State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia
Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most […]
La Compagnie to Launch Direct All-Business Class Service between New York and Dusseldorf
La Compagnie, the 100% Smart Business Class airline, has announced plans to launch nonstop service between New York’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) in Germany, beginning in Spring 2027. Operating up to five times weekly, the route will connect New York with Düsseldorf and the Rhine-Ruhr region, one of Europe’s most […]
Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet
Tecnam has announced that Epic Flight Academy has expanded its modern fleet with the acquisition of two Tecnam P2006Ttwin-engine aircraft. Founded in 1999 and operating out of multiple locations, Epic Flight Academy is currently recognized as the largest Part 141 flight school in the United States, supporting a robust roster of approximately 600 active flight […]
Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace
Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for […]

State News

Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s reputation as a national leader in aerospace maintenance and repair. The authorization allows Mint Turbines to perform Pratt & Whitney Canada-approved overhaul services for PT6A and PT6T series engines, which power business aircraft, agricultural aircraft, utility helicopters, air ambulances and other aircraft. Mint Turbines must meet the manufacturer’s rigorous standards for quality systems, technical capabilities and regulatory compliance. For operators, the designation provides access to OEM-authorized overhaul services combined with Mint Turbines’ responsive decision-making, 24/7 customer support and field service expertise. “This authorization represents years of investment in our people, our quality systems and our commitment to doing things the right way,” said Rob Ruck, chief operating officer of M International, the parent company of Mint Turbines. “We believe customers shouldn’t have to choose between responsive service and OEM-certified quality. Becoming a Pratt & Whitney Canada DOF reflects the trust we’ve earned through decades of supporting operators and reinforces the standard our team brings to every engine that comes through our facility.” As one of the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada supports operators through a global network of company-owned and designated service facilities. DOFs are selected for their demonstrated ability to deliver OEM-approved maintenance while meeting the company’s standards for quality, technical expertise and customer service. For Oklahoma, the designation represents more than a milestone for one company. Aerospace is one of the state’s largest economic drivers, and Oklahoma has earned national recognition for its concentration of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul expertise. Mint Turbines’ latest authorization further showcases the technical capabilities found in Oklahoma companies and reinforces the state’s growing role in supporting commercial, government and defense aviation around the world. This designation joins Mint Turbines’ growing portfolio of OEM authorizations, including General Electric, Ozark Aeroworks and Rolls-Royce through sister company Airborne Engines in Canada. Together, these relationships position the company among a select group of independent MRO providers trusted by multiple leading engine manufacturers. For more than 45 years, Mint Turbines has grown its Stroud operation into a globally recognized turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul provider serving commercial, government and defense operators.
“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most popular aircraft, the P-51 Mustang. The day will simulate a typical training sequence for new WWII pilots. The winning bidder will begin the day with the first of three ground school training sessions. After training, the Stearman will depart for the first ride of the day. The second ground school will cover the operations of the LT-6, with an aerobatic flight to follow. After a third ground school, the “Warbird Pilot for a Day” will climb into the P-51 for an unmatched experience in the historic aircraft type that protected Allied bombers over Germany in WWII. All three aircraft are part of Airbase Georgia’s fleet of restored aircraft that offer rides at airshows and special events. This unique day will close with the presentation of a leather pilot’s jacket, certificate and photos to mark the occasion. “This opportunity has never been offered before, and it is a perfect showcase for the capabilities of Airbase Georgia as we kick off a much-needed capital campaign to grow our hangar and classroom spaces,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards. “Our guests at Moonlight Swing will enjoy an unprecedented, immersive evening of 1940s music and atmosphere, highlighted by our aviation silent auction. We are especially appreciative of the support from our title sponsor, Delta Air Lines.”

National News

Intermountain Health Flight & Ambulance Services Opens New Base at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital

Intermountain Health caregivers can now respond more quickly when patients need urgent care thanks to the opening of a new Intermountain Flight & Ambulance Services base at Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital. The new base brings crews, equipment, maintenance and support spaces together just steps from the hospital’s helipad and Emergency Department. With quicker access to equipment and aircraft, crews expect to reduce lift times for medical helicopters and reach patients roughly five to 10 minutes sooner. “Even a few minutes can change an outcome,” said Rex Jacobsen, operations manager for Intermountain Health Flight & Ambulance Services in southern Utah. “This setup helps us get to patients and get them the care they need faster.” For years, flight and ambulance teams worked from several locations across the Intermountain St. George Hospital campus, with supplies spread out and crews coordinating across different spaces. The new base centralizes those operations, giving pilots, mechanics and clinical teams easier access to the supplies, aircraft and support they need. “This new space is designed to remove barriers and help our teams move faster when patients need us the most,” Jacobsen said. The base supports 911 responses and interfacility transfers originating within approximately 150 miles of St. George. Clinical teams based at the facility care for adult, pediatric, neonatal and high-risk obstetric patients. The new space includes a shared team area, day room, and kitchen, giving caregivers a place to rest and recover between calls. Centralized supplies and nearby maintenance support also help crews remain prepared for the next transport. Located near the Emergency Department, the base allows transport crews to move more quickly between a patient’s bedside and an aircraft or ambulance. The proximity also supports communication and continuity of care among flight, ambulance, and other hospital teams.
97% of America’s Red-Eye Flights Take Off in the West, and Overnight Flying Is at Record High, 26 Years of Federal Data Show

An analysis of every US domestic flight since 2000 found red-eyes concentrated in the Pacific and Mountain time zones, growing, and more reliable than daytime flights. About one in sixty US domestic flights is a red-eye, and 97 percent of them take off in the western United States, according to a new Champion Traveler analysis of 26 years of Bureau of Transportation Statistics flight records. The study counted every scheduled domestic flight reported to the federal government from 2000 through 2025 and classified as a red-eye any flight scheduled to depart between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. and land between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. local time. In 2025, 115,580 of 6.9 million flights met that definition. Key findings: Red-eyes are a western phenomenon. 97 percent of 2025’s overnight flights departed from the Pacific and Mountain states plus Alaska and Hawaii, a share that has never fallen below 95 percent since 2000. The red-eye is at a record high. Overnight flights grew 54 percent, from 75,158 in 2000 to 115,580 in 2025, after a low in 2009 and a collapse in 2020. Anchorage is the red-eye capital by share: 26 percent of its departures are overnight flights. Los Angeles leads by count with 19,064. Las Vegas flew the most red-eyes in America in 2000, lost more than half by 2010, and has since recovered. The middle-of-the-night departure is disappearing. Flights leaving after midnight were 31 percent of red-eyes in 2000 and 14 percent in 2025. The legacy airlines lost the overnight market. American, Delta and United flew 97 percent of red-eyes in 2000 and 64 percent in 2025. Alaska Airlines is now the most red-eye-heavy carrier, and Southwest, which flew none for 25 years, took 5.6 percent of the market in its first year. Red-eyes are more reliable. In 2025, 82.4 percent arrived within 15 minutes of schedule, against 77.6 percent of other flights, and they were cancelled less often. The geography has a simple cause. An overnight flight from the West Coast crosses three time zones and lands on the East Coast at breakfast; the same trip westbound would land in the middle of the night, so airlines schedule almost no overnight flights in that direction. Among the 300 busiest red-eye routes in the study, 82 percent land in the Central or Eastern time zones. The full study, with a sortable table of every US airport’s red-eye departures in 2000, 2010, 2019 and 2025, airline shares back to 2000, departure hours, seasonality and reliability, is at https://championtraveler.com/news/red-eye-flights-share-of-us-flights/.

International News

Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s reputation as a national leader in aerospace maintenance and repair. The authorization allows Mint Turbines to perform Pratt & Whitney Canada-approved overhaul services for PT6A and PT6T series engines, which power business aircraft, agricultural aircraft, utility helicopters, air ambulances and other aircraft. Mint Turbines must meet the manufacturer’s rigorous standards for quality systems, technical capabilities and regulatory compliance. For operators, the designation provides access to OEM-authorized overhaul services combined with Mint Turbines’ responsive decision-making, 24/7 customer support and field service expertise. “This authorization represents years of investment in our people, our quality systems and our commitment to doing things the right way,” said Rob Ruck, chief operating officer of M International, the parent company of Mint Turbines. “We believe customers shouldn’t have to choose between responsive service and OEM-certified quality. Becoming a Pratt & Whitney Canada DOF reflects the trust we’ve earned through decades of supporting operators and reinforces the standard our team brings to every engine that comes through our facility.” As one of the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada supports operators through a global network of company-owned and designated service facilities. DOFs are selected for their demonstrated ability to deliver OEM-approved maintenance while meeting the company’s standards for quality, technical expertise and customer service. For Oklahoma, the designation represents more than a milestone for one company. Aerospace is one of the state’s largest economic drivers, and Oklahoma has earned national recognition for its concentration of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul expertise. Mint Turbines’ latest authorization further showcases the technical capabilities found in Oklahoma companies and reinforces the state’s growing role in supporting commercial, government and defense aviation around the world. This designation joins Mint Turbines’ growing portfolio of OEM authorizations, including General Electric, Ozark Aeroworks and Rolls-Royce through sister company Airborne Engines in Canada. Together, these relationships position the company among a select group of independent MRO providers trusted by multiple leading engine manufacturers. For more than 45 years, Mint Turbines has grown its Stroud operation into a globally recognized turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul provider serving commercial, government and defense operators.
Eternity Technologies Completes Major GSE Charging Infrastructure Project Across 41 Airports in Spain

Eternity Technologies has successfully completed the acceptance and certification of a major charging infrastructure project for AENA, supporting the electrification of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations across 41 airports in Spain. The project involved the supply, installation, commissioning and subsequent certification of an extensive charging infrastructure designed to support the operational requirements of ground handling equipment across the AENA airport network. Delivered across multiple airport locations and ground handling operations, the project encompasses: 41 airports 58 ground handling operators 2,080 GSE vehicles managed 1,106 DC chargers 451 dual charging stations 66 single charging stations 136 DC charger replacements The scale of the deployment demonstrates Eternity Technologies’ capability to deliver complex, multi-site charging infrastructure across demanding airport environments. Alongside the physical charging infrastructure, the project incorporates a web-based charging control and reporting platform, providing greater visibility and management of charging operations. The platform enables GSE identification and charging control, energy consumption monitoring, management of operators and users, charging session reporting and integration of data with SAP ERP. As of August 2026, the platform has managed more than 6 GWh of energy across the charging network. Installation and commissioning took place between September 2023 and March 2024, requiring extensive coordination across multiple airports, customers and operational teams. Final acceptance and certification was completed in July 2026, marking the conclusion of a project spanning almost three years from its initial stages through to final approval. Mark Stevenson, CEO of Eternity Technologies, said: “The successful completion of this project demonstrates the scale and complexity of the solutions Eternity Technologies is capable of delivering. “Supporting charging infrastructure across 41 airports and more than 2,000 GSE vehicles required significant coordination, technical expertise and collaboration across our teams. “As airports and ground handling operators continue their transition towards electrified fleets, reliable charging infrastructure and effective energy management will become increasingly important. We are proud to have supported AENA with a solution designed around the demands of real-world GSE operations.” The completion of the AENA project comes ahead of Eternity Technologies’ participation at GSE Expo Europe 2026, taking place from 15–17 September at FIL, Lisbon, Portugal. The exhibition brings together GSE manufacturers, suppliers, airports, airlines and ground handling professionals from around the world. Eternity Technologies will showcase its energy and charging solutions for Ground Support Equipment and discuss how its technologies can support the transition towards more efficient and electrified ground operations. The event will take place between 15–17 September 2026. It is being held at FIL – Feira Internacional de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal. Eternity Technologies can be found located at Stand F00. Visitors attending the exhibition are invited to meet the Eternity Technologies team to discuss GSE battery, charging and energy solutions. For more information about the event, visit GSE Expo Europe 2026.

Unmanned Systems

Commercial Drone Alliance Welcomes Christopher Todd, Founder and President of Airborne Response to Its Board of Directors

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has announced that Christopher Todd, Founder and President of Airborne Response Corp has joined its Board of Directors. The CDA’s Board acts on behalf of the entire membership, helping to shape the organization’s strategic direction. Christopher Todd Todd has over 30 years of business technology experience advising Fortune 500 companies, READ MORE
Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace

Europe is advancing the integration of large drones into its airspace, a necessary step towards uncrewed aviation at scale. Launched at the EUROCONTROL headquarters in Brussels on the 1st of September, the SESAR IRINA2 project brings together leading European public and private aviation organizations with a common goal to set the standard and protocols for READ MORE

Aviation Education

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most READ MORE
Spartan Flight Academy Offers Students New Financing Path Through Sallie Mae

Spartan Flight Academy (SFA), a full-service FBO and Part 141 flight school in Grand Prairie, Texas, announced that prospective and current students now have access to private student loan financing through Sallie Mae to help fund their pilot training. Sallie Mae’s aviation and professional pilot training financing is designed to help students cover the costs READ MORE

Stroud-Based Mint Turbines Earns Pratt & Whitney Canada Authorization, Strengthening Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Mint Turbines, a turbine engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company based in Stroud, has been named a Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF), becoming part of the aircraft engine manufacturer’s global network of authorized service providers. The designation expands Mint Turbines’ portfolio of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorizations while further strengthening Oklahoma’s […]

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Moonlight Swing attendees Oct. 17 will have a unique opportunity to bid on a special silent auction package, “Warbird Pilot for a Day,” which involves flying in three Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia aircraft. The aircraft will include a Boeing N2S Stearman biplane trainer, an LT-6 Mosquito trainer with aerobatics, and the Airbase’s most […]

Intermountain Health Flight & Ambulance Services Opens New Base at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Intermountain Health caregivers can now respond more quickly when patients need urgent care thanks to the opening of a new Intermountain Flight & Ambulance Services base at Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital. The new base brings crews, equipment, maintenance and support spaces together just steps from the hospital’s helipad and Emergency Department. With quicker […]

Spartan Flight Academy Offers Students New Financing Path Through Sallie Mae

September 15, 2026September 15, 2026 Kim Stevens

Spartan Flight Academy (SFA), a full-service FBO and Part 141 flight school in Grand Prairie, Texas, announced that prospective and current students now have access to private student loan financing through Sallie Mae to help fund their pilot training. Sallie Mae’s aviation and professional pilot training financing is designed to help students cover the costs […]

Eternity Technologies Completes Major GSE Charging Infrastructure Project Across 41 Airports in Spain

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Eternity Technologies has successfully completed the acceptance and certification of a major charging infrastructure project for AENA, supporting the electrification of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations across 41 airports in Spain. The project involved the supply, installation, commissioning and subsequent certification of an extensive charging infrastructure designed to support the operational requirements of ground handling […]

Cape Air Selects Cessna Grand Caravan EX to Support Montana Network

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Cessna Grand Caravan EX single-engine turboprop has been selected by Cape Air for a fleet order of eight aircraft to support the airline’s regional passenger operations, further strengthening its ability to connect the communities it serves. Cape Air plans to introduce the Cessna Grand Caravan EX turboprops into its Montana network beginning in 2027, […]

Contour Airlines Announces New Seasonal Nonstop Service from Cape Girardeau to Orlando/Sanford, FL

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Contour Airlines has announced the launch of new seasonal nonstop service between Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Beginning December 16, the new service will connect travelers throughout Southeast Missouri and the surrounding region directly to Central Florida, offering convenient access to Orlando and the area’s many popular attractions. Flights […]

Nearly 35,000 Girls, 200 Events: International Girls in Aviation Day Returns September 19

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Women in Aviation International (WAI) is counting down to its 12th Annual International Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) on September 19, 2026. A total of 200 events are planned at airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars throughout the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia, with more than 34,500 attendees expected to take part. Of these events, […]

Airports Council Names Christopher J. Rocheleau President and CEO

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA has announced that Christopher J. “Chris” Rocheleau has been selected as its next President and CEO. Rocheleau will join ACI-NA on October 5, succeeding Kevin M. Burke, who will step down on October 4 after nearly 13 years leading the association. Burke will serve as CEO Emeritus through […]

97% of America’s Red-Eye Flights Take Off in the West, and Overnight Flying Is at Record High, 26 Years of Federal Data Show

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

An analysis of every US domestic flight since 2000 found red-eyes concentrated in the Pacific and Mountain time zones, growing, and more reliable than daytime flights. About one in sixty US domestic flights is a red-eye, and 97 percent of them take off in the western United States, according to a new Champion Traveler analysis […]

“Warbird Pilot for a Day” Leads Silent Auction for Moonlight Swing at CAF Airbase Georgia

La Compagnie to Launch Direct All-Business Class Service between New York and Dusseldorf

Epic Flight Academy Adds Tecnam Aircraft to Fleet

Dronamics to Shape the Integration of Large Drones into European Airspace