State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide
Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 […]
New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]
Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector
Driven by the strong momentum of the global aeronautics industry, the discreet Toulouse-based Satys Group is consolidating its growth, recovering its pre-Covid profitability ratios, and entering 2026 with solid development ambitions across its six markets: commercial aviation, regional aviation, business aviation, helicopters, defense, and aircraft repainting. “This favorable environment contrasts sharply with the extreme difficulties […]
Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology
Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by […]

State News

Bessemer Airport Authority Announces $4 Million in Federal Funding to Renovate EKY’s Primary Aircraft Apron

The Bessemer Airport Authority (BAA) has announced that $4 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) has been secured for the Bessemer National Airport (EKY) through the support of U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville and U.S. Senator Katie Boyd Britt. This critical federal investment will fund the renovation, modernization, and potential expansion of EKY’s primary large-aircraft parking apron – an essential step toward the development of the airport’s future Terminal and Fixed Base Operator (FBO) building. “Investing in Alabama’s aviation infrastructure strengthens our economy, supports workforce development, and ensures our communities remain connected and competitive,” said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville. “I’m proud to help deliver funding that will enhance safety at EKY and position the airport for long-term growth.” In addition to pavement renovation, EKY anticipates relocating the Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) to unlock future hangar development opportunities adjacent to the apron. This work directly supports EKY’s long-term infrastructure plan and the establishment of a modern, FEMA-compliant Terminal/FBO facility. U.S. Senator Katie Boyd Britt said Bessemer National Airport plays a vital role in supporting industry, first responders, and economic opportunity across the region. “This funding will modernize critical infrastructure and help unlock the next chapter of EKY’s development. I’m honored to support this important project for the people of Alabama.” A Critical Infrastructure Upgrade for a Growing National Airport EKY’s apron system supports approximately 15 acres of aircraft parking and maneuvering space. The area scheduled for renovation is frequently used by aircraft too large to safely park elsewhere on the field. EKY serves a wide range of users, including corporate aviation, emergency medical flights, law enforcement, military training, hurricane evacuation operations, athletic teams and fans, and recreational general aviation. Renovation of this apron ensures the airport can continue fulfilling these roles safely and efficiently. Next Steps Design work is already underway by BAA consultants Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC). GMC and BAA will coordinate permitting, final design, and construction scheduling with ALDOT Aeronautics Bureau and FAA partners to move the project into procurement and construction phases.
DOTD Selected to Participate in New Federal Aviation Pilot Program

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced today that it has been selected to participate in a new federal pilot program designed to help safely introduce next-generation aircraft into communities across the country. Led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the program will test and evaluate emerging aircraft technologies, including electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, sometimes described as “air taxis,” as well as other advanced aviation systems. The goal is to ensure these new technologies are introduced safely, responsibly, and in a way that benefits the public. DOTD’s proposal, LIFTOff Louisiana, received support from Governor Jeff Landry, state lawmakers, and Louisiana’s congressional delegation, reflecting broad statewide support for safe and innovative aviation. While the proposal outlines initial operations that are concentrated at Houma-Terrebonne Airport, the program extends across the entire state and is anchored in a comprehensive public-private partnership to deliver real-world data and operational experience to the FAA’s pilot program. “This announcement is yet another example of Louisiana continuing to set the standard. As aviation and technology are continuing to adapt, we want Louisiana to be the leader in innovation,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “I am excited for all the opportunities LIFTOff Louisiana has to offer, as well as the future it will help pave for aviation in our state.” “This program gives Louisiana an opportunity to be at the forefront of aviation innovation while keeping safety as our top priority,” said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet. “Our participation will improve mobility, support economic development, and benefit communities across our state.” “LIFTOff Louisiana marks a significant advancement for aeronautics in Louisiana, enabling the safe integration of new technologies into the National Airspace System,” said Andrew T. Kilshaw, commissioner of DOTD’s Office of Multimodal Commerce. “This initiative not only strengthens Louisiana’s leadership in aviation but also enhances connectivity across our multimodal transportation network, strengthening the link between air operations and other modes to support efficient commerce, emergency response, and economic development statewide.” “What an exciting time to be a part of the selection representing LIFTOff Louisiana and the advanced air mobility future,” said Edwin J. Jarvis, executive director of the Houma-Terrebonne Airport Commission. “Allowing us to collaborate with industry leaders and innovators increases visibility and recognition within the aviation community and helps the FAA, through our public-private partnership, support Louisiana as well.” “This moment reflects years of partnership, vision, and belief in what Louisiana can achieve,” said Andrea Dupre, deputy director of the Houma-Terrebonne Airport Commission. “Being selected for this program confirms that our state isn’t just participating in the future of aviation — we’re helping shape it. And while we shape it, we are creating opportunities for the next generation here in Houma and across the region.” Under the pilot program, state and local governments may partner with private companies to demonstrate real-world operations, including passenger transportation, cargo delivery, emergency response support, and other public-service uses. Projects must operate under FAA safety oversight and share operational data, including information related to safety, noise, environmental effects, and community impacts. Through the program, DOTD and its partners may: Test emerging aircraft technologies in controlled environments. Share safety and operational data with federal regulators. Evaluate noise, environmental, and community impacts. Help inform future national aviation policy. The federal government will not provide funding through the program. Each participant is responsible for covering its own costs, while the FAA will provide oversight, coordination, and technical guidance. Additional coordination and formal program agreements are expected as the pilot program moves forward.

National News

RAF Renews MOU With Bureau of Land Management

Photo Credit: Ben Carlson, Mineral Canyon, UT The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) has announced the successful renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding with the Bureau of Land Management, establishing a framework of cooperation between the two entities. “This renewal has been years in the making,” said RAF Chairman John McKenna, who signed the document on February 26. “It is a huge stride toward fulfilling the RAF mission and ensuring our continued successful cooperation with this major federal land manager,” he added. The original MOU was negotiated in great part by RAF Arizona Liaison Mark Spencer, and was mutually signed by the RAF and BLM in February, 2015. In brief, the MOU outlines BLM/RAF collaboration to preserve, maintain, and improve existing backcountry airstrips on BLM-managed lands, and mutual efforts to support safe and responsible recreational aviation. According to Cory Roegner, Bureau of Land Management Deputy Division Chief, Recreation and Visitor Services, “This renewed MOU marks an exciting step forward in our ongoing collaboration, and we look forward to the continued great work we’ll accomplish together.” Key persons in executing the MOU are RAF State Liaisons, who will be included in the early planning stages whenever aviation access might be affected, and to initiate appropriate airstrip maintenance and improvement projects. This agreement is in effect for the next five years and is renewable upon mutual consent.
Support Grows for Bills Banning ADS-B Misuse

Support is growing to prohibit the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data to collect fees from pilots—in Congress, where the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA) is gaining cosponsors, in state capitols across the country, and among top aviation safety officials. “ADS-B data should never be used for accessing a pilot’s personal information or for being used as a cash register. It should be used for its intended purpose—to give pilots situational awareness to help avoid mid-air collisions and for controllers to create airspace efficiencies. When the nation’s leading transportation safety expert, state legislatures, airports, companies, and hundreds of thousands of pilots all support PAPA, it’s time to address this situation,” said AOPA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Advocacy Jim Coon. “It’s also important to point out that none of these bills—at the federal or state level—would prevent an airport from charging ‘necessary and appropriate’ landing fees. Anyone claiming that is just spreading misinformation. They simply block the use of this safety-enhancing tool to collect them,” added Coon. “In light of the DCA accident last year, Congress is debating an ADS-B mandate. That safety goal is undermined as long as this safety tool is being used for collecting fees and not enhancing safety.” Support is also growing at the state level. The Florida House of Representatives passed a similar bill—SB 422—yesterday, sending it to Gov. Ron DeSantis’s desk. Montana was the first state to ban the collection of ADS-B-based fees from most general aviation pilots in May 2025. Lawmakers in more than a dozen other states, including Arizona, Oklahoma, and Minnesota, have introduced or are considering introducing similar bills. “We are grateful to state lawmakers across the country who recognize the importance of this issue, and its impact on aviation safety. Despite the state-level momentum, a patchwork solution isn’t enough to make the skies safer for all of us—only Congress can fully resolve this problem with a uniform law for all states,” said Coon. Airports in a number of states—including Illinois, Massachusetts, Florida, New Jersey, California, and Ohio, among others—have also endorsed PAPA. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said the practice “should be prohibited” at a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing on February 12. “ADS-B is a safety tool, and it should be used for safety, not as a revenue generator to charge general aviation pilots ramp fees or landing fees,” said Homendy, adding that ADS-B-derived fees could discourage pilots from installing or using the technology. “There is no question that ADS-B has been a gamechanger for general aviation pilots,” said AOPA Air Safety Institute Senior Vice President Mike Ginter. “While we’re in one of the safest periods for general aviation in our nation’s history, there is a lot of concern out there that the continued use of ADS-B to charge fees would reverse that trend.”

International News

BBGA to Embrace Future Flight with New Advisory Working Group

The British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA), marking its 50th anniversary this year, is adding Future Flight (Urban Air Mobility and Regional Air Mobility) to its active Working Groups, in response to membership interest, the association announced today at its annual conference. The Group, which will be led by BBGA Vice Chair Alex Durand, CEO of SaxonAir, will provide updates and recommendations for this emerging sector to the Board. It will be similar to the other working groups, which meet regularly, all headed by Board directors with active input from members. “Moving into our sixth decade, we see Advanced Air Mobility and clean technologies like eSAF advancing in the rear-view mirror. It’s therefore opportune to harness our accumulated knowledge and expertise and help this new sector flourish into the future with us,” he said. The new group will complement BBGA’s existing working groups covering Operations; Flight Operations; Airworthiness; FBOs; Sustainability, plus Membership and Events. Future Flight will have a touch point in each of our groups. Its scope will cover: • Membership consultation to assess the Group’s opportunities and challenges • Outreach to regulators and Government on new aircraft, technologies • Communications with the BBGA Board and membership on key updates and milestones • Leveraging our broad expertise to support integration of emerging technologies • Leveraging Future Flight opportunities to inform current strategy Any company or individual interested in joining this Group is invited to contact Managing Director Lindsey Oliver: lindsey@bbga.aero
Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based solutions. Areas of cooperation include professional training programs, joint scientific research, methodology development, and the establishment of infrastructure to support UAV deployment. As part of the framework, the parties intend to explore: Establishing a UAV training and professional development center Conducting online and in-person seminars and knowledge exchange programs Creating a technical maintenance and service center for UAVs Developing methodologies for effective drone usage in agriculture Evaluating the potential use of drones across up to 300,000 hectares of intensively cultivated cotton fields The Uzbek partners would be responsible for providing local servicing infrastructure and agricultural inputs, while Kaizen Aerospace would contribute drone technology expertise and operational know-how. The Memorandum of Cooperation is non-binding and serves as a foundation for further discussions and potential definitive agreements. It does not create financial commitments or legally binding obligations between the parties. The memorandum reflects a shared interest in leveraging advanced aerial technologies to support agricultural efficiency, productivity, and sustainable development initiatives in Uzbekistan.

Unmanned Systems

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based READ MORE
Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Partners with OAIRE to Propel Drone Innovation in High School Classrooms

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) in partnership with OAIRE, the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, hosted a professional development event and drone build for Oklahoma aerospace teachers on Feb. 27-28. The event, held at Oklahoma State University, highlighted the state’s commitment to “pushing the boundaries of flight.” Oklahoma aviation teachers READ MORE

Aviation Education

New Jersey Cadets Showcase Civil Air Patrol’s Impact at National Legislative Day

Civil Air Patrol cadets and senior members from New Jersey recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for Civil Air Patrol’s missions and demonstrate the organization’s measurable impact on communities across the state and nation. “Our members represented New Jersey with exceptional professionalism and confidence,” said CAP Col. Amy Myzie, commander of the New Jersey READ MORE
Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 READ MORE

BBGA to Embrace Future Flight with New Advisory Working Group

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

The British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA), marking its 50th anniversary this year, is adding Future Flight (Urban Air Mobility and Regional Air Mobility) to its active Working Groups, in response to membership interest, the association announced today at its annual conference. The Group, which will be led by BBGA Vice Chair Alex Durand, […]

Bessemer Airport Authority Announces $4 Million in Federal Funding to Renovate EKY’s Primary Aircraft Apron

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Bessemer Airport Authority (BAA) has announced that $4 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) has been secured for the Bessemer National Airport (EKY) through the support of U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville and U.S. Senator Katie Boyd Britt. This critical federal investment will fund the renovation, modernization, and potential expansion of EKY’s primary large-aircraft parking […]

DOTD Selected to Participate in New Federal Aviation Pilot Program

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced today that it has been selected to participate in a new federal pilot program designed to help safely introduce next-generation aircraft into communities across the country. Led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the program will test and evaluate emerging aircraft technologies, including electric vertical takeoff […]

North Carolina Department of Transportation Selected for FAA eVTOL Pilot Program

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

The N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation has been selected to participate in the Federal Aviation Administration’s Advanced Air Mobility and Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). As part of this federal pilot program, the division will work closely with the FAA and other selected states to explore the potential […]

NUAIR and Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Celebrate Federal Selection of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for Landmark eVTOL Integration Pilot Program

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

NUAIR and the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) celebrated the selection of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) as one of eight projects nationwide chosen to participate in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s newly established Advanced Air Mobility and Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). Announced by U.S. […]

RAF Renews MOU With Bureau of Land Management

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo Credit: Ben Carlson, Mineral Canyon, UT The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) has announced the successful renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding with the Bureau of Land Management, establishing a framework of cooperation between the two entities. “This renewal has been years in the making,” said RAF Chairman John McKenna, who signed the document on […]

Utah Takes Flight as National Testbed for the Next Generation of Aviation

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

47G | Utah Aerospace and Defense announced that the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), in close collaboration with a coalition of public and private partners, has been selected to participate in a national initiative to safely integrate Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technologies into the national airspace. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected Utah as […]

Support Grows for Bills Banning ADS-B Misuse

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

Support is growing to prohibit the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data to collect fees from pilots—in Congress, where the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA) is gaining cosponsors, in state capitols across the country, and among top aviation safety officials. “ADS-B data should never be used for accessing a pilot’s personal information or […]

Minot International and New Town Municipal Receive North Dakota 2025 Airport of the Year Awards

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Minot International Airport has been named North Dakota’s 2025 Commercial Service Airport of the Year, while the New Town Municipal Airport has been recognized as the 2025 General Aviation Airport of the Year. These awards were presented during the North Dakota Aviation Association’s FLY-ND Conference awards banquet, held in Minot on March 10th, 2025. […]

Pilots Complete “Fly North Dakota Airports” Passport Program

March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 Kim Stevens

Multiple pilots were recently presented with awards for participating in the “Fly North Dakota Airports” Passport Program. This program began in North Dakota in 2011 and it rewards pilots who fly to North Dakota’s publicly owned airports, attend FAA safety seminars, and visit North Dakota’s aviation museums. This program promotes safety, continuing education, and encourages […]

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity

Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology