State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig
Photo – from left – Nico Neumann, CEO Deutsche Aircraft, Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony, Marie-Christine von Hahn, Principal Managing Director, German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) and Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport at the official opening […]
Joby Aviation Showcases Autonomous Flight Technology in Oklahoma City as Part of National Electric Skies Tour
By Laura Rudicel Oklahoma’s role in the future of advanced aviation was on display as the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) joined Joby Aviation, federal aviation leaders, and state policymakers for an up-close demonstration of Joby’s autonomous flight technology at AAR Hangar 2 located on the OKC Will Rogers International Airport campus. The […]
Props for a Purpose Expands Humanitarian Aviation Capabilities with Its First Dedicated Aircraft
Tecnam has announced that Props for a Purpose, a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to humanitarian aviation, has acquired its first dedicated aircraft: a Tecnam P2012 Traveller. The aircraft has been secured through a 10-year long-term lease agreement with AeroSpring Leasing LLC, marking a significant expansion in both organizations’ operational capabilities. Since its founding, Props for […]
Shenandoah University Launches Undergraduate Certificate Program to Meet Air Traffic Control Staffing Challenge
Shenandoah University has added an Undergraduate Certificate in Air Traffic Control to its growing list of academic offerings to help fill a national deficit of air traffic controllers. Students began taking the initial class for the undergraduate certificate, ATC-101, in Fall 2026, and Shenandoah is anticipating the program’s full launch in Spring 2027. “The air […]

State News

Check-In for All Hawaiian Airlines’ International Departures Now Located at HNL Terminal 2

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) reminds travelers that as of October 3, 2026, check-in and bag drop for all international departures on Hawaiian Airlines will be consolidated in Terminal 2, Lobby 4 of the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Travelers are encouraged to check their flight information before arriving at the airport and allow extra time to familiarize themselves with the updated lobby location. The change was implemented to improve lobby flow for passengers traveling through both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. All Hawaiian and Alaska neighbor island flight check-ins and bag drops will remain in Terminal 1. This includes three daily flights between Honolulu (HNL) and Kahului (OGG) on the Alaska Airlines-branded 737 aircraft starting Oct. 3. Alaska and Hawaiian announced the addition of these flights to support neighbor island capacity even as they proceed through integration. The merged company has announced a longer-term plan to retire the 717 fleet and transition to 737s carrying the Hawaiian Airlines brand, to be based in Honolulu, in the 2028 timeframe. In the meantime, Hawaiian will continue to maximize use of the 717s for neighbor island flights. Passengers flying from Honolulu to Kahului on Alaska Airlines’ 737 aircraft should continue to check in online or via the company’s app and drop their bags at Terminal 1, Lobby 3, using the self-service bag-tag stations. In Kahului, passengers departing to Honolulu on Alaska Airlines’ 737 aircraft should visit Alaska’s counters, located next to Hawaiian’s, for check-in services and bag drops. Hawaiian is also informing all neighbor island travelers to check in and drop checked bags at least 50 minutes before departure, up from the previous guidance of 30 minutes. The earlier check-in will help improve baggage handling and support on-time departures. The 737 Honolulu-Kahului flight will serve as a case study for airport operators, state transportation officials and the airline to gain valuable operational experience and important insights to prepare for the full 737 fleet. This includes determining the plane geometries needed to set jet bridges and other gating requirements for a plane of that size, shifting gates to accommodate spacing, as well as other adjustments needed to maximize efficiency of passenger flow, baggage handling and aircraft servicing. “HDOT is working closely with Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines to ensure airport operations are prepared to accommodate the 737 interisland fleet,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “We appreciate Hawaiian Airlines’ and Alaska Airlines’ commitment to maintaining robust interisland connectivity with the deployment of temporary 737 flights as part of Hawaiian Airlines’ fleet modernization transition.” “Safe, reliable neighbor island service is a critical part of who we are – and something we will continue,” said Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow. “These adjustments in lobby flow, timeline and capacity enable us to continue connecting our communities while preparing for the future. We love our 717 fleet – and are deeply grateful to the teams who continue to fly and maintain it as we have for years. And, we look forward to learning alongside HDOT and our airport partners to prepare for a fleet transition that preserves the reliability and connectivity our communities depend on while delivering an enhanced experience for our guests.”
ODOT Deploys the Latest Drone Technology on Transformational Construction Project

DriveOhio’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center is leading the country in drone innovation, which is transforming how we build, inspect, and maintain our roads and bridges. The latest technology, drone-in-a-box systems, has been deployed to support the largest construction project in ODOT history, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project – and it all happens at the push of a button. With two permanent docks on the roof of Longworth Hall in Cincinnati, ODOT pilots can launch the drones remotely and instantly connect the project team with real-time visuals for construction project tracking, bridge inspection, and traffic insights. When the mission’s complete, the drone autonomously navigates back to its dock to charge up for the next flight. This innovative solution is a force multiplier, expanding ODOT’s operational footprint by increasing efficiency, accelerating decision-making, and enhancing safety. Watch the video at the link below to learn more and see it in action. Watch Video: Drive Ohio

National News

Former NTSB Vice Chairman Michael Graham Joins SOS and ASC

Safety Operating Systems (SOS) and Aviation Safety Compliance (ASC) have announced a major expansion of their transportation-safety leadership: Michael E. Graham, former Vice Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, has joined the SOS and ASC team, effective October 3, 2026. Michael Graham The appointment brings together three of the country’s most experienced transportation-safety leaders. Graham joins Captain John Cox, founder and chief executive officer of SOS, and Captain Jim Hosey, creating an exceptional concentration of operational, investigative, regulatory and executive-level expertise for organizations confronting complex, high-consequence risk. “There are very few people in transportation safety with Michael Graham’s breadth of experience, judgment and credibility,” Cox said. “He has led safety from the cockpit, the corporate flight department and the boardroom of the nation’s premier accident-investigation agency. His decision to join SOS and ASC is an extraordinary addition to our team and a powerful endorsement of the work we do. Our team will offer clients a depth of practical safety leadership that is genuinely rare.” “I have personally known Mike for many years, having served on the NBAA Safety Committee with him and worked as a consultant and safety auditor when he was at Textron, said Captain Jim Hosey, President and Co-founder of Aviation Safety Compliance, and I am delighted that Mike has chosen to join our team.” Graham concluded his NTSB service on October 2 after serving on the five-member Board since January 2020. During his tenure, he advanced effective safety management systems, connected-vehicle technology and measures to reduce distracted driving. He also served as the Board Member on scene for major investigations across aviation, rail and marine transportation. Before joining the NTSB, Graham spent more than two decades at Textron Aviation, ultimately serving as Director of Flight Operations Safety, Security and Standardization. His responsibilities included the company’s safety management system, emergency response program, air safety investigations and flight-operations standardization. He also established an Aviation Safety Action Program that became a model for Part 91 operators. A former U.S. Navy aviator, Graham flew the A-7 and F/A-18, completed two operational deployments and served as an F/A-18 instructor, evaluator and model manager. He is an Airline Transport Pilot with more than 10,000 flight hours and holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of New Mexico. “I chose to join John Cox, Jim Hosey and the SOS and ASC team because we share the same fundamental purpose: identify and manage risk before it becomes tragedy,” Graham said. “This team has the experience, independence and commitment to help leaders make better decisions when the stakes are highest. I look forward to building on that foundation and extending our ability to make transportation safer.” Graham’s addition substantially expands the team’s capacity to advise corporate boards, senior executives, operators and other safety-critical organizations. He will support clients in safety management, operational risk, accident and incident investigation, emergency preparedness, executive decision-making and safety-culture improvement.
EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships. Students can apply online through the EAA website. The deadline to apply is December 16, with the scholarships awarded on March 1, 2027. With the help of donors, the EAA Aviation Foundation awarded scholarships totaling more than $680,000 to 106 students in 2026 to help them pursue flight training or post-secondary education. EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships can help students cover the cost of flight training or post-secondary education. For flight training, this can cover costs associated with a glider license, Private Pilot’s License (PPL), sport pilot license, flight ratings, and endorsements. Post-secondary scholarships can be applied to tuition costs at colleges, universities, or trade schools, for majors such as aviation management, aerospace engineering, airframe and powerplant (A&P) maintenance, and more. “One of the largest barriers of entry into the world of aviation for many young people is the cost factor,” said Rebecca Streck, Scholarship and Fund Stewardship Coordinator. “EAA’s scholarship program helps break down that barrier to make their aviation goals more achievable.” Scholarships are available to students aged 16 and up. Students must reach age 16 by the time of awarding, March 1, 2027. More information about EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships is available at EAA.org/scholarships.

International News

Canada Investing $85.5 Million to Rehabilitate the Rankin Inlet Airport and Strengthen Arctic and Northern Connectivity

The Honorable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Honorable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, celebrated the grand opening of the Rankin Inlet air terminal building and announced federal funding of $85.5 million through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to support the Rankin Inlet Airfield Rehabilitation Project. This investment builds on a previously announced investment from National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) which funded the Rankin Inlet air terminal building. It will help the full rehabilitation of the airport’s runaway which will enhance the reliability and safety of air transportation in the Kivalliq region. As a critical gateway for northern communities, the airport plays an essential role in moving passengers, cargo, and vital supplies and services, including food and medical equipment. “Investing in the Rankin Inlet Airport is an investment in Canada’s North, our Arctic sovereignty, and the communities that depend on reliable transportation every day,” said Minister MacKinnon. “Through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund, we are strengthening critical infrastructure that serves both civilian and defense purposes, helping ensure northern transportation networks remain safe, resilient, and dependable well into the future.” The AIF funding complements the Department of National Defense’s investment to rehabilitate the runway, reaffirmed by Prime Minister Carney earlier this year. Together, these improvements will strengthen the airport’s capacity to support growing transportation needs while enhancing the Canadian Armed Force’s operational capabilities in Canada’s North. The project will reinforce Rankin Inlet Airport’s role as a key regional logistics hub, supporting community connectivity, emergency and medevac services, and supply chains across Nunavut. It will also strengthen the dual‑use infrastructure that serves both civilian and defense purposes, contributing to the long-term resilience of northern transportation networks and supporting Canada’s security and sovereignty objectives. Minister Chartrand shared that for people in Rankin Inlet and across the Kivalliq, the airport is more than infrastructure. “It connects families and communities and helps people access the food, supplies, services and opportunities they rely on. By investing in safe and reliable transportation in the North, we are strengthening communities and creating new opportunities, while also strengthening Canada’s presence and sovereignty in the Arctic. A strong Arctic starts with strong communities and the people who call the North home.” Funding announced will support: Enhancement of the safety, reliability, and capacity of the airport’s runway, taxiways, and apron systems, which serve the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut; Rehabilitation of approximately 141,000 square metres of airfield pavement, including Runway 13‑31, Taxiways A and C, and associated apron surfaces; Ensure on-going safe and reliable operations, extend the airfield’s service life by 15 to 20 years, and reduce long‑term maintenance needs. Through the AIF, the Government of Canada is making targeted investments in dual-use, civilian/community and defense, and nation-building infrastructure that strengthen northern transportation corridors, improve supply chain reliability, increase economic opportunities, and support Canada’s long-term presence and operational readiness in the Arctic and the North.
Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig

Photo – from left – Nico Neumann, CEO Deutsche Aircraft, Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony, Marie-Christine von Hahn, Principal Managing Director, German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) and Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport at the official opening ceremony of Deutsche Aircraft’s Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Leipzig/Halle. Deutsche Aircraft has officially inaugurated its Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport, attended by Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Transport, and Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony. The inauguration marks the transition of the D328eco program from development to serial production, establishing Leipzig as the production home of Germany’s next-generation regional aircraft. The opening also represents the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony for the first time in more than 60 years, reinforcing the region’s position as a center for aerospace and innovation. This new facility embodies the program’s vision: “Made in Germany. Built in Saxony. Delivered to the World” — bringing together German engineering excellence, Saxony’s industrial expertise and Leipzig’s international connectivity in a single production hub. Beyond supporting the D328eco program, the FAL strengthens Germany’s ability to design, certify, test, manufacture and support complete aircraft. Deutsche Aircraft’s integrated operations across Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end aerospace capability in the country, spanning engineering, certification, flight testing, industrialization, final assembly and customer delivery. The site reinforces Germany’s industrial resilience and competitiveness while ensuring that critical aircraft manufacturing know-how remains anchored domestically for future generations. “Today is about much more than opening a factory,” said Nico Neumann, Chief Executive Officer, Deutsche Aircraft. “It marks the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony and a major milestone for the D328eco program. Together, our sites in Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end capability for developing, certifying, industrializing, manufacturing and supporting complete aircraft in Germany. For the first time in more than 60 years, every phase of the aircraft lifecycle will be integrated under a German aircraft program. Carrying forward Dornier’s pioneering legacy, the FAL strengthens Germany’s resilience, competitiveness and sovereign aerospace capabilities while advancing a new generation of sustainable regional aviation. Today we celebrate an important milestone. Tomorrow, we continue building the future of regional aviation.” The opening ceremony welcomed representatives from the German Federal Government, the Free State of Saxony, industry partners, suppliers, customers and members of the aviation community to celebrate the landmark occasion. Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister and Head of Government of the Free State of Saxony, addressed guests via video message. Prime Minister Kretschmer in his video message said “the inauguration of this Final Assembly Line highlights Saxony’s position as a competitive industrial and aerospace location with a promising future. Investments such as those undertaken by Deutsche Aircraft strengthen our aerospace sector, create highly qualified jobs and further increase Saxony’s appeal for international industrial projects.” Representing an investment of more than €100 million, the facility has been designed for an annual production capacity of up to 48 aircraft. Spanning 60,500 square meters — equivalent to approximately eight football fields — the site includes the Final Assembly Line, Flight Readiness Hangar, logistics center and administration building. Designed as a modern, digital and sustainability-focused production environment, the FAL incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies, automated logistics systems and paperless production processes to increase efficiency, quality and transparency throughout aircraft assembly. Energy-efficient infrastructure, including photovoltaic systems and heat pump technology, reflect Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth. The Free State of Saxony is supporting the project with approximately €3.2 million through the Federal-State GRW program (“Joint Task for the Improvement of Regional Economic Structures”), underlining its significance for regional economic development. Expected to create approximately 250 new direct jobs as production ramps up over the coming years, the Leipzig Final Assembly Line will support skilled employment throughout the aerospace supply chain. Beyond direct employment, the program will create opportunities for apprentices, technicians, engineers and manufacturing specialists, nurturing the next generation of aerospace talent in Saxony. As one of the most significant aerospace investments in Germany in recent years, the Final Assembly Line represents an important contribution to the economic transformation of Central Germany. Beyond the direct creation of highly skilled jobs, the program will generate long-term industrial value across the aerospace supply chain and strengthen Saxony’s position within Germany’s aerospace sector. Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport shared, “the opening of Deutsche Aircraft’s Final Assembly Line in Leipzig sends a strong signal for Germany as an industrial and aviation hub. The D328eco program demonstrates that innovation, advanced manufacturing and sustainable regional aviation can be developed in Germany and produced for the world. By combining engineering expertise, industrial excellence and forward-looking production capabilities, Deutsche Aircraft is helping to preserve critical aerospace know-how, strengthen regional value creation, and further enhance Germany’s competitiveness in a strategically important industry.” The Next Phase of the D328eco Program With the opening of the Final Assembly Line, Deutsche Aircraft has established the industrial foundation for the serial production of the D328eco. Leipzig will serve as the center for aircraft assembly, flight-readiness activities and global customer deliveries, while Oberpfaffenhofen remains the home of engineering, flight testing and certification activities. Building on Germany’s rich aviation heritage and Dornier’s pioneering legacy, Deutsche Aircraft is helping to re-establish the country’s ability to develop, certify, manufacture and support complete aircraft programs. As the D328eco enters production, Leipzig and Oberpfaffenhofen will serve as the foundation for a new era of German aircraft manufacturing, combining innovation, industrial excellence and sustainable aviation to deliver modern regional aircraft to operators worldwide.

Unmanned Systems

FAA Funds Drone Research to Support Safe Integration in NAS

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced it awarded $12 million to 19 companies for drone research and testing projects that will help safely expand drone operations in the National Airspace System. These awards were made through the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Program. The program funds companies working with FAA-designated UAS READ MORE
ODOT Deploys the Latest Drone Technology on Transformational Construction Project

DriveOhio’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center is leading the country in drone innovation, which is transforming how we build, inspect, and maintain our roads and bridges. The latest technology, drone-in-a-box systems, has been deployed to support the largest construction project in ODOT history, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project – and it all happens at READ MORE

Aviation Education

EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships. Students can apply online through the EAA website. The deadline to apply is December 16, with the scholarships awarded on March 1, 2027. With the help of donors, the EAA Aviation Foundation awarded scholarships totaling more than $680,000 to 106 students in READ MORE
Aeronautics Now Accepting Applications for 2027 Aviation Education Grant Program

The Colorado Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics has announced the launch of the 2027 Colorado Aviation Education Grant Program. The application window is now open to eligible candidates with a deadline of November 15th, 2026 for submission. The purpose and intent of this aviation education program is to support education programs, projects, and initiatives READ MORE

Former NTSB Vice Chairman Michael Graham Joins SOS and ASC

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Safety Operating Systems (SOS) and Aviation Safety Compliance (ASC) have announced a major expansion of their transportation-safety leadership: Michael E. Graham, former Vice Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, has joined the SOS and ASC team, effective October 3, 2026. The appointment brings together three of the country’s most experienced transportation-safety leaders. Graham joins […]

EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships. Students can apply online through the EAA website. The deadline to apply is December 16, with the scholarships awarded on March 1, 2027. With the help of donors, the EAA Aviation Foundation awarded scholarships totaling more than $680,000 to 106 students in […]

FAA Funds Drone Research to Support Safe Integration in NAS

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced it awarded $12 million to 19 companies for drone research and testing projects that will help safely expand drone operations in the National Airspace System. These awards were made through the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Program. The program funds companies working with FAA-designated UAS […]

Check-In for All Hawaiian Airlines’ International Departures Now Located at HNL Terminal 2

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) reminds travelers that as of October 3, 2026, check-in and bag drop for all international departures on Hawaiian Airlines will be consolidated in Terminal 2, Lobby 4 of the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Travelers are encouraged to check their flight information before arriving at the airport and […]

IDOT Announces Airport of the Year Awards Recognizing Best in Illinois Aviation

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that six airports have received Airport of the Year awards in recognition of outstanding commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. The awards were presented today during the Illinois Public Airports Association fall conference in Galena. “Airports help to drive the economy in […]

ODOT Deploys the Latest Drone Technology on Transformational Construction Project

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

DriveOhio’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center is leading the country in drone innovation, which is transforming how we build, inspect, and maintain our roads and bridges. The latest technology, drone-in-a-box systems, has been deployed to support the largest construction project in ODOT history, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project – and it all happens at […]

Ontario International Airport Launches Real-Time Shuttle Tracking System

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Travelers at Ontario International Airport (ONT) can now take the guesswork out of waiting for a shuttle, thanks to a new real-time tracking system that shows exactly where airport buses are and when they are expected to arrive. The new Bus Genius system allows passengers to scan QR codes posted at shuttle stops and throughout […]

Canada Investing $85.5 Million to Rehabilitate the Rankin Inlet Airport and Strengthen Arctic and Northern Connectivity

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Honorable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Honorable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, celebrated the grand opening of the Rankin Inlet air terminal building and announced federal funding […]

Contour Airlines Expands Muscle Shoals Service with New Nonstop Flights to Dallas-Fort Worth

October 4, 2026October 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Contour Airlines has announced new nonstop service between Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (MSL) in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), beginning November 12, 2026. As part of the schedule update, Contour will reallocate five weekly flights from its existing Muscle Shoals–Charlotte service to Dallas-Fort Worth. Travelers in the Shoals region will […]

Aeronautics Now Accepting Applications for 2027 Aviation Education Grant Program

October 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics has announced the launch of the 2027 Colorado Aviation Education Grant Program. The application window is now open to eligible candidates with a deadline of November 15th, 2026 for submission. The purpose and intent of this aviation education program is to support education programs, projects, and initiatives […]

Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig

Joby Aviation Showcases Autonomous Flight Technology in Oklahoma City as Part of National Electric Skies Tour

Props for a Purpose Expands Humanitarian Aviation Capabilities with Its First Dedicated Aircraft

Shenandoah University Launches Undergraduate Certificate Program to Meet Air Traffic Control Staffing Challenge