State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]
Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector
Driven by the strong momentum of the global aeronautics industry, the discreet Toulouse-based Satys Group is consolidating its growth, recovering its pre-Covid profitability ratios, and entering 2026 with solid development ambitions across its six markets: commercial aviation, regional aviation, business aviation, helicopters, defense, and aircraft repainting. “This favorable environment contrasts sharply with the extreme difficulties […]
Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology
Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by […]
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet
Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era […]

State News

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity

Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by the Phoenix Airport Museum, the mural celebrates the talent, industries and ideas shaping Greater Phoenix. The images invite travelers to explore how the region paved the way to become a corridor for creativity and resilience, from ancient canal systems to present day Semiconductor manufacturing. “Phoenix Sky Harbor is the front door to our city, and this exhibition gives travelers a powerful first impression,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “We’re a region built on innovation and collaboration, and by highlighting the talent and industries driving our economy, Desert Innovation shows how Phoenix continues to lead with creativity, resilience and opportunity.” The project is a partnership between Phoenix Sky Harbor and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC). The exhibition honors Greater Phoenix’s past while spotlighting how far the region has come as a thriving center for innovation. The museum team worked with GPEC to identify key industries and the impact they have locally and regionally, blending historic context with present-day imagery and data, to tell the story of Greater Phoenix’s past, present and future. “The story of Greater Phoenix is groundbreaking technologies, fruitful collaboration and a fierce determination to be leaders in industries that improve the lives of communities around the world,” said GPEC President and CEO Christine Mackay. “We’re honored to showcase our heritage and transformation into a world-class market to the millions of travelers welcomed by Phoenix Sky Harbor each year.” Desert Innovation highlights key industries that continue to drive the region forward, including: Aerospace & Defense Biosciences Advanced Manufacturing Climate Tech/Sustainability Startup Innovation More information about Desert Innovation can be found at skyharbor.com/pastpresentandfuture. Information about the Phoenix Airport Museum can be found at skyharbor.com/museum.
Contour Airlines Announces Additional Flights Between Denver, CO and Moab, UT This Spring

Contour Airlines has announced an expansion of its flight schedule at Canyonlands Regional Airport in Moab, UT for April and May. As a result of this expansion, both residents and visitors will benefit from 7 weekly flights to Phoenix and 12 weekly flights to Denver. With up to 19 total weekly flights between Moab, Denver, and Phoenix, Contour Airlines is making it even easier for travelers to visit Moab during the busy spring travel season. Contour Airlines ERJ-135 “We’re excited to expand our service in Moab and offer additional flights during the busy spring travel season,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “Moab continues to be a popular destination for travelers, and these additional flights will make it even easier for visitors from around the world to explore the region’s world-class outdoor recreation, including nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.” Contour Airlines will operate the additional flights using its 30-seat regional jet, offering passengers a comfortable and reliable travel experience. Each flight features extra legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, one free checked bag, and one free carry-on bag with every fare, delivering a premium regional travel experience. Flights are available for booking now at www.contourairlines.com.

National News

Green Taxi Aerospace Receives FAA Concurrence on Certification Approach

Green Taxi Aerospace announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concurred with the certification approach for its electric taxi system program, as submitted by Green Taxi Aerospace’s certification partner StandardAero. The FAA’s concurrence follows its review of Green Taxi Aerospace’s compliance checklist summary and FAA conformity plan. It also provides for the Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program to be delegated to StandardAero’s ODA on behalf of Green Taxi Aerospace. StandardAero is supporting the development and execution of the certification program as Green Taxi Aerospace progresses toward STC approval. “We appreciate the FAA’s review and concurrence on our certification approach,” said David Valaer, CEO of Green Taxi Aerospace. “This reflects a major milestone with continued progress in our certification program and the strong collaboration with our certification partners.” John Miedwig, Director, Certification Services at StandardAero, added: “StandardAero is pleased to support Green Taxi Aerospace in the execution of its certification program. We look forward to continuing our collaboration as the program advances through the STC process.” Green Taxi Aerospace’s electric taxi system enables Zero Engine Taxi™, allowing aircraft to taxi without using their main engines saving up to $300,000 per year per aircraft. The system is designed to reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, decrease brake wear, eliminates the need for pushback tugs, and improve operational efficiency during ground operations.
Kevin Burke Named 2026 Trade Association Executive of the Year

ACI-NA’s President and CEO, Kevin Burke, was recently named the 2026 Trade Association Executive of the Year at the annual Salute to Association Excellence awards luncheon. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding leadership and impact within the association community. Kevin was recognized for not only his longstanding commitment to the association world but also to the aviation industry. “While my name might be on this award, this recognition is not just about me,” Burke said. “My success is based on the hard work and dedication of the extraordinarily professional team at ACI-NA, who nominated me for this award. Our team shows up every day committed to a mission, guided by our members, and grounded in purpose. They embody what a member-driven, mission-focused trade association should be.” Burke was recognized for his leadership in securing $40 billion from Congress in financial relief and investment for airports during the pandemic, his financial stewardship of ACI-NA, and his commitment to consensus building, especially in bringing more than 100 trade associations together to form ACI-NA’s Beyond the Runway Coalition. Join us in recognizing Kevin for this well-deserved recognition!

International News

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based solutions. Areas of cooperation include professional training programs, joint scientific research, methodology development, and the establishment of infrastructure to support UAV deployment. As part of the framework, the parties intend to explore: Establishing a UAV training and professional development center Conducting online and in-person seminars and knowledge exchange programs Creating a technical maintenance and service center for UAVs Developing methodologies for effective drone usage in agriculture Evaluating the potential use of drones across up to 300,000 hectares of intensively cultivated cotton fields The Uzbek partners would be responsible for providing local servicing infrastructure and agricultural inputs, while Kaizen Aerospace would contribute drone technology expertise and operational know-how. The Memorandum of Cooperation is non-binding and serves as a foundation for further discussions and potential definitive agreements. It does not create financial commitments or legally binding obligations between the parties. The memorandum reflects a shared interest in leveraging advanced aerial technologies to support agricultural efficiency, productivity, and sustainable development initiatives in Uzbekistan.
Air Canada and CAE Announce Eight Recipients of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship

Air Canada and CAE, two of Canada’s premiere aerospace companies headquartered in Montréal, announced the eight recipients of the seventh edition of the Air Canada and CAE Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. Every year, up to eight Canadian women studying to become commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers are awarded scholarships to pursue their training. Of these recipients, four aspiring commercial pilots will join the CAE Women in Flight program as ambassadors. “Each year, the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship allows us to witness the incredible talent, perseverance, and passion of women who are shaping the future of aviation in Canada. This year’s recipients stand out not only for their academic excellence and technical skill, but for the leadership and mentorship they demonstrate within their communities,” said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs at Air Canada. “Their achievements embody the very spirit of this scholarship – honoring Captain Judy Cameron’s trailblazing legacy while empowering the next generation of women to pursue careers as commercial pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers. We are proud to support their journeys and remain deeply committed to advancing gender parity in STEM and technical aviation careers.” “Today, women still represent just about five percent of commercial pilots worldwide. CAE is proud to once again support the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship, an initiative that plays a meaningful role in encouraging more women to pursue careers in aviation and inspire the next generation. This year’s recipients reflect the talent and determination that will help shape the future of our industry, and we are honored to fuel their aspirations and support their path,” said Marie-Christine Cloutier, Vice President, Strategy & Marketing. “Four of the recipients will become CAE Women in Flight ambassadors to serve as role models, promoting diversity in aviation and inspiring other women to follow in their footsteps.” “Air Canada launched the Captain Judy Cameron scholarship program seven years ago, and it has been truly inspiring to celebrate the remarkable achievements of past recipients as they go on to become flight instructors, medevac pilots, and First Officers at major airlines,” said Judy Cameron, Boeing 777 Captain at Air Canada (retired), and Director, Northern Lights Aero Foundation. “The 2026 recipients exemplify excellence, not only in their own training, but in the way they actively uplift and encourage other women in their aviation journeys. I am incredibly proud of CAE and Air Canada’s continued commitment to advancing women in aviation through its partnership with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation.” The Air Canada recipients for 2026 are: Faith Mulholland of Eden Mills, Ontario Afrah Khan from Edmonton, Alberta Aymie Rioux from St. Germain, Québec Kesaia Bruni from Mississauga, Ontario The following individuals will join the CAE Women in Flight Program: Katelyn Flear of Caledonia, Ontario Madison Crane from Etobicoke, Ontario Sophia Hutchcroft of Calgary, Alberta Natasha Razzak from Sherwood Park, Alberta The annual Captain Judy Cameron Scholarships, established in honor of Air Canada’s first female pilot to help foster the next generation of women following in her trailblazing footsteps, are awarded in conjunction with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. The Captain Judy Cameron scholarships were introduced in 2019 and initially awarded to four recipients. In 2023, Air Canada and CAE joined forces to double the number of scholarships, awarding a total of eight to eligible students. To learn more about the program, go to CAE Women in Flight Ambassador Program

Unmanned Systems

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based READ MORE
Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Partners with OAIRE to Propel Drone Innovation in High School Classrooms

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) in partnership with OAIRE, the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, hosted a professional development event and drone build for Oklahoma aerospace teachers on Feb. 27-28. The event, held at Oklahoma State University, highlighted the state’s commitment to “pushing the boundaries of flight.” Oklahoma aviation teachers READ MORE

Aviation Education

Air Canada and CAE Announce Eight Recipients of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship

Air Canada and CAE, two of Canada’s premiere aerospace companies headquartered in Montréal, announced the eight recipients of the seventh edition of the Air Canada and CAE Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. Every year, up to eight Canadian women studying to become commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers are awarded scholarships to pursue their training. Of READ MORE
First Colorado College to Join Air Traffic Controller Training Program

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has greenlit Aims Community College in Colorado as the next school to implement the Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative (E-CTI). Students who pass the E-CTI program can apply to become a controller on a fast track – skipping the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and jumping straight to on-site facility training. “Thanks to READ MORE

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based […]

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]

Air Canada and CAE Announce Eight Recipients of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Air Canada and CAE, two of Canada’s premiere aerospace companies headquartered in Montréal, announced the eight recipients of the seventh edition of the Air Canada and CAE Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. Every year, up to eight Canadian women studying to become commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers are awarded scholarships to pursue their training. Of […]

Contour Airlines Announces Additional Flights Between Denver, CO and Moab, UT This Spring

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Contour Airlines has announced an expansion of its flight schedule at Canyonlands Regional Airport in Moab, UT for April and May. As a result of this expansion, both residents and visitors will benefit from 7 weekly flights to Phoenix and 12 weekly flights to Denver. With up to 19 total weekly flights between Moab, Denver, […]

First Colorado College to Join Air Traffic Controller Training Program

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has greenlit Aims Community College in Colorado as the next school to implement the Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative (E-CTI). Students who pass the E-CTI program can apply to become a controller on a fast track – skipping the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and jumping straight to on-site facility training. “Thanks to […]

AOPA Expresses Concern About Starlink Price Hikes for GA Pilots

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA)—representing 400,000 pilots from more than 80 countries—are expressing concern about Starlink’s recent price increase for general aviation pilots, which jumped from $50-$65 to $250-$1,000 per month. In a letter to Elon Musk, the CEO and Founder of […]

NBAA to Bring Business Aviation’s Most Powerful Event to New Orleans in 2028

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced that in 2028, it will bring the world’s most powerful business aviation event to New Orleans, a vibrant city and a global destination for major trade shows and other business and entertainment events. The 2028 edition of the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) will take place […]

Green Taxi Aerospace Receives FAA Concurrence on Certification Approach

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Green Taxi Aerospace announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concurred with the certification approach for its electric taxi system program, as submitted by Green Taxi Aerospace’s certification partner StandardAero. The FAA’s concurrence follows its review of Green Taxi Aerospace’s compliance checklist summary and FAA conformity plan. It also provides for the Organization Designation […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Partners with OAIRE to Propel Drone Innovation in High School Classrooms

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) in partnership with OAIRE, the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, hosted a professional development event and drone build for Oklahoma aerospace teachers on Feb. 27-28. The event, held at Oklahoma State University, highlighted the state’s commitment to “pushing the boundaries of flight.” The strategic partnership […]

Tennessee Aeronautics Commission and TDOT Aeronautics Announce 2025 Airport Award Recipients

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Tennessee Aeronautics Commission (TAC) and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Aeronautics Division have announced the recipients of the 2025 Tennessee Airport Awards, recognizing exceptional achievement, leadership, and long-standing contributions to aviation across the state. Each year, these awards honor airports, governing bodies, and aviation professionals whose work strengthens airport operations, enhances safety, and […]

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity

Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet