State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

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 […]
Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport
The City of Springfield and the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board has announced the appointment of David Schaumburg, AAE, as director of aviation, effective June 28. His salary will be $220,000. “I am very pleased to announce Dave Schaumburg as the next director of aviation for the Springfield-Branson National Airport,” said City Manager David Cameron. “Dave’s […]
Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership
Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]

State News

AIR Act Introduced to Modernize Aviation Funding and Strengthen Airports Across the Commonwealth

Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) earlier this month introduced Senate Bill 1365, the Pennsylvania AIR Act, aimed at modernizing aviation funding and providing long-term support for airports across the commonwealth. The bill creates a dedicated Aviation Trust Fund to provide stable, predictable funding for airport improvements, workforce development, air service expansion and emerging aviation technologies. Funding for the trust fund includes: A portion of state sales and use tax revenue Increased aviation fuel taxes (1.5¢ → 24¢ per gallon) and jet fuel taxes (1.1¢ → 8¢ per gallon) Taxes on emerging aviation fuels, including hydrogen and electricity used for aircraft propulsion Updated aircraft registration fees Modernized licensing and inspection fees for certain aviation facilities Federal aviation funding and related revenues The legislation expands support for airport development projects, public airport property tax reimbursement, workforce training and aviation-related economic development initiatives. Laughlin said the goal is to ensure Pennsylvania’s airports remain competitive and well-supported. “Airports are economic engines for communities across Pennsylvania,” Laughlin said. “This legislation is about making sure they have the resources needed to grow, compete and serve the public for generations to come.” Airport leadership in Erie emphasized the broader competitive challenge facing Pennsylvania airports. “The AIR Act is landmark legislation that will take the commonwealth into a new era, competing against West Virginia, Ohio and New York,” said Derek Martin, executive director, Erie International Airport. Regional business leaders pointed to the importance of sustained investment in air service and economic development. “Air service is an economic Imperative for communities across the commonwealth,” said Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership CEO Brandon Mendoza. “In Erie, our business community has rallied to support our airport, and we’ve seen a resurgence in flight access. But to secure long-term sustainability, a true public-private partnership is needed. The commonwealth needs to help Pennsylvania airports level the playing field with neighboring states.” Statewide aviation advocates highlighted the long-term policy impact. “The AIR Act is a transformational investment that modernizes how Pennsylvania supports aviation and the communities that depend on it,” said BJ Teichman, president, Aviation Council of Pennsylvania. “This legislation strengthens aviation safety, infrastructure, workforce development, economic development and emerging aviation technology while ensuring aviation-generated dollars are reinvested back into aviation. The AIR Act positions Pennsylvania to remain competitive and prepared for the future of flight.” The legislation has been introduced in the Senate and awaits consideration in the Transportation Committee.
Lincoln Airport, Nebraska Air National Guard Celebrate Historic $100M Runway Reconstruction Project

The Lincoln Airport Authority and Nebraska Air National Guard last week welcomed federal, state and local leaders, project partners and members of the media to the Runway 18/36 Reconstruction Project site to highlight one of the most significant infrastructure investments in Lincoln Airport’s history. Rachel Barth, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development for the Lincoln Airport Authority. Estimated at approximately $100 million, the multi-year reconstruction of Lincoln Airport’s 12,901-foot Runway 18/36 will modernize one of the longest runways in the United States and preserve a nationally significant aviation asset supporting commercial air service, general aviation, military operations and emergency response missions. Funded through a partnership of federal, state and local resources, the project represents a collaborative effort between the Lincoln Airport Authority, Nebraska Air National Guard, Federal Aviation Administration, Nebraska Department of Transportation and numerous community stakeholders. “This project is about much more than replacing pavement,” said Rachel Barth, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development for the Lincoln Airport Authority. “At 12,901 feet long, Runway 18/36 is one of the longest runways in the country and one of Nebraska’s most important pieces of transportation infrastructure. This investment preserves a nationally significant asset that supports economic development, military readiness, commercial aviation and emergency response capabilities. The benefits of this project will be felt far beyond Lincoln for decades to come.” Originally constructed to support military operations at the former Lincoln Air Force Base, Runway 18/36 continues to serve as a critical transportation and national defense asset. Its exceptional length allows Lincoln Airport to accommodate a wide range of aircraft, including some of the largest military and civilian aircraft operating today. “This runway can handle some of the heaviest and most critical aircraft in our nation’s inventory, including the C-5 Galaxy and the E-4B Nightwatch National Airborne Operations Center,” said Major General Craig Strong, Adjutant General of Nebraska and Commander of the Nebraska National Guard. “Its reconstruction ensures we can continue supporting mission readiness, global mobility and national defense operations for years to come.” The event featured remarks from Lincoln Airport Authority officials, State Senator Eliot Bostar, Major General Craig Strong, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer and representatives from Constructors, Inc., the project’s primary contractor. Senator Fischer, who has long advocated for federal investment in Lincoln Airport infrastructure, highlighted the importance of the project to both Nebraska and the nation. “After years of advocacy and partnership, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made to advance this critical project,” said Fischer. “Runway 18/36 serves not only Nebraska’s aviation needs but also plays an important role in supporting military readiness and economic growth across our region.” Senator Bostar was also recognized for his support of state investment and partnership efforts that helped advance the project. The reconstruction project will enhance safety, reliability and operational capability while ensuring the airfield can continue supporting civilian and military missions for decades to come. It also underscores the longstanding partnership between Lincoln Airport and the Nebraska Air National Guard’s 155th Air Refueling Wing, one of the state’s most important military installations. When completed, the reconstructed runway will continue supporting one of the nation’s premier joint-use airport facilities, strengthening Nebraska’s transportation infrastructure while advancing economic development, air connectivity and national security.

National News

Electric Aircraft Symposium Returns to Oshkosh

Established in 2007, this year will mark the 20th annual Electric Aircraft Symposium. The 2026 EAS hosted by the Vertical Flight Society Federal City Chapter (VFS FCC) will be held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 18 and 19, on the two days immediately prior to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh campus. The event will feature 12 in-depth sessions with more than three dozen speakers from the advanced air mobility (AAM) industry encompassing a broad range of topics covering a wide variety of electric aircraft categories — light sport, training, general and regional aircraft, as well as helicopters and vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) — featuring battery-, hybrid- and hydrogen-electric propulsion approaches, plus sessions on infrastructure and regulations. This year’s program will include presentations from two electric helicopter developers (Robinson and United Therapeutics), eight eVTOL developers (Archer, Beta, Eve, Horizon, Joby, Jump, Pivotal, SkyFly and Wisk), six conventional electric aircraft developers (Ampaire, AURA, Bye, Electra, EVIO and Pipistrel) and six propulsion system companies: H2FLY, H55, Hydroplane, magniX, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Whisper Aero. EAS2026 will also highlight two recent developments expected to stimulate renewed interest in electric aircraft across the United States: The FAA’s new MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification) rule that revolutionizes general aviation by updating light sport aircraft (LSA) categories to include electric propulsion, rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft for the first time. The FAA and US DoT’s new eVTOL Integration Pilot Project (eIPP), which will see eight projects spanning 26 states and involve leading aircraft manufacturers, operators, state partners and airports. EAS has grown over the past two decades and serves as a showcase of the increasing momentum and variety of electrically powered aircraft. The first EAS was held in 2007 in Santa Rosa, California, and moved to Oshkosh in 2017 to attract a wider aviation audience. REGISTRATION and a detailed agenda can be found on the website www.eas2026.org. EAS2026 Discount Courtesy of the VFS FCC and Five Alpha LLC, you are eligible for a $50 discount off the early-bird and regular ticket prices for in-person registration for the Electric Aircraft Symposium, and the discount can also be used to purchase the EAS2026 video and presentation package. To receive the discount, proceed to the “Buy Tickets” link, select the ticket option(s) and enter the discount code EAS2026x50RA on the payment page.
WMG Expands Team with Five Strategic Hires

WMG has announced the addition of six new professionals to support its growing team with expertise in complex aviation, commercial and public-sector construction programs nationwide. Maritza Godina Maritza Godina joins WMG as a Tenant/ADR Project Manager based in Seattle, Washington. She brings 18 years of experience delivering large-scale tenant improvement and concession projects across major airport and commercial developments. She supports the South Concourse Evolution project in Seattle, overseeing complex buildouts involving multiple stakeholders and tenant groups. Previously, she managed concessions redevelopment initiatives and high-value programs across terminals at Los Angeles International Airport. Eric Lederman Eric Lederman joins the firm as a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) Consultant with extensive environmental and safety leadership experience in aviation and infrastructure projects. Lederman has led environmental compliance and safety initiatives on major programs at Los Angeles International Airport, including the Delta Skyway modernization. He is recognized for maintaining high standards of safety, quality and compliance across complex, fast-paced project environments. Ivy Ayad Ivy Ayad joins WMG as an Accounting Clerk with more than nine years of international accounting and finance experience. She has managed key financial operations across organizations in the United States, Australia and Europe. Ayad brings deep expertise in ERP systems along with strong analytical and reporting capabilities that support accurate and efficient financial operations. Patrick Schee Patrick Schee joins WMG as a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Manager, bringing over a decade of experience in construction management and public-sector project delivery. Currently supporting the LAX Terminal 5 project, he oversees stormwater compliance activities to ensure adherence to environmental permit requirements through active coordination with contractors and agencies. Zuzanna Cermak Zuzanna Cermak joins WMG as an Assistant Project Manager with more than a decade of experience managing complex residential, commercial and specialty construction projects. She has led multi-phase developments exceeding $20 million, overseeing schedules, budgets, subcontractors and compliance across active and occupied sites. Her experience includes facade reconstruction, fire protection systems and large-scale renovations, as well as managing permitting and multi-agency coordination on high-profile aviation projects. Maxwell Bates Maxwell Bates joins WMG as a Procurement Manager, bringing more than 12 years of experience in construction procurement, contract administration and cost control. He has supported commercial and residential projects ranging from $2 million to $25 million, with expertise spanning subcontractor buyout, preconstruction planning and project execution, including the LAX Gateway program. “The collective expertise and years of proven excellence that Maritza, Eric, Ivy, Patrick, Zuzanna and Maxwell bring to the WMG team will help us continue to deliver the high-quality client experience our partners have come to know us for,” said Lauren Weinbaum, WMG’s founder and president. “We are proud to have them contributing to the continued growth of our firm as we reach into new markets and geographies.” Together, these new team members reflect WMG’s continued investment in experienced professionals who bring specialized expertise to complex project environments and strengthen the firm’s ability to deliver high-quality outcomes across sectors.

International News

When the Schedule Fails: How Commercial Aviation’s Perfect Storm is Reshaping Demand for Private Charter

In an increasingly turbulent aviation landscape where delays, cancellation, strikes, and airport congestion are becoming worryingly familiar, private and charter aviation offer a more dependable alternative. Marton Modis, Chief Commercial Officer for VIP operations at premium VIP charter and ACMI provider KlasJet, shares an insider view on the changing business travel environment. The European airline industry is facing a convergence of pressures with few precedents. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has pushed jet fuel prices to $150–200 per barrel, prompting carriers such as Lufthansa to cut tens of thousands of short-haul flights. Unresolved ATC strikes across France, Spain and Italy are compounding the disruption, while Eurocontrol data shows these three countries already account for two-thirds of all en-route flow management delays. The result is a commercial aviation network under sustained, structural pressure — and you have the perfect storm. Uncertainty cuts both ways Marton Modis The natural assumption may be that this level of instability in commercial air travel would lead to a rise in charter travel, but the picture is far more nuanced than that. As Marton Modis, Chief Commercial Officer for VIP operations at KlasJet, explains: “The current political landscape has affected aviation massively. All of this has created a ton of uncertainty: airlines are reducing routes, passengers are more hesitant to spend big on travel. For us, it has created an even bigger divide – clients who fly with us regularly are now more reliant on us than ever, but those for whom chartering is not business-critical are being very cautious.” Although there was an uptick in enquiries after the initial wave of disruptions, the situation has now stabilised, and volume is roughly in line with 2025. Modis, however, is quick to strike a note of caution. “This year is a little out of balance, born out of the uncertainty in the market.” Who feels it most Nonetheless, from this challenging and complex picture a new client segment is emerging for the charter industry: organisations and individuals who had hitherto relied on commercial aviation for their business critical travel. “Corporate delegations, sports teams, government clients and family offices who mostly stayed away from chartering are now facing a choice: cancel – which is not always feasible – or increase budgets and choose charter. We work with these clients to limit their financial exposure while building long-term relationships, in the hope they will still come back to chartering even when the commercial aviation industry recovers.” This new segment brings with it a new suite of requests, Modis continues. “We’re seeing last minute schedule recoveries, where a group needs to get airborne after their commercial connection has collapsed. This kind of request drove demand early in the year. But now that businesses are becoming more aware of the surrounding structural pressures, they’ve started planning ahead. And this means they are placing more emphasis on having a reliable partner.” Risk management, not luxury This expansion in client base reflects a broader redefinition of the notion of luxury, as Modis is quick to emphasize: “Luxury is today defined less by sparkle and gold than it is by convenience, speed, comfort and agility. Our job is to highlight that while our service is rooted in traditional luxury values, our operations are designed to serve these more modern definitions. For clients weighing the cost of a charter against the cost of a missed connection, the conversation isn’t really about price or glitter – it’s about risk management.” The charter model offered by operators such as KlasJet is one that is engineered for unpredictability. Whenever needed, the client’s booking can come with A, B and C plan options to ensure that eventualities are covered. The team monitors each flight in real time, with schedule changes being made proactively, before the client even is aware of any issues. As Modis illustrates: “If an airport announces a strike from 12 UTC, we make sure to depart beforehand, communicating with the client at every step. Flexibility and communication are key – no surprises.” Looking ahead With ATC strikes so far unresolved in Spain and France, a Lufthansa pilot workforce holding a near-unanimous strike mandate, and the Strait of Hormuz showing no imminent resolution, the pressure on commercial aviation is unlikely to ease before peak season begins. KlasJet’s June–September schedule is already full – long-lead bookings alongside same-day requests – with the FIFA World Cup in the United States adding further weight to an already unpredictable year. For clients with fixed travel obligations, the window to secure capacity is narrowing. “Chartering is already a major and critical element of business travel. We expect that this will be even more significant going forward – and KlasJet is ready to meet that demand.”
Mason City Municipal to Host World’s Top Aerobatic Pilots

The 2026 World Aerobatic Championship has been relocated to the Mason City Municipal Airport. Competition flying will take place from August 24 through September 2, bringing more than 35 of the world’s top aerobatic pilots to north-central Iowa. The pilots will represent countries from around the globe and compete for individual and team honors. “Mason City will be a great venue, with abundant hangars for aircraft and teams, limited airfield traffic, and direct air carrier service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport,” organizers said in a press release. “We’re incredibly grateful for the strong support from the Mason City community, whose enthusiasm and commitment to the event make this possible.” The World Aerobatic Championship is the premier international competition in precision aerobatic flight. Pilots will demonstrate the extraordinary skill, discipline and precision required at the highest level of the sport.

Unmanned Systems

Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale

As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end READ MORE
Vantis Expands BVLOS Capabilities as Frontier Precision Joins as New Champion Operator

Vantis, North Dakota’s beyond‑visual‑line‑of‑sight (BVLOS) system, has reached another major milestone with the onboarding of Frontier Precision as its second champion operator. Frontier Precision has secured a new FAA waiver for BVLOS operations, expanding their operational capabilities available through the Vantis service volumes. The waiver is fully aircraft‑agnostic for systems under 55 pounds, allowing Frontier READ MORE

Aviation Education

Texas Southern University Expands Elite Flight Training Fleet with New Twin-Engine Aircraft

The momentum continues for Texas Southern University’s aviation program. The program made Houston aviation history again Friday with the delivery of a brand-new twin-engine Diamond DA42. “We’ve had some great days at Texas Southern Aviation,” said Dr. Terence Fontaine, Executive Director of Aviation. “This may be one of the pinnacle moments of the program. We’ve READ MORE
Into the Firestorm

The Allied Heroes Who Flew World War II’s Most Daring Missions From the hellish skies over Europe to the unforgiving terrain of the Himalayas, this is the first complete history of the C-47 aircrew who helped turn the tide of war.One of the most perilous combat roles of World War II was that of the READ MORE

High Flying Hangars Signs Lease Agreement for Development at Manassas Regional Airport in Virginia

June 14, 2026June 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – The High Flying Hangars development begins soon at the Manassas Regional Airport, with 35 executive-style hangars planned. [Courtesy of Manassas Regional Airport] High Flying Hangars has signed the lease agreement for the development of a new hangar project at the Manassas Regional Airport (KHEF) in Prince William County, Virginia, with the execution of […]

AIR Act Introduced to Modernize Aviation Funding and Strengthen Airports Across the Commonwealth

June 14, 2026June 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) earlier this month introduced Senate Bill 1365, the Pennsylvania AIR Act, aimed at modernizing aviation funding and providing long-term support for airports across the commonwealth. The bill creates a dedicated Aviation Trust Fund to provide stable, predictable funding for airport improvements, workforce development, air service expansion and emerging aviation technologies. Funding […]

Lincoln Airport, Nebraska Air National Guard Celebrate Historic $100M Runway Reconstruction Project

June 14, 2026June 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Lincoln Airport Authority and Nebraska Air National Guard last week welcomed federal, state and local leaders, project partners and members of the media to the Runway 18/36 Reconstruction Project site to highlight one of the most significant infrastructure investments in Lincoln Airport’s history. Estimated at approximately $100 million, the multi-year reconstruction of Lincoln Airport’s […]

ALDOT Preparing for Record Year of Alabama Airport Investment

June 14, 2026June 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Alabama Department of Transportation’s (ALDOT) Aeronautics Bureau is preparing for another record year of investment in Alabama’s airport system. Recently, ALDOT met with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airports District Office in Jackson, Mississippi, to begin coordinating fiscal year 2027 airport projects and funding priorities between the two agencies. FY2027 planning process underway Alabama airports […]

Electric Aircraft Symposium Returns to Oshkosh

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

Established in 2007, this year will mark the 20th annual Electric Aircraft Symposium. The 2026 EAS hosted by the Vertical Flight Society Federal City Chapter (VFS FCC) will be held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 18 and 19, on the two days immediately prior to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh campus. The […]

When the Schedule Fails: How Commercial Aviation’s Perfect Storm is Reshaping Demand for Private Charter

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

In an increasingly turbulent aviation landscape where delays, cancellation, strikes, and airport congestion are becoming worryingly familiar, private and charter aviation offer a more dependable alternative. Marton Modis, Chief Commercial Officer for VIP operations at premium VIP charter and ACMI provider KlasJet, shares an insider view on the changing business travel environment. The European airline […]

NBAA Welcomes Craig Olson to Board of Directors

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Board of Directors of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has elected Craig R. Olson, vice president, aviation, Starbucks Coffee Company, to the association’s board. “We are pleased to welcome Craig to the NBAA Board of Directors. He brings to the board a wealth of real-world aviation expertise and a deep understanding of how […]

ND Aeronautics Commission Announces $19.2 Million in 2026 Airport Grant Awards

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission has finalized and approved approximately $19.2 million in state infrastructure grant allocations for public airports across North Dakota. The investments will support critical maintenance, safety, and development projects at both commercial service and general aviation airports, helping strengthen the long-term reliability and performance of the state’s aviation system. The funding […]

MIA’s Economic Impact Reaches New Record of $212 Billion

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

Driven by strong passenger demand and booming cargo volumes in 2025, Miami International Airport’s total statewide economic impact rose 17% to $212 billion in business revenue. Employment tied to the airport’s direct, indirect, induced, and related activities also increased 12%, reaching 945,682 jobs, according to a new report from industry firm Martin Associates. “Congratulations to […]

Mason City Municipal to Host World’s Top Aerobatic Pilots

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The 2026 World Aerobatic Championship has been relocated to the Mason City Municipal Airport. Competition flying will take place from August 24 through September 2, bringing more than 35 of the world’s top aerobatic pilots to north-central Iowa. The pilots will represent countries from around the globe and compete for individual and team honors. “Mason […]

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

Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership