State Aviation Journal

Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility
Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, marked the opening of a major new maintenance facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB). This facility represents a significant expansion of Dassault’s presence in the Americas and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to customer support, operational excellence, and regional investment. It is one of the […]
Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm
Skyways has demonstrated the unmatched ability of its technology to deliver time-critical supplies in one of the world’s toughest operating environments. In partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, Skyways successfully completed historic beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries to Arkona Offshore Windfarm, operated by RWE and located off the coast of […]
Quilts by Local Artist Stitch Together Pieces of Miami at MIA
Photo – Installation view of Curious Geometries, Regina Durante Jestrow at Gate D31 Gallery. Photo by Francesco Casale. Courtesy of MIA Galleries, Miami International Airport. Quilts are now also connecting people with places at Miami International Airport, thanks to Curious Geometries, the airport’s newest art exhibition at the Gate D31 Gallery. The exhibition by local […]
675 Girls and Family Members Attend 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day at Lone Star Flight Museum
A record-breaking 675 future aviators and STEM leaders and their families attended Girls in Aviation Day on Saturday, Sept. 20, presented by ExxonMobil at the Lone Star Flight Museum at Ellington Airport in Houston. A total of 391 young people ages 8 to 17, were accompanied by nearly 300 scout troop and group leaders and […]

State News

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Dates Confirmed through 2029

Dates for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been confirmed through 2029. Upcoming event dates are: 2026: July 20-26 2027: July 26-August 1 2028: July 24-30 2029: July 23-29 “EAA AirVenture is one of the aviation community’s major highlights each year, so announcing the dates for the next several years is important for enthusiasts around the world to begin planning their trips to Oshkosh,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “We also realize that AirVenture’s dates affect the scheduling of many other aviation events, as well as other activities in Wisconsin, so it’s important to have these dates finalized for multiple years in advance.” The Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention was first held in 1953 and has occurred in Oshkosh since 1970. More details regarding highlights of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 will be announced as they are confirmed.
Floating Cloud of Cherished Treasures Inspires Wonder at MSP

An expansive floating cloud of metal forms now sparks intrigue and reflection at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Internationally renowned artist Kipp Kobayashi’s “The Dreams We Carry” rises within the two-story Concourse G Rotunda in Terminal 1 — near gates G18-22 — offering views from below or through the windows of MSP’s newest Delta Sky Club lounge. The 45-foot-wide collection of hanging sculptures reflects ever-changing light and hints at the unique stories represented by the suspended objects — from everyday companions like favorite pets, cameras and blue jeans to treasured pieces such as rocking chairs, pianos, guitars, houseplants and a beloved teddy bear. “The Dreams We Carry,” by Kipp Kobayashi, in Concourse G at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Photos courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission “‘The Dreams We Carry’ transforms the rotunda into a place of imagination and reflection, where travelers and visitors can pause and consider the many personal stories that converge at MSP,” said Ben Owen, director of Arts@MSP, a program of the Airport Foundation MSP. “This installation celebrates the creativity, diversity and shared experiences that make our airport — and our state — uniquely special.” Kobayashi created more than 300 suspended objects, each hand-sculpted from stainless steel wire mesh and filled with items Minnesotans and travelers told the artist they most cherished — what they would bring on an imaginary one-way trip to a destination of their choice. “The Dreams We Carry” features an iconic, well-loved teddy bear. Arts@MSP invites the community to give it a name. “Kobayashi’s masterful artwork is the capstone element in the recently expanded end of Concourse G that features the dynamic rotunda space, more gate seating and concessions, as well as the new Sky Club,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which owns and operates MSP. “It will certainly welcome and inspire those who are traveling through the space.” Kobayashi was commissioned to design and install “The Dreams We Carry” in the fall of 2022 through the Arts@MSP program, a partnership between the Airport Foundation MSP and the MAC. He is a Los Angeles-based artist, teacher and arts advocate with numerous public and private art commissions that demonstrate his talent for working collaboratively across disciplines, often bridging art, architecture and engineering. Check out the video that captures the inspiration, creation and installation of “The Dreams We Carry.” The engagement process behind “The Dreams We Carry” was just as expansive as the artwork itself. Kobayashi interacted with dozens of groups and hundreds of Twin Cities residents and MSP travelers whose stories informed the concept and revealed the treasures that bring people together and define a community. “As the installation began to fill in, passersby would gather, pointing out the different shapes and objects, asking one another what they saw,” said Kobayashi. “I hope this activity allows each individual to make their own personal connection to these narratives — allowing them to think, reflect and dream up dreams of their own.” The sculpture joins a growing collection of 80 permanent works at MSP curated by the Arts@MSP program. The project is funded by the MSP Percent for Arts and Culture Program — a dedicated source of arts funding derived from public-facing capital improvement projects. “The artwork adds another unique experiential landmark in the terminal and provides visitors a new lasting impression and cultural link to our state,” said Rick King, chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission. “It’s these types of installations, through our partnership with Airport Foundation and its Arts@MSP program, which continue to strengthen our award-winning facilities and amplify our best-in-class passenger experiences.” In September, MSP was once again named the best mega airport for customer and traveler satisfaction in the annual J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study. MSP has now earned the highest ranking in customer satisfaction for mega airports in three out of the past four years.

National News

American Airlines Unveils Special Flagship Livery Ahead of Centennial Year

Photo – American will start flying a special Flagship livery on a Boeing 777-300 next month. With just six months to go until American Airlines officially celebrates its centennial, the airline is unveiling a special livery that will begin flying in November on a Boeing 777-300 registered as N735AT. This special Flagship® livery blends one of the airline’s original liveries with a modern flair as American will upgrade the aircraft to feature a new, more luxurious interior. “American has thoughtfully chosen a design that evokes our rich history while looking ahead to our next 100 years,” said Ron DeFeo, American’s Chief Communications Officer. “Throughout American’s history, ‘Flagship®’ has always been recognized as our premium travel experience. Our renewed focus on the customer experience is making premium travel better than ever across all aspects of our customers’ travel journeys. Painting the original Flagship® design on our Flagship® aircraft is a powerful way to honor that legacy while embracing the future.” Behind the design At the base of the livery is the airline’s Silver Eagle® paint color, which is currently found on more than 1,600 aircraft in American’s mainline and regional fleet. Across both sides of the aircraft, the iconic orange lightning bolt motif makes its bold reappearance after first debuting nearly 90 years ago on the Douglas DC-3. The DC-3 captivated passengers with American’s first foray into premium air travel experiences that the airline is now taking to new heights with its Boeing 777-300 aircraft flying to far-flung international destinations including Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom and beyond. The Flagship Knoxville housed in the American Airlines CR Smith Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. When American took delivery of new DC-3 aircraft, they were named based on cities the airline served at the time. In keeping with tradition, American will name this aircraft “Flagship DFW” as an homage to the airline’s home and largest hub. Toward the rear of the aircraft, customers will notice a roundel featuring one of the most recognizable motifs from American’s history: the eagle connecting the world. American flies to more than 350 global destinations today and operates more flights carrying more customers than any other airline in the world — a reminder of how far the airline has come since its first flight in 1926. Since American first took delivery of passenger aircraft in the 1930s, the airline has been known for offering an elevated “Flagship” experience first on board coast-to-coast transcontinental routes and today also includes the airline’s long-haul international network. While customers recognize American’s premium Flagship® lounges and Flagship® Business class that have welcomed travelers for years, they will continue to enjoy the Flagship® experience next year, when the airline begins refreshing the interior of its Boeing 777-300 fleet to include Flagship Suite® seats. American continues to focus on elevating the onboard customer experience to deliver a modern travel journey. After making their debut earlier this summer, the Flagship Suite® seats, Premium Economy and upgraded Main Cabin products continue to earn rave reviews from customers and are part of the airline’s commitment to innovation. Highlights include: The Flagship Suite® seats are American’s first-ever onboard business class product featuring privacy doors, wireless charging pads and a one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating option with an adjustable headrest pillow. American is the first U.S. carrier to introduce wireless charging in Premium Economy, which includes the introduction of new headrest wings and new calf and footrests for enhanced comfort. Main Cabin customers will experience the airline’s elevated international inflight experience, including 4K QLED screens — the first in the U.S. to be introduced in this cabin — and USB-C and AC power. These upgraded amenities will also be featured on board refreshed 777-300s next year, featuring 70 Flagship Suite® seats and 44 Premium Economy seats.
NBAA Board Taps Witzig for Second Term as Chair, Names Byrd New Vice Chair

The voting members of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) have reelected two individuals to the association’s board of directors during an annual meeting held during NBAA’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). John Witzig Additionally, the board of directors announced that John Witzig, of Pfizer, will serve a second term as board chair, and Matt Byrd, of Hillwood Aviation, will serve as NBAA’s new vice chair/treasurer. Matt Byrd Leadership on NBAA’s Advisory Council also changed today, with Bill Dolny, of MedAire, replacing Tyson Weihs, co-founder of ForeFlight and currently with Makana Holdings Management LLC, as chair. Lannie O’Bannion, of Textron Aviation, will serve as first vice chair and Joe Barber of Clay Lacy Aviation will serve as second vice chair. As leaders of the Advisory Council, Dolny, O’Bannion and Barber will serve as the Business Member Advisors on the board of directors. Re-elected to three-year terms on the board of directors today were Daniel Baker, founder of FlightAware and currently with BakerVentures, and Tyson Weihs. The board of directors also announced that Ron Duncan, Monte Koch and Lloyd “Fig” Newton will each serve an additional one-year term as chair emeritus, where they will provide mentorship and guidance to directors.

International News

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Dates Confirmed through 2029

Dates for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been confirmed through 2029. Upcoming event dates are: 2026: July 20-26 2027: July 26-August 1 2028: July 24-30 2029: July 23-29 “EAA AirVenture is one of the aviation community’s major highlights each year, so announcing the dates for the next several years is important for enthusiasts around the world to begin planning their trips to Oshkosh,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “We also realize that AirVenture’s dates affect the scheduling of many other aviation events, as well as other activities in Wisconsin, so it’s important to have these dates finalized for multiple years in advance.” The Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention was first held in 1953 and has occurred in Oshkosh since 1970. More details regarding highlights of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 will be announced as they are confirmed.
Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility

Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, marked the opening of a major new maintenance facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB). This facility represents a significant expansion of Dassault’s presence in the Americas and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to customer support, operational excellence, and regional investment. It is one of the recent additions to Dassault Aviation’s global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network. (L-R): Jean Kayanakis, SVP WW Customer Service Dassault Aviation, Carlos Brana, Executive VP Civil aircraft Dassault Aviation, John Loh, SVP Customer Service Dassault Falcon Jet, Lynda Weatherman, President of the Space Coast Economic Development Commission, Thierry Betbeze, CEO Dassault Falcon Jet, Greg Donovan, Executive Director of the Melbourne Airport Commission, Eric Trappier, Chairman CEO Dassault Aviation, Loik Segalen, COO Dassault Aviation. “Our state-of-the-art Melbourne MRO is the latest expansion of our worldwide network of more than 40 service locations. It adds significant capacity in the Americas and puts more service capability closer to our Falcon customers. Dassault already has a large footprint in the United States which includes 2,500 employees, aircraft completions and sales,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation. “This new center reflects our belief in the U.S. market and the future of aerospace in Florida. The region is already home to many key industry players, a supportive business environment, and—most importantly—a highly skilled workforce. Our employees are at the heart of everything we achieve. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for aviation are what make our aircraft and our customer service second to none,” Trappier finished. “Florida is proud to welcome Dassault Aviation’s new facility in Melbourne, which strengthens our state’s role as a global leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Dassault’s investment is a testament to Florida’s skilled workforce, pro-business environment and commitment to innovation. This new service center will create high-quality jobs, expand opportunities for Floridians and ensure that our state continues to be at the forefront of aviation excellence”, said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Intended to serve customers across North and South America and beyond, the 250,000 square-foot complex can accommodate all current Falcon models (including the in-development, ultra-long-range Falcon 10X, the largest purpose-built business jet). It is capable of performing major maintenance and modifications on up to 14 Falcon aircraft simultaneously. The Melbourne facility can handle a full range of inspection, repair, and overhaul activities, from line maintenance through C-checks, as well as engineering and modification services. It is equipped with workshops, customer offices, and lounges. Additionally, the site is home to a new state-of-the-art 54,000 square-foot paint shop. Melbourne is just the latest in a series of moves to extend and reinforce Dassault Aviation’s global MRO footprint. In 2024, a new facility at São Paulo Catarina Executive Airport in Brazil opened to support Falcons in Latin America. In 2023, the company’s ExecuJet MRO Services unit opened a new heavy maintenance facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In 2024, a new heavy maintenance facility in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was opened to enhance maintenance offerings in the Eastern Hemisphere. The company now has over 60 service locations worldwide, including factory-owned and authorized facilities.

Unmanned Systems

Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm

Skyways has demonstrated the unmatched ability of its technology to deliver time-critical supplies in one of the world’s toughest operating environments. In partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, Skyways successfully completed historic beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries to Arkona Offshore Windfarm, operated by RWE and located off the coast of READ MORE
ZenaTech Announces the Acquisition of Tucson-based Putt Land Surveying Inc., and Acceleration of Drone as a Service (DaaS) Growth Across Arizona

ZenaTech, Inc. has announced the closing of its acquisition of Putt Land Surveying, Inc., a Tucson, Arizona-based land survey firm founded more than 40 years ago, with established clients including the City of Tucson, school districts, and a range of public and private sector clients. This transaction marks the eleventh acquisition for ZenaTech’s DaaS business READ MORE

Aviation Education

NBAA Announces 15 Scholarships Awarded at 2025 NBAA-BACE

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), through NBAA Charities, offers a wide range of scholarships that support young people seeking careers in business aviation. At the 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) 15 students will be receiving the following awards: William M. Fanning Maintenance Scholarship Named in honor of retired NBAA staff member READ MORE
NBAA Announces Recipients of 2025 Steve Brown Leadership Scholarship

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced the recipients of the Steve Brown Leadership Scholarship, in honor of the association’s former chief operating officer, who retired in 2022. The scholarship was created by NBAA, in coordination with NBAA Charities, to support students interested in pursuing a career in business aviation who are currently enrolled READ MORE

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Dates Confirmed through 2029

October 20, 2025October 20, 2025 Kim Stevens

Dates for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been confirmed through 2029. Upcoming event dates are: “EAA AirVenture is one of the aviation community’s major highlights each year, so announcing the dates for the next several years is important for enthusiasts around the world to begin planning […]

Floating Cloud of Cherished Treasures Inspires Wonder at MSP

October 20, 2025October 20, 2025 Kim Stevens

An expansive floating cloud of metal forms now sparks intrigue and reflection at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Internationally renowned artist Kipp Kobayashi’s “The Dreams We Carry” rises within the two-story Concourse G Rotunda in Terminal 1 — near gates G18-22 — offering views from below or through the windows of MSP’s newest Delta Sky […]

American Airlines Unveils Special Flagship Livery Ahead of Centennial Year

October 20, 2025October 20, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – American will start flying a special Flagship livery on a Boeing 777-300 next month. With just six months to go until American Airlines officially celebrates its centennial, the airline is unveiling a special livery that will begin flying in November on a Boeing 777-300 registered as N735AT. This special Flagship® livery blends one […]

The Window Seat

October 19, 2025October 20, 2025 Kim Stevens

To see the world through the window of 13F or any window seat is truly amazing! The perspective from thousands of feet in the air is quite a gift. A perfect example was the tug I saw pushing a string of barges upriver. I was watching the landscape drift by as I flew to Phoenix […]

Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility

October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 Kim Stevens

Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, marked the opening of a major new maintenance facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB). This facility represents a significant expansion of Dassault’s presence in the Americas and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to customer support, operational excellence, and regional investment. It is one of the […]

Cynthia Guidry Earns NATA’s 2025 Airport Executive Partnership Award for Collaborative Leadership at Long Beach Airport

October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has announced that Cynthia Guidry, Director of Long Beach Airport (LGB), has been named the recipient of the Association’s 2025 Airport Executive Partnership Award. The honor recognizes an airport leader for outstanding efforts to nurture strong relationships between airport operators, aviation businesses, and the surrounding community. Guidry leads one […]

Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm

October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 Kim Stevens

Skyways has demonstrated the unmatched ability of its technology to deliver time-critical supplies in one of the world’s toughest operating environments. In partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, Skyways successfully completed historic beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries to Arkona Offshore Windfarm, operated by RWE and located off the coast of […]

Transformational Project at Sullivan County International Airport Completed

October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 Kim Stevens

The transformation of the Sullivan County International Airport into a modern, state-of-the-art facility has been completed, heralding continued economic growth and tourism in the Catskill Region of New York. The project, which started in May 2023, was awarded $18.5 million from the Governor’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, with the funding […]

Jackson County Airport Completes Critical Runway 4/22 Reconstruction Project

October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 Kim Stevens

Jackson County Airport (33V) in Walden, Colorado, announced the completion of the full reconstruction of the airport’s runway 4/22. The project ensures long-term safety and efficiency for aviation users across Colorado’s North Park region and enhances critical emergency access to the area. Located one mile north of Walden, Jackson County Airport serves as a vital […]

NBAA Board Taps Witzig for Second Term as Chair, Names Byrd New Vice Chair

October 18, 2025October 18, 2025 Kim Stevens

The voting members of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) have reelected two individuals to the association’s board of directors during an annual meeting held during NBAA’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). Additionally, the board of directors announced that John Witzig, of Pfizer, will serve a second term as board chair, and Matt Byrd, […]

Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility

Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm

Quilts by Local Artist Stitch Together Pieces of Miami at MIA

675 Girls and Family Members Attend 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day at Lone Star Flight Museum