State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig
Photo – from left – Nico Neumann, CEO Deutsche Aircraft, Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony, Marie-Christine von Hahn, Principal Managing Director, German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) and Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport at the official opening […]
Joby Aviation Showcases Autonomous Flight Technology in Oklahoma City as Part of National Electric Skies Tour
By Laura Rudicel Oklahoma’s role in the future of advanced aviation was on display as the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) joined Joby Aviation, federal aviation leaders, and state policymakers for an up-close demonstration of Joby’s autonomous flight technology at AAR Hangar 2 located on the OKC Will Rogers International Airport campus. The […]
Props for a Purpose Expands Humanitarian Aviation Capabilities with Its First Dedicated Aircraft
Tecnam has announced that Props for a Purpose, a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to humanitarian aviation, has acquired its first dedicated aircraft: a Tecnam P2012 Traveller. The aircraft has been secured through a 10-year long-term lease agreement with AeroSpring Leasing LLC, marking a significant expansion in both organizations’ operational capabilities. Since its founding, Props for […]
Shenandoah University Launches Undergraduate Certificate Program to Meet Air Traffic Control Staffing Challenge
Shenandoah University has added an Undergraduate Certificate in Air Traffic Control to its growing list of academic offerings to help fill a national deficit of air traffic controllers. Students began taking the initial class for the undergraduate certificate, ATC-101, in Fall 2026, and Shenandoah is anticipating the program’s full launch in Spring 2027. “The air […]

State News

NYAMA Celebrates 50 Years of Aviation Leadership in Watkins Glen

Bill Shea, center, poses with several NYAMA Past Presidents – The New York Aviation Management Association (NYAMA) celebrated its 50th anniversary during its Fall Conference, held September 16–18, 2026, at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. The milestone brought together aviation professionals, legislators, industry partners and association leaders to honor five decades of service to New York’s aviation community. NYAMA presented Bill Shea with the Founders Award. A highlight of the celebration was the participation of NYAMA founder Bill Shea, who, at nearly 98 years old, traveled across the country to attend. His presence provided a meaningful connection to the association’s beginnings in 1976 and the vision that continues to guide its work today. During the anniversary program, Shea shared insights and reflections on NYAMA’s founding, the evolution of aviation and the importance of bringing industry leaders together around common goals. His remarks offered attendees a firsthand perspective on the association’s history and an opportunity to reflect on the dedication and relationships that have sustained it for half a century. NYAMA presented Shea with the Founders Award, honoring his vision, leadership and lasting contributions to the association and New York’s aviation community. Joined by members of his family, Shea’s recognition was a memorable moment in an evening celebrating both his enduring legacy and the generations of aviation professionals who have helped advance NYAMA’s mission. The conference also connected NYAMA’s history with its future through discussions on aviation leadership, management and issues facing airports and the broader industry. Past presidents and current leaders shared perspectives, while history displays and photographs invited attendees to revisit the people and milestones that have shaped the association. Bill Shea checks out past NYAMA presidents. New York State legislators Senator Thomas O’Mara, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano participated in the conference and presented NYAMA with a resolution commemorating its 50th anniversary. The celebration included additional recognition of outstanding service to aviation. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo received the Bill Shea Award in recognition of her longstanding leadership and advocacy, including nearly two decades as co-chair of the New York State Legislative Aviation Caucus. Madeline Arango of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey received the Bill McShane Service Award for her dedicated service to NYAMA. As NYAMA begins its next chapter, the anniversary celebration reaffirmed the value of collaboration, advocacy and professional development in strengthening aviation across New York State.
KDOT Partners with Kansas Aviation Museum to Host Joby’s Electric Skies Tour

Photo above – Ray Seif, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu and Textron VP of Global Sales and Strategy, Special Missions and Defense, Bob Gibbs. At the simulator are Mayor Wu and Joby Aviation’s Earl Lawrence. On Sept 28th, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), Division of Aviation partnered with Joby Aviation and the Kansas Aviation Museum to host a stop along Joby’s Electric Skies tour across the US. The Kansas stop was held at the Kansas Aviation Museum, located at McConnell AFB. W.K. Bergman, left and Ray Seif. Joby Aviation flew a Cessna Caravan piloted by Joby’s XWing SuperPilot autonomous platform. Ray Seif, KDOT, Director of Aviation, shared with the State Aviation Journal that Kansas was one of the stops along Joby’s multi state Electric Skies tour across the country, showcasing the next wave of aviation automation technology. “Landing at the Air Capital of the World was especially meaningful since this is the birthplace of the Cessna Caravan. We were treated to a visit from the original Cessna Caravan test pilot W.K. “Bill” Bergman, who took the Caravan on its first flight out of McConnell AFB on December 9, 1982,” noted Seif. A mix of city/county, state, federal, and industry stakeholders attended.

National News

JRBAF Purchases Meadow View Peak Property, Launches Capital Campaign for New Public Backcountry Airstrip

The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) has purchased 136 acres of National Forest inholding property adjacent to Meadow View Peak, a Sierra high-country destination approximately 40 air miles northwest of Reno, Nevada. The Foundation plans to develop a new public backcountry airstrip as a place for visitors to enjoy and explore, with day use facilities, camping, and other amenities. JRBAF has launched a $200,000 Phase 1 capital campaign. Half of the goal will pay off the $100,000 seller-financed note on the property. The remaining $100,000 will support a site survey, fencing, airstrip and site improvements, mowing equipment, camping facilities, a springfed water system, and off-grid power and communications. The Foundation hopes to open Meadow View Peak by summer 2027. “We’ve closed on the land, and now we have the opportunity to create an amazing new public backcountry airstrip,” said Brad Damm, JRBAF’s executive director. “Our goal is a place where pilots can land, camp, and experience this landscape for years to come. We’ve already had encouraging conversations with Plumas County, and we’re ready to begin the planning and approval work needed to bring that vision to life.” The property’s mountain meadows and mature ponderosa pines are surrounded by National Forest land. It sits in an active backcountry flying area, just 15 miles west of the popular High Sierra Fly-In site at Dead Cow Lake. JRBAF envisions Meadow View Peak as its next recreational aviation destination, following its work at the 45 Ranch and Star Valley Ranch in Idaho. “Acquiring the property is a major step, but opening it to the public will take a community effort,” said Joe Dory, chair of JRBAF’s board of directors. “This capital campaign gives pilots, aviation businesses, and everyone who values backcountry access a chance to help build something lasting from the ground up.” The Foundation was established in memory of Jim Richmond, whose passion for aviation and the backcountry continues to guide its work. “Jim believed in the freedom and connection that flying into wild places can bring,” said Susan Richmond, Jim’s widow, speaking on behalf of the Richmond family. “Our family is grateful to see that spirit carried forward through Meadow View Peak. We hope it becomes a place where people make memories and discover why access to the backcountry matters.” JRBAF will work with Plumas County on the approvals needed for the airstrip and visitor facilities before opening the property for public use. The Foundation will share updates as planning and site work progress. To learn about the Meadow View Peak project, or to contribute to the JRBAF’s capital campaign to develop this property for public aviation access, please visit https://givebutter.com/jrbafmvp. Pilots and other backcountry enthusiasts are welcome to join at: https://www.JRBAF.org
NBAA Announces 8 Recipients of 2026 Kern Professionalism Awards

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced it will bestow its 2026 Dr. Tony Kern Professionalism in Aviation Award upon eight individuals who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and leadership in support of business aviation safety. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 20 at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), on the Horizon Stage, immediately following The Launch, and in conjunction with the Flying Safety Awards. It will be hosted by Stephanie Goetz, president and pilot, The Pink Jet. Recipients of this year’s award are: Todd Buczek, WYVERN Michael Cataldo, Cox Enterprises, Inc. James Kelly, Pfizer (retired) Hall Lewallen, Advanced Aircrew Academy Stuart Rogerson, Textron Aviation David Strassburg, Bombardier Jason Vanis, Jet Linx Aviation Madeline Young, Polaris Aero “These eight individuals represent the very best of what it means to be a professional in business aviation,” said NBAA Director, Safety and Flight Operations Mark Larsen, CAM. “Their commitment to safety, willingness to mentor others and dedication to doing the job right embody the legacy of Dr. Tony Kern and set the standard for the industry.” First awarded in 2016, the Professionalism in Aviation Award honors U.S. Air Force veteran and Convergent Performance co-founder Dr. Kern, who has authored 10 books on human performance. The peer-nominated award recognizes individual pilots, maintenance technicians, flight attendants, dispatchers and other aviation professionals who excel in leadership in the areas of professional ethics, vocational excellence, continuous improvement, professional engagement, professional image and selflessness. All Kern Award nominations are vetted by a panel of NBAA Safety Committee members. NBAA will begin accepting nominations for the 2027 awards in January.

International News

Canada Investing $85.5 Million to Rehabilitate the Rankin Inlet Airport and Strengthen Arctic and Northern Connectivity

The Honorable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Honorable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, celebrated the grand opening of the Rankin Inlet air terminal building and announced federal funding of $85.5 million through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to support the Rankin Inlet Airfield Rehabilitation Project. This investment builds on a previously announced investment from National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) which funded the Rankin Inlet air terminal building. It will help the full rehabilitation of the airport’s runaway which will enhance the reliability and safety of air transportation in the Kivalliq region. As a critical gateway for northern communities, the airport plays an essential role in moving passengers, cargo, and vital supplies and services, including food and medical equipment. “Investing in the Rankin Inlet Airport is an investment in Canada’s North, our Arctic sovereignty, and the communities that depend on reliable transportation every day,” said Minister MacKinnon. “Through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund, we are strengthening critical infrastructure that serves both civilian and defense purposes, helping ensure northern transportation networks remain safe, resilient, and dependable well into the future.” The AIF funding complements the Department of National Defense’s investment to rehabilitate the runway, reaffirmed by Prime Minister Carney earlier this year. Together, these improvements will strengthen the airport’s capacity to support growing transportation needs while enhancing the Canadian Armed Force’s operational capabilities in Canada’s North. The project will reinforce Rankin Inlet Airport’s role as a key regional logistics hub, supporting community connectivity, emergency and medevac services, and supply chains across Nunavut. It will also strengthen the dual‑use infrastructure that serves both civilian and defense purposes, contributing to the long-term resilience of northern transportation networks and supporting Canada’s security and sovereignty objectives. Minister Chartrand shared that for people in Rankin Inlet and across the Kivalliq, the airport is more than infrastructure. “It connects families and communities and helps people access the food, supplies, services and opportunities they rely on. By investing in safe and reliable transportation in the North, we are strengthening communities and creating new opportunities, while also strengthening Canada’s presence and sovereignty in the Arctic. A strong Arctic starts with strong communities and the people who call the North home.” Funding announced will support: Enhancement of the safety, reliability, and capacity of the airport’s runway, taxiways, and apron systems, which serve the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut; Rehabilitation of approximately 141,000 square metres of airfield pavement, including Runway 13‑31, Taxiways A and C, and associated apron surfaces; Ensure on-going safe and reliable operations, extend the airfield’s service life by 15 to 20 years, and reduce long‑term maintenance needs. Through the AIF, the Government of Canada is making targeted investments in dual-use, civilian/community and defense, and nation-building infrastructure that strengthen northern transportation corridors, improve supply chain reliability, increase economic opportunities, and support Canada’s long-term presence and operational readiness in the Arctic and the North.
Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig

Photo – from left – Nico Neumann, CEO Deutsche Aircraft, Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony, Marie-Christine von Hahn, Principal Managing Director, German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) and Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport at the official opening ceremony of Deutsche Aircraft’s Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Leipzig/Halle. Deutsche Aircraft has officially inaugurated its Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport, attended by Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Transport, and Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony. The inauguration marks the transition of the D328eco program from development to serial production, establishing Leipzig as the production home of Germany’s next-generation regional aircraft. The opening also represents the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony for the first time in more than 60 years, reinforcing the region’s position as a center for aerospace and innovation. This new facility embodies the program’s vision: “Made in Germany. Built in Saxony. Delivered to the World” — bringing together German engineering excellence, Saxony’s industrial expertise and Leipzig’s international connectivity in a single production hub. Beyond supporting the D328eco program, the FAL strengthens Germany’s ability to design, certify, test, manufacture and support complete aircraft. Deutsche Aircraft’s integrated operations across Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end aerospace capability in the country, spanning engineering, certification, flight testing, industrialization, final assembly and customer delivery. The site reinforces Germany’s industrial resilience and competitiveness while ensuring that critical aircraft manufacturing know-how remains anchored domestically for future generations. “Today is about much more than opening a factory,” said Nico Neumann, Chief Executive Officer, Deutsche Aircraft. “It marks the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony and a major milestone for the D328eco program. Together, our sites in Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end capability for developing, certifying, industrializing, manufacturing and supporting complete aircraft in Germany. For the first time in more than 60 years, every phase of the aircraft lifecycle will be integrated under a German aircraft program. Carrying forward Dornier’s pioneering legacy, the FAL strengthens Germany’s resilience, competitiveness and sovereign aerospace capabilities while advancing a new generation of sustainable regional aviation. Today we celebrate an important milestone. Tomorrow, we continue building the future of regional aviation.” The opening ceremony welcomed representatives from the German Federal Government, the Free State of Saxony, industry partners, suppliers, customers and members of the aviation community to celebrate the landmark occasion. Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister and Head of Government of the Free State of Saxony, addressed guests via video message. Prime Minister Kretschmer in his video message said “the inauguration of this Final Assembly Line highlights Saxony’s position as a competitive industrial and aerospace location with a promising future. Investments such as those undertaken by Deutsche Aircraft strengthen our aerospace sector, create highly qualified jobs and further increase Saxony’s appeal for international industrial projects.” Representing an investment of more than €100 million, the facility has been designed for an annual production capacity of up to 48 aircraft. Spanning 60,500 square meters — equivalent to approximately eight football fields — the site includes the Final Assembly Line, Flight Readiness Hangar, logistics center and administration building. Designed as a modern, digital and sustainability-focused production environment, the FAL incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies, automated logistics systems and paperless production processes to increase efficiency, quality and transparency throughout aircraft assembly. Energy-efficient infrastructure, including photovoltaic systems and heat pump technology, reflect Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth. The Free State of Saxony is supporting the project with approximately €3.2 million through the Federal-State GRW program (“Joint Task for the Improvement of Regional Economic Structures”), underlining its significance for regional economic development. Expected to create approximately 250 new direct jobs as production ramps up over the coming years, the Leipzig Final Assembly Line will support skilled employment throughout the aerospace supply chain. Beyond direct employment, the program will create opportunities for apprentices, technicians, engineers and manufacturing specialists, nurturing the next generation of aerospace talent in Saxony. As one of the most significant aerospace investments in Germany in recent years, the Final Assembly Line represents an important contribution to the economic transformation of Central Germany. Beyond the direct creation of highly skilled jobs, the program will generate long-term industrial value across the aerospace supply chain and strengthen Saxony’s position within Germany’s aerospace sector. Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport shared, “the opening of Deutsche Aircraft’s Final Assembly Line in Leipzig sends a strong signal for Germany as an industrial and aviation hub. The D328eco program demonstrates that innovation, advanced manufacturing and sustainable regional aviation can be developed in Germany and produced for the world. By combining engineering expertise, industrial excellence and forward-looking production capabilities, Deutsche Aircraft is helping to preserve critical aerospace know-how, strengthen regional value creation, and further enhance Germany’s competitiveness in a strategically important industry.” The Next Phase of the D328eco Program With the opening of the Final Assembly Line, Deutsche Aircraft has established the industrial foundation for the serial production of the D328eco. Leipzig will serve as the center for aircraft assembly, flight-readiness activities and global customer deliveries, while Oberpfaffenhofen remains the home of engineering, flight testing and certification activities. Building on Germany’s rich aviation heritage and Dornier’s pioneering legacy, Deutsche Aircraft is helping to re-establish the country’s ability to develop, certify, manufacture and support complete aircraft programs. As the D328eco enters production, Leipzig and Oberpfaffenhofen will serve as the foundation for a new era of German aircraft manufacturing, combining innovation, industrial excellence and sustainable aviation to deliver modern regional aircraft to operators worldwide.

Unmanned Systems

FAA Funds Drone Research to Support Safe Integration in NAS

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced it awarded $12 million to 19 companies for drone research and testing projects that will help safely expand drone operations in the National Airspace System. These awards were made through the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Program. The program funds companies working with FAA-designated UAS READ MORE
ODOT Deploys the Latest Drone Technology on Transformational Construction Project

DriveOhio’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center is leading the country in drone innovation, which is transforming how we build, inspect, and maintain our roads and bridges. The latest technology, drone-in-a-box systems, has been deployed to support the largest construction project in ODOT history, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project – and it all happens at READ MORE

Aviation Education

EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships. Students can apply online through the EAA website. The deadline to apply is December 16, with the scholarships awarded on March 1, 2027. With the help of donors, the EAA Aviation Foundation awarded scholarships totaling more than $680,000 to 106 students in READ MORE
Aeronautics Now Accepting Applications for 2027 Aviation Education Grant Program

The Colorado Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics has announced the launch of the 2027 Colorado Aviation Education Grant Program. The application window is now open to eligible candidates with a deadline of November 15th, 2026 for submission. The purpose and intent of this aviation education program is to support education programs, projects, and initiatives READ MORE

NYAMA Celebrates 50 Years of Aviation Leadership in Watkins Glen

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Bill Shea, center, poses with several NYAMA Past Presidents – The New York Aviation Management Association (NYAMA) celebrated its 50th anniversary during its Fall Conference, held September 16–18, 2026, at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. The milestone brought together aviation professionals, legislators, industry partners and association leaders to honor five decades of service to New […]

JRBAF Purchases Meadow View Peak Property, Launches Capital Campaign for New Public Backcountry Airstrip

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) has purchased 136 acres of National Forest inholding property adjacent to Meadow View Peak, a Sierra high-country destination approximately 40 air miles northwest of Reno, Nevada. The Foundation plans to develop a new public backcountry airstrip as a place for visitors to enjoy and explore, with day use […]

NBAA Announces 8 Recipients of 2026 Kern Professionalism Awards

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced it will bestow its 2026 Dr. Tony Kern Professionalism in Aviation Award upon eight individuals who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and leadership in support of business aviation safety. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 20 at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), […]

KDOT Partners with Kansas Aviation Museum to Host Joby’s Electric Skies Tour

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Ray Seif, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu and Textron VP of Global Sales and Strategy, Special Missions and Defense, Bob Gibbs. On Sept 28th, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), Division of Aviation partnered with Joby Aviation and the Kansas Aviation Museum to host a stop along Joby’s Electric Skies tour across the […]

NATA Names Carol Giles 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award Recipient

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) announced Carol Giles as the recipient of its 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award, recognizing her more than four decades of leadership in aviation safety, maintenance, and regulatory policy, as well as her longstanding service to NATA and its members. Giles will be honored November 10 during the Industry Excellence […]

Former NTSB Vice Chairman Michael Graham Joins SOS and ASC

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Safety Operating Systems (SOS) and Aviation Safety Compliance (ASC) have announced a major expansion of their transportation-safety leadership: Michael E. Graham, former Vice Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, has joined the SOS and ASC team, effective October 3, 2026. The appointment brings together three of the country’s most experienced transportation-safety leaders. Graham joins […]

EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships. Students can apply online through the EAA website. The deadline to apply is December 16, with the scholarships awarded on March 1, 2027. With the help of donors, the EAA Aviation Foundation awarded scholarships totaling more than $680,000 to 106 students in […]

FAA Funds Drone Research to Support Safe Integration in NAS

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced it awarded $12 million to 19 companies for drone research and testing projects that will help safely expand drone operations in the National Airspace System. These awards were made through the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Program. The program funds companies working with FAA-designated UAS […]

Check-In for All Hawaiian Airlines’ International Departures Now Located at HNL Terminal 2

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) reminds travelers that as of October 3, 2026, check-in and bag drop for all international departures on Hawaiian Airlines will be consolidated in Terminal 2, Lobby 4 of the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Travelers are encouraged to check their flight information before arriving at the airport and […]

IDOT Announces Airport of the Year Awards Recognizing Best in Illinois Aviation

October 5, 2026October 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that six airports have received Airport of the Year awards in recognition of outstanding commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. The awards were presented today during the Illinois Public Airports Association fall conference in Galena. “Airports help to drive the economy in […]

Deutsche Aircraft Opens D328eco® Final Assembly Line in Leipzig

Joby Aviation Showcases Autonomous Flight Technology in Oklahoma City as Part of National Electric Skies Tour

Props for a Purpose Expands Humanitarian Aviation Capabilities with Its First Dedicated Aircraft

Shenandoah University Launches Undergraduate Certificate Program to Meet Air Traffic Control Staffing Challenge