State Aviation Journal - Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration
Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]
Carbon Cub UL Flies from Yakima, Washington to Australia in Epic Around-the-World Adventure
Photo – David Green’s Carbon Cub UL “Dusty,” N456DG, arrives at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during its nearly 17,000 NM journey from the United States to Australia. Photo Credit: Toru Yajima CubCrafters recently announced the successful completion of an extraordinary international journey by Australian pilot and aircraft owner David Green, […]
Cirrus Expands Grand Forks Manufacturing Facility to Support Growing Demand
Photo – Dignitaries at the Cirrus Grand Forks expansion ribbon cutting. On Friday, Cirrus celebrated the opening of its expanded manufacturing facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued investment in manufacturing excellence, safety and quality as well as long-term growth. The multi-million-dollar expansion provides the additional production capacity […]
Plans Unveiled to Transform Washington Dulles International Airport
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy alongside President Donald J. Trump in the Oval Office unveiled last week renderings for a landmark transformation of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Backed by a $20+ billion capital investment program, a historic collaboration between USDOT, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), and United Airlines will oversee the transformation […]

State News

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United States. Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Nick M. Donohue The demonstration showcased Electra’s EL2 Ultra Short technology, which has the ability to take off and land in as short as 150 feet, opening new locations for air service to underserved urban environments and making regional travel faster, more affordable, and more accessible. The event underscored the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing innovation, strengthening the regional aerospace industry, and positioning Virginia as a hub for emerging aviation technologies. The demonstration is part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA)’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) to accelerate the safe deployment of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles in the National Airspace System. Advanced Air Mobility represents the next generation of technology in air transportation. AAM encompasses a new generation of aviation, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that are quieter, cost effective, and lower‑emission than traditional aircraft. This emerging technology creates near-endless opportunities for connecting communities more easily, improving access to essential services, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and supporting economic growth through faster, more flexible transportation options. Virginia’s continues to lead the way in AAM advancement and the Commonwealth’s participation in the eIPP initiative marks one of the nation’s first operational demonstrations of this innovative technology. The inaugural flights highlight the vast potential of the next generation of aviation, showcasing just a few of its many real‑world applications, from cargo transport and medical deliveries to public safety operations, workforce mobility, and future passenger travel. Through these early demonstrations, Virginia is helping to establish the national framework for safely and seamlessly integrating AAM aircraft into the existing aviation system and positioning the Commonwealth as a national leader in the deployment and real‑world utilization of this transformative technology. Electra EL2 “Advanced Air Mobility represents one of the most significant innovations in aviation in decades,” said Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. “Virginia is committed to supporting these emerging technologies because they will expand access, strengthen communities, and create new opportunities for citizens across the Commonwealth. We are proud to help lead the nation in demonstrating how AAM can be safely integrated into our existing aviation system.” Earlier this summer, Beta Technologies successfully conducted the first test flight as part of the eIPP initiative. The demonstration highlighted a fully electric aircraft’s ability to conduct controlled operations within an active airspace environment and provided valuable data on performance, communications, and air traffic integration. The completion of these AAM flights marks a significant milestone for Virginia and demonstrates the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing safe, sustainable, and forward-looking aviation technologies that will shape the future of transportation in Virginia.
2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory Available Featuring Updated Information

The new 2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory is now available. The directory offers aerial photographs and detailed descriptions of all 120 Missouri public-use airports. It includes information specific to the landing facility as well as local area attractions and services. The Missouri Airport Directory helps those in the aviation community plan flights by providing information about services and how to communicate with a particular airport across the state. Data is provided for informational purposes only and should not be used for navigational purposes. The directory can be accessed online by visiting MoDOT Aviation Publications. To request a printed copy, contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636), via email at aviation@modot.mo.gov or by writing to MoDOT’s Aviation Section, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Please include the number of 2026-2027 directories you are requesting, a contact person and a mailing address. Each year, over 14 million passengers board an aircraft in Missouri. These airports provide Missouri residents and businesses with a reliable transportation option for their travel needs and help facilitate the shipping and receiving of goods across the world.

National News

GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve as exemplary models of character and excellence for the broader GA community. Community involvement in the awards program has decreased recently, resulting in fewer nominations and applications. GAA encourages flight schools, aviation organizations, universities, FSDOs, and other entities to nominate fellow aviators or submit applications. In nearly every aviation community, there are aviators and mechanics who deserve recognition for their efforts to improve and secure general aviation. The selection process begins following the November 30th deadline at the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO), where Honorees are chosen at the district level. These winners then advance to the national level, where a panel of judges, comprising of industry professionals and past Honorees, selects this year’s National Honorees. In addition to national recognition, winners present a live broadcast in which they share their knowledge and expertise, are awarded a trip to AirVenture, a commemorative plaque, and numerous gifts from industry sponsors. GAA is a nonprofit corporation run exclusively by volunteers and depends on financial support from sponsors and donations to provide these honors. Submissions and additional information about the process are available at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate.
KORE Aviation Expands Pilot Gear Access Through Partnership with Solo Aviation

KORE Aviation has announced a new partnership with Solo Aviation, a Michigan-based aviation company focused on flight training, serving pilots and aircraft owners at two locations. Through this collaboration, Solo Aviation will offer KORE Aviation products to its aviation community, expanding access to reliable pilot communication gear for students, instructors, aircraft owners, and general aviation pilots. Solo Aviation provides comprehensive flight training, aircraft management, maintenance, and avionics services. As a Cirrus Training Center, Solo Aviation offers specialized training for Cirrus aircraft owners and pilots, alongside its broader flight training programs. Its flight training operation serves students at two locations, Ann Arbor and Jackson, Michigan, with programs designed to support pilots from their first lessons through advanced training and professional aviation goals. With a strong focus on safety and quality instruction, Solo Aviation has built an environment where pilots can continue learning and developing their skills. “Providing our pilots and students with access to dependable equipment is an important part of the experience we want to create at Solo Aviation,” said Clint White, Owner of Solo Aviation. “KORE Aviation offers practical, reliable headset options that fit the needs of both students and general aviation pilots. We are excited to make their products available to our aviation community.” Through the partnership, KORE Aviation products will become more accessible to pilots through Solo Aviation, giving students and experienced aviators another convenient way to find dependable communication equipment for training and everyday flying. “Solo Aviation understands that supporting pilots goes beyond flight instruction,” said Min Kim, President of KORE Aviation. “They have built an aviation community that serves students, instructors, aircraft owners, and pilots at different stages of their journey. We are excited to welcome Solo Aviation as a partner and work together to make reliable pilot gear more accessible.” The partnership builds on KORE Aviation’s continued growth within the flight training and general aviation communities. KORE Aviation currently partners with more than 30 flight schools nationwide and continues to expand its network through relationships with flight schools, aviation organizations, distributors, and partners. By working with Solo Aviation, KORE Aviation is extending that network through a company that supports multiple areas of general aviation. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to making dependable aviation equipment more accessible while supporting pilots as they train, build experience, and continue flying.

International News

GAMA Releases Second Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased overall shipments and an increase in the value of aircraft billings. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston airplanes decrease by 3.1% with 786 units, turboprops increase 7.8% with 289 units, and business jets increase 8.2% with 383 units. The billings for airplanes through the second quarter of 2026 was $14.3 billion, an increase of 15.5%. Helicopter shipments through the second quarter of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, saw piston helicopters increase by 5.8% with 110 units, and turbine helicopters increase by 3.3% with 309 units. The billings for civil-commercial helicopters was $2.2 billion. Six Months Aircraft Shipment & Billing Aircraft Type20252026% ChangePiston Airplanes811786-3.1%Turboprops268289+7.8%Business Jets354383+8.2%Total Airplanes1,4331,458+1.7%Total Airplane Billings$12.4B$14.3B+15.5%Piston Helicopters104110+5.8%Turbine Helicopters299309+3.3%Total Helicopters403419+4.0%Total Helicopter Billings$2.0B$2.2B+7.2% GAMA’s complete 2026 second quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
EAA Introduces 2026 Sport Aviation Halls of Fame Class

The Experimental Aircraft Association Sport Aviation Halls of Fame continue to grow as six new inductees will be honored as part of the 2026 class. The six inductees each represent a different area of aviation – homebuilders, ultralights, the International Aerobatic Club, the Vintage Aircraft Association, and EAA Warbirds of America. The 2026 inductees include: EAA Homebuilders Hall of Fame: Mike Blyth– Aircraft designer and Founder of Sling Aircraft, 1995 Microlight World Champion, and pioneer of early microlight aviation in South Africa International Aerobatic Club Hall of Fame: Mike Goulian – Renowned air show performer and air racer, 1995 National Unlimited Aerobatic Champion and three-time member of the US Unlimited Aerobatic Team Warbirds of America Hall of Fame: Ron and Diane Fagen – Warbird restorers and founders of the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum in Granite Falls, MN, home to more than 15 airworthy WWII aircraft Vintage Aircraft Association Hall of Fame: Tom Brown – Aircraft restoration craftsman who has been involved with and restored a wide variety of award-winning vintage airplanes EAA Ultralights Hall of Fame: Ronnie Smith – Founder of South Mississippi Light Aircraft (Now South Mississippi Legacy Aviation) The EAA Sport Aviation Halls of Fame were established to honor the outstanding achievements of men and women in aviation who share the spirit of EAA and its community. Those inducted into the halls of fame are selected by their peers for myriad contributions made to their respective areas of aviation. EAA will honor the new inductees at a dinner ceremony on November 11, 2026, in the Eagle Hangar of the EAA Aviation Museum.

Unmanned Systems

Phase 2 of FAA BEYOND Program Announced to Advance Drone Innovation

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching Phase 2 of the BEYOND program to expand the agency’s efforts to integrate drones into the national airspace system (NAS) and secure America’s leadership in aviation innovation. The FAA will double the program’s current size by selecting up to eight additional READ MORE
USI and Robotics Education & Competition Foundation Partner to Expand FAA Part 107 Preparation for Student Drone Competitors

The Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) and the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF) have announced a new partnership designed to provide participants in RECF’s Aerial Drone Competition program with access to FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot exam preparation, helping students extend their competitive drone experience into workforce and career opportunities. The partnership connects RECF’s hands-on READ MORE

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Accepting Payments From 529 Education Savings Plans

Epic Flight Academy can now accept payments from 529 education savings plans for qualifying educational expenses in eligible aviation training programs, such as Epic’s flight training and aircraft mechanic training. “Parents have frequently reached out inquiring about 529 plans, so we are happy to be able to accept payment from these plans now,” said director READ MORE
Blending Aviation History with the Workforce of Tomorrow

By Jana Gottlieb Walking through the Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Center in Hickory, North Carolina, visitors first encounter artifacts tied to the region’s military history before entering a hangar filled with 22 aircraft. Several invite visitors to get close, touch them and, in some cases, climb inside. But the facility READ MORE

GAA Nominations Now Being Accepted

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026. The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve […]

GAMA Releases Second Quarter 2026 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2026 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, show increased overall shipments and an increase in the value of aircraft billings. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of […]

National Aeronautic Association Announces 2026 Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) recently announced the 2026 class of Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation. Established in 1954, this prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Americans who, through their dedicated efforts over many years, have made enduring contributions to aeronautics and spaceflight. “The Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation recognition reflects a lifetime of leadership, […]

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Greg Campbell, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation and industry partners have completed the second Virginia flight demonstration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), highlighting the future of air transportation in the Commonwealth and across the United […]

2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory Available Featuring Updated Information

September 6, 2026September 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

The new 2026-2027 Missouri Airport Directory is now available. The directory offers aerial photographs and detailed descriptions of all 120 Missouri public-use airports. It includes information specific to the landing facility as well as local area attractions and services. The Missouri Airport Directory helps those in the aviation community plan flights by providing information about […]

FAA Grants Commercial Operating Certificate to Washington Manassas Airport

September 6, 2026September 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it granted Washington Manassas Airport (HEF) a Part 139 Airport Operating Certificate, which allows the airport to accommodate certain commercial passenger airlines. “Commercial flights coming into Manassas will provide more economic growth within the community and create another commercial airport to service the Washington D.C. area,” said FAA […]

Ontario International Airport Authority Elects Loveridge, Porada as Commission President, Vice President

September 5, 2026September 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners recently elected new leadership, selecting Dr. Ronald O. Loveridge to serve as Board president and Debra Porada as vice president. Loveridge, former mayor of Riverside, has served on the OIAA Board of Commissioners since its founding in 2012. He began his career in public service as […]

Tommy Mann Promoted to Deputy Director of Airport Development

September 5, 2026September 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

Nicholas Short, PE, PLS, Director, Division of Aviation, North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced that Tommy Mann, PE, the Aviation Division’s Eastern Lead Airport Project Manager (APM), has been promoted to Deputy Director of Airport Development. Mann will lead the statewide airport development team, which manages programs funded through state and federal grants and […]

KORE Aviation Expands Pilot Gear Access Through Partnership with Solo Aviation

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

KORE Aviation has announced a new partnership with Solo Aviation, a Michigan-based aviation company focused on flight training, serving pilots and aircraft owners at two locations. Through this collaboration, Solo Aviation will offer KORE Aviation products to its aviation community, expanding access to reliable pilot communication gear for students, instructors, aircraft owners, and general aviation […]

Phase 2 of FAA BEYOND Program Announced to Advance Drone Innovation

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching Phase 2 of the BEYOND program to expand the agency’s efforts to integrate drones into the national airspace system (NAS) and secure America’s leadership in aviation innovation. The FAA will double the program’s current size by selecting up to eight additional […]

Virginia Department of Aviation and Industry Partners Highlight the Future of Aviation with 2nd Flight Demonstration

Carbon Cub UL Flies from Yakima, Washington to Australia in Epic Around-the-World Adventure

Cirrus Expands Grand Forks Manufacturing Facility to Support Growing Demand

Plans Unveiled to Transform Washington Dulles International Airport