funding.
GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve as exemplary models of character and excellence for the broader GA community. Community involvement in the awards program has decreased recently, resulting in fewer nominations and applications. GAA encourages flight schools, aviation organizations, universities, FSDOs, and other entities to nominate fellow aviators or submit applications. In nearly every aviation community, there are aviators and mechanics who deserve recognition for their efforts to improve and secure general aviation. The selection process begins following the November 30th deadline at the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO), where Honorees are chosen at the district level. These winners then advance to the national level, where a panel of judges, comprising of industry professionals and past Honorees, selects this year’s National Honorees. In addition to national recognition, winners present a live broadcast in which they share their knowledge and expertise, are awarded a trip to AirVenture, a commemorative plaque, and numerous gifts from industry sponsors. GAA is a nonprofit corporation run exclusively by volunteers and depends on financial support from sponsors and donations to provide these honors. Submissions and additional information about the process are available at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate.

International News

GAMA Releases Second Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased overall shipments and an increase in the value of aircraft billings. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston airplanes decrease by 3.1% with 786 units, turboprops increase 7.8% with 289 units, and business jets increase 8.2% with 383 units. The billings for airplanes through the second quarter of 2026 was $14.3 billion, an increase of 15.5%. Helicopter shipments through the second quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston helicopters increase by 5.8% with 110 units, and turbine helicopters increase by 3.3% with 309 units. The billings for civil-commercial helicopters was $2.2 billion. Six Months Aircraft Shipment & Billing Aircraft Type20252026% ChangePiston Airplanes811786-3.1%Turboprops268289+7.8%Business Jets354383+8.2%Total Airplanes1,4331,458+1.7%Total Airplane Billings$12.4B$14.3B+15.5%Piston Helicopters104110+5.8%Turbine Helicopters299309+3.3%Total Helicopters403419+4.0%Total Helicopter Billings$2.0B$2.2B+7.2% GAMA’s complete 2026 second quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
EAA Introduces 2026 Sport Aviation Halls of Fame Class

The Experimental Aircraft Association Sport Aviation Halls of Fame continue to grow as six new inductees will be honored as part of the 2026 class. The six inductees each represent a different area of aviation – homebuilders, ultralights, the International Aerobatic Club, the Vintage Aircraft Association, and EAA Warbirds of America. The 2026 inductees include: EAA Homebuilders Hall of Fame: Mike Blyth– Aircraft designer and Founder of Sling Aircraft, 1995 Microlight World Champion, and pioneer of early microlight aviation in South Africa International Aerobatic Club Hall of Fame: Mike Goulian – Renowned air show performer and air racer, 1995 National Unlimited Aerobatic Champion and three-time member of the US Unlimited Aerobatic Team Warbirds of America Hall of Fame: Ron and Diane Fagen – Warbird restorers and founders of the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum in Granite Falls, MN, home to more than 15 airworthy WWII aircraft Vintage Aircraft Association Hall of Fame: Tom Brown – Aircraft restoration craftsman who has been involved with and restored a wide variety of award-winning vintage airplanes EAA Ultralights Hall of Fame: Ronnie Smith – Founder of South Mississippi Light Aircraft (Now South Mississippi Legacy Aviation) The EAA Sport Aviation Halls of Fame were established to honor the outstanding achievements of men and women in aviation who share the spirit of EAA and its community. Those inducted into the halls of fame are selected by their peers for myriad contributions made to their respective areas of aviation. EAA will honor the new inductees at a dinner ceremony on November 11, 2026, in the Eagle Hangar of the EAA Aviation Museum.

Unmanned Systems

Phase 2 of FAA BEYOND Program Announced to Advance Drone Innovation

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching Phase 2 of the BEYOND program to expand the agency’s efforts to integrate drones into the national airspace system (NAS) and secure America’s leadership in aviation innovation. The FAA will double the program’s current size by selecting up to eight additional READ MORE
USI and Robotics Education & Competition Foundation Partner to Expand FAA Part 107 Preparation for Student Drone Competitors

The Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) and the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF) have announced a new partnership designed to provide participants in RECF’s Aerial Drone Competition program with access to FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot exam preparation, helping students extend their competitive drone experience into workforce and career opportunities. The partnership connects RECF’s hands-on READ MORE

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Accepting Payments From 529 Education Savings Plans

Epic Flight Academy can now accept payments from 529 education savings plans for qualifying educational expenses in eligible aviation training programs, such as Epic’s flight training and aircraft mechanic training. “Parents have frequently reached out inquiring about 529 plans, so we are happy to be able to accept payment from these plans now,” said director READ MORE
Blending Aviation History with the Workforce of Tomorrow

By Jana Gottlieb Walking through the Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Center in Hickory, North Carolina, visitors first encounter artifacts tied to the region’s military history before entering a hangar filled with 22 aircraft. Several invite visitors to get close, touch them and, in some cases, climb inside. But the facility READ MORE

U.S. DOT Invests $481 Million to Improve Airport Infrastructure

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing $481 million to improve infrastructure and enhance safety at airports. The FAA is delivering 191 grants to airports in 36 states and two territories through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program, including: “From our regional hubs to some of America’s busiest airports, […]

MSP Airport to Close Runway 17-35 for Lighting Modernization

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) Runway 17-35 will close Sept. 8 for six weeks to upgrade electrical systems on the runway and connected taxiways. During the project, crews will replace all existing elevated and in-pavement halogen fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting along the entire runway — completing a multi-year effort to modernize airfield lighting. “This […]

GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve […]

GAMA Releases Second Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased overall shipments and an increase in the value of aircraft billings. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of […]

National Aeronautic Association Announces 2026 Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) recently announced the 2026 class of Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation. Established in 1954, this prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Americans who, through their dedicated efforts over many years, have made enduring contributions to aeronautics and spaceflight. “The Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation recognition reflects a lifetime of leadership, […]

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]

2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory Available Featuring Updated Information

September 6, 2026September 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

The new 2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory is now available. The directory offers aerial photographs and detailed descriptions of all 120 Missouri public-use airports. It includes information specific to the landing facility as well as local area attractions and services. The Missouri Airport Directory helps those in the aviation community plan flights by providing information about […]

FAA Grants Commercial Operating Certificate to Washington Manassas Airport

September 6, 2026September 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it granted Washington Manassas Airport (HEF) a Part 139 Airport Operating Certificate, which allows the airport to accommodate certain commercial passenger airlines. “Commercial flights coming into Manassas will provide more economic growth within the community and create another commercial airport to service the Washington D.C. area,” said FAA […]

Ontario International Airport Authority Elects Loveridge, Porada as Commission President, Vice President

September 5, 2026September 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners recently elected new leadership, selecting Dr. Ronald O. Loveridge to serve as Board president and Debra Porada as vice president. Loveridge, former mayor of Riverside, has served on the OIAA Board of Commissioners since its founding in 2012. He began his career in public service as […]

Tommy Mann Promoted to Deputy Director of Airport Development

September 5, 2026September 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Nicholas Short, PE, PLS, Director, Division of Aviation, North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced that Tommy Mann, PE, the Aviation Division’s Eastern Lead Airport Project Manager (APM), has been promoted to Deputy Director of Airport Development. Mann will lead the statewide airport development team, which manages programs funded through state and federal grants and […]

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

Carbon Cub UL Flies from Yakima, Washington to Australia in Epic Around-the-World Adventure

Cirrus Expands Grand Forks Manufacturing Facility to Support Growing Demand

Plans Unveiled to Transform Washington Dulles International Airport