State Aviation Journal

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations
SAJ photo above by Andrew Stevens Today’s flight decks are pairing experienced Generation X captains with tech-native Generation Z first officers. As the aviation industry faces a projected shortfall of 141,000 pilots in Europe by 2032, training organizations are addressing a shift: type rating courses should prepare pilots not just to operate specific aircraft, but to work effectively across generational divides. With Gen Z now comprising over a quarter of the global workforce, the […]
MIA, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines Host Tour for Children with Disabilities Before the Holidays
Photo – Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutié (center) with more than 150 children at the MIAair tour on November 19. A week before the Thanksgiving travel season begins, Miami International Airport (MIA), Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines hosted the airport’s latest MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness […]
Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One
The next important milestone has been reached at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center currently under construction at Frankfurt Airport: the tail unit has now been mounted on the Lockheed L-1649A Super Star. The three-part rudder is characteristic of this particular aircraft series. It has a wingspan of over 15 meters […]
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 […]

State News

MIA, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines Host Tour for Children with Disabilities Before the Holidays

Photo – Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutié (center) with more than 150 children at the MIAair tour on November 19. A week before the Thanksgiving travel season begins, Miami International Airport (MIA), Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines hosted the airport’s latest MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness (MIAair) tour for more than 150 children with disabilities from local schools, along with their parents, teachers, and guardians. The tour allowed participants to rehearse the air travel experience from start to finish, all the way to an airplane seat, in a safe and controlled environment. “We strive to make Miami-Dade County services as accessible as possible to all of our residents, which is why I am so proud of MIA’s successful efforts to empower travelers with disabilities through its award-winning MIAair tour program,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “With this month’s MIAair tour, even more children and their families gained the confidence and comfort they need to experience the joy of air travel without barriers.” The children practiced entering the airport, getting boarding passes, going through security, and boarding a LATAM Airlines plane with the airline’s gate agents and flight crew. The program also served as a learning experience for airline and airport workers at MIA. The goal of the MIAair program is for anyone, regardless of their disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight. Since launching the MIAair tours in 2015, in partnership with the UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), MIA has now hosted tours for nearly 400 children with disabilities. “Thank you to our partners at Miami International Airport and LATAM for investing their facilities and their hearts in accessible travel,” said Alison Lathrop, Delta’s Managing Director of Accessibility Programs. “Travel is for everyone, and we’re delighted to spread a little cheer and make the travel experience more familiar and accessible for to these kids and their families this holiday season.” “We are delighted to take part in this event that brings together so many children and their families,” said Cristina De Melo, VP North America & Caribbean at LATAM Airlines. “At LATAM, we are committed to building an inclusive and accessible travel industry. As part of this commitment, we have been enhancing the travel experience for people with disabilities—through initiatives such as practice boarding across our South American subsidiaries and partnerships with Autism Double-Checked and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. These collaborations help us create a more accessible journey for passengers on the autism spectrum and those with hidden disabilities. Today’s event has been a meaningful opportunity to further our mission of promoting accessibility and inclusion.”
Ohio Businesses, Pilots, and Schools Unite to Oppose Request to Close Burke Lakefront Airport

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has joined the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), a coalition made up of local businesses, aviation organizations, and schools—to oppose Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s misguided effort to permanently close Burke Lakefront Airport. Last month, Mayor Bibb asked the federal government to relieve the city of Cleveland of its obligation to keep the airport open. In a letter sent today to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted, and Representative Shontel Brown, the LAPP highlighted that the FAA and state of Ohio have awarded nearly $20 million in grants to improve the airport—funding that requires Burke Lakefront to remain open until the late 2030s. “By accepting these grants, the city has agreed to operate and maintain the airport,” the letter states. “Temporary politicians should not be able to ignore or undo commitments made by their predecessors, which will have negative long-term impacts. Simply casting the airport to the wayside and placating to Mayor Bibb’s wishes is not in the best interest of the public, the aviation system, or the City of Cleveland.” “Burke Lakefront Airport isn’t just used by general aviation pilots—it’s a vital asset to northeast Ohio and the country,” said AOPA Great Lakes Regional Manager Kyle Lewis. “Planes take off and land there more than 50,000 times each year, and the airport serves as an important link for public safety, medevac operations, Coast Guard missions and training, flight training, educational opportunities, and more. For example, just one medevac operator based at Burke Lakefront operates more than 500 medical and organ transplant flights there every year.” “In cases like this, if a public airport is going to close, the entity running that airport—in this case, the city of Cleveland—must prove to the FAA that the closure is in the public’s best interest, and they must provide a plan for another local airport to absorb the traffic and infrastructure,” added Lewis. “Mayor Bibb has done none of that. We’ve checked with other airports in the area. Many of them operate at or near capacity, and none of them can handle the influx of traffic or the expansion of infrastructure needed to support these operations.” In its letter, the LAPP invited Mayor Bibb to meet with the group to discuss how the airport can continue to play an important role for the city of Cleveland.

National News

Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group Complete Merger

Republic Airways Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: RJET) announced the successful completion of the merger between Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group, Inc. The transaction was announced on April 7, 2025 and approved by Mesa stockholders on November 17, 2025. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Republic stockholders now own approximately 88% of the combined company’s common stock and Mesa stockholders will own at least 6%, and up to 12% of the combined company’s common stock, subject to the final settlement of Mesa’s pre-closing obligations. As a combined company, Republic Airways Holdings Inc. will own the world’s largest Embraer jet fleet of 310 E-Jets supporting more than 1,300 daily departures. Republic Airways Inc. will continue to support American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines under its existing capacity purchase agreements (“CPA”) while Mesa Airlines will support United Airlines under a new 10-year CPA signed in connection with this transaction. “This merger establishes a combined company with a common mission to provide safe, clean, and reliable service to connect people and communities across America. The transaction will create value for all of our stakeholders and strengthen the regional aviation industry,” said David Grizzle, CEO of Republic Airways. “Today, Republic returns to the public markets as a well-capitalized airline with a strong strategic plan, a capable and proven workforce of aviation professionals, and a horizon bright with opportunity.” Republic and Mesa share a legacy of regional airline operations built on a strong culture and professional pride. This merger unites two organizations that have long recognized the value of investing in people whose skill and dedication have earned the trust of partners and passengers alike. The cultural alignment of the combined organization positions its more than 8,000 impacted aviation professionals for continued growth, development, and long-term success. Matt Koscal, President of Republic Airways, explained the strategic logic of the transaction: “Bringing Republic and Mesa together is the natural next step for Republic. It continues a growth trajectory that stretches back more than five decades, makes us a stronger and more capable partner for our customers, will create new job and career opportunities for our people, and offers a compelling investment opportunity in an essential industry.” Republic and Mesa will maintain parallel operations while the combined company works to consolidate the two airlines to operate as a single carrier. As of today, the combined company will trade under the ticker RJET on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as financial advisor to Republic Airways. FTI Capital Advisors, LLC served as financial advisor and DLA Piper LLP served as legal counsel to Mesa Air Group. Sidley Austin LLP served as legal counsel to United Airlines.
GAA Nominations Deadline Extended into December

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 effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve as exemplary models of character and excellence for the broader GA community. GAA encourages flight schools, aviation organizations, universities, FSDOs, and other entities to nominate fellow aviators or submit applications. This year, GAA will recognize every nominee, acknowledging the vital contributions each person makes to their community’s health and safety. The selection process begins following the NEW December 19th deadline at the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO), where Honorees are chosen at the district level. These winners then proceed to the national level, where a panel of judges composed of industry professionals and past Honorees selects the final Honorees. In addition to national recognition, winners present a live broadcast offering their knowledge and expertise, are awarded a trip to AirVenture, a commemorative plaque, and numerous gifts from industry sponsors. GAA is a not-for-profit corporation run exclusively by volunteers, and it depends on financial support from sponsors and donations to provide these honors.

International News

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations

SAJ photo above by Andrew Stevens Today’s flight decks are pairing experienced Generation X captains with tech-native Generation Z first officers. As the aviation industry faces a projected shortfall of 141,000 pilots in Europe by 2032, training organizations are addressing a shift: type rating courses should prepare pilots not just to operate specific aircraft, but to work effectively across generational divides. With Gen Z now comprising over a quarter of the global workforce, the industry actively recruits younger pilots while retaining experienced professionals. The result? Multi-generational flight decks where each pilot brings distinct strengths shaped by different eras. Teaching the Same Skills to Different Minds SAJ photo by Andrew Stevens Type rating training has traditionally followed a standardized approach: theory, simulator sessions, base and line training, all built around consistent performance standards. What’s changing isn’t the standards themselves, but how instructors deliver the material to maximize learning effectiveness across different generations. Younger pilots often gravitate toward interactive, technology-integrated learning tools. According to recent industry analysis, more than 36% of Gen Z students prefer an interactive learning experience, having grown up with instant feedback loops through gaming and digital platforms. They’re comfortable with rapid iteration—making mistakes in a simulator, receiving immediate data on what went wrong, and adjusting accordingly. Gen Z cadets expect sophisticated flight training apps, real-time dashboards, and simulators that reflect airline-level precision. More experienced pilots typically value structured progression and thorough instructor-led debriefs. They bring pattern recognition developed over thousands of flight hours, which allows them to contextualize new aircraft systems within their broader operational experience. Their learning often benefits from connecting new procedures to established mental models built during years of flying less automated aircraft. Stian Skaar “We’ve found that the most successful type rating programs recognize that different pilots process information differently, regardless of age,” notes Stian Skaar, Head of Training at BAA Training, one of the leading global aviation training organizations delivering both Ab Initio and Type Rating training. “The key is offering multiple pathways to the same competency standard—whether that’s through e-learning modules, traditional classroom sessions, or scenario-based simulator training. Our instructors blend digital tools with face-to-face instruction to engage both ends of the spectrum.” Effective type rating instructors in this day and age combine both approaches. Digital learning management systems provide younger pilots with the instant-access resources they expect, while maintaining face-to-face instruction that reinforces critical thinking and systems understanding. Simulator sessions incorporate both immediate technical feedback through data displays and structured debriefs that encourage discussion and knowledge transfer between crew members. Communication and CRM Meet Them in the Middle Crew Resource Management (CRM)—the systematic approach to teamwork, communication, and decision-making in the cockpit—takes on new dimensions when generations intersect. CRM focuses on the cognitive and interpersonal skills needed to manage resources within an organized system, emphasizing interpersonal communication, leadership, and decision-making. Communication styles shaped by generational contexts can influence cockpit dynamics. Younger pilots, accustomed to rapid digital communication and less hierarchical workplace structures, may need to adjust to the more deliberate, protocol-driven exchanges required in aviation. Conversely, experienced pilots benefit from understanding that younger crew members’ direct communication style isn’t disrespectful, it’s simply a different cultural norm around hierarchy and feedback. According to Skaar, type rating training provides an ideal environment to foster this mutual understanding. “When simulator crews include pilots from different generations, we can highlight how diverse perspectives strengthen safety,” he explains. “A younger first officer might spot an automation anomaly more quickly, while an experienced captain recognizes a pattern from previous incidents. The teamwork emerges when both feel empowered to speak up.” Debriefs explore not just what happened technically, but how the crew communicated, who contributed information, and whether everyone felt heard. Industry research examining personality traits across generations in aviation has found that generational differences exhibited extremely small effect sizes, suggesting that while learning preferences may differ, the fundamental capabilities and professionalism remain consistent across age groups. Defined Not as a Challenge but a Strength The narrative that generational diversity creates training challenges misses a crucial point: it’s an operational asset. Airlines don’t operate with age-homogeneous crews, and mixed-generation environments help develop stronger CRM skills overall. They learn to adapt communication styles, leverage diverse perspectives, and build trust across different approaches to problem-solving. Effective training programs don’t treat generational differences as obstacles to overcome through standardization; instead, they recognize and leverage them as opportunities for growth. One thing is worth recognizing—multi-generational cockpits are the reality of modern aviation, and that training pilots to thrive in that environment produces safer, more adaptable professionals ready for the complexities of contemporary air transport.
Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One

The next important milestone has been reached at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center currently under construction at Frankfurt Airport: the tail unit has now been mounted on the Lockheed L-1649A Super Star. The three-part rudder is characteristic of this particular aircraft series. It has a wingspan of over 15 meters and weighs around 1.4 tons. The assembly was carried out using two forklifts operating in parallel. With this, all the large components of the Super Star have now been successfully assembled. The historic aircraft, once a symbol of innovation and elegance, was painted this summer at Münster/Osnabrück Airport in its classic 1950s livery. The fuselage, wings, engines, and tail were then transported to Frankfurt by heavy haulage. The various aircraft parts were assembled in the new building at Frankfurt Airport over the past few weeks. Now, with a total length of around 35 meters and an impressive wingspan of more than 45 meters, the Super Star shines again in all its former glory. Together with the legendary Junkers Ju 52, the Lockheed Super Star will be the main attraction of the “Lufthansa Group Hangar One.” Due to a glass facade, visitors can also admire the two icons of aviation history from the outside. The opening of the conference and visitor center coincides with the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Deutsche Luft Hansa and underscores the importance of aviation history for the Lufthansa Group.

Unmanned Systems

Osage LLC Hosts Osage Nation Congress for Tour and Presentation of Future Skyway Range Plans

Osage LLC welcomed members of the Osage Nation Congress for an in-depth tour and lunch briefing at Skyway Range, offering a first look at an ambitious vision to transform the area into a leading center for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) innovation, testing, and economic growth. The visit provided Osage leaders with a comprehensive overview of READ MORE
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

Aviation Education

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations

SAJ photo above by Andrew Stevens Today’s flight decks are pairing experienced Generation X captains with tech-native Generation Z first officers. As the aviation industry faces a projected shortfall of 141,000 pilots in Europe by 2032, training organizations are addressing a shift: type rating courses should prepare pilots not just to operate specific aircraft, but to work effectively across generational divides. With Gen Z now comprising over a quarter of the global workforce, the READ MORE
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

Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group Complete Merger

November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 Kim Stevens

Republic Airways Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: RJET) announced the successful completion of the merger between Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group, Inc. The transaction was announced on April 7, 2025 and approved by Mesa stockholders on November 17, 2025. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Republic stockholders now own approximately 88% of the combined company’s […]

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations

November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 Kim Stevens

SAJ photo above by Andrew Stevens Today’s flight decks are pairing experienced Generation X captains with tech-native Generation Z first officers. As the aviation industry faces a projected shortfall of 141,000 pilots in Europe by 2032, training organizations are addressing a shift: type rating courses should prepare pilots not just to operate specific aircraft, but to work effectively across generational divides. With Gen Z now comprising over a quarter of the global workforce, the […]

GAA Nominations Deadline Extended into December

November 24, 2025November 24, 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 […]

MIA, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines Host Tour for Children with Disabilities Before the Holidays

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutié (center) with more than 150 children at the MIAair tour on November 19. A week before the Thanksgiving travel season begins, Miami International Airport (MIA), Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines hosted the airport’s latest MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness […]

Ohio Businesses, Pilots, and Schools Unite to Oppose Request to Close Burke Lakefront Airport

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has joined the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), a coalition made up of local businesses, aviation organizations, and schools—to oppose Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s misguided effort to permanently close Burke Lakefront Airport. Last month, Mayor Bibb asked the federal government to relieve the city of Cleveland of its […]

Kansas City – Lee’s Summit Regional Airport Holds Hangar 2 Ribbon-Cutting Celebration

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The City of Lee’s Summit hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 13 to celebrate the completion of Hangar 2, a state-of-the-art facility at the Kansas City – Lee’s Summit Regional Airport (LXT). Hangar 2 represents a major investment in the City’s growing regional airport and supports Lee’s Summit’s commitment to expanding aviation opportunities, workforce development […]

McFarland Johnson Welcomes Jason Kantak, PE As Regional Engineering Manager

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

McFarland Johnson (MJ) has announced Jason Kantak as Regional Engineering Manager in its Civil Engineering Services Division. Based in Syracuse, New York, Kantak will focus on expanding all MJ’s Divisions within the Central New York region, with an emphasis on Civil, Transportation, Aviation, and Environmental Services. As Regional Engineering Manager, Kantak oversees the Civil Engineering […]

Pape-Dawson Expands Airport Planning Practice with Acquisition of Coffman Associates

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Pape-Dawson has acquired Coffman Associates, a nationally recognized airport planning firm with offices in Kansas and Arizona, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s expanding aviation practice. Founded in 1979, Coffman Associates specializes in airport planning and associated environmental and noise/land use studies. The firm’s unmatched experience includes more than 600 airport master plans, 450 […]

Hooker Municipal Airport, Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Fuel Future Growth with $1M Upgrade

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – Hooker Municipal Airport and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics celebrated a $1,000,000 upgrade to the airport’s fuel system on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025. The improvement replaced outdated and unreliable fuel tanks. Hooker Municipal Airport, in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), officially celebrated a major infrastructure upgrade […]

Guymon Municipal Airport, Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Kick Off Key Hangar Project Construction in Panhandle

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Guymon Municipal Airport held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025. The new hangar is expected to be completed by spring 2026. The Guymon Municipal Airport and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) marked the start of construction on a new 120-foot […]

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations

MIA, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines Host Tour for Children with Disabilities Before the Holidays

Tail Section of Legendary Lockheed Super Star Successfully Assembled at Lufthansa Group Hangar One

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