State Aviation Journal

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump
Aleksej Zelenkov, a duty manager at KlasJet, has broken three Lithuanian skydiving records in a single jump from 7,620 meters during a specialized high-altitude event in Herning, Denmark this August. The achievement included setting new Lithuanian records for the highest skydive, longest canopy flight duration at approximately 13 minutes, and the highest altitude display of […]
Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility
Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, marked the opening of a major new maintenance facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB). This facility represents a significant expansion of Dassault’s presence in the Americas and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to customer support, operational excellence, and regional investment. It is one of the […]
Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm
Skyways has demonstrated the unmatched ability of its technology to deliver time-critical supplies in one of the world’s toughest operating environments. In partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, Skyways successfully completed historic beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries to Arkona Offshore Windfarm, operated by RWE and located off the coast of […]
Quilts by Local Artist Stitch Together Pieces of Miami at MIA
Photo – Installation view of Curious Geometries, Regina Durante Jestrow at Gate D31 Gallery. Photo by Francesco Casale. Courtesy of MIA Galleries, Miami International Airport. Quilts are now also connecting people with places at Miami International Airport, thanks to Curious Geometries, the airport’s newest art exhibition at the Gate D31 Gallery. The exhibition by local […]

State News

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Stroud Launch Runway Expansion Project

Photo – The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated airport improvements with a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2025. The airport will widen and extend the runway to meet federal safety standards. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated the widening and extension of their Runway 18/36 on Sept. 17, 2025. The project will widen the runway from 60 to 75 feet wide and extend it from 3,000 to 4,000 feet long. The project will also rehabilitate the existing portion of the runway. The new size and improvements are necessary to satisfy Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards to provide better safety enhancements and increase economic development opportunities for larger aircraft that would utilize Stroud’s airport. In addition to the improvements to the runway, the airport will also see the installation of new LED runway lights and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs) to improve pilot guidance and trajectory, increasing safety during landings. The full cost for the runway and lighting improvements is about $6.7 million. The ODAA will provide $3.6 million while FAA will provide $3 million and the local airport sponsor will contribute nearly $115,000. The improvements are part of ODAA’s Airport Construction Program (ACP). The ACP is a five-year revolving plan ODAA provides in cooperation with the FAA and airport sponsors to support the combined goal of having a system of airports that serves the business, transportation, and commerce needs of communities across the state. “Stroud’s runway and lighting upgrades will boost operations and elevate the flight experience for both business and general aviation in the community,” said Grayson Ardies, ODAA executive director. “This pro-growth investment is fundamental to ensuring maximum safety and efficiency while driving commerce across Oklahoma’s airport system.” Stroud Municipal Airport originally began as part of a Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) project in 1931. The CAA leased 90 acres to be used as an emergency landing field for military pilots during training flights. Since 1943, the airport has been operated by the City of Stroud. Stroud Municipal has expanded to 180 acres and is home to 16 based aircraft and sees about 3,600 takeoffs and landings annually.
Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education (OAIRE). Oklahoma’s Vice Chair of A&B Transportation Subcommittee Rep. Jason Blair (R-Moore) participated in the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue Championship” held at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. Rep. Blair, Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education staff and educators were able to see Oklahoma’s potential future aviation professionals compete in a series of drone search and rescue challenges. Student teams were challenged by real-life scenarios including locating a downed hiker, an overturned kayaker, and a snakebite victim. The rescue operations were staged with support from Oklahoma State University Police, Stillwater Medical Center, Payne County Emergency Management, and LifeNet Emergency Medical Services. From a mobile command center, the student teams received dispatch information and then used maps and analyzed critical data to develop and execute rescue plans. Paula Kedy, Statewide Aerospace STEM Education Manager, praised the competition, saying, “This event was truly exceptional. It challenged students to utilize the skills gained in their aviation classes to effectively tackle real-world emergency scenarios.” The overall state champion for the event was Wilson High School. Individual category winners were Putnam City Aviation, Kingston High school and Wilson High School. The overall teamwork and spirit award was given to P91 Homeschool Co-op. “It was incredible to watch these young pilots and aspiring first responders in action.” said Dr. Jamey Jacob, OAIRE executive director. “Their skill, teamwork, and excitement during each successful rescue were inspiring, and even how they handled themselves as they worked through challenges and roadblocks (should I say ‘air’ blocks?). I can’t wait to see the competition grow even bigger and better next year.” Oklahoma is a national leader in preparing students for the aerospace workforce, with 149 schools offering aviation coursework. These schools have creatively partnered with local airports, aerospace industries, and higher education institutions to raise student awareness of aerospace careers and essential skills needed to succeed. Grayson Ardies, ODAA executive director, emphasized the importance of collaboration among Oklahoma’s high school aerospace education programs and community partners and programs like OAIRE. “The most beneficial relationship we can cultivate is one that bridges our established aerospace industry and the aspiring professionals of tomorrow,” said Ardies. “This vital connection fosters a remarkable win-win scenario: industry partners acquire a pool of well-trained, skilled workers, educational institutions draw in enthusiastic and passionate students, and those students are equipped with the chance to embark on rewarding careers with higher salaries.” Oklahoma was named the nationwide leader in high schools providing aerospace curriculum for the fourth consecutive year in June 2025. The state’s consistent leadership in aerospace education is a direct reflection of its commitment to supporting Oklahoma’s second-largest and fastest-growing industry: aerospace and defense. By strategically expanding and promoting aerospace programs, Oklahoma is working to cement its national standing and secure a long-term, skilled workforce for the aerospace sector. For more information about the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and its education initiatives, please visit oklahoma.gov/aerospace/aero-education.

National News

NBAA’s Bolen and Former AOPA President Honored for Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

At the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), a nonprofit group focused on helping victims escape human trafficking honored NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and former president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Mark Baker with its highest award. Flights to Freedom flies human trafficking survivors to their loved ones or transports them to support groups. Established in 2024, the organization works with federal and state law enforcement agencies, district attorneys and child protective services, and partners with general aviation to take advantage of “the unmatched speed and flexibility” it makes possible for rescue operations. CEO Ken Lux and industry pioneer Clay Lacy gave Bolen and Baker the Flights to Freedom Clay Lacy Friendship Medal, making them the first recipients of the award for their work in support of the nonprofit’s mission. In presenting the award, Lux recognized Bolen for “outstanding support in raising awareness for the Flights to Freedom mission. His leadership has been instrumental in highlighting the urgent need to rescue children from human trafficking, and in showcasing the vital role the aviation community can play in helping Flights to Freedom achieve these critical goals.” “I am touched to receive this award from Flights to Freedom and Clay Lacy, a legend in our industry,” Bolen said. “NBAA and our members will continue to use our unique position and resources to help Flights to Freedom fight to protect children and other victims of human trafficking.” NBAA and its members have participated and supported the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Blue Campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking. The Blue Campaign and DHS’ related Blue Lightning Initiative (BLI) train the private sector to spot the signs of human trafficking and know how to report the crime. More than 200,000 personnel in the aviation industry have been trained through the BLI. Actionable tips from business aviation are consistently reported to law enforcement. Flights to Freedom (myflightstofreedom.org) says “every minute counts” to rescue child and human trafficking victims, and general aviation aircraft “allow us to bypass logistical delays, access remote airports, and launch urgent rescue missions with minimal notice. Survivors can begin their journey to safety within hours, not days.” Human trafficking occurs in all 50 states and has become one of the fastest growing criminal activities in the world. It is estimated to be a $150 billion-a-year global industry.
Amy Squitieri Takes the Helm as Mead & Hunt CEO

Mead & Hunt announced that Amy Squitieri will become Chief Executive Officer effective November 1, 2025. Currently serving as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer, Amy brings more than three decades of leadership experience to the role and has been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction, employee-focused culture, and innovation initiatives. Amy Squitieri The leadership transition reflects years of intentional succession planning at the 125-year-old engineering, architectural, and planning firm. Outgoing CEO Andy Platz will remain with the company as Board Chair, supporting continuity as Mead & Hunt continues its commitment to excellence. “Having worked alongside Amy for three decades, I’ve witnessed how her vision, integrity, and drive have elevated our firm,” said Platz. “She is exceptionally qualified for this role, and I’m confident that under her leadership, Mead & Hunt will reach new heights while staying true to our people-first culture and values.” Amy has served on Mead & Hunt’s Board since 2007 and has led numerous growth and transformation initiatives that position the firm for continued success. She spearheaded the company’s Foresight + Innovation + Technology (FIT) program to help the firm navigate technology and change in the AEC industry and launched the Future Readiness program to streamline operations and empower teams to thrive in a dynamic business environment. Both programs reflect her commitment to delivering value to clients, communities, and employees through collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. As CEO, Amy’s priorities will focus on strengthening career development across the organization, executing the firm’s strategic plan, and accelerating adoption of digital tools and artificial intelligence. She views her role as a steward in service to the firm and its people, a perspective that shapes her approach to leadership. She is committed to preparing and mentoring the next generation of leaders, knowing that her greatest responsibility is to pass on a healthy, thriving company to the next generation of employee owners who will continue the firm’s legacy. “It is such an honor to lead this company,” Amy said. “I think about all the talented people we have and what they’re working to accomplish. We have an impressive 125-year legacy dedicated to our values of taking care of people, doing the right thing, and doing what makes sense. I appreciate that I get to carry that torch forward and entrust a strong, growing firm to the next generation.” Beyond Mead & Hunt, Amy contributes to shaping the future of the AEC profession through her service on the Board of Engineering Change Lab-USA (ECL-USA), a nonprofit preparing the engineering community for 21st-century challenges. She also actively contributes to the ACEC Research Institute, a leading source of knowledge and business strategies advancing the built environment.

International News

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump

Aleksej Zelenkov, a duty manager at KlasJet, has broken three Lithuanian skydiving records in a single jump from 7,620 meters during a specialized high-altitude event in Herning, Denmark this August. The achievement included setting new Lithuanian records for the highest skydive, longest canopy flight duration at approximately 13 minutes, and the highest altitude display of the Lithuanian flag. “The conditions of the jump were genuinely extreme – the temperature was -37 degrees Celsius, and I needed an oxygen source. Unlike my previous high-altitude jump with freefall, this time I deployed the parachute immediately after exit, which meant feeling the full force of that cold instantly. My hands and feet went numb almost immediately,” Zelenkov remembers. Zelenkov’s connection to aviation runs deep – his father worked in aircraft spare parts trading, and his mother flew paragliders. This lifelong passion led him to his current role at KlasJet, where he coordinates flight operations for the company’s fleet of business jets. The company, which provides charter services globally, has actively supported Zelenkov’s skydiving ambitions. “The support from KlasJet has been incredible,” Zelenkov notes. “During the record jump, I deployed two flags – the Lithuanian flag and the KlasJet flag. Having that level of trust and backing from my employer and colleagues – some of whom have even come to the aerodrome to try tandem jumps themselves – is what drives me forward.” Zelenkov executed the jump during a specialized high-altitude event in Denmark, one of the few opportunities in Europe for civilian skydivers to reach such heights. After completing a freefall jump from 7,500 meters the previous year, he decided to attempt something more challenging – an immediate canopy deployment from an even higher altitude. Zelenkov’s journey to becoming a licensed skydiver began just four years ago. Since earning his sporting license after 25 jumps, Zelenkov practices nearly every weekend, viewing each jump as a training opportunity for the next challenge. He also sees himself as a skydiving instructor in the nearest future. To start training others, he needs to have 500 jumps under his belt, and at the moment he is just a few dozen jumps short of this threshold. The connection between his professional life at KlasJet and his skydiving pursuits has allowed his passion for aviation to extend far beyond the office. With this support system in place, Zelenkov has set his sights even higher, and aims to break the 10 kilometer barrier at some point in the future, a feat achieved only by a handful of skydivers. “It’s an absolute pleasure and privilege to be surrounded by people who understand the draw aviation has. At KlasJet, we’re all passionate about flight in different ways. Some of my colleagues are now considering taking up skydiving themselves – who knows, maybe one day we’ll even have our own skydiving team.”
United, Alaska Airlines & World Central Kitchen Partner with Airlink for Alaska Flooding

Recent floods spurred by remnants of Typhoon Halong over Western Alaska have devastated several remote, coastal Native communities. Airlink, a global humanitarian organization that leverages the capacity of the aviation industry for rapid disaster response, today announced that it is partnering with United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and World Central Kitchen to deliver critical aid to the area. The floods displaced more than 1,400 people from remote communities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region, especially the hardest-hit Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. Hundreds more are cut off from basic necessities including food, clean water, and electricity, due to extensive damage to the Kipnuk airport, area roads, and the power infrastructure. United Airlines, a Global Signature Lead Partner to Airlink, as well as Alaska Airlines, is delivering solar equipment and sending first responders to Anchorage for initial positioning with World Central Kitchen. Alaska Airlines is also donating additional cargo travel to Airlink for local coordination and transport of the aid to Bethel, Alaska. “The biggest obstacle to effective disaster responses are high transportation costs and difficulty accessing impacted communities. Airlink works with its network of nonprofit humanitarian partners and aviation and other transport companies to get rapid relief to communities in crisis, no matter how hard to reach, with the goal of bringing hope and saving lives”, said Paloma Adams-Allen, President & CEO of Airlink. “We thank World Central Kitchen for trusting Airlink with delivering this critical shipment to the right place at the right time, and United and Alaska for their flexibility and generosity in making that happen.” Alaska Airlines pledged 1.6M Atmos Rewards points to Airlink’s Alaska the response, expanding the organization’s capacity to send more disaster relief and responders flexibly and affordably. “In the face of unimaginable hardship across Western Alaska, we are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with Airlink and World Central Kitchen to ensure these much-needed supplies reach those most in need,” said Marilyn Romano, regional vice president to Alaska Airlines. “This is more than logistics—it’s a lifeline. Together, we’re delivering emergency supplies and comfort to so many in need.” Additional storm fronts are anticipated in the coming days, threatening to impede the ongoing search and rescue efforts, evacuations, and distribution of aid. In addition to World Central Kitchen’s food assistance, the shipment of solar lights will give at least 600 displaced people access to emergency power resources. “Providing solar light and charging capabilities alongside our food deliveries helps families cook, work, and care for each other—especially as winter days shorten and power remains unreliable or nonexistent. We’re grateful to Airlink, United, and Alaska Airlines for enabling this rapid deployment,” said World Central Kitchen’s Response Director, John Torpey. Residents of these remote villages are especially concerned about the onset of winter and are anticipating needing continued support in the coming months to replenish the stockpile of food and resources that have been depleted, washed away, or spoiled during the storms. “United’s role in delivering critical relief to the region is one of the ways in which we live out how Good Leads the Way,” said Helon Hammond, Vice President of Global Learning, People, and Community Impact at United Airlines. “In working with Airlink and World Central Kitchen to transport these essential supplies, we hope to instill a sense of hope in communities who’ve been impacted by the unthinkable.”

Unmanned Systems

Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education READ MORE
ZenaTech Selects Baton Rouge as Base for Advanced AI-Driven Drone Solutions for US Defense and Homeland Security

ZenaTech, Inc. has announced that it has selected Baton Rouge, Louisiana as the base for Zena AI, Inc., the company’s specialized AI division that will develop next-generation drone technologies for US defense and homeland security applications. The company has signed a lease for a secure office space in the Downtown Baton Rouge area and will READ MORE

Aviation Education

Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education READ MORE
AOPA Releases New Flight Instructor Refresher Course Incorporating MOSAIC Changes

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) will release an updated electronic Flight Instructor Refresher Course (eFIRC) on November 1. The online course, offered by AOPA’s Air Safety Institute (ASI), is one way to keep any flight instructor certificate current. “AOPA is uniquely positioned to offer the most robust, up-to-date course for flight instructors,” said READ MORE

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Stroud Launch Runway Expansion Project

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated airport improvements with a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2025. The airport will widen and extend the runway to meet federal safety standards. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated the widening and extension of their […]

NBAA’s Bolen and Former AOPA President Honored for Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

At the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), a nonprofit group focused on helping victims escape human trafficking honored NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and former president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Mark Baker with its highest award. Flights to Freedom flies human trafficking survivors to their […]

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Aleksej Zelenkov, a duty manager at KlasJet, has broken three Lithuanian skydiving records in a single jump from 7,620 meters during a specialized high-altitude event in Herning, Denmark this August. The achievement included setting new Lithuanian records for the highest skydive, longest canopy flight duration at approximately 13 minutes, and the highest altitude display of […]

Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education […]

United, Alaska Airlines & World Central Kitchen Partner with Airlink for Alaska Flooding

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Recent floods spurred by remnants of Typhoon Halong over Western Alaska have devastated several remote, coastal Native communities. Airlink, a global humanitarian organization that leverages the capacity of the aviation industry for rapid disaster response, today announced that it is partnering with United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and World Central Kitchen to deliver critical aid to […]

Royal Air Maroc Cargo Celebrates 35 Years of Operations at Brussels Airport

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Royal Air Maroc Cargo proudly marks 35 years of uninterrupted service at Brussels Airport, underscoring a long-standing partnership that serves as a pillar of the airline’s European operations and a vital connection between Morocco, Africa, and Europe. Since the inaugural cargo flight to Brussels in 1990, the carrier has elevated Brussels to one of its […]

ZenaTech Selects Baton Rouge as Base for Advanced AI-Driven Drone Solutions for US Defense and Homeland Security

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

ZenaTech, Inc. has announced that it has selected Baton Rouge, Louisiana as the base for Zena AI, Inc., the company’s specialized AI division that will develop next-generation drone technologies for US defense and homeland security applications. The company has signed a lease for a secure office space in the Downtown Baton Rouge area and will […]

Duncan Airport Rehabilitates Apron Pavement, Constructs Taxilane to Increase Safety and Functionality

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

By Melissa Fuller Halliburton Field Airport in Duncan has made significant improvements over the past two years. These enhancements, including the rehabilitation of the main apron pavement and the construction of a new hangar taxilane, increase safety and elevate the overall functionality of the airport, making it a more appealing destination for aviation businesses. The new […]

Amy Squitieri Takes the Helm as Mead & Hunt CEO

October 26, 2025October 26, 2025 Kim Stevens

Mead & Hunt announced that Amy Squitieri will become Chief Executive Officer effective November 1, 2025. Currently serving as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer, Amy brings more than three decades of leadership experience to the role and has been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction, employee-focused culture, and innovation initiatives. The leadership transition reflects […]

North Dakota Airports Surpass 100,000 Passengers in September for First Time

October 26, 2025October 26, 2025 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its monthly airline passenger report for the state’s eight commercial service airports. In September 2025, North Dakota airports recorded 103,559 passenger boardings, setting a new all-time high for the month of September. This surpasses the previous record of 98,371 set in 2024—a 5% year-over-year increase, representing nearly […]

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump

Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne, Florida Facility

Skyways Powers Historic Cargo Deliveries to Offshore Windfarm

Quilts by Local Artist Stitch Together Pieces of Miami at MIA