State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership
Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]
Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale
As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end […]
Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI
Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, […]
Belgian Aero Club U.E.S. Expands Fleet With 14th Tecnam Aircraft
Tecnam announced that the Belgian ultralight flight school U.E.S., operating as “FLY4FUN” at Avernas-le-Bauduin (EBAV), has confirmed the order of a new Tecnam P92 MkII. Scheduled for delivery in spring 2027, this highly anticipated addition will mark the fourteenth Tecnam aircraft to join the school’s fleet over its history. Founded in 2000 as a small […]

State News

Epic Flight Academy Launches 6-Month Fast Track Pilot Program

Epic Flight Academy has launched a six-month fast track pilot program for students who prefer to accelerate their flight training. Students commit to training 7 days a week and dedicate 12–14 hours per day to flight training, simulator work, and study. They will earn private pilot, instrument, commercial single-engine, and commercial multi-engine ratings. Epic founder and CEO Danny Perna said, “We’ve had many students bring incredible focus to their training over the years who’ve completed far ahead of the norm. So, we developed this program with special savings for students with that kind of drive. They must maintain discipline, focus, and consistent time management.” The program is currently available only at the New Smyrna Beach, Florida campus. The estimated cost for tuition and non-tuition expenses is approximately $87,000 due to the launch special savings of $5,000. Students will receive training in aircraft flight training, advanced simulator training, ground school and academic study, cross-country flight operations, and professional-level flight procedures. They will benefit from modern Garmin-equipped training aircraft, advanced flight simulators, experienced professional instructors, a highly structured training environment, and one of the most efficient training pipelines in the industry. Epic Flight Academy was founded in 1999. It is the largest FAA Part 141 flight school in the U.S. with eleven flight training campuses and two FAA Part 147 aircraft mechanic campuses.
Massport Names Aviation Director, Deputy Director

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Sharon Williams as executive director of aviation and David Ishihara as deputy executive director of aviation, effective July 1, 2026. Sharon Williams They will succeed longtime Massport aviation leader Ed Freni, who will retire in July following a 26-year career at Massport. Williams currently serves as director of aviation facilities and passenger services at Boston Logan International, where she is responsible for airport facilities operations, customer service, terminal management and oversight of Hanscom Field. Prior to that role, she served as director of Hanscom Field for twelve years. She earned her private pilot license at age 17 and has been a commercial pilot for 37 years. Davis Ishihara Ishihara currently serves as the director of aviation operations, safety and security at Boston Logan. In that role, he is responsible for the management of airfield operations, safety management systems, aviation security, ground transportation and parking operations, as well as the oversight of Worcester Regional. Before joining Massport, Ishihara served as deputy director of the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center at the U.S. Department of Transportation. “Massport is fortunate to have two incredibly talented and experienced aviation leaders in Sharon and David,” said Massport CEO Rich Davey. “Their deep industry expertise, operational leadership, and commitment to excellence will help guide the Aviation team into the future while building upon the tremendous legacy and leadership of Ed Freni.”

National News

FAA Invests $523 Million to Modernize Airport Infrastructure in 43 States

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced last week that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has invested more than $523 million in airports nationwide to modernize infrastructure, improve safety and deliver a more efficient travel experience for American families. The Department delivered 332 grants to airports in 43 states through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program to support runway rehabilitation, apron and taxiway improvements, terminal upgrades, and other airfield investments. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “American families deserve state-of-the-art runways and infrastructure that will make their travel experience safer, smoother, and more efficient.” “The FAA is moving at record speed to deliver these investments to airports nationwide,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These projects will improve reliability across the aviation system while helping airports meet growing demand.” Airports receiving funding include: $70 million to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport for runway rehabilitation. $46.9 million to Charlotte/Douglas International Airport for apron expansion. $41.9 million to Miami International Airport for terminal reconstruction and fuel farm expansion. $18.7 million to New York’s Syracuse Hancock International Airport for deicing pad expansion and reconstruction. $18.6 million to Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport for new taxi lane construction. $18 million to Philadelphia International Airport for taxiway pavement reconstruction. $16.2 million to Orlando Sanford International Airport for taxiway extension. $10.9 million to Louisiana’s Baton Rouge Metro Airport, Ryan Field for terminal and baggage system replacement. $10.5 million to Nebraska’s Eppley Airfield in Nebraska for terminal and boarding bridge reconstruction. Additional Information: AIG funding may be used for airport planning, development, sustainability projects, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs. View a data visualization of the airports receiving funding.
Connico Welcomes Three New Hires to Support Continued National Growth

Connico has announced the additions of Spencer Grassi as scheduling project specialist, Melanie Moorhouse as analyst 1 and Gaurang Bhimani as analyst 2. Their expertise enhances Connico’s ability to provide detailed cost insights, support project schedules and strengthen field coordination, helping clients navigate complex project decisions with enhanced data and insight. “We’re building a team that can think deeper, move faster, and provide sharper insight for our clients,” said Sri Kumar, Connico president and CEO. “Spencer, Melanie, and Gaurang each bring practical expertise that strengthens how we show up in the field and at the table. This is exactly the kind of talent that helps Connico deliver innovative solutions.” Spencer Grassi, scheduling project specialist Grassi comes to Connico with nine years of construction industry expertise. He possesses a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Eastern Michigan University and is a certified project management professional from the Project Management Institute. In his role, Spencer will support the firm’s aviation and infrastructure scheduling services, ensuring deliverables remain efficient and aligned with client goals. Melanie Moorhouse, analyst 1 Moorhouse previously joined Connico as an intern while earning her bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from the University of Cincinnati. In her new role supporting cost estimating, Melanie develops data-driven cost projections for infrastructure and field services projects, helping clients make informed decisions, manage risk, and maintain budget alignment from planning through execution. Gaurang Bhimani, analyst 2 Bhimani joins Connico with five years of construction industry experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in construction management. In his role, Gaurang contributes to developing data-driven solutions and collaborates across Connico’s team to support successful project outcomes.

International News

GAMA Releases First Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the first quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report last week. The results for the first three months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased shipments in the piston airplane and business jet sectors and an increase in the overall value of aircraft shipments. Cirrus Aircraft Aircraft shipments through the first quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston airplanes increase 6.4% with 381 units, turboprops decrease 3.1% with 124 units, and business jets increase 14.9% with 162 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the first quarter of 2026 was $6.1 billion, an increase of 19.1%. Helicopter shipments through the first quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston helicopters decrease by seven units to 47, and turbine helicopters decrease by 9.0% with 121 units. The value of civil-commercial helicopter deliveries was $789 million. Three Month Aircraft Shipment & Billing Aircraft Type20252026% ChangePiston Airplanes358381+6.4%Turboprops128124-3.1%Business Jets141162+14.9Total Airplanes627667+6.4%Total Airplane Billings$5.1B$6.1B+19.1%Piston Helicopters5447-13.0%Turbine Helicopters133121-9.0%Total Helicopters187168-10.2%Total Helicopter Billings$769M$789M+2.5% GAMA’s complete 2026 first quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI

Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, NASAO, NAA and currently finishing up his second year as president of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale World Air Sports Federation. Greg Principato “When I was at NAA the legendary flight instructor and pioneer John King used to tell me I get to hang around with “unusual people” meaning people who have done unusual, unique, and great things,” said Principato. “I never take that for granted.” Notably, Principato was the first American elected President to the FAI board since Clifton F. von Kann – 1988-1990. And, before that Jacqueline Cochran – 1958-60. “When I learned that I would be in the same sentence as Jackie Cochrane I was honored and more than humbled,” said Principato. “There is no world where that should be possible.” Principato, left, with ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, 2025. The FAI President is elected by a vote of the global membership at the General Conference. At the time, Principato’s name was suggested by the Swedish representative. “I had put forward a pretty aggressive reform agenda and got 84% of the vote, which was nice,” said Principato. His two-year term ends in October. Outside the air sports world, FAI is very little known. Until Greg began working at NAA in 2016, he’d never heard of them, even though FAI is the oldest global aviation organization, having been founded in 1905. “I think most people assume world records are certified and acknowledged by the Guiness people, but in reality, FAI is the record certifying body,” noted Principato. Rigorous procedures and rules are in place that ensure all records are certified with integrity. “I also don’t think most people know that FAI is recognized as the global air sports federation by the International Olympic Committee,” continued Principato. “FAI is to air sports what FIFA is to soccer, for example. You may also not know that the Karman line, which for generations has defined the boundaries of space, was established by the FAI.” Greg with Amy Spowart, CEO of FAI’s US member, National Aeronautic Association, at the site of a world record parachute jump attempt, Ottawa Illinois August, 2025. In preparation for his role at FAI, Principato had already spoken with a majority of the members, so he had a good sense of what was on their minds, and to date there have been few surprises. NAA is the U.S. member of FAI, so Principato was well familiar with the workings of the organization. “FAI is viewed differently in many countries. In some, the national organization is part of that country’s Olympic Committee and may have a very close association with a ministry of sports. That is not the case here,” said Principato. “Some national organizations tightly control air sports in their countries; others delegate much of this authority to airsport organizations as is the case in the United States. So, that poses a challenge, though it is one I was well prepared for having been so involved in the global airport community as a part of Airports Council International earlier in my career and, of course, NAA’s involvement in FAI when I was CEO there.” Principato said in terms of tensions, political or otherwise, that tends to be kept to a minimum, though it occasionally creeps in. “Russia and Belarus, for example, were suspended after the Invasion of Ukraine in 2022.” Reflecting on his time at FAI, Principato said he is always amazed at how many people he has met who are involved in the aviation industry – from bag slingers to astronauts – who got started with air sports. Whether flying their own models or perhaps being inspired by someone at an air show like Oshkosh, Principato believes you are never too young, or too old, to be inspired by, or to inspire someone, through air sports. “Air sports are a gateway to aviation careers, and I am always especially impressed with those who want to share their career path with youngsters.” The FAI Executive Board (Timo Hyvonen, Finland; Agust Gudmundsson, Iceland; Gillian Rayner Deputy President, France; Greg Principato; Marina Vigorito, Italy; Mary Anne Stevens, Canada; Igor Erzen, Slovenia; Markus Haggeney, FAI Secretary General. Several months ago, Greg had a chance to meet Bertrand Picard, who flew the Solar Impulse around the world, powered by solar power. He talked to him at a bookstore, where he was talking about a book he had written for children. “He was inspiring to listen to and also struck by the fact that he was inspired by the fact that he could inspire others.” Although Principato’s term expires later in this year, he is eligible to run again. “There are a lot of changes we are bringing forth into FAI. Our members have asked for many of these things for a long time, and we are now acting on them. We will see what happens.”

Unmanned Systems

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

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

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

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Launches 6-Month Fast Track Pilot Program

Epic Flight Academy has launched a six-month fast track pilot program for students who prefer to accelerate their flight training. Students commit to training 7 days a week and dedicate 12–14 hours per day to flight training, simulator work, and study. They will earn private pilot, instrument, commercial single-engine, and commercial multi-engine ratings. Epic founder READ MORE
Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed READ MORE

FAA Invests $523 Million to Modernize Airport Infrastructure in 43 States

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced last week that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has invested more than $523 million in airports nationwide to modernize infrastructure, improve safety and deliver a more efficient travel experience for American families. The Department delivered 332 grants to airports in 43 states through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program […]

Epic Flight Academy Launches 6-Month Fast Track Pilot Program

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

Epic Flight Academy has launched a six-month fast track pilot program for students who prefer to accelerate their flight training. Students commit to training 7 days a week and dedicate 12–14 hours per day to flight training, simulator work, and study. They will earn private pilot, instrument, commercial single-engine, and commercial multi-engine ratings. Epic founder […]

Massport Names Aviation Director, Deputy Director

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Sharon Williams as executive director of aviation and David Ishihara as deputy executive director of aviation, effective July 1, 2026. They will succeed longtime Massport aviation leader Ed Freni, who will retire in July following a 26-year career at Massport. Williams currently […]

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

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]

Connico Welcomes Three New Hires to Support Continued National Growth

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Connico has announced the additions of Spencer Grassi as scheduling project specialist, Melanie Moorhouse as analyst 1 and Gaurang Bhimani as analyst 2. Their expertise enhances Connico’s ability to provide detailed cost insights, support project schedules and strengthen field coordination, helping clients navigate complex project decisions with enhanced data and insight. “We’re building a team […]

ONT 5K at the Runway Raises Nearly $83,000 for Local USO in Support of Military Servicemembers

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

Ontario International Airport’s annual 5K at the Runway continues to gain momentum as one of the Inland Empire’s most unique community events, raising nearly $83,000 this year in support of the USO at ONT and military servicemembers traveling through Southern California. Officials with the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) on Thursday presented a check for […]

NBAA Welcomes New Website to Track ATC Modernization Progress

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) expressed its support for a new online dashboard developed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide updates on the status of modernization of the country’s air traffic control (ATC) network. The new Modern Skies dashboard provides information about ATC modernization projects already underway […]

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

May 31, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Names Laura Rudicel Director of Communications and Marketing

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has named Laura Rudicel as its new Director of Communications and Marketing. An award-winning communications strategist, Rudicel brings extensive experience leading high-profile brand, media, and public engagement initiatives across Oklahoma. Rudicel joins ODAA from OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, where she served as Director of Marketing and […]

GAMA Releases First Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the first quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report last week. The results for the first three months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased shipments in the piston airplane and business jet sectors and an increase in the overall value […]

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

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

Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI

Belgian Aero Club U.E.S. Expands Fleet With 14th Tecnam Aircraft