State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home
For the millions of travelers who pass through Asheville Regional Airport each year, the terminal is the first sight of home and the last glimpse of it before departure. Now, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is offering two artists, or artist-led teams, the opportunity to define that moment permanently. AVL is actively seeking artists for two […]
Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026
I’m going to be completely honest with you. I’ve been counting down the days until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 since the very moment I hit the road home from AirVenture 2025. It’s what I do, it’s who I am! Sure, you lose count as you enter the ‘ber months, or burrr months, depending on where […]
Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport
The City of Springfield and the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board has announced the appointment of David Schaumburg, AAE, as director of aviation, effective June 28. His salary will be $220,000. “I am very pleased to announce Dave Schaumburg as the next director of aviation for the Springfield-Branson National Airport,” said City Manager David Cameron. “Dave’s […]
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 […]

State News

Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home

For the millions of travelers who pass through Asheville Regional Airport each year, the terminal is the first sight of home and the last glimpse of it before departure. Now, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is offering two artists, or artist-led teams, the opportunity to define that moment permanently. AVL is actively seeking artists for two signature, large-scale commissions as part of AVL Forward, the airport’s terminal modernization project. Artists from western North Carolina will be given preference and are encouraged to apply. The submission deadline is June 22, 2026. Two Landmark Spaces. Unlimited Creative Possibility The RFQ identifies two distinct installation sites within the new terminal, each designed to accommodate ambitious, large-scale work. Location 1: The Grand Lobby / Main Entrance The grand lobby is the terminal’s central arrival moment — the sweeping public space that departing travelers enter first. The soaring new structure offers a rare canvas: suspended works of up to 2,000 pounds or floor-supported work can be designed for this location. Lighting and electrical connectivity are available, opening the door to kinetic, illuminated or interactive installations. Location 2: The Airside Concessions Area The post-security concessions space is where travelers linger — the heart of the concourse experience. Like the grand lobby, this space is engineered to support large-scale suspended art of up to 2,000 pounds or floor-based work. Lighting and electrical connectivity make dynamic or interactive media-based work possible here as well. What AVL Is Looking For The airport is seeking individual artists or artist-led teams that can produce permanent site-specific, large-scale commercial space sculptures or other styles of art pieces that uphold the key design principles for the new airport terminal, designed to be a “modern gateway, humbly rooted in timeless natural beauty.” Specific requirements for commissioned pieces, which will help guide final choices: The art will embrace inspiration from the natural beauty and culture of western North Carolina, and help create an authentic, welcoming environment that roots the airport with a sense of place in the region; The sculptures/art pieces will be appropriate for large-scale commercial spaces (appropriateness to site, durability, etc.); The proposed sculptures will be of the highest quality—creatively and compositionally; Art will not be politically or socially charged; Art will meet all public safety, structural, and maintenance standards (easily cleaned and maintained) and comply with the Americans for Disabilities Act (ADA), and all other applicable laws, codes and regulations. There is no requirement for a specific style. Abstract, representational and all aesthetics in between are welcome. These are open commissions for artists with a vision and the craft to realize it. How to Apply Submissions are open now at www.flyavl.com/AVLForwardART The submission deadline is June 22, 2026. This RFQ is the first step in a multi-phase selection process. Finalists will be invited to develop detailed proposals, with installations anticipated ahead of the terminal’s completion in late 2027.
Game on! MSP Airport First to Open Portal Lounge

The new Portal Lounge at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Photo Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission. Air travelers and gamers have a new way to unite at Portal Lounge, a first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment and social venue at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Portal Lounge — located in Terminal 1 at the intersection of Concourses C and D, and a short walk from the Concourse C tram — provides guests a full-scale work, rest and play destination that offers elevated food, bar and gaming experiences. “Our passengers have been asking for more unique and elevated experiences, and we’re excited to be the first airport to bring this new lounge concept to life here at MSP,” said Isabella Rhawie, vice president and commercial revenue officer for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP. “Beyond typical and standard, this airport lounge stands out in its experiential offerings that are sure to create a welcomed energy for a broad mix of our travelers.” Portal Lounge builds on the success of Gameway lounges, currently operating across multiple airports in the country. Founders Jordan and Emma Walbridge intentionally designed this concept to feel more like a social destination than a traditional airport lounge, combining premium food and beverage offerings with immersive entertainment experiences. The space offers signature menu items and a bar program with a star attraction — a robotic bartender that works in tandem with expert staff to create signature drinks exclusively for lounge guests. The 3,800 square foot space includes 600 square feet for gamers, featuring 17 dedicated stations with a mix of Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation and custom-built gaming PCs. Guests can access more than 25 of today’s most popular titles across casual, competitive, multiplayer and streaming-friendly gameplay. “Our mission has always been to make airports entertaining, and Portal Lounge is the fullest expression of that yet,” said Emma Walbridge, co-founder of Gameway. “This is what happens when you design a lounge for the next generation of travelers. The Metropolitan Airports Commission saw that future early and had the boldness to help bring it to market.” “The airport lounge category has remained relatively unchanged for years, while traveler expectations have evolved dramatically,” said Jordan Walbridge, co-founder of Gameway. “Portal Lounge was built around the idea that modern travelers are looking for experiences and destinations, even within the airport.” Travelers will be drawn to the space from afar with its custom portal-style entrance. Inside, its art deco-inspired design features lighting, artwork, music and custom furniture that boldly counters usual airport dwell time experiences. Portal Lounge is open to all travelers with walk-in access for approximately $70, if seating is available. Guests can also access the lounge through Priority Pass and participating credit card programs including Chase, American Express and Capital One.

National News

The RAF is Expanding The Map in 2026

Photo Credit: Doug Lumgair, Walker Ridge, CA This year, the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) is Expanding The Map – and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in the organization’s history. Beginning in 2026, the RAF plans to announce the opening and reopening of more than 15 airstrips across the country. They are expanding backcountry access like never before, and aviators will be able to explore a growing number of destinations where they can share the joys of recreational aviation with family and friends. This nationwide initiative is focused on opening, improving, and restoring access to airstrips across the United States, helping connect aviators to more of the places they love to explore. The Expanding the Map initiative begins with the reopening of Walker Ridge Airstrip. RAF volunteers, led by RAF California Liaison Doug Lumgair, have reclaimed northern California’s Walker Ridge, a once-abandoned BLM airstrip featuring underwing camping and magical views. Walker Ridge airstrip offers a remote, secluded backcountry airstrip experience within easy reach of pilots in the Sacramento / Central Valley and San Francisco Bay Area regions. There are very few opportunities like this for pilots in these large metropolitan areas to fly out to a genuinely remote location and camp with their airplane just a few hours from home. The combination of dark skies, sweeping valley views, dispersed camping right at the airstrip, and true seclusion makes Walker Ridge a rare and special destination. Nestled within the protected landscape of the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, Walker Ridge offers an experience that is both uniquely accessible and remarkably wild. This is the first Expanding the Map airstrip announcement of many, so stay tuned for the next one coming soon! We have dedicated a new section of our website to highlight the RAF’s Expanding the Map initiative. You can also find a wealth of information about Walker Ridge and the RAF’s efforts to reopen the airstrip here. Walker Ridge now appears in the RAF Airfield Guide, an important resource where pilots find helpful airstrip information and safety briefings.
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.

International News

WAI2027 Scholarships Open: Applications Due September 1, 2026

The 2027 Women in Aviation International (WAI) scholarship program is officially open, and members can review dozens of scholarships at  www.wai.org/scholarships. Currently, there are over 50 scholarships valued at more than $200,000 offered for flight training, engineering, maintenance, dispatch, drones, and career advancement for individuals in all stages of life. This 2027 scholarship cycle includes two Harvard Emerging Leaders professional development courses–on campus in May 2027 and online in June 2027. There are more than 10 new scholarships to further members’ learning in flight training, space engineering, aviation management, and aircraft maintenance. Applicants are encouraged to check for new scholarships often and may apply for up to three scholarships per year. “WAI believes in shaping the future of our industry by investing in the people who will meet the needs of our growing global aviation workforce,” says WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “Our annual scholarship program is one of the most meaningful benefits of WAI membership, and we are deeply grateful for the generosity of our scholarship funders and supporters.” The total amount of scholarships awarded by WAI since 1995 is more than $17 million.  Recipients will be awarded during the 38th  Annual Women in Aviation International Conference in Savannah, Georgia, from February 25-27, 2027. To qualify for a scholarship, the applicant must be a WAI member as of August 30, 2026. Applications must be submitted to  WAI by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 1, 2026, and winners will be notified by December 15, 2026. Details of each scholarship, application requirements, FAQs, plus tips for submitting a winning application can be found at  www.wai.org/scholarships.
Data-Driven Infrastructure Decision Making: Artificial Intelligence, Safety, Efficiency & Cost Savings

Silent Falcon’s Modification of Standard (MOS) for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AC 150/5380-7B Pavement Inspection has been made available for approved use. This process improves safety and is more efficient than the traditional inspection method—while also reducing pavement management costs. Approximately 3,300 public-use airports are part of The National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) and qualify for federal funding under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Silent Falcon has supported airport leaders with the application process. A step-by-step guide is also provided. The FAA last updated the list of NPIAS Airports in November 2024 Silent Falcon’s Inspection Method: Precise, Fast, and Saves Money Silent Falcon digitizes the airfield down to the thickness of a penny (approximately 1.5 millimeters) then uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze and assess collected data. This process highlights the macro and micro details of the surface. Silent Falcon provides accurate and meaningful intelligence so that organizations can make necessary repairs to meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The information provided to airport leaders guides decision making, which typically reduces rehabilitation costs while also improving Pavement Condition Index (PCI) scores.ASTM D5340 is the standard for airport pavement condition index surveys in support of the PCI test method. ASTM D5340 Section 7.5.1, the FAA-preferred approach, requires inspection of every sample unit within a pavement section to provide the most accurate and comprehensive PCI assessment. This is the methodology that Silent Falcon performs because it delivers a complete evaluation of pavement condition rather than relying on statistical estimates from a limited sample. In approximately one to two months, clients receive the final product from Silent Falcon after a scan. For instance, the team inspected Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport—one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. The project was completed without closing runways. After collecting required data and utilizing AI as well as predictive analysis to identify trends and patterns of airport runway pavement, Silent Falcon delivered the information via ArcGIS and Paver. This level of efficiency improves safety and saves money. Whatever is typically spent on pavement management, imagine using only half the cost with Silent Falcon’s capabilities. Silent Falcon’s inspections are conducted in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular 150/5380-7B, using the ASTM D5340 Section 7.5.1 methodology to inspect 100% of pavement sample units. The team also provides a complete, FAA-compliant assessment of pavement condition. Silent Falcon supports the inspection, documentation, and maintenance monitoring activities required under FAA Order 5190.6B, helping airport sponsors maintain compliance, prioritize repairs, and support long-term asset management planning. For anyone interested, please go to the company link or the ADIP portal and select Silent Falcon. Let’s see what industry leaders have to say about Silent Falcon! Jack McAfee, Vice President of Airport Operations at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), stated the following. Silent Falcon’s inspection of our runway at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport allowed us to delay an unnecessary and expensive rehabilitation project that had been recommended based on a traditional partial inspection. Their high-resolution digital twin and full-surface analysis revealed that our runway was actually in excellent condition, with a PCI score of 81 — well above any threshold for repair and federal funding. The accuracy, speed, and clarity of their process gave us confidence in our pavement management decisions, and their technology sets a new standard for airfield assessments. All done entirely without interruptions to our aircraft operations. I would strongly recommend Silent Falcon to any airport or agency looking for precise, defensible pavement evaluations and data-driven infrastructure planning. John Gorham, Manager of Projects at Jacobs said that Silent Falcon’s “100% coverage of pavement distresses provided flexibility in planning pavement rehabilitation projects as the data included all the distresses and quantities of the same.” Nate Cole, Airport Operations Supervisor at Missoula, Montana “The Silent Falcon team surveyed the airfield with precision and accuracy. It minimized our engineers’ exposure time on the runway and reduced our normal assessment time by 7 days.” Cameron Humphries, Part 139 Executive and former Los Alamos Airport Manager stated that our team “…did a superb job! Their technology optimizes every dollar and man hour spent on pavement maintenance.” Supplemental Information Imagine having massive amounts of information that support data-driven decision making! With AI, predictive analysis, and consideration of key variables, a runway’s lifespan can be accurately assessed. Some do not realize that the traditional inspection method covers around 10% of the surface, thereby resulting in the estimation of the condition for the other 90%. This guesstimate for approximately 90% of the surface leads to inflated budgets. There may be damage in the 10% of the inspected surface, but that does not necessarily equate to damage in the other 90% of the surface. Correctly identifying and repairing distress damage results in improved safety and increased cost savings. With the information that Silent Falcon provides clients, data for other variables can be analyzed such as wildlife and environmental trends, paint marking requirements, rubber deposits, airspace obstructions, security operations, financial analysis…yes, a client wanted to increase fuel sales so Silent Falcon looked at the data and provided courses of action to double fuel sales. However, fuel sales quadrupled! Global Support and the Future It’s incredible—the technology that comes from digitizing the airfield and putting it in the hands of smart people like airport managers, engineering folks, and fixed based operators. Silent Falcon has operated in several countries, to include working with the Royal Australian Air Force. Silent Falcon trained them virtually to collect required data then processed it and sent back the information in a usable format. Silent Falcon has inspected approximately 400 airfields to include U.S. Air Force installations. Information the company provides can assist with specific questions, like weather or not there is a 3-millimeter difference with slab edges. This is not manageable with the traditional inspection approach for millions of square feet of transportation infrastructure. Digitizing an airfield, having the surface completely detailed, and eventually providing clients with access to their data READ MORE

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

WAI2027 Scholarships Open: Applications Due September 1, 2026

The 2027 Women in Aviation International (WAI) scholarship program is officially open, and members can review dozens of scholarships at  www.wai.org/scholarships. Currently, there are over 50 scholarships valued at more than $200,000 offered for flight training, engineering, maintenance, dispatch, drones, and career advancement for individuals in all stages of life. This 2027 scholarship cycle includes READ MORE
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

The RAF is Expanding The Map in 2026

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo Credit: Doug Lumgair, Walker Ridge, CA This year, the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) is Expanding The Map – and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in the organization’s history. Beginning in 2026, the RAF plans to announce the opening and reopening of more than 15 airstrips across the country. […]

WAI2027 Scholarships Open: Applications Due September 1, 2026

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The 2027 Women in Aviation International (WAI) scholarship program is officially open, and members can review dozens of scholarships at  www.wai.org/scholarships. Currently, there are over 50 scholarships valued at more than $200,000 offered for flight training, engineering, maintenance, dispatch, drones, and career advancement for individuals in all stages of life. This 2027 scholarship cycle includes […]

Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

For the millions of travelers who pass through Asheville Regional Airport each year, the terminal is the first sight of home and the last glimpse of it before departure. Now, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is offering two artists, or artist-led teams, the opportunity to define that moment permanently. AVL is actively seeking artists for two […]

Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

June 5, 2026June 5, 2026 Andrew Stevens

I’m going to be completely honest with you. I’ve been counting down the days until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 since the very moment I hit the road home from AirVenture 2025. It’s what I do, it’s who I am! Sure, you lose count as you enter the ‘ber months, or burrr months, depending on where […]

Data-Driven Infrastructure Decision Making: Artificial Intelligence, Safety, Efficiency & Cost Savings

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Silent Falcon’s Modification of Standard (MOS) for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AC 150/5380-7B Pavement Inspection has been made available for approved use. This process improves safety and is more efficient than the traditional inspection method—while also reducing pavement management costs. Approximately 3,300 public-use airports are part of The National Plan of Integrated Airport […]

Inauguration of the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport New Terminal Recently Held

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

On May 26, VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council, respectively manager and owner of the airport, officially inaugurated the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc airport’s new terminal, in the presence of local elected officials and many stakeholders. The new infrastructure, result of a combined investment of €2.5 million co-financed by VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council, represents […]

Game on! MSP Airport First to Open Portal Lounge

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

The new Portal Lounge at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Photo Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission. Air travelers and gamers have a new way to unite at Portal Lounge, a first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment and social venue at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Portal Lounge — located in Terminal 1 at the intersection of Concourses C […]

Electra Publishes First-Ever Direct Aviation Market Outlook

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

Electra has published its inaugural Direct Aviation Market Outlook, a nationwide analysis of U.S. travel patterns that quantifies the scale of regional mobility demand and outlines how a new mode of air travel will reshape it. The report examines the emergence of Direct Aviation, which connects passengers directly from where they are to where they […]

Electra Completes First Urban Flight of Hybrid-Electric Ultra Short Aircraft in Downtown Charleston, Signaling a New Era of Regional Air Travel

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

Electra announced the successful completion of the first urban demonstration of its Ultra Short airplane at the Columbus Street Terminal, offering a real-world look at how regional air travel can move beyond airports to become faster, simpler, and far more accessible. Hosted by SC Ports during the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Americas, the flight (captured […]

Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 Kim Stevens

The City of Springfield and the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board has announced the appointment of David Schaumburg, AAE, as director of aviation, effective June 28. His salary will be $220,000. “I am very pleased to announce Dave Schaumburg as the next director of aviation for the Springfield-Branson National Airport,” said City Manager David Cameron. “Dave’s […]

Asheville Regional Airport Invites Western North Carolina Artists to Create the Gateway to Home

Counting Down the Days Until EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport

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