State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026
The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]
VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport
VertiPorts by Atlantic, a subsidiary of Atlantic Aviation and the operator of the East 34th Street Heliport (6N5), hosted a successful demonstration flight of Joby Aviation’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of advanced air mobility in New York City. Conducted on Friday, May 1, at one […]
Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education
Photo – Gulfstream President Mark Burns (center) with representatives from the University of Georgia, Savannah Technical College, Middle Georgia State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Mercer University and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced a $5 million investment in Georgia education, reinforcing its long-standing […]
Marshall Receives $900,000 Federal Grant to Expand Aviation Training in Eastern Panhandle
Marshall University has received a $900,000 federal grant secured by U.S. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., to support the development of a new aviation training facility at Martinsburg Airport, advancing the university’s growing aviation mission in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Moore secured funding to establish in-person training opportunities for Marshall University Aviation through his work on […]

State News

John Ivanoff Named Vice President of Operations at Tucson Airport Authority

The Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) has announced the hiring of John Ivanoff as Vice President of Operations. As Vice President, Ivanoff will be a member of TAA’s Executive Team. In his role as Vice President of Operations, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of operations at Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Ryan Airfield (RYN). He will oversee Airside Operations, Police, Fire, Emergency Management, Maintenance & Custodial Services, and a number of other functional areas. John Ivanoff served the TAA for over 32 years in various roles, including 25 years in a supervisory or management role including Chief of Police, Chief of Public Safety, and Vice President of Operations. He retired in 2020. “The TAA is pleased that John Ivanoff is willing to return and lend his vast knowledge and experience to our organization,” said TAA President and CEO Danette Bewley. “He is a proven leader who will share his experience to support and mentor emerging leaders.” John is a native of Tucson and has 32 years of Public Safety experience.
Palm Springs Police Department Expands Drone Responder Program with MatrixSpace Radar Network

MatrixSpace, an intelligent sensor innovator, has enabled the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) to expand its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, establishing the largest first responder agency coverage area (37 square miles) monitored by radar sensors instead of humans in the United States. The PSPD’s program expansion was made possible with multiple remote drone launch points across Palm Springs utilizing MatrixSpace’s low airspace awareness technology. This innovation has also supported the city’s application for a FAA No Visual Observer flight operations waiver to ensure the safe separation and avoidance of both general aviation and commercial aircraft. Palm Springs – Photo credit – Chad Van Horn Lieutenant William Hutchinson, operations lead at Palm Springs PD, said “Taking this next step with MatrixSpace is a game-changer in terms of the speed, accuracy and efficiency it allows us to protect the Palm Springs public. Removing the need for a visual observer speeds up response time, dispatching drones in immediate response to incoming calls from multiple potential locations. Once we have our FAA waiver we can fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) with just a single operator, with the ability to fly at night and in inclement weather.” DFR programs like PSPD’s can de-escalate incidents, improve search and rescue, assist with the location and apprehension of criminal suspects, and act as a force multiplier for law enforcement agencies. This use of drones demands reliable monitoring to prevent any possible interference with other air traffic, including flights from Palm Springs International Airport, medical flights, air tours of the local area, other general aviation aircraft and more. Air traffic detection alerts from the MatrixSpace system will allow PSPD pilots to fly safely clear of potential aircraft. Palm Springs spans 95 square miles (246 square kilometers) with a population of approximately 46,000 and shares a boundary and cooperative jurisdiction with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Located in the greater Coachella Valley, which consists of nine separate jurisdictions with a combined population of approximately 470,000, Palm Springs is also a major tourist destination hosting nearly seven million visitors annually. Large scale, low airspace radar sensor networks can also support the operation of future air services in communities like Palm Springs. Continues Lt. Hutchinson, “This project is first and foremost a strategic investment in the safety of our citizens. But I’m excited to explore possibilities for its use in other applications that could benefit the greater Coachella Valley. Intelligent infrastructure such as this is foundational for potential coordinated regional public safety operations, as well as emerging concepts like air taxis and drone delivery.” Quote from Lori DeMatteis, Chief Revenue Officer, MatrixSpace “Palm Springs PD is at the forefront of fully utilizing DFR technologies to continually improve its capabilities. They also have a vision for scaling this beyond what other agencies have implemented, preparing for other operations which improve regional safety, and promote economic development. We’re excited to provide this kind of scalable technology that unlocks new possibilities both here in the US and beyond.” Leveraging an industry-first connected network of MatrixSpace 360 Radars, a single PSPD pilot can remotely operate drones from any of three launch locations. To further extend operational capabilities, a network of ten MatrixSpace 360 Radar nodes was installed across the city in preparation for two additional PSPD drone launch sites, and future cooperation with neighboring public safety agencies. MatrixSpace Radar is a small, high-performance sensor that offers robust situational awareness of both airborne and ground-based objects, including in low light and adverse weather conditions. The company’s sensors and artificial intelligence platform facilitate BVLOS flight operations for first responders and the commercial industry, and greater general aviation safety. The system also provides counter Unmanned Aircraft System (CUAS) detection and tracking capabilities.

National News

Aviation Workforce Crisis Meets Action: I Hart Flying Foundation Launches $20,000+ National Scholarship Initiative

As the aviation industry faces ongoing workforce shortages and increasing demand for skilled talent, the I Hart Flying Foundation (IHFF) has announced the launch of its 2026 national scholarship cycle, delivering more than $20,000 in flight training funding, pilot equipment and industry-supported resources. The initiative, “Access Granted: Runway to Rise,” marks the first phase of IHFF’s multi-year HART-LED: Cleared for Takeoff campaign, focused on a critical gap in aviation: ensuring aspiring pilots not only begin training, but complete it. Through its HART-LED: Approach, a structured, investable model, the organization provides support across three critical phases: Access, Advancement, and Completion. Eliminating funding gaps and sustaining momentum so women can progress seamlessly from their first flight to professional aviation careers. Women represent less than 6% of pilots globally and less than 3% of aircraft maintenance technicians, highlighting the need for a stronger, more robust aviation workforce pipeline. While many industry efforts focus on recruitment, IHFF is addressing a deeper challenge: training disruption caused by financial barriers at the earliest stages of flight training. “It’s not a capability problem. It’s a continuity problem,” said Rachelle Spector, Founder and CEO of I Hart Flying Foundation. “We’re ensuring women don’t just gain access to aviation, but have the support to advance, complete, and lead.” The Runway to Rise scholarship series supports women at the earliest and most vulnerable stage of flight training, where financial interruption most often occurs. This cycle provides direct funding, essential pilot supplies, and structured mentorship aligned with key certification milestones, helping scholars maintain momentum from their first flight through career progression. A Structured Model Delivering Measurable Results IHFF’s scholarship model is milestone-based and designed for accountability, aligning funding with key training phases, supported by mentorship and a national Selection Committee using a structured, blind review process. The approach is already demonstrating strong outcomes. To date, IHFF has: ● Awarded nearly $400,000 in flight training scholarships and in-kind support ● Supported approximately 50 HART Scholars across North America ● Achieved a 98% advancement rate to the next certification level ● Maintained a 100% completion rate among advancing scholars The Selection Committee includes aviation leaders such as Captain Beth Powell, Lisa Holland, and Glendon Fraser, among others across the industry. Aviation leaders across the industry are aligning behind this structured approach to workforce development. “Strengthening the aviation workforce requires intentional investment in both entry and long-term career pathways,” said Paul Floreck, Board Member of IHFF and Senior Vice President of Sales, US and Canada at Dassault Falcon Jet. “IHFF is creating a clear, structured path for women to not only enter aviation, but successfully advance within it.” “Partnering with I Hart Flying Foundation gives us direct visibility into the next generation of aviation talent,” said Lisa Holland, Chief Executive Officer of Sheltair Aviation. “We’ve seen HART Scholars progress firsthand at national industry events, and the impact is real.” The 2026 scholarship cycle is supported by a growing network of industry partners, including Gulfstream Aerospace, Dassault Falcon Jet, Clay Lacy Aviation, Solairus Aviation, Sheltair Aviation, and Enterprise Mobility Foundation, along with in-kind contributions from King Schools, Bose Aviation, and Starbucks. Beyond funding, IHFF connects scholars with industry leaders through national aviation events and mentorship opportunities, providing early exposure to career pathways and professional networks. Applications for the Access Granted: Runway to Rise scholarship cycle open April 21 and remain open through May 25. As IHFF approaches its 10-year milestone, the organization continues to scale a model focused on one outcome: ensuring women in aviation have a clear, continuous path to advance, complete, and lead.
Kinexis Consulting Welcomes Lorena de Rodriguez as Business Development Manager

Kinexis Consulting continues to expand its expert airport advisory team by adding Lorena de Rodriguez as its business development manager. With more than thirty years of experience across airport and airline operations, safety, security, and workforce development, Lorena brings deep expertise and experience supporting TSA programs, training initiatives, and industry-wide efforts through ACI World – Airports Council International, ACRP, and Safe Skies PARAS. Lorena de Rodriguez “I am pleased to welcome Lorena to Kinexis Consulting. Lorena’s strategic mindset and results-driven approach align perfectly with our vision as we continue to grow and innovate in the aviation sector,” said Saurabh Pethe, Kinexis President. Lorena told the State Aviation Journal that she is excited to be a part of the Kinexis team. “I joined Kinexis because I believe airport management deserves consultants who lead with experience. The Kinexis Airport Advisory Team is built around professionals who understand the full scope of airport operations. A team that knows security systems, compliance, and airfield safety and who bring genuine empathy to every engagement,” said Lorena. “That combination of depth and dedication is rare, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.” Lorena, who previously led the team at Safety & Security Instruction (SSi, Inc) for more than twenty years, will be based in Arizona.

International News

NBAA Names Recipients of Hilsmann Memorial Scholarships

The Maintenance Committee of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced the recipients of the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship. The two recipients will be able to attend model-specific training courses to advance their careers as business aviation maintenance technicians. Douglas Stevenson, student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Jackie Wilson, student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University The NBAA Maintenance Committee and NBAA Charities, in coordination with Dassault Falcon Jet and Dassault’s authorized training providers CAE and Flight Safety International, offer the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship to current and aspiring aviation maintenance technicians and military personnel transitioning to business aviation. The scholarship was created to honor the memory of Hilsmann, whose strength of character inspired a high standard of caring in the business aviation community. In his most recent position as a field representative with Dassault Falcon Jet, as well as in his previous positions as an aviation mechanic and pilot, Hilsmann was known for his integrity and pride in his work. Applications for the 2027 Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship will be available in Fall 2026. Learn more about the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship. In addition to the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship, NBAA Charities offers several other scholarships and programs to promote professional development and business aviation careers. For more information, visit nbaa.org/scholarships.
B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. B-29 ‘Doc’ photos by Kim Stevens “As AirVenture is the world’s largest annual gathering of warbirds, we are happy to be welcoming the B-29 Doc back to Oshkosh,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This B-29 is always a big favorite on Boeing Plaza when it appears in Oshkosh, especially as it is one of only two flying examples in the world of the legendary aircraft.” As currently scheduled, Doc will take centerstage for display on Boeing Plaza on July 24-26. When not on display at Boeing Plaza, flight experiences on Doc will be available July 20-23, based at Appleton International Airport, approximately 20 miles north. Doc was built in 1944 and for many years was part of a squadron known as the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in upstate New York at Griffiss Air Force Base (hence, the name Doc). The airplane was retired in 1956 as the jet bomber age began and sat as a target for Navy training missions in China Lake, California, until 1998. A restoration group took possession of the airplane from the U.S. government and hauled it back to Wichita, Kansas, in pieces in 2000. After 16 years and more than 450,000 volunteer hours, Doc made its first flight after restoration in July 2016, 60 years after it had been retired. Flight experience information for Doc at Oshkosh is available at https://www.b29doc.com/rides/. Doc is owned and operated by Doc’s Friends, Inc., a non-profit based in Wichita.

Unmanned Systems

Palm Springs Police Department Expands Drone Responder Program with MatrixSpace Radar Network

MatrixSpace, an intelligent sensor innovator, has enabled the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) to expand its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, establishing the largest first responder agency coverage area (37 square miles) monitored by radar sensors instead of humans in the United States. The PSPD’s program expansion was made possible with multiple remote drone READ MORE
Pyka’s Autonomous DropShip Completes First Flight

Pyka has announced the successful first flight of DropShip, its next-generation heavy-lift autonomous aircraft built for contested logistics and multi-mission operations. From concept to flight in just six months, this program sets a new benchmark for rapid development of advanced autonomous systems, delivering the mission-critical capabilities required today. It is engineered to extend reach, resilience, READ MORE

Aviation Education

Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education

Photo – Gulfstream President Mark Burns (center) with representatives from the University of Georgia, Savannah Technical College, Middle Georgia State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Mercer University and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced a $5 million investment in Georgia education, reinforcing its long-standing READ MORE
MAMA Extends Scholarship Deadline to May 31

College students preparing for aviation careers are encouraged to apply for either of the two scholarship programs being offered by the Massachusetts Airport Management Association. The deadline to apply for both scholarship programs is May 31, 2026. Crocker Snow Memorial Scholarship The Snow Scholarship is valued at $2,000 and seeks candidates who are focusing their READ MORE

Lone Star Flight Museum Celebrates the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Class of 2026, with Induction Ceremony and Luncheon

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – From left are, John Dyer, Bonnie Dunbar and Larry Lonero – Meg Lonero’s son. Lone Star Flight Museum leaders, sponsors and 300 special guests celebrated the Class of 2026 at the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame induction ceremony and luncheon on Friday, April 10. The Lone Star Flight Museum team presented this memorable […]

John Ivanoff Named Vice President of Operations at Tucson Airport Authority

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) has announced the hiring of John Ivanoff as Vice President of Operations. As Vice President, Ivanoff will be a member of TAA’s Executive Team. In his role as Vice President of Operations, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of operations at Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Ryan Airfield (RYN). […]

Palm Springs Police Department Expands Drone Responder Program with MatrixSpace Radar Network

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

MatrixSpace, an intelligent sensor innovator, has enabled the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) to expand its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, establishing the largest first responder agency coverage area (37 square miles) monitored by radar sensors instead of humans in the United States. The PSPD’s program expansion was made possible with multiple remote drone […]

NBAA Names Recipients of Hilsmann Memorial Scholarships

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Maintenance Committee of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced the recipients of the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship. The two recipients will be able to attend model-specific training courses to advance their careers as business aviation maintenance technicians. The NBAA Maintenance Committee and NBAA Charities, in coordination with Dassault Falcon Jet and Dassault’s authorized […]

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]

VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

VertiPorts by Atlantic, a subsidiary of Atlantic Aviation and the operator of the East 34th Street Heliport (6N5), hosted a successful demonstration flight of Joby Aviation’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of advanced air mobility in New York City. Conducted on Friday, May 1, at one […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Completes Key Airport Infrastructure Upgrades Across the State

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) marked a productive first quarter in 2026, completing critical infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing safety, storage and service capabilities across the state’s airport system. These improvements were completed through the ODAA’s five-year Airport Construction Program (ACP), a partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local sponsors. […]

Skyservice Business Aviation™ Appoints Alejandra Parés to Drive Strategic Growth

May 4, 2026May 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Skyservice Business Aviation™ announced the appointment of Alejandra Parés as Senior Director, Strategy and Continuous Improvement, reporting to Ron Silverman, President, Business Aviation. In this role, she will lead strategic initiatives, governance, and operational execution across the Business Aviation division. Parés brings more than 15 years of experience in business aviation and other regulated operating […]

Phoenix Sky Harbor Sets Passenger Records in March

May 3, 2026May 3, 2026 Kim Stevens

Last month was a busy one for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with Spring Break passengers coming and going, and others enjoying a variety of events around the Valley. With 5,128,429 passengers coming through the airport, it marks the busiest month ever in the airport’s history surpassing the previous March 2024 record by 1.27%. March […]

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 to Convene the UK Government

May 3, 2026May 3, 2026 Kim Stevens

The UK Government has confirmed its largest commitment to the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow to date. It’s being held July 20 -24th. The engagement reaffirms the event’s role as a central platform for the UK Government to further strengthen its international relationships with allies and partners to support defense and wider foreign policy. The announcement […]

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport

Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education

Marshall Receives $900,000 Federal Grant to Expand Aviation Training in Eastern Panhandle