State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

One of the greatest pilots of my youth is about to take flight! Fox McCloud!
As you know, I love my retro aviation games. Anything that was related to aviation and flight was a must play for me growing up and this was absolutely the case with one of my all-time favorite Super Nintendo games, Star Fox! I still own a complete in box (CIB) copy of the SNES version […]
Dassault’s Falcon 10X Makes Maiden Flight
Photo credit: Dassault Aviation – M. Douhaire Dassault Aviation’s all-new Falcon 10X has successfully completed its first flight, demonstrating the program’s maturity and marking the launch of the flight test campaign. “This inaugural flight is another milestone for Dassault,” said Chairman and CEO Eric Trappier. “It is a reflection of the dedication and high skill […]
VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights
The Air Force’s VC-25B Bridge aircraft has officially arrived at the Presidential Airlift Group and will commence its initial commissioning flights, marking the successful delivery of a secure, modified executive platform. Fresh from receiving its new red, white, and blue livery and the final government modifications, the aircraft has entered service to provide critical, secure […]
Adacel to Deliver REVAL Remote Tower System for Labasa Airport in Fiji
Adacel Technologies Limited (Adacel), announced it has been awarded a new contract from Fiji Airports to implement a remote tower system for Labasa Airport, enabling aerodrome air traffic services to be delivered from a centralized Remote Tower Centre (RTC) in Nadi. This is the first such installation for the Pacific Islands. With Labasa Airport servicing […]

State News

DC-3 Society Announces Dates and Program Details for Inaugural Operator Conference & Showcase

Following D-Day commemorations honoring the generation that flew, maintained, and depended upon the legendary DC-3 and C-47, the DC-3 Society today announced the official dates and expanded program details for its inaugural DC-3 Society Operator Conference & Showcase, taking place December 4–6, 2026, at Flabob Airport in Riverside, California. The three-day gathering will bring together operators, maintainers, pilots, owners, educators, industry partners, aviation enthusiasts, and future generations of aviation leaders in a first-of-its-kind event dedicated specifically to the operational legacy and future stewardship of the world’s most iconic transport aircraft. The event will open on Friday, December 4, with the DC-3 Society Operator Conference, a dedicated forum for owners, operators, maintainers, pilots, and crew members focused on collaboration, knowledge sharing, maintenance best practices, training, airworthiness, and operational sustainability. Programming will include networking opportunities, educational discussions, a luncheon program, reception, and evening gathering designed to strengthen relationships across the global DC-3 community. “The inaugural DC-3 Society Operators Conference & Showcase represents a defining moment for our organization and the global DC-3 community we serve.” — Moreno Aguiari, founding Board Chair, DC-3 Society. On Saturday, December 5, and Sunday, December 6, the event will expand into a public aircraft showcase and aviation programming experience featuring DC-3 aircraft displays, aviation exhibits, youth-focused activities, educational programming, community engagement opportunities, and additional special events celebrating the aircraft’s enduring impact on aviation history and culture. “At Flabob, we have spent decades proving that aviation can change lives. Through education, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, we have helped young people discover purpose, opportunity, and careers they never imagined possible. The DC-3 Society Operator Conference & Showcase represents that same spirit of stewardship and investment in future generations. While this event celebrates one of the most iconic aircraft in history, it is equally about preserving the knowledge, craftsmanship, and passion that keep these aircraft flying. We are proud to welcome this inaugural gathering to Flabob Airport and the Tom Wathen Center.” — Jon Goldenbaum, Trustee Chairman, Tom Wathen Center at Flabob Airport. Hosted at historic Flabob Airport, one of America’s oldest continuously operating airports and home to EAA Chapter One, the event will serve as both a professional forum and a public celebration of aviation heritage. Event registration and ticketing information will be announced soon. Additional details, programming updates, sponsorship opportunities, and participation information will be released through the DC-3 Society’s official channels. You can find more information about the DC-3 Society, membership and programs by visiting DC3Society.org
U.S. Air Force Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with Country Music Superstar at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Country music superstar Tyler Hubbard will be part of the U.S. Air Force’s salute to America’s 250th birthday, as he performs at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 on Monday, July 20, during a program presented by the Air Force. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Tyler Hubbard With 23 No. 1 singles at country radio, numerous industry accolades, and a career defined by sold-out tours, Tyler Hubbard has established himself as one of country music’s most successful artists and songwriters, both as a solo performer and as one-half of the multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line. As excitement continues to build following Florida Georgia Line’s highly anticipated return to the stage at CMA Fest on June 4th in Nashville, catching Tyler Hubbard’s solo set this summer is a can’t-miss experience for country music fans. This opening night USAF program and concert will kick off the world’s largest fly-in, which in 2025 attracted a total attendance of over 700,000, with more than 10,000 aircraft arriving to the region for the event. As a longtime partner and supporter of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the Air Force will not only be presenting the opening night concert, but also featuring aircraft from the Pacific Air Forces and other units throughout the week. For the July 20 program, the Air Force is teaming with ADC Group Marketing, nationally recognized for its air show achievements for over 23 years, to work with the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh team to bring Hubbard to the event and produce the opening night concert. The USAF program is included with admission to the grounds on July 20. “Aviation isn’t just about machines; it’s defined by precision, purpose, and the relentless human drive to push boundaries,” said Mr. Marcus Carrion, Head of the Department of the Air Force Marketing. “We recognize that exact same ethos, that Air Force DNA, in the crowds at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Bringing Tyler Hubbard to Oshkosh for America’s 250th is a collision of world-class artistry and world-class airpower. It serves as a reminder that the dedication to master the skies and the drive to master any true craft are fundamentally the same.” “Our valuable partnership with the Air Force is a perfect way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday at EAA AirVenture 2026,” said Rick Larsen, EAA Vice President of Communities & Members Programming. “The Air Force’s July 20 program is a great way to kick off the week’s festivities, especially featuring the music of Tyler Hubbard, who is not only a star in the music world, but also a student pilot who has long looked at learning to fly as a personal bucket-list item.” EAA AirVenture Oshkosh advance tickets are now available for a historic year for America on its 250th birthday and another unforgettable year at Oshkosh.

National News

DC-3 Society Announces Dates and Program Details for Inaugural Operator Conference & Showcase

Following D-Day commemorations honoring the generation that flew, maintained, and depended upon the legendary DC-3 and C-47, the DC-3 Society today announced the official dates and expanded program details for its inaugural DC-3 Society Operator Conference & Showcase, taking place December 4–6, 2026, at Flabob Airport in Riverside, California. The three-day gathering will bring together operators, maintainers, pilots, owners, educators, industry partners, aviation enthusiasts, and future generations of aviation leaders in a first-of-its-kind event dedicated specifically to the operational legacy and future stewardship of the world’s most iconic transport aircraft. The event will open on Friday, December 4, with the DC-3 Society Operator Conference, a dedicated forum for owners, operators, maintainers, pilots, and crew members focused on collaboration, knowledge sharing, maintenance best practices, training, airworthiness, and operational sustainability. Programming will include networking opportunities, educational discussions, a luncheon program, reception, and evening gathering designed to strengthen relationships across the global DC-3 community. “The inaugural DC-3 Society Operators Conference & Showcase represents a defining moment for our organization and the global DC-3 community we serve.” — Moreno Aguiari, founding Board Chair, DC-3 Society. On Saturday, December 5, and Sunday, December 6, the event will expand into a public aircraft showcase and aviation programming experience featuring DC-3 aircraft displays, aviation exhibits, youth-focused activities, educational programming, community engagement opportunities, and additional special events celebrating the aircraft’s enduring impact on aviation history and culture. “At Flabob, we have spent decades proving that aviation can change lives. Through education, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, we have helped young people discover purpose, opportunity, and careers they never imagined possible. The DC-3 Society Operator Conference & Showcase represents that same spirit of stewardship and investment in future generations. While this event celebrates one of the most iconic aircraft in history, it is equally about preserving the knowledge, craftsmanship, and passion that keep these aircraft flying. We are proud to welcome this inaugural gathering to Flabob Airport and the Tom Wathen Center.” — Jon Goldenbaum, Trustee Chairman, Tom Wathen Center at Flabob Airport. Hosted at historic Flabob Airport, one of America’s oldest continuously operating airports and home to EAA Chapter One, the event will serve as both a professional forum and a public celebration of aviation heritage. Event registration and ticketing information will be announced soon. Additional details, programming updates, sponsorship opportunities, and participation information will be released through the DC-3 Society’s official channels. You can find more information about the DC-3 Society, membership and programs by visiting DC3Society.org
U.S. Air Force Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with Country Music Superstar at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Country music superstar Tyler Hubbard will be part of the U.S. Air Force’s salute to America’s 250th birthday, as he performs at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 on Monday, July 20, during a program presented by the Air Force. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Tyler Hubbard With 23 No. 1 singles at country radio, numerous industry accolades, and a career defined by sold-out tours, Tyler Hubbard has established himself as one of country music’s most successful artists and songwriters, both as a solo performer and as one-half of the multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line. As excitement continues to build following Florida Georgia Line’s highly anticipated return to the stage at CMA Fest on June 4th in Nashville, catching Tyler Hubbard’s solo set this summer is a can’t-miss experience for country music fans. This opening night USAF program and concert will kick off the world’s largest fly-in, which in 2025 attracted a total attendance of over 700,000, with more than 10,000 aircraft arriving to the region for the event. As a longtime partner and supporter of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the Air Force will not only be presenting the opening night concert, but also featuring aircraft from the Pacific Air Forces and other units throughout the week. For the July 20 program, the Air Force is teaming with ADC Group Marketing, nationally recognized for its air show achievements for over 23 years, to work with the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh team to bring Hubbard to the event and produce the opening night concert. The USAF program is included with admission to the grounds on July 20. “Aviation isn’t just about machines; it’s defined by precision, purpose, and the relentless human drive to push boundaries,” said Mr. Marcus Carrion, Head of the Department of the Air Force Marketing. “We recognize that exact same ethos, that Air Force DNA, in the crowds at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Bringing Tyler Hubbard to Oshkosh for America’s 250th is a collision of world-class artistry and world-class airpower. It serves as a reminder that the dedication to master the skies and the drive to master any true craft are fundamentally the same.” “Our valuable partnership with the Air Force is a perfect way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday at EAA AirVenture 2026,” said Rick Larsen, EAA Vice President of Communities & Members Programming. “The Air Force’s July 20 program is a great way to kick off the week’s festivities, especially featuring the music of Tyler Hubbard, who is not only a star in the music world, but also a student pilot who has long looked at learning to fly as a personal bucket-list item.” EAA AirVenture Oshkosh advance tickets are now available for a historic year for America on its 250th birthday and another unforgettable year at Oshkosh.

International News

GAMA Welcomes General Court Decision on EU Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) welcomes today’s judgment of the General Court of the European Union annulling the exclusion of aircraft intended for private or commercial business aviation from the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance. The judgment is an important recognition that sustainable-finance policy must be based on legally sound, technology-neutral and equitable criteria. It confirms that business aircraft manufacturing cannot be assessed through an operational metric that is not recognized in EU law, nor by assuming that other transport modes are necessarily low-carbon alternatives, all of which GAMA has been advocating for at all levels of the European Commission for over five years. Business Aviation is actively investing in credible decarbonization pathways, including through the expanded availability and use of sustainable aviation fuels, continued improvements in aircraft efficiency and the development of low- and zero- emission propulsion technologies. “GAMA welcomes today’s ruling by the General Court of the European Union as a significant rebalancing step towards a fair and evidence-based sustainable finance framework for aviation. Business aviation manufacturers are committed to reducing emissions and advancing innovation. Funding criteria for this transition should be assessed on a technology-neutral and equitable basis that is consistent with industrial, technological and market realities,” said Kyle Martin, GAMA’s Vice President for European Affairs. GAMA looks forward to working constructively with the European Commission and policymakers on an updated taxonomy framework that supports investment in aviation innovation and recognizes the role of all parts of the aerospace sector in delivering Europe’s climate and competitiveness objectives.
Avianca Adds Temporary Flights Between Bogotá and Valencia, Venezuela

As part of its efforts to support travel for those affected by the emergency in Venezuela, including their friends, relatives and rescue organizations, Avianca has temporarily opened bookings for flights between Bogotá and Valencia. The flights will initially operate through July 10 and are available at special fares. Service may be extended depending on how the situation develops. This measure will help maintain air connectivity between Colombia and Venezuela while operations at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía are restored. It will also enable the continued transportation of rescue workers, medical personnel, emergency response teams and humanitarian aid to support rescue and relief efforts, in coordination with Avianca’s social impact partners, including the Colombian Red Cross, Ruta Animal, ABACO and the Colombian Civil Air Patrol. Avianca will operate two daily flights using Airbus A320 aircraft, with schedules similar to those of its Bogotá-Caracas route. The flights will help accommodate passengers with existing tickets while providing additional travel options for those who need to fly during the emergency. Bogotá-Valencia-Bogotá Flight Schedule Route FrequencyDeparture timeArrival timeBogotá-Valencia Daily 7:35 a.m.10:35 a.m.Valencia-Bogotá Daily 12:27 p.m.1:10 p.m.Bogotá-Valencia Daily 11:20 p.m.2:20 a.m. the following dayValencia-Bogotá Daily 4:17 a.m.5:00 a.m. “We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela and everyone who needs to travel to or from the country. This daily service to Valencia builds on the efforts carried out in coordination with authorities, governments and social impact partners to transport rescue teams and humanitarian aid in support of the emergency response,” said Gabriel Oliva, Avianca’s president. Tickets are available at special fares to facilitate passenger travel and can be purchased through avianca.com, the Avianca mobile app, the Contact Center and travel agencies. Other Passenger Protection Measures Currently in Effect: To provide passengers with as many alternatives as possible, Avianca will maintain the travel protection measures announced for customers with tickets dated between June 24 and July 15, 2026. Eligible passengers may choose from the following options at no additional cost: Travel date change: Passengers may reschedule their flights for travel through Aug. 31, 2026, without change fees or fare differences, subject to availability. Route change: Passengers may travel to or from Valencia, Cúcuta or Riohacha at no additional cost, subject to availability. Changes must be arranged through Avianca’s Contact Center. Refund: Passengers may request a full refund for any unused flight segments. For tickets purchased through Avianca’s direct channels, avianca.com, the Contact Center or retail locations, refund requests may be submitted through those same channels. For tickets purchased through a travel agency, refund requests must be submitted directly through that agency. Avianca recommends that customers monitor the airline’s official communication channels and the email address associated with their reservation for further updates as the situation in Venezuela develops.

Unmanned Systems

Oregon to Host Aviation Delegation from South Korea to Advance International Collaboration and Innovation

The State of Oregon will host a high-level South Korean aviation delegation July 26–30, 2026, to explore investment, research, and commercial partnership opportunities across the aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors. The delegation, approximately 25 government, industry, and research representatives from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT), the READ MORE
Oregon Department of Aviation Releases UAS Operations and Policy Manual Template for State and Local Agencies

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has released a new Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations and Policy Manual template to help Oregon state agencies, cities, counties, special districts, and other public bodies develop safe and consistent drone programs. The template is designed as a practical starting point for agencies that use, or are considering the use READ MORE

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Trains Air Force Pilots

New Smyrna Beach, FL – Epic Flight Academy recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of U.S. Air Force pilots who completed Initial Pilot Training (IPT) at Epic’s New Smyrna Beach campus. Epic trained these officers under an Educational Service Agreement with the Air Force. Following the successful completion of the inaugural cohort in READ MORE
GAMA Announces 2026 Aviation Design Challenge Winners

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced that the team from Cambridge High School in Milton, Georgia, is the first-place winner of the 2026 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge. The team from Corona Del Sol High School in Tempe, Arizona, is the second-place winner and the team from Greenville Technical Charter High School in Greenville, South READ MORE

DC-3 Society Announces Dates and Program Details for Inaugural Operator Conference & Showcase

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Following D-Day commemorations honoring the generation that flew, maintained, and depended upon the legendary DC-3 and C-47, the DC-3 Society today announced the official dates and expanded program details for its inaugural DC-3 Society Operator Conference & Showcase, taking place December 4–6, 2026, at Flabob Airport in Riverside, California. The three-day gathering will bring together […]

U.S. Air Force Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with Country Music Superstar at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Country music superstar Tyler Hubbard will be part of the U.S. Air Force’s salute to America’s 250th birthday, as he performs at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 on Monday, July 20, during a program presented by the Air Force. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport […]

Springfield Airport Operations Lead Earns Coveted A.A.E. Accreditation

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Angela Pitts, C.M., ACE has earned the coveted Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) designation through AAAE. She is one of the youngest airport professionals in the country to earn her A.A.E. Accreditation. This credential is the premier professional designation awarded to aviation professionals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, experience and leadership in airport management. It’s a […]

Aero Club of Southern California to award Wahid Nawabi with the 47th Annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aero Club of Southern California has announced that it will honor Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President, and CEO of AeroVironment, Inc. (AV), with the 47th annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award. The award will be given at a gala celebration on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the California Club in Los Angeles. The Howard Hughes Memorial […]

Ontario International Airport Passenger Volume Up 2.3% Through First Five Months of 2026

June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Passenger volume through Ontario International Airport (ONT) was on autopilot in May, growing by 0.4% while the traveler count rose 2.3% for the first five months of the year. Ontario welcomed 632,441 travelers in May, including 577,523 domestic passengers. The number of international fliers continued to surge, increasing by 41.5% to nearly 55,000. The Southern California gateway […]

High Flying Hangars Breaks Ground on Multi-acre Development at Frederick Municipal Airport in Maryland

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Left to right: Richard Griffin, Andrew Moore, Peter Bremh, Michael O’Connor, Kenny Hinkes, Randy Sibold, Joe Roetering, Norm Long, Jodie Bollinger. (Photo: Stephen Yeates/High Flying Hangars) High Flying Hangars has celebrated the groundbreaking event at its development now in progress at the Frederick Municipal Airport in Maryland (KFDK). Frederick City Mayor Michael O’Connor; […]

GAMA Welcomes General Court Decision on EU Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) welcomes today’s judgment of the General Court of the European Union annulling the exclusion of aircraft intended for private or commercial business aviation from the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance. The judgment is an important recognition that sustainable-finance policy must be based on legally sound, technology-neutral and equitable criteria. […]

Epic Flight Academy Trains Air Force Pilots

June 28, 2026June 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

New Smyrna Beach, FL – Epic Flight Academy recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of U.S. Air Force pilots who completed Initial Pilot Training (IPT) at Epic’s New Smyrna Beach campus. Epic trained these officers under an Educational Service Agreement with the Air Force. Following the successful completion of the inaugural cohort in […]

Avianca Adds Temporary Flights Between Bogotá and Valencia, Venezuela

June 28, 2026June 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

As part of its efforts to support travel for those affected by the emergency in Venezuela, including their friends, relatives and rescue organizations, Avianca has temporarily opened bookings for flights between Bogotá and Valencia. The flights will initially operate through July 10 and are available at special fares. Service may be extended depending on how […]

Airtask Group Introduces the Modern Tecnam P2012 Traveller to Elevate Regional Lifeline Services

June 28, 2026June 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tecnam and Airtask Group have announced the successful introduction of the Tecnam P2012 Traveller (registration G-CMCY) onto the Stornoway to Benbecula Public Service Obligation (PSO) route. Leased to Airtask Group, the aircraft officially entered active service in April 2026, marking a new era of reliability and enhanced passenger experience for the Scottish communities relying on […]

One of the greatest pilots of my youth is about to take flight! Fox McCloud!

Dassault’s Falcon 10X Makes Maiden Flight

VC-25B Bridge Aircraft Arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Begins Commissioning Flights

Adacel to Deliver REVAL Remote Tower System for Labasa Airport in Fiji