State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project
The Federal Aviation Administration will host four virtual public workshops in May as part of the Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project. The project is led by the FAA and proposes new and updated satellite‑based flight procedures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of airspace serving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and surrounding airports. The […]
Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin
It was a special date for Lufthansa and a special day for all the employees who have shaped the airline with the crane logo: Exactly 100 years ago on April 6, 1926 – Lufthansa (at that time: “Luft Hansa”) took to the skies on its first flights. On that day, two aircraft took off from […]
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform
Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s […]
SAS Marks 80 Years with Anniversary Aircraft
SAS marks the start of its 80th year of operations with a specially painted Airbus A330-300, celebrating eight decades of connecting Scandinavia with the world. Throughout 2026, the airline will highlight its heritage and continued role in linking people, businesses and societies. The anniversary comes 80 years after SAS’s first intercontinental flight on September 17, […]

State News

North Dakota Records Second-Strongest Spring Travel on Record for ND Airports

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its March 2026 airline passenger statistics for the state’s eight commercial service airports. North Dakota’s commercial airports recorded 117,481 passenger boardings in March 2026, a 4.6 percent decrease from the record-setting March 2025 total of 123,187. Despite this decline, March 2026 ranks as the second-strongest March on record, reflecting continued strength in seasonal spring travel demand across the state. Airline capacity for the month totaled 150,469 available departure seats, slightly down from 154,128 in March 2025. This measured reduction reflects airlines’ continued efforts to align capacity following last year’s record demand levels, while still maintaining a high level of service across North Dakota’s markets. Even with this adjustment, overall seat capacity remains elevated compared to historical trends, reinforcing sustained airline confidence in the state’s air service network. During the month, travelers at several major airports across the country experienced periods of longer TSA wait times, coinciding with ongoing federal workforce and funding uncertainties within the Department of Homeland Security. While short-term relief has occurred following the release of TSA paychecks, broader DHS funding conditions remain an area of continued monitoring, as the agency continues to operate under a partial government shutdown. “While passenger volumes have moderated slightly from last year’s record pace, the overall demand environment remains very strong,” said Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the ND Aeronautics Commission. “We are also closely monitoring federal staffing and funding dynamics nationwide to help ensure a reliable and efficient travel experience as we move into the peak summer season.” Individual Airport – March Passenger Records: The Devils Lake Regional Airport established a new monthly passenger record with 1,133 boardings, surpassing its previous March record of 801 set in 2024. View the March Airline Boarding Report March 2026 Statewide Airline Passenger Statistics Total Airline Passenger Boardings: 117,481 Available Airline Departure Seats: 150,469 Average Aircraft Load Factor: 78% Number of Successful Airline Departure Flights: 1,760 Number of Airline Departure Flight Cancellations: 35 Airline Departure Flight Cancellation Rate: 2.0% February 2026 Statewide Airline Passenger Boarding Market Share AirlinePassengersMarket ShareDelta38,68333%Allegiant32,59128%United28,96525%American16,12114%Frontier1,1211%Totals:117,481100%
New Braunfels National Airport Named 2026 Airport of the Year

Photo – From left are; Ty Helton: President, Texas Airports Council, Michael Capizzi: New Braunfels City Council – District 2, Jeff Jewell, Director of Economic & Community Development, City Of New Braunfels, Dr. Robert Lee: Airport Director (New Braunfels National Airport), City of New Braunfels, Robert Camareno: City Manager, City Of New Braunfels, Dan Harmon: Director of Aviation Division, Texas Department of Aviation. The City of New Braunfels has announced that the New Braunfels National Airport has been selected by the Texas Aviation Advisory Committee as the 2026 National/Regional Airport of the Year. This award recognizes the New Braunfels National Airport’s commitment to strategic planning, infrastructure investment, and long-term economic impact. Guided by a comprehensive master plan, the New Braunfels National Airport has aligned its development efforts with a clear vision for capacity, safety, and regional growth. Over the past several years, the Airport has completed a series of projects that highlight this forward-thinking approach, including: A runway rehabilitation project that improved surface quality, enhanced safety, and extended the runway’s lifespan Construction of a 400-foot taxi-lane extension to increase corporate hangar development and capacity for larger aircraft Construction of a detention pond to facilitate drainage for new corporate development near the airport terminal Reconstruction of the north apron, by improving taxi areas, safety features, and aircraft parking Installation of perimeter fencing and access control gates to significantly improve operational safety and security Completion of site selection and completion of approximately 30% of the design for a new Air Traffic Control Tower Creation of an Airport Development and Design Standards Manual to establish specific design criteria and guidelines for all development at the Airport Finalization of the Airport Master Drainage Plan to prepare for future development “A strong airport begins with a clear vision and the people who bring that vision to life every day. This recognition reflects years of thoughtful planning and collaboration and the unwavering dedication of our airport staff and partners,” said Economic and Community Development Director Jeff Jewell. “We are honored to receive this award and remain committed to ensuring the airport serves as a driver of economic vitality for New Braunfels and the surrounding region.” Looking ahead, current priorities for the New Braunfels National Airport include completing a new air traffic control tower and advancing a feasibility study for a new terminal on the west side of the airport. To learn more about the New Braunfels National Airport, visit www.newbraunfels.gov/airport.

National News

AAAE’s ACT Releases New Report on How Airports Are Adapting to Rising Electrical Demand

The American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Airport Consortium on Transformation (ACT), comprised of innovative airport leaders and aviation industry experts, has released an industry report examining how U.S. airports are preparing for unprecedented electrical demand and increasingly utility-like operational responsibilities. As airports electrify vehicles, ground service equipment fleets, terminals, heating systems, and airside operations — while also deploying solar, battery storage, and microgrids — many are now required to plan, monitor, and manage power systems with a level of sophistication traditionally associated with electrical utilities. Developed in partnership with Siemens, the report provides a comprehensive look at the challenges airports face as electrification accelerates, highlighting where airports are making progress and where significant gaps remain, including real-time power monitoring, staffing capacity, redundancy planning, and tenant transparency. “This report underscores the challenge and opportunity that airports have to transform the energy management approach to drive meaningful improvements across our industry,” said Amy Nagengast, PhD, P.E., Energy Program Manager, San Francisco International Airport. “With SFO’s energy demands projected to grow significantly over the next 30 years, the time to modernize, digitize, and implement further resilient energy infrastructure systems is here.” Report Provides In-Depth Look at Airports’ Emerging Utility Role The research draws on extensive interviews with eight participating ACT airports including San Francisco International, Los Angeles World Airports, Denver International, Seattle-Tacoma International, Tampa International, San Luis Obispo County Regional, Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Ky., the Wayne County Airport Authority (Detroit Metropolitan Airport), and contributing airport Gerald R. Ford International in Grand Rapids, Mich. “Based on the new trends for energy demand, airports find themselves investigating ways to more effectively and efficiently deliver power to their stakeholders,” said John Kasuda, Head of Airports and Vertiports, Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA. “Utility companies leverage their proven processes to do just that; it’s a model that served as the basis for our research here. Partnerships like the one we have with ACT are so valuable because together we can explore these important topics and shape the future of airports.” As electrification accelerates, ACT remains committed to helping airports share insights, build industry-ready tools, and address the complex challenges associated with modern electrical infrastructure. “AAAE is proud to support research that gives airports a clearer understanding of how electrification is reshaping their infrastructure needs,” added Kyle Herbig, Senior Vice President of Airport Solutions, AAAE. What the Report Examines The report seeks to answer the question of whether airports are acting like utility companies, examining key areas including: Current and future electrical infrastructure needs Internal power distribution strategies, metering, submetering, and Electrical Power Monitoring Systems Resiliency and redundancy across airport operations Stakeholder service expectations, cost recovery, and airport–utility relationships Strategic considerations for adopting “utility-lite” practices Across airports of all sizes, the report found strong alignment in the urgency of modernizing aging systems, improving power visibility, and preparing for long-term load growth. The report is now available for download in the ACT repository.
CAN Appoints Aviation Pioneer Joan Sullivan Garrett to Board of Directors

Corporate Angel Network (CAN) has announced the appointment of Joan Sullivan Garrett to its Board of Directors. A pioneering entrepreneur and aviation medical innovator, Garrett is the Founder and Chairman of MedAire, a global leader in integrated medical, travel, and safety services for aviation and maritime industries. Since founding MedAire in 1985, she has been instrumental in developing real-time, ground-based medical support systems for in-flight emergencies—helping establish industry standards that continue to save lives worldwide. Joan Sullivan Garrett Garrett’s work has shaped how the aviation industry approaches passenger and crew health, with MedAire now supporting hundreds of airlines and thousands of aircraft globally. A widely recognized authority in aviation medicine and remote care, she has advised government agencies, testified before Congress, and contributed extensively to advancing health and safety protocols across the industry. “Joan is a true trailblazer whose career has been defined by innovation and a deep commitment to protecting and saving lives,” said Jean Rosanvallon, Chairman of the Corporate Angel Network Board of Directors. “Her unique perspective at the intersection of aviation and healthcare aligns seamlessly with CAN’s mission. We are excited to welcome her insight and leadership as we continue expanding access to life-saving treatment for cancer patients.” Garrett’s distinguished career includes service on numerous aviation and nonprofit boards, as well as numerous awards and honors, including the National Aeronautic Association Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, NBAA’s Meritorious Service to Aviation Award and inductions into the International Air and Space Hall of Fame, National Aviation Hall of Fame and Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame. Her longstanding dedication to improving safety, care, and access within aviation brings a powerful dimension to CAN’s work. “I am honored to join the Board of Corporate Angel Network and support its extraordinary mission,” said Garrett. “The ability to remove barriers to care—especially for patients facing serious illness—is both impactful and deeply meaningful. CAN’s work exemplifies how aviation can be used as a force for good, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and reach.” Garrett will be joining other CAN Board members, including: Michael Amalfitano, Embraer Executive Jets; W.W. (Bill) Boisture, Jr., AE Industrial Partners; Derek DeCross, Signature Aviation; Scott Donnelly, Textron; Dan Drohan, Solairus; Elise Eberwein, formerly American Airlines; Jennifer Leach English, AIN Publications; Patrick Gallagher, NetJets Aviation; Matthew Greene, Safe Flight Instrument; Jeannine Haas, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation; Dawne Hickton, Cumberland Additive; David Hurley, ALOFT Aero Architects; Ève Laurier, Bombardier; Wilson Leach, Aviation International News; Jean Rosanvallon (Chairman), formerly Dassault Falcon Jet; and Dr. Bret Schipper, Hartford HealthCare.

International News

Former U.S. Secretary Elaine L. Chao to Receive the 2026 Donald D. Engen Trophy for Aviation Excellence

The Board of Governors of the Aero Club of Washington is pleased to announce that the 18th U.S. Secretary of Transportation and 24th U. S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Donald D. Engen Aero Club Trophy for Aviation Excellence. Elaine Chao “Secretary Chao’s distinguished career in public service and her lasting impact on the aviation sector make her exceptionally deserving of this honor,” said Kali Hague, President of the Aero Club of Washington. “From advancing aviation safety and innovation to expanding workforce opportunities and strengthening our nation’s transportation systems during critical moments for the industry, her leadership has left a profound and enduring mark on aviation. We are proud to recognize her with the Engen Trophy.” Established in 1993, the Engen Trophy is awarded for “a record of lifetime achievement; or a single event; or a series of acts by an individual; a team; or by a corporation or organization that reaffirms the Wright Brothers’ standard of excellence in aviation.” Previous recipients include Herb Kelleher, the STS-114 Discovery Shuttle Crew, Scott Crossfield, the Tuskegee Airmen, Ambassador Carol Hallett, and the 2025 recipients, Mary Miller and Pete Bunce. The trophy resides in the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Secretary Chao is one of the longest-serving Cabinet members in U.S. history and the first Asian American women to serve in a presidential cabinet. Over the course of her career, she has served four U.S. Presidents and held numerous senior leadership roles, including Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, Deputy Secretary of Transportation, Director of the Peace Corps, and Chair of the Federal Maritime Administration. During her tenure as Secretary of Transportation, Chao led the department through some of the most significant challenges and advancements in modern aviation. Following the tragic Boeing 737 MAX accidents, she oversaw a comprehensive review process involving the Federal Aviation Administration, international authorities, and independent experts, ultimately supporting the aircraft’s safe return to service after an extensive recertification effort. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Secretary Chao played a central role in securing and rapidly deploying more than $70 billion in emergency relief funding to support airlines, airports, and aviation workers, helping stabilize the industry during an unprecedented crisis. Her leadership also advanced innovation across the aviation ecosystem. Under her direction, the Department of Transportation launched the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Pilot Program, enabling the safe expansion of drone operations, and supported the development of key regulatory frameworks such as Remote ID and Operations Over People. Secretary Chao also championed workforce development and access to aviation careers, establishing initiatives such as the Women in Aviation Advisory Board and the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force. Through the “Forces to Flyers” initiative, she helped create pathways for military veterans to transition into commercial aviation careers. Beyond aviation, Secretary Chao has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service, philanthropy, and leadership in the nonprofit and private sectors, including serving as President & CEO of United Way and on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards. “I am deeply honored by this recognition,” said Secretary Chao. “Public service has defined my career, and in aviation that begins with an uncompromising commitment to safety above all else. Progress has always come from putting people first—travelers, workers, and communities—while steadily strengthening the systems that protect them. As U.S. aviation continues to grow, our nation has got to modernize an increasingly dated infrastructure with the same discipline and care that have long defined its safety culture, ensuring the system remains resilient, innovative, and worthy of the public’s trust for generations to come.” The Aero Club of Washington will present the Engen Trophy to Secretary Chao at an upcoming Aero Club luncheon in Washington, DC this summer.
First U.S. ‘Runway-to-Space’ Challenge for Spaceplane Payload Test Flights, Flying from Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport

The Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), in partnership with Dawn Aerospace, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the Runway-to-Space Spaceplane Challenge. This first-of-its-kind U.S. competition invites researchers to fly payloads aboard Dawn’s Aurora suborbital uncrewed spaceplane operating out of the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport (formerly Oklahoma Air and Space Port). The program will allocate up to 25 flights, offering selected teams an opportunity to test, iterate, and re-fly experiments. Unlike traditional suborbital missions that are usually single-use and spaced months apart, the Aurora is designed for rapid, runway-based operations with turnaround times measured in hours. This shift brings spaceflight closer to an aviation-like model, enabling new mission profiles ranging from step-by-step microgravity research to high-speed atmospheric testing. “This partnership underscores Oklahoma’s commitment to being a leader in the aerospace industry,” said Grayson Ardies, CEO of OSIDA. “By utilizing the unique capabilities of the Aurora Spaceplane, we are providing our universities and research centers with a rapid-response platform to accelerate American innovation in space.” The Next Era of Space Testing The Aurora has completed more than 60 operational missions, focusing on routine, scalable, and responsive access to the edge of space. “Meaningful access to microgravity typically means going to orbit, which is expensive, slow, and often out of reach for early-stage ideas,” said Stefan Powell, CEO of Dawn Aerospace. “Aurora changes that by giving teams a fast, lower-cost way to access microgravity and iterate within months. It’s not a substitute for long-duration missions, but it enables experiments that would otherwise never leave the ground, turning ideas that might never have flown into viable missions that can ultimately progress to orbit.” Jim Bridenstine, managing partner of The Artemis Group and former NASA administrator, added: “This competition is about capturing the imagination of scientists, engineers, and researchers, while also enabling a new way of working, where research can move faster, iterate more frequently, and strengthen U.S. leadership in space-enabled science and industry.” Competition Details: Eligibility: As an Oklahoma-funded challenge, the program is designed to foster collaboration led by Oklahoma institutions. Applications must be submitted by an Oklahoma-based university or research institution. Out-of-state universities and research institutions are encouraged to join as partners, contributing alongside an Oklahoma-based lead. Key Dates: Applications open April 16, 2026 and close 5 PM CT Sept. 25, 2026. Payload Capacity: Capacity for up to 15 kg (33 lbs). Flight Profile: Altitudes approaching 100 km, speeds exceeding Mach 3.5, and up to 127 seconds of microgravity. Timeline: Flights are scheduled to begin in mid- to late-2027, allowing teams about 12 months to prepare payloads. Strategic Growth at Infinity One The competition coincides with critical improvements to infrastructure and utilities at the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport. The ongoing $30+ million worth of upgrades and renovations to the facility will prepare Infinity One for future growth and success. In addition, OSIDA has also invested in the 2025 deployment of an automated detect-and-avoid system for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and will soon start construction on a dedicated space operations complex for the Aurora spaceplane that will arrive in 2027.

Unmanned Systems

DSLR Pros Joins GeoCue Distribution Network

GeoCue has welcomed DSLR Pros to its growing distribution network, expanding nationwide access to TrueView 3D Imaging Sensors and LP360 point cloud processing software for geospatial professionals across the United States. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, DSLR Pros has spent more than a decade pioneering commercial drone technology and tailored solutions for customers in geospatial, READ MORE
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform

Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s READ MORE

Aviation Education

K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

Kansas State University Salina is reintroducing an aviation summer camp experience that will allow high school students to become immersed in the world of flying that provides real piloting opportunities, with the launch of the new K-State Aviation Academy, June 21-27. The weeklong camp is for high school students between 15-17 years of age, and READ MORE
NAHF Selects Tennessee Educator Dan Mills for 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced that Dan Mills, aviation educator at Elizabethton High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee, has been selected as the 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year. Dan Mills With more than five decades of aviation experience, Mills has built one of the nation’s most impactful high READ MORE

AAAE’s ACT Releases New Report on How Airports Are Adapting to Rising Electrical Demand

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Airport Consortium on Transformation (ACT), comprised of innovative airport leaders and aviation industry experts, has released an industry report examining how U.S. airports are preparing for unprecedented electrical demand and increasingly utility-like operational responsibilities. As airports electrify vehicles, ground service equipment fleets, terminals, heating systems, and airside operations […]

North Dakota Records Second-Strongest Spring Travel on Record for ND Airports

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its March 2026 airline passenger statistics for the state’s eight commercial service airports. North Dakota’s commercial airports recorded 117,481 passenger boardings in March 2026, a 4.6 percent decrease from the record-setting March 2025 total of 123,187. Despite this decline, March 2026 ranks as the second-strongest March on […]

New Braunfels National Airport Named 2026 Airport of the Year

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – From left are; Ty Helton: President, Texas Airports Council, Michael Capizzi: New Braunfels City Council – District 2, Jeff Jewell, Director of Economic & Community Development, City Of New Braunfels, Dr. Robert Lee: Airport Director (New Braunfels National Airport), City of New Braunfels, Robert Camareno: City Manager, City Of New Braunfels, Dan Harmon: […]

Former U.S. Secretary Elaine L. Chao to Receive the 2026 Donald D. Engen Trophy for Aviation Excellence

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Board of Governors of the Aero Club of Washington is pleased to announce that the 18th U.S. Secretary of Transportation and 24th U. S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Donald D. Engen Aero Club Trophy for Aviation Excellence. “Secretary Chao’s distinguished career in public […]

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration will host four virtual public workshops in May as part of the Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project. The project is led by the FAA and proposes new and updated satellite‑based flight procedures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of airspace serving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and surrounding airports. The […]

Agencies Participate in Triennial Emergency Exercise at Kapalua Airport

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) was joined by emergency responders and volunteers in a triennial emergency exercise at Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui on Friday, April 17. The drill simulated response to a Cessna 208 Grand Caravan having its nose gear collapse upon landing. The aircraft was simulated with a tractor. Volunteer actors […]

First U.S. ‘Runway-to-Space’ Challenge for Spaceplane Payload Test Flights, Flying from Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), in partnership with Dawn Aerospace, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the Runway-to-Space Spaceplane Challenge. This first-of-its-kind U.S. competition invites researchers to fly payloads aboard Dawn’s Aurora suborbital uncrewed spaceplane operating out of the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport (formerly Oklahoma Air and Space Port). The […]

K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

April 14, 2026April 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Kansas State University Salina is reintroducing an aviation summer camp experience that will allow high school students to become immersed in the world of flying that provides real piloting opportunities, with the launch of the new K-State Aviation Academy, June 21-27. The weeklong camp is for high school students between 15-17 years of age, and […]

NAHF Selects Tennessee Educator Dan Mills for 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year

April 14, 2026April 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced that Dan Mills, aviation educator at Elizabethton High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee, has been selected as the 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year. With more than five decades of aviation experience, Mills has built one of the nation’s most impactful high school aviation […]

Tennessee Valley Authority Selects Tecnam P2012 SMP to Safeguard Power Grid for 10 Million People

April 14, 2026April 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tecnam is proud to announce that the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is successfully operating the Tecnam P2012 “Sentinel” Special Mission Platform (SMP) to protect and maintain its vast electricity grid. Equipped with cutting-edge Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and high-resolution multispectral cameras, the P2012 SMP is transforming how TVA evaluates threats to transmission lines across […]

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin

Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform

SAS Marks 80 Years with Anniversary Aircraft