State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights
The Air Force’s VC-25B Bridge aircraft has officially arrived at the Presidential Airlift Group and will commence its initial commissioning flights, marking the successful delivery of a secure, modified executive platform. Fresh from receiving its new red, white, and blue livery and the final government modifications, the aircraft has entered service to provide critical, secure […]
Adacel to Deliver REVAL Remote Tower System for Labasa Airport in Fiji
Adacel Technologies Limited (Adacel), announced it has been awarded a new contract from Fiji Airports to implement a remote tower system for Labasa Airport, enabling aerodrome air traffic services to be delivered from a centralized Remote Tower Centre (RTC) in Nadi. This is the first such installation for the Pacific Islands. With Labasa Airport servicing […]
Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home
For the millions of travelers who pass through Asheville Regional Airport each year, the terminal is the first sight of home and the last glimpse of it before departure. Now, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is offering two artists, or artist-led teams, the opportunity to define that moment permanently. AVL is actively seeking artists for two […]
Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026
I’m going to be completely honest with you. I’ve been counting down the days until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 since the very moment I hit the road home from AirVenture 2025. It’s what I do, it’s who I am! Sure, you lose count as you enter the ‘ber months, or burrr months, depending on where […]

State News

Lone Star Flight Museum Recognizes Long-Time Museum Supporter Ed Noel’s Jet Racer

Photo – Aero L-39C Albatros “American Spirit” jet racer at the “Innovations in Flight” event at the Udvar-Hazy Center. Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. Photo credit: LSFM The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) congratulated its long-time supporter and donor, Ed Noel, on the induction of his Aero L-39C Albatros “American Spirit” jet racer into the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the L-39C flew over the “Innovations in Flight” Smithsonian event and was accepted into the museum’s permanent collection. After undergoing the Smithsonian’s selection process, Noel’s plane was chosen based on its historical importance, rarity and cultural significance. His aircraft has racked up numerous awards for speed and world records, which include eight first place and nine top five finishes making it a compelling addition to the Smithsonian collection. The L-39C is a high-performance jet trainer aircraft designed and produced by Aero Vodochody in the Czech Republic. The L-39C “American Spirit” was featured as LSFM’s Plane of the Month in November 2024. To honor LSFM, Noel added both the museum’s official logo and Plane of the Month logo to the aircraft’s tail.
Ontario International Airport Advances Sustainability Efforts with First Zero-Emission Fleet Truck

Photo – Ontario International Airport’s new zero-emission ZM Truck will be used to support airport logistics, facilities maintenance and transportation services. Ontario International Airport has taken another step forward in its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency with the purchase of its first zero-emission fleet vehicle, a fully electric truck designed to support airport operations. Last week, members of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners formally unveiled the new vehicle, which was manufactured by ZO Motors USA LLC in Fontana. The truck, branded on all four sides with ONT’s logo and messaging, will be used to support airport logistics, facilities maintenance and transportation services, including the movement of temperature-sensitive materials. “This is a smart investment that aligns with our commitment to sustainability while enhancing our day-to-day operations,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the OIAA Board. “We are proud to partner with a local manufacturer to bring innovative, zero-emission technology into our fleet while continuing to serve the growing needs of our airport community.” The purchase is fully funded through a grant agreement with San Bernardino County. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the electric truck is expected to deliver long-term cost savings through lower fuel consumption, reduced maintenance and decreased overall operating expenses compared to diesel-powered vehicles. The investment reflects ONT’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship. The airport has eight electric shuttle buses to transport passengers between parking lots and terminals, supports expanded public transit access through services such as ONT Connect, and incorporates recycled materials in the reconstruction of taxiways and roadways. Additional initiatives include the use of reclaimed water for irrigation, incentivizing airport partners to transition to cleaner equipment, and enhanced waste diversion in both terminals. ONT is also using grants to deploy electric-powered systems that regulate aircraft cabin temperatures at gates, reducing reliance on jet fuel.

National News

Airlines for America Announces Marco Sylvester as Senior Vice President, International Affairs

Airlines for America (A4A) announced that Marco Sylvester has joined the organization as Senior Vice President of International Affairs. Marco Sylvester In this role, Sylvester will lead A4A’s international policy strategy and engagement, working with global stakeholders to advance the priorities of U.S. airlines and promote a safe, competitive and sustainable international aviation system. “Marco brings a deep understanding of both transportation policy and international affairs at a pivotal moment for our industry,” said A4A President and CEO Gov. Chris Sununu. “His experience across government and the private sector will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for policies that further strengthens U.S. aviation leadership around the world.” Sylvester most recently served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, where he led international aviation negotiations and worked closely with foreign governments to advance U.S. transportation interests. Previously, he was a Senior Policy Advisor at Venable LLP, advising clients across the transportation sector, including airlines and emerging transportation technology companies. Earlier in his career, Sylvester served as Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff in the Office of the Secretary of Transportation at the U.S. Department of Transportation and as a Legislative Assistant to Congressman Robert Pittenger, where he managed the transportation and foreign affairs portfolio. Sylvester is originally from West Hartford, Connecticut, and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northeastern University.
VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights

The Air Force’s VC-25B Bridge aircraft has officially arrived at the Presidential Airlift Group and will commence its initial commissioning flights, marking the successful delivery of a secure, modified executive platform. Fresh from receiving its new red, white, and blue livery and the final government modifications, the aircraft has entered service to provide critical, secure continuity for the commander in chief. The delivery of the Bridge aircraft fulfills an imperative to relieve pressure on the aging VC-25A fleet as heavy maintenance cycles extend, safeguarding the continuity of presidential airlift operations until the long-term Boeing VC-25B enters service. “The safety and security of the commander in chief is our highest priority,” said Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink. “From the beginning, we meticulously evaluated every requirement to accelerate delivery while maintaining the high standards expected of the presidential mission. This effort proves that the U.S. Air Force can move fast without sacrificing quality, security, or reliability.” Commissioning Flights VC-25B Bridge aircraft arrives at Joint Base Andrews, begins commissioning flights. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photos). Commissioning flights are the “final exam” for the aircraft modification. They provide both an opportunity for the White House enterprise to validate mission-capability, while also finalizing protocols required to safely and securely transport the President of the United States and enable his execution of his three constitutional roles; Chief Executive, Commander in Chief, and Head of State. Once these flights are successfully completed, the aircraft is officially “commissioned” into the active executive airlift fleet and becomes available for presidential missions along with the VC-25A and C-32 fleets. Safety, Security, and Secure Communications at the Forefront The Bridge program represents what is possible when the collective stakeholders across the public and private sector align behind one foundational mission outcome. Any aircraft bestowed the call sign “Air Force One” must meet rigorous security requirements to ensure the President remains safe, protected, and fully connected. The VC-25B Bridge aircraft was modified under a disciplined engineering approach that prioritized these exact core The aircraft is safe, secure and equipped with the most advanced technologies necessary to meet the requirements of the presidential mission. Those requirements were carefully crafted to prioritize mission over aesthetics, leaving much of the previous head of state interior layout minimally changed. No risk was taken in security, safety or mission communications, but the collective team made trades on some of the less commonly used mission sets that Boeing must deliver to support the next 40 years. Balancing acceleration with security and operational readiness, the VC-25B Bridge program represents a fundamental shift in rapid, secure capability delivery. Every facet of the bridge program was oriented towards acceleration and thinking differently. Operational readiness depends on three key components: mission capability to perform assigned tasks, highly trained personnel to operate and maintain the aircraft, and adequate logistics support including, spare parts and resources, all of which were rigorously assessed. To ensure mission capability, an elite group of interagency experts developed benchmark protocols to detect and, if necessary, neutralize potential technical hazards on the previously owned aircraft. The training pipeline started last October with the lease of an Atlas Air 747-8F to begin training pilots and maintainers followed by the purchase of a Lufthansa 747-8i as a full-time training asset for the entire crew complement. Additionally, a full three-dimensional mock-up of the interior of VC-25B Bridge delivered in January 2026 provided the White House enterprise the ability to begin familiarization training ahead of the bridge’s first commissioning flight. Underpinning the entire program, is logistics support. Acceleration focused on procuring initial spares and establishing a supply chain, not only for this aircraft, but as a launching point for future 747-8 fleet. “We are proud to deliver the VC-25B Bridge aircraft to the President,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. “Many thought it could not be done, but the United States Air Force was able to execute and provide a secure, reliable airborne command post on an accelerated timeline.”

International News

Adacel to Deliver REVAL Remote Tower System for Labasa Airport in Fiji

Adacel Technologies Limited (Adacel), announced it has been awarded a new contract from Fiji Airports to implement a remote tower system for Labasa Airport, enabling aerodrome air traffic services to be delivered from a centralized Remote Tower Centre (RTC) in Nadi. This is the first such installation for the Pacific Islands. With Labasa Airport servicing the broader population of Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second largest island, this project represents an important step in the modernization of air traffic management services within the Fiji Domestic Airspace. It will enhance operational efficiency, strengthen safety, and support more resilient aviation operations across the region. The project forms part of Fiji’s government-led investment in tourism-enabling infrastructure under the World Bank-financed Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu. Led by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation in collaboration with Fiji Airports and other implementing partners, the program supports coordinated investments to strengthen regional connectivity, improve essential infrastructure and services, and enable sustainable tourism development across Vanua Levu and Taveuni. “Fiji Airports’ selection of Adacel to deliver this remote tower program reflects a shared commitment to advancing aviation capabilities in the region,” said Daniel Verret, Chief Executive Officer of Adacel. “Our REVAL remote tower solution is a certified, operational, and field-proven platform that delivers enhanced situational awareness and operational resilience, providing a scalable approach to modernizing aerodrome services while enabling customers to expand capabilities over time and maintain long term efficiency and sustainability.” Mesake Seavula Nawari, Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Airports said, “This project marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Fiji’s air traffic management services and reflects our commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and resilient aviation operations for the people of Vanua Levu.” He continued, “By introducing remote tower technology at Labasa Airport, we are strengthening the reliability and sustainability of air services, improving connectivity for residents, businesses, and visitors, and supporting the continued growth of tourism and economic opportunities across the Northern Division. As the first remote tower installation in the Pacific Islands, this project also positions Fiji at the forefront of aviation innovation in the region and demonstrates our commitment to investing in smart, future-ready infrastructure that will serve our communities for generations to come.” Delivering a modern remote tower solution Under the contract, Adacel will deploy its REVAL digital tower system in a remote tower configuration, consisting of a Remote Tower Module (RTM) installed at Labasa Airport and a Remote Tower Centre (RTC) located at the Nadi Operations Centre. This architecture enables real-time operational visibility and control from a centralized facility, supporting safe and efficient remote service delivery. The solution will deliver high-resolution out-the-window views through an advanced camera system, combined with intelligent video processing and augmentation capabilities. These features provide enhanced situational awareness, supporting safe and effective operations in a wide range of operational conditions.
Global Airport Public-Private Partnership Investment Reached $52 Billion in 2025

Worldwide, 13 new airport public-private partnerships were launched in 2025, with a total value of $9.83 billion, according to Reason Foundation’s Annual Aviation Infrastructure Report. The paper finds that global airport public-private partnership deal values jumped to $51.96 billion across 79 projects in 2025, exceeding the pre-pandemic 2019 level of $51 billion and significantly above the 2020 low of $11 billion. The annual report shows that 49% of global passenger air traffic now passes through airports with significant private investment and management. Today, over 80% of regional passenger traffic in Latin America and Europe goes through privately-backed airports, but just 7% of traffic in the US and North America does. London Heathrow, Paris de Gaulle, Rome Fiumicino, Zürich, Istanbul, Vienna, and Melbourne are some of the major airports privately managed. The paper also finds that the remote air traffic control tower market is now projected to grow from $537 million in 2025 to $3.3 billion by 2035.

Unmanned Systems

Oregon to Host Aviation Delegation from South Korea to Advance International Collaboration and Innovation

The State of Oregon will host a high-level South Korean aviation delegation July 26–30, 2026, to explore investment, research, and commercial partnership opportunities across the aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors. The delegation, approximately 25 government, industry, and research representatives from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT), the READ MORE
Oregon Department of Aviation Releases UAS Operations and Policy Manual Template for State and Local Agencies

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has released a new Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations and Policy Manual template to help Oregon state agencies, cities, counties, special districts, and other public bodies develop safe and consistent drone programs. The template is designed as a practical starting point for agencies that use, or are considering the use READ MORE

Aviation Education

ACIT Aviation Program Launches Student into Prestigious Air Force Flight Academy Scholarship

From classroom to cockpit, Atlantic County Institute of Technology’s (ACIT) Aviation Studies program is launching junior student Andrew Merlock into the prestigious Air Force Junior ROTC (AFJROTC) Flight Academy. Merlock will continue to train for and earn his private pilot certification over the summer break. His selection highlights ACIT’s expanding role in preparing students for READ MORE
US Aviation Academy Partners with Texas State University to Expand Aviation Science Degree and Flight Training to Four New Locations

US Aviation Academy has announced a partnership with Texas State University (TXST) to expand the university’s Aviation Science degree program to New Braunfels and Denton, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; and Kansas City, Kansas. The collaboration pairs an accredited college degree with the professional flight training and certifications students need to launch careers as commercial and airline READ MORE

Airlines for America Announces Marco Sylvester as Senior Vice President, International Affairs

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Airlines for America (A4A) announced that Marco Sylvester has joined the organization as Senior Vice President of International Affairs. In this role, Sylvester will lead A4A’s international policy strategy and engagement, working with global stakeholders to advance the priorities of U.S. airlines and promote a safe, competitive and sustainable international aviation system. “Marco brings a […]

Lone Star Flight Museum Recognizes Long-Time Museum Supporter Ed Noel’s Jet Racer

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Aero L-39C Albatros “American Spirit” jet racer at the “Innovations in Flight” event at the Udvar-Hazy Center. Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. Photo credit: LSFM The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) congratulated its long-time supporter and donor, Ed Noel, on the induction of his Aero L-39C Albatros “American Spirit” jet racer into […]

VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Air Force’s VC-25B Bridge aircraft has officially arrived at the Presidential Airlift Group and will commence its initial commissioning flights, marking the successful delivery of a secure, modified executive platform. Fresh from receiving its new red, white, and blue livery and the final government modifications, the aircraft has entered service to provide critical, secure […]

Ontario International Airport Advances Sustainability Efforts with First Zero-Emission Fleet Truck

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Ontario International Airport’s new zero-emission ZM Truck will be used to support airport logistics, facilities maintenance and transportation services. Ontario International Airport has taken another step forward in its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency with the purchase of its first zero-emission fleet vehicle, a fully electric truck designed to support airport operations. […]

North Dakota Airports Post Second-Highest May Passenger Total

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its May 2026 airline passenger statistics for the state’s eight commercial service airports. North Dakota’s commercial service airports recorded 104,951 passenger boardings during May 2026, making it the second-highest May passenger total in state history. The total was just 2.4 percent below the record-setting May 2025 level, […]

Oregon to Host Aviation Delegation from South Korea to Advance International Collaboration and Innovation

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

The State of Oregon will host a high-level South Korean aviation delegation July 26–30, 2026, to explore investment, research, and commercial partnership opportunities across the aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors. The delegation, approximately 25 government, industry, and research representatives from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT), the […]

Phoenix Airport System Participates in Nationwide Recognition of Airport Workers

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is among airports throughout North America that will recognize workers on Airport Workers Day, June 25. Airport Workers Day shows appreciation for the people who help keep airports operational, passengers and cargo moving, and the economy of the state running. Phoenix Sky Harbor, Deer Valley, and Goodyear airports make up […]

Louisiana Governor Signs ADS-B Billing Ban

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry signed HB 730 into law, joining the growing number of states moving to stop the use of ADS-B—a safety technology—to collect fees from pilots. AOPA views this action as an important recognition that ADS-B, a technology used by pilots and air traffic controllers to prevent mid-air collisions, should not be used […]

Colorado Division of Aeronautics Announces 2026 Recognition Program Honorees

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

Every year, the Colorado Division of Aeronautics honors the outstanding individuals and organizations shaping the future of their state’s aviation system. This year’s awards were presented at the 2026 Colorado Airport Operators Association (CAOA) Spring Conference, held June 10–12 in Pueblo, Colorado. The Division was thrilled to celebrate excellence across the state by presenting four […]

ACIT Aviation Program Launches Student into Prestigious Air Force Flight Academy Scholarship

June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 Kim Stevens

From classroom to cockpit, Atlantic County Institute of Technology’s (ACIT) Aviation Studies program is launching junior student Andrew Merlock into the prestigious Air Force Junior ROTC (AFJROTC) Flight Academy. Merlock will continue to train for and earn his private pilot certification over the summer break. His selection highlights ACIT’s expanding role in preparing students for […]

VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights

Adacel to Deliver REVAL Remote Tower System for Labasa Airport in Fiji

Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home

Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026