State Aviation Journal

Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport
The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has announced the completion of the Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45). The project included resurfacing the aging north two-thirds of the runway and repairing low pavement sections on the south end, as well as replacing the airport’s nearly 40-year-old airfield electrical system. The […]
Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8
International Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse ceremonially retired its Douglas DC-8 cargo aircraft and dedicate its new Boeing 767 at its Airlift Response Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. This event marks a new era for the ministry’s global aviation operations and advances its ability to help suffering families around the world in Jesus’ Name. For […]
CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region
CubCrafters has announced that Ray and Melisa Fowler of Adventure Flying LLC have joined the company’s elite team of Certified Sales Centers (CSC) as representatives for the MidAtlantic region. Ray and Melisa will manage new, used, and kit aircraft sales across six Mid-Atlantic states: Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Ray […]
Oklahoma State University’s Flying Aggies Defend Regional Title
The Oklahoma State University Flying Aggies flight team flew back into town as regional champions for the second year in a row after competing in the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Region 4 SAFECON championship. The OSU flight team came out on top — earning 631 points during the four-day competition, which took place Oct. 13-17 […]

State News

Oregon Department of Aviation Welcomes New Airport Programs Specialist

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has welcomed Christian Berge as the agency’s new Airport Programs Specialist. Berge brings a wealth of experience in aviation, law enforcement, and public service, strengthening ODAV’s mission to ensure a safe and efficient aviation system for Oregon. Christian Berge Berge began his aviation career as an Aviation Operations Specialist in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following his military service, he spent two decades in law enforcement as a police officer, building a reputation for professionalism and dedication to public safety. With over ten years of experience in the aviation industry, Berge has worked as a flight attendant and operations agent with Southwest Airlines and as a ground service agent and team captain with Horizon Air. Most recently, he served as a Patient Advocate with the Portland VA Medical Center, where he worked to ensure veterans received compassionate and effective care. Outside of work, Berge enjoys traveling and boating on the Willamette River with his wife, Deborah, and their four children. “We’re excited to welcome Christian to the ODAV team,” said Kenji, Sugahara, Director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. “Christian’s extensive experience in customer service, aviation, and public safety makes him a welcome addition to our agency. We are looking forward to his contributions to our aviation community.”
Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has announced the completion of the Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45). The project included resurfacing the aging north two-thirds of the runway and repairing low pavement sections on the south end, as well as replacing the airport’s nearly 40-year-old airfield electrical system. The final pavement markings were applied in October, marking the official completion of the project. These upgrades will significantly improve runway safety, visibility, and long-term durability, ensuring that Siletz Bay State Airport continues to operate safely and efficiently for pilots and the surrounding community. “Completing these upgrades at Siletz Bay State Airport is a win for our entire coastal community,” said Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04). “Maintaining reliable, safe airports helps local businesses, supports jobs, and ensures families and visitors can travel and connect with our beautiful Oregon coast.” “Oregonians rely on modern and dependable infrastructure like the Siletz Bay State Airport to support the local recreation economy, emergency responses, and safe travel,” Wyden said. “And I’ll always keep battling for key federal investments in small airports just like this one that make the Oregon Coast an even better place to live and work.” “Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities – connecting travelers to world-class recreational opportunities and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Merkley said. “The project at Siletz Bay State Airport is now complete, and it is great news that the federal investment to modernize and improve infrastructure will help ensure safety and enhance livability for those in Lincoln County.” “Small airports are vital to the State’s overall infrastructure. I am excited to see the upgrades happen at Siletz Bay State Airport to bring this small airport up to today standards,” said Senator Dick Anderson. “This is a great example of using state and federal dollars together to benefit the community.” “Our small and regional airports are not only critical to commerce and recreation, but public safety as well,” said State Rep. David Gomberg (D-Otis). “Safe runway access and operations are vital to effective emergency response in the event of a disaster, and I’m so pleased that this project will continue to keep the runways safe at the Siletz Bay State Airport.” “We’re excited to see this important project completed,” said Kenji Sugahara, Director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. “Updating the runway and electrical systems at Siletz Bay ensures that the airport remains a safe and reliable facility for years to come. We appreciate the community’s patience and support during construction.” The total project cost was approximately $2.2 million, with nearly $2 million funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and just over $200,000 funded through Aircraft Registration Revenue administered by ODAV. Siletz Bay State Airport serves general aviation, flight training, and coastal access operations, providing an important connection for recreational and business aviation along Oregon’s central coast. For more information about ODAV projects and programs, visit www.oregon.gov/aviation.

National News

NATA’s 2025 Aviation Business Conference Draws Strong Turnout, Tackles Key Challenges, and Highlights a Unified Industry Vision

Leaders from virtually all segments of the aviation business sector gathered in Dallas on November 17-18 to tackle a wide range of pressing issues, identify strategies to keep the aviation industry thriving, and outline pathways for moving forward. NATA’s (the National Air Transportation Association) annual Aviation Business Conference brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and key decision-makers for robust panel discussions, insightful presentations, and an energetic exchange of best-practice strategies. Attendees represented the full spectrum of the aviation business ecosystem, including fixed base operators, air charter operators, flight schools, maintenance companies, airports, and advanced air mobility entities. “A healthy aviation ecosystem requires balance, including safety with access, stability with flexibility, and strong collaboration across the community,” stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. “NATA’s Aviation Business Conference embodies that collaborative spirit by bringing together industry leaders to ensure we are prepared, aligned, and ready to lead in a rapidly evolving business environment.” A common thread woven through the sessions centered on customer experience and the value of all aviation businesses, regardless of industry segment, understanding market conditions and applying that insight to maintain powerful and lasting connections. “Whether the discussion focused on sustainability, infrastructure, the current political and regulatory environment, or customer experience, a common theme emerged: a better understanding of industry dynamics strengthens our community and enables us to lead with confidence and agility,” Castagna added. “We must also understand and appreciate what matters most to our customers in order to develop and align effective strategies. This year’s conference equipped attendees with the insight, perspective, and resources needed to make more informed decisions for their businesses and better advocate for the industry.” The agenda comprised a wide breadth of perspectives, offered by visionaries committed to the industry’s success and dedicated to sharing their deep knowledge. Insightful sessions included such thought-provoking topics as the following: Are Business Aviation Customers Paying What the Service is Worth? Navigating Rates, Fees, and Leases: Building a Sustainable Aviation System AAM at the Airport: Turning Innovation into Future Revenue Opportunities Charting a Sustainable Course in Shifting Political Landscapes The conference also featured a frank, far-reaching conversation between Castagna and FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau, a veteran of both the public and private aviation sectors. The discussion highlighted the deep and mutually beneficial relationship between the FAA and aviation businesses associations like NATA, and how collaboration enables sound policy decisions that foster aviation business safety, security, and industry growth. During the discussion, Castanga made it clear that the nation’s aviation sector – powered by its common mission and collaborative spirit – remains strong, even after a difficult government shutdown. “This year’s Aviation Business Conference came at a pivotal moment for our industry, occurring just days after the longest federal government shutdown in history,” said Castagna. “The impact of the resulting Emergency Orders and NOTAMs underscored how interconnected the NAS truly is and reinforced the essential role of air charter and general aviation. Our members responded with professionalism, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to safety, and both their recent experiences and the depth of their past operational insight helped shape the conversations throughout the day.” The day was anchored by the annual NATA Industry Excellence Awards Luncheon, which celebrates individuals and organizations that demonstrate superior service to the aviation community and advance a safety-first culture in general aviation. NATA’s top honor, the William A. “Bill” Ong Memorial Award, was presented to Million Air CEO Roger Woosley for his lifetime of achievement in advancing the general aviation industry and for exemplifying Ong’s enduring commitment to service, safety, and advocacy. Profiles of the award winners can be found on NATA’s Aviation Business Journal website. The Aviation Business Conference also provided an opportunity to recognize NATA’s 85th anniversary of dedicated service to the industry, and commitment to businesses that keep our nation’s airspace and industry the strongest and safest in the world. But as NATA Chief Operating Officer Hector Huezo emphasized in closing the event, our members are only as strong as they are bonded together in support of the entire industry. “It’s clear that the same spirit of industry collaboration that has guided this association through generations of change continues to guide us today,” Huezo said. “The resilience and forward-thinking leadership that has defined NATA through the years are the same qualities that have been reflected in this room this week.”
AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Releases 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Air Safety Institute (ASI) has released the 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report—formerly the Joseph T. Nall Report—which analyzes general aviation accidents that occurred in 2023, the most recent year for which full data are available. The report provides the most comprehensive review of general aviation safety, with accident data updated on a rolling 30-day cycle allowing for the most current snapshot of safety trends. Overall, the news from this year’s report is positive: We observed declining general aviation accident rates with few exceptions, amid a strong increase in flight hours. Key takeaways include that in 2023, there were 1,097 general aviation accidents in the United States, including 186 that were fatal. The overall accident rate fell to 3.86 per 100,000 flight hours, down from 4.3 in 2022, and the fatal accident rate declined to 0.65 from 0.68 the year before. “A significant increase in flight activity helped drive these rates lower,” Robert Geske, AOPA Air Safety Institute senior manager of aviation safety analysis, said. Overall, flight activity increased by more than 1.6 million hours—about 6 percent—in 2023 to 28.4 million, from 26.8 million in 2022. Non-commercial fixed-wing aircraft accounted for 929 accidents, about 70 percent of which were pilot-related. Of those, 156 were fatal. “Loss of control on the ground and inflight are still the leading categories of both fatal and non-fatal aviation accidents,” Geske said. “We saw an uptick in the number of accidents due to fuel management issues while descent and approach accidents declined sharply. Accidents due to weather, as well as during preflight and taxi phases, trended downward as well.” The number of mechanical-related accidents rose slightly to 187, with fatal accidents spiking to 33 from 21 the year before. “Interestingly, partial engine power loss saw a higher lethality compared to total engine failure, suggesting that pilots struggle to properly address and adapt to a partial power failure,” Geske said. Non-commercial fixed wing accidents that could not be attributed to any specific cause and were categorized as “other and unknown” rose to 91. In 2023, there were a total of 59 commercial fixed-wing accidents, 12 of which were fatal. Non-commercial helicopter operations experienced 70 accidents, 10 of them fatal, while commercial helicopter operations suffered 39 accidents, including eight that were fatal. The McSpadden Report provides detailed analysis and year-over-year comparisons across non-commercial and commercial fixed-wing operations, non-commercial and commercial helicopter operations, and sport/experimental operations. View the 35th Richard McSpadden Report here.

International News

WAI Announces the 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame Inductees

Women in Aviation International (WAI) has selected the 2026 inductees for its international Pioneer Hall of Fame. These three female trailblazers will be honored at the 37th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference during a ceremony and celebration dinner at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, March 20, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees are: Olga Custodio As the first Latina pilot in the U.S. Air Force and a pioneering Hispanic female captain in commercial aviation, Olga Custodio defines her success through three principles: overcome self-doubt, stay open to possibilities, and see yourself as an equal. After flying the T-38 as an instructor pilot, she served 24 years in the Air Force and retired as a lieutenant colonel. Olga then flew with American Airlines on the Boeing 727, Fokker 100, Boeing 757 and 767, accumulating over 11,000 hours of flight time and retiring as a captain. As a STEM advocate, Olga is a speaker serving as a role model for aspiring aviators. She is a tireless volunteer to inspire and educate students, especially from underserved communities. Her memoir Flightpath of Fortitude includes Olga’s essential life insights on how to overcome barriers and achieve your dreams. Joan Sullivan Garrett Joan Sullivan Garrett began her medical career as a flight nurse who envisioned a worldwide solution for travel safety on air, land, and sea, anywhere in the world, after losing a young patient in the remote Arizona mountains. She founded MedAire in 1985 and pioneered global telemedicine through radio, teletype, and satellite communications. She personally trained flight crews and corporate pilots in emergency response, bringing a hands-on approach to a challenge the industry had largely overlooked. But her most transformative innovation came with the creation of MedLink, a 24/7 air-to-ground response center staffed by emergency physicians. Serving as CEO until 2008, Joan details her journey in her autobiography One Life Lost, Millions Gained. She has received numerous awards and accolades as a visionary healthcare leader and aviation safety pioneer, and served on various aviation boards. Nadine Berniece Ramsey The late Nadine Berniece Ramsey was a pioneering female pilot of military aircraft and a member of the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II. As the first woman in the United States to fly military aircraft, she helped pave the way for today’s women military aircraft pilots. Nadine’s flying achievements came early and often, including being the first Kansas woman to earn a commercial pilot license, among the earliest women to fly the U.S. Air Mail, as well as a successful aircraft businesswoman, stunt flier, and racer. She was also a first squadron commander for the Civil Air Patrol Program and one of only about 50 women to provide wartime service training instruction during the war. Her legacy to the nation is detailed in the book Taking Flight. “We want to ensure that the rich history of women’s accomplishments in aviation is not lost in time,” says Lynda Coffman, WAI CEO. “Our international Pioneer Hall of Fame honors women who made remarkable contributions to aviation, as well as open doors for future generations of women who choose aviation as a career. This year’s inductees reflect their unique contributions to aviation, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.” The Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame was established in 1992 to honor women who have made significant contributions as record setters, pioneers, or innovators. Special consideration is given to individuals or groups who have helped other women be successful in aviation or opened doors of opportunity for other women. Each year, WAI solicits nominations from throughout the industry for its Pioneer Hall of Fame. To learn about the more than 130 inductees over the past 30+ years, visit WAI.org/pioneers. This event is a registration-required event with an additional fee. Guest tickets can be purchased through WAI2026 registration here. Space is limited for this special celebration with attire cocktail, business formal, or military formal. Register for WAI2026 here!
WAI and Harvard University Partner for the Class of 2026 Emerging Leaders Courses

Rising women leaders in the aviation and aerospace industry are encouraged to apply to attend Women in Leadership: A Program for Emerging Leaders, a professional development program hosted by Women in Aviation International and conducted by Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE). In 2026, WAI will expand the program to offer both an on-campus experience as well as two virtual programs. Applications for all three programs will open November 15, and close on January 15, 2026. The on-campus course takes place May 13, 14, and 15, 2026, on Harvard University’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A fourth day of training will be held virtually on June 18, 2026. The spring virtual program will be June 3-5, 2026, and a fall virtual program from November 4-6, 2026. Qualified WAI members can select one of the three programs to apply for. This intensive leadership program draws on curriculum from Harvard’s DCE Professional Development department and is tailored to address the unique challenges women face in the aviation and aerospace industry. Topics include executive communication techniques, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills. WAI’s goal is to help high-potential leaders master core business concepts, build key leadership skills, and develop their leadership style to support career growth. The program is intended for high-performing women who are members of Women in Aviation International, have demonstrated leadership skills, and are looking to further advance their careers. “We know that WAI alumnae who have completed the course during the past three years have developed strong networks with their classmates and have reported career advancement as a direct result of their experience at Harvard,” says Lynda Coffman, WAI CEO. “Next year, we’re expanding the program to include two virtual offerings, encouraging international members and those with travel restrictions to apply. The leadership skills taught through Harvard’s program are a vital step toward developing the next generation of women who will one day lead our industry.” Participants will earn a certificate awarded by Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education to add to their professional resumes. Partial funding for the course was provided through a grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. For the on-campus session, no more than 30 WAI members will be chosen to receive funding support that will include program tuition, hotel (checking in on Monday, May 12 and departing Friday, May 16), and meals for the three days of the course. Selected participants are responsible for their own travel costs, including airfare and ground transportation. Those selected must commit to attending all three days of the on-campus course, as well as the online virtual coaching day. For each virtual session, no more than 45 WAI members will be selected and must commit to attending all three days of the virtual program on June 3-5, 2026, or November 4-6, 2026. Recipients are encouraged to take this time away from work to focus on learning. All applicants must be current members of Women in Aviation International with at least seven years of career experience. To apply, go to www.WAI.org/scholarships. Applicants will be notified no later than February 15, 2026. Questions? Email scholarships@wai.org. Apply Here

Unmanned Systems

Virginia Launches Advanced Air Mobility and Unmanned Systems Test Site Program

The Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV) have announced the launch of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Advanced Air Mobility Test Site Program, a new pilot initiative to evaluate and integrate next-generation aviation technologies across Virginia’s transportation and innovation ecosystem. Developed to support the deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), READ MORE
Drones Transport Medical Supplies to Healthcare Station in Helsinki

Helsinki is currently exploring how drones could assist with transport during exceptional circumstances. The flights in November will cover a distance of around seven kilometers and will be flown several times per weekday. In early November, the City of Helsinki is piloting drone transports for healthcare supplies on an approximately seven-kilometer route from Kyläsaari to READ MORE

Aviation Education

InstructAir and Skyfarer Academy Finalize Acquisition, Uniting Two Aviation Training Innovators

Skyfarer Academy has announced the completion of its acquisition of InstructAir, a leading platform connecting flight instructors and pilots across the United States. This strategic acquisition brings together two pioneering forces in aviation education to create the most comprehensive digital ecosystem for student pilots, flight instructors, schools, and aviation enthusiasts nationwide. A Unified Platform for READ MORE
WAI and Harvard University Partner for the Class of 2026 Emerging Leaders Courses

Rising women leaders in the aviation and aerospace industry are encouraged to apply to attend Women in Leadership: A Program for Emerging Leaders, a professional development program hosted by Women in Aviation International and conducted by Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE). In 2026, WAI will expand the program to offer both an on-campus READ MORE

Oregon Department of Aviation Welcomes New Airport Programs Specialist

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has welcomed Christian Berge as the agency’s new Airport Programs Specialist. Berge brings a wealth of experience in aviation, law enforcement, and public service, strengthening ODAV’s mission to ensure a safe and efficient aviation system for Oregon. Berge began his aviation career as an Aviation Operations Specialist in the […]

NATA’s 2025 Aviation Business Conference Draws Strong Turnout, Tackles Key Challenges, and Highlights a Unified Industry Vision

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Leaders from virtually all segments of the aviation business sector gathered in Dallas on November 17-18 to tackle a wide range of pressing issues, identify strategies to keep the aviation industry thriving, and outline pathways for moving forward. NATA’s (the National Air Transportation Association) annual Aviation Business Conference brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has announced the completion of the Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45). The project included resurfacing the aging north two-thirds of the runway and repairing low pavement sections on the south end, as well as replacing the airport’s nearly 40-year-old airfield electrical system. The […]

Kapalua Airport to Get New EV Charging Station

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) is notifying the public that construction work will begin this week for a new electric vehicle charging station at the Kapalua Airport. A portion of the mauka side of the parking lot will be closed 24/7 during the work. There will be no impact to flights or airport operations. […]

AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Releases 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Air Safety Institute (ASI) has released the 35th Richard G. McSpadden Report—formerly the Joseph T. Nall Report—which analyzes general aviation accidents that occurred in 2023, the most recent year for which full data are available. The report provides the most comprehensive review of general aviation safety, with accident data […]

WAI Announces the 2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame Inductees

November 23, 2025November 23, 2025 Kim Stevens

Women in Aviation International (WAI) has selected the 2026 inductees for its international Pioneer Hall of Fame. These three female trailblazers will be honored at the 37th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference during a ceremony and celebration dinner at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, March 20, from […]

Hawaiian Airlines Debuts Exclusive Collectibles Available Only Inflight

November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 Kim Stevens

Guests flying on Hawaiian Airlines can now ask a pilot for one of four exclusive trading cards designed and produced in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA). Each card features one of our four aircraft — the Boeing 717, Airbus A321neo, Airbus A330 and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner […]

General Aviation Award Nominations Deadline Extended

November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors announces an updated submission deadline for applications and nominations for the 2026 awards for National Flight Instructors, Aviation Maintenance Technicians, and FAA Safety Team Representatives until midnight on December 19, 2025. Submissions and additional information on the process can be accessed at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate. The program, a cooperative […]

InstructAir and Skyfarer Academy Finalize Acquisition, Uniting Two Aviation Training Innovators

November 17, 2025November 17, 2025 Kim Stevens

Skyfarer Academy has announced the completion of its acquisition of InstructAir, a leading platform connecting flight instructors and pilots across the United States. This strategic acquisition brings together two pioneering forces in aviation education to create the most comprehensive digital ecosystem for student pilots, flight instructors, schools, and aviation enthusiasts nationwide. A Unified Platform for […]

WAI and Harvard University Partner for the Class of 2026 Emerging Leaders Courses

November 17, 2025November 17, 2025 Kim Stevens

Rising women leaders in the aviation and aerospace industry are encouraged to apply to attend Women in Leadership: A Program for Emerging Leaders, a professional development program hosted by Women in Aviation International and conducted by Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE). In 2026, WAI will expand the program to offer both an on-campus […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Completes Runway and Electrical Rehabilitation Project at Siletz Bay State Airport

Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8

CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region

Oklahoma State University’s Flying Aggies Defend Regional Title