State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year
The skies over Kitsap County will come alive once again as the Bremerton Air Show takes flight for its fourth consecutive year at the Bremerton National Airport July 11th & 12th. This show promises a thrilling weekend of high-flying excitement, historic aircraft, and family-friendly entertainment. More than just an air show, this event is a […]
Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird
Photo Credit floridapanthers.com By Andrew Stevens I always love it when different worlds we appreciate come together for an experience. I’m a big hockey fan and obviously this is the best time of the year with the Stanley Cup Playoffs ongoing (Go Ducks!). My hockey journey is a bit wild, but that’s not the story […]
B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026
The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]
VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport
VertiPorts by Atlantic, a subsidiary of Atlantic Aviation and the operator of the East 34th Street Heliport (6N5), hosted a successful demonstration flight of Joby Aviation’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of advanced air mobility in New York City. Conducted on Friday, May 1, at one […]

State News

Four New Hangars Coming to Tampa Executive Airport

Tampa Executive Airport (VDF) is experiencing a major growth spurt, adding four hangar facilities that are all scheduled to be available later this year. These hangar projects by various private developers mark one of the largest General Aviation infrastructure expansions to date for Hillsborough County Aviation Authority facilities at VDF. The four hangars will add about 42,000 total square feet of space to VDF and are the result of more than $6.4 million in private investment. The first hangar completed was a nearly 12,000-square-foot project started last summer by VDF fixed-base operator Skyport and was finished in March. An additional 20 vehicle parking spaces were included in the scope of the construction. The second hangar project that started in June 2025 also will add another approximate 12,000 square feet of hangar space and is more than 50 percent completed. It is anticipated to be completed by end of summer. The third hangar project will be an approximately 12,000-square-foot hangar split into two hangers that are about 6,000 square feet apiece. This project is in early construction phase and should be completed by year-end. The fourth hangar will be approximately 6,000 square feet and is currently in final permitting. The project should also be completed by the end of 2026. The new hangars will add significant capacity and strengthen economic activity to position VDF for long-term growth. For more information about hangar availability at VDF, go to www.tampaairport.com/business/real-estate.
New Jersey Governor Recognizes History and Service to State and Nation of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, as New Jersey “Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Day.” The proclamation, the Governor stated, commemorates the Wing’s 85th Anniversary of service to the State and Nation, “as a fitting occasion to recognize its enduring contributions and honor the commitment of all those who have served its ranks since its founding.” New Jersey Wing has over 1,600 members, including cadets aged 12 to 21 years, and senior members over 18 years of age. As part of the CAP’s Total Force partnership and part of the all-volunteer auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, the New Jersey Wing is actively engaged in searching for and finding the lost, providing comfort in times of disaster, and ensuring the safety of our homeland. “For 85 years, the New Jersey Wing of the Civil Air Patrol has upheld a proud legacy of service … through its three core missions of emergency services, cadet programs, and aerospace education,” Gov Sherrill noted. Col Amy Myzie Col Amy Myzie, Commander of New Jersey Wing, acknowledged the recognition of Gov Sherrill. “Service to our great state, and in particular the opportunities for creating opportunities for our youth in developing their leadership capabilities and practical skills and knowledge in aerospace, is an extraordinary privilege, “said Col Myzie. “The Governor’s statement provides assurance to all of our volunteers that their commitment and success is appreciated at the highest levels. We are hopeful this welcome recognition will serve notice to interested New Jersey youth and adults alike of the unusual opportunities that can be realized in CAP, on this day and the future.” New Jersey Wing members also served thousands of hours in supporting New Jersey Wing cadet programs through teaching, training and mentoring hundreds of young men and women in numerous community schools, squadron meetings as well as field training exercises. “The New Jersey Wing continues its many contributions throughout our state, from search and rescue, homeland security, and community service. As importantly, we are helping develop the next generation of young men and women who are the future leaders of our great country,” Col Myzie said.

National News

AOPA Highlights Mental Health in May, Delivers Resources for Pilots

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has launched a monthlong initiative to highlight pilot mental health, bringing together educational content, expert guidance, and advocacy updates throughout May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month. The initiative, sponsored by Jeppesen ForeFlight, is designed to address common concerns among pilots, including the fear of losing their medical certificate, the stigma surrounding mental health in aviation, and a lack of clear, actionable information for pilots. “Mental health remains one of the biggest challenges facing pilots and the aviation industry today,” said AOPA Acting Co-President Katie Pribyl. “AOPA has been working on this issue for years. Our advocacy efforts with Congress and the FAA have led to many of the improvements we’ve seen so far, but we still have a long way to go. During this month, we want to highlight what resources are available and that getting help doesn’t always have to mean giving up flying.” “Mental health does not discriminate—pilot or nonpilot, career airline captain or student pilot—it can affect any of us,” said AOPA Acting Co-President Jill Baker. “The most important thing we want pilots to take away from this month is that they are not alone, and that AOPA stands ready to help our members through the medical certification process. Our Medical Certification Specialists serve tens of thousands of members every year.” Since May 1, AOPA has released several new resources and articles, including: An interview with Xyla Foxlin, a GA pilot who successfully fought to get her medical certificate back. The first of two Expert Insights video series, focused on mental performance. An article profiling a day in the life of an aviation psychiatrist. Throughout May, AOPA will also: Interview Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup about ongoing efforts to streamline medical certification and reduce the stigma around mental health. Dedicate its monthly “What’s Up?” webinar on May 21 to mental health by interviewing Reini Thijssen, a counselor who specializes in supporting pilots. Share additional social media content highlighting the importance of addressing mental health. Expand mental health educational opportunities for CFIs to give them tools to support their students. All resources released throughout May are being compiled in AOPA’s Mental Health Resource Center.
VIRTOWER Enhances Airspace Safety With Remote ID Drone Detection Upgrade

Photo – Virtower Government Support Vehicles with Drone Detection Virtower LLC has announced the successful upgrade of its sensor systems to support Remote ID drone detection—marking a major advancement in airspace safety for general aviation and commercial airport environments. With this upgrade, Virtower’s platform can now detect and display Remote ID-equipped drones in real time, including the location of the drone operator. This enhanced visibility provides airport staff with actionable intelligence to support safety monitoring, incident response, and enforcement of FAA airspace regulations. The capability aligns with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Remote Identification rule (14 CFR Part 89), which requires most drones operating in U.S. airspace to broadcast identification and location data. Virtower transforms this regulatory requirement into real-time operational awareness for airport operators. This enhanced capability is being deployed across Virtower’s network of more than 500 airports, establishing a new benchmark for drone awareness and mitigation across both general aviation and commercial airport operations. Virtower is prioritizing initial upgrades based on operational complexity and traffic volume, with a focus on commercial service airports, towered general aviation airports, and high-activity non-towered airports with more than 100,000 annual operations. This phased approach ensures Remote ID capabilities are first delivered where they can have the greatest impact on safety and airspace management. “Integrating Remote ID detection into our sensor platform is a critical step forward in protecting airport operations from emerging drone-related risks,” said Les Goldsmith, President of Virtower LLC. “By providing both drone and operator location data, we’re enabling airport authorities to respond faster and with greater precision.” The upgrade reflects increasing demand from airports for tools that deliver comprehensive situational awareness of low-altitude airspace activity while supporting compliance with evolving federal regulations. Virtower’s sensor platform is designed for scalable deployment across diverse airport environments, delivering real-time monitoring, alerting, and data integration to enhance safety and operational awareness.

International News

Prime Minister Carney Welcomes Largest Order of Commercial Aircraft in Canadian History

The world is changing rapidly and in response, Canada’s new government is focused on what they can control. The country is building a stronger economy with an ambitious plan to catalyze $1 trillion in total investment in Canada over the next five years. In the past year, they have signed 20 new economic and defense partnerships, secured nearly $100 billion in foreign investment commitments, and diversified trade across Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Building on this progress, Prime Minister, Mark Carney, welcomed an agreement between Airbus and AirAsia to purchase 150 Airbus A220-300 aircraft – the largest order for a Canadian-designed and produced aircraft in history. With every aircraft assembled in Airbus Canada’s facility in Mirabel, Québec, this agreement will strengthen the province’s dynamic and world-leading aerospace manufacturing industry and support thousands of careers across Canada, from skilled trades to engineering. Airbus’s assembly facility in Mirabel is its most comprehensive commercial aircraft manufacturing site outside Europe. It employs over 4,600 workers and is a cornerstone of Canada’s world-leading expertise in aviation and aerospace technologies. The facility brings together administrative leadership, engineering excellence, advanced research, and production within one integrated operation, supported by a broader ecosystem of Canadian welders, technicians, and small businesses. Built with a cutting-edge “clean-sheet” design, the A220-300 aircraft is developed and designed by Canadian workers from scratch. The aircraft offers significant performance advantages, including lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and a smaller noise footprint – driven by advanced propulsion systems, lightweight materials, and cutting-edge aerodynamic design. “The agreement between Airbus and AirAsia is the largest order of Canadian aircraft in history,” said the Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada. “The 150 aircraft will be built by Canadian workers on Canadian factory floors. For thousands of engineers, electricians, steel welders, and IT specialists, it will mean high-paying and exciting work to build a remarkable aircraft that connects millions of people around the world to more opportunities, more destinations, or more time with friends and loved ones.”
Another Step Across the Atlantic: LOT Polish Airlines Inaugurates Direct Flights to San Francisco

Last week LOT Polish Airlines launched its first-ever flight from Warsaw to San Francisco. The new transatlantic route will run during the 2026 summer season, with up to four flights per week. San Francisco becomes LOT’s sixth regular U.S. destination, joining Chicago, New York, Newark, Miami and Los Angeles. LOT Polish Airlines continues to expand its North American network with new direct transatlantic services. The United States remains one of the airline’s key long-haul markets, for both business and leisure travel. The expansion of LOT’s North American network also supports its strategy to strengthen Warsaw’s position as a connecting hub in Central and Eastern Europe. The first flight to San Francisco took off on 6 May 2026, with a schedule extending through October 22, 2026. Passengers can fly between Warsaw and San Francisco four times a week. Flight LO35 departs Warsaw for San Francisco on Thursdays and Sundays at 11:15, while flight LO37 operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 17:40. Return flights to Warsaw operate on the same days: LO36 departs San Francisco at 15:50, and LO38 at 22:15. The journey aboard LOT’s comfortable Boeing 787 Dreamliner takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. Today’s launch of the Warsaw-San Francisco service is more than an expansion of our route network. It is an investment in a route that connects business, innovation and global ambition. With this launch, San Francisco becomes the sixth U.S. airport in our scheduled network. The new service will create opportunities for business partnerships, knowledge exchange and stronger economic ties between Poland, Central and Eastern Europe, and the U.S. West Coast. It will also make one of the world’s most inspiring cities more accessible to travellers. San Francisco is renowned for its culture, diversity and unique character, and I am confident that this new service will support both tourism and Polish businesses. Robert Ludera, Board Member, Chief Commercial Officer, LOT Polish Airlines San Francisco is one of America’s most distinctive cities. Spread across hills between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, it combines striking natural beauty, modern energy and rich cultural diversity. Iconic landmarks and spectacular views San Francisco is instantly recognised by the Golden Gate Bridge – a magnificent structure in its iconic colour, often draped in ocean fog. Whether strolling or driving across, you’re treated to stunning vistas of the bay, cityscape, and the surrounding hills, defining this distinctive part of California. This landmark is both an engineering marvel and a defining symbol of the city. The academic heartland The area is also renowned for its world-leading universities – Stanford and UC Berkeley. These institutions have shaped global science, technology, and business, serving as cradles for groundbreaking research and start-ups. Stanford, in the heart of Silicon Valley, is deeply linked to tech developments, while Berkeley is renowned for its academic tradition, intellectual liberty, and significant contributions to the sciences and social sciences. Together, they create an environment that fuels the region’s innovation. Vibrant districts and flavors Fisherman’s Wharf stands as one of the city’s most lively areas – once a port district, it’s now teeming with energy and seafood restaurants. Both tourists and locals are drawn to the bustling waterfront, exploring its array of stalls and eateries. Nearby, Pier 39 offers views of the famous sea lion colonies basking on the docks. A hub of innovation Just a short drive south of San Francisco, Silicon Valley has been leading the way in technology for decades. This region is home to groundbreaking companies and innovations that have revolutionised communication, work, and daily life. Known for its bold entrepreneurship and inventive spirit, its influence extends far beyond California’s borders.

Unmanned Systems

VIRTOWER Enhances Airspace Safety With Remote ID Drone Detection Upgrade

Photo – Virtower Government Support Vehicles with Drone Detection Virtower LLC has announced the successful upgrade of its sensor systems to support Remote ID drone detection—marking a major advancement in airspace safety for general aviation and commercial airport environments. With this upgrade, Virtower’s platform can now detect and display Remote ID-equipped drones in real time, READ MORE
Commercial Drone Alliance Welcomes Long-Awaited Proposal to Protect Critical Infrastructure Facilities from Rogue Drones

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) commends the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Department of Transportation, and the broader Administration for today’s announcement of the long-anticipated Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to protect certain fixed site facilities from unauthorized drone operations. This is an important step in creating a low altitude airspace ecosystem that enables authorized READ MORE

Aviation Education

New Jersey Governor Recognizes History and Service to State and Nation of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, as New Jersey “Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Day.” The proclamation, the Governor stated, commemorates the Wing’s 85th Anniversary of service to the State and Nation, “as a fitting occasion to recognize its enduring contributions and honor the commitment of all READ MORE
Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day Brings Together a Wide Coalition to Promote The Commonwealth’s Industry

By Eric Blinderman Pa. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Photos by Eric Blinderman, Narrative Aviation Industry leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and students came together to connect, collaborate and share at the 3rd annual Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg. The event emphasizes the high-wage jobs and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s READ MORE

Four New Hangars Coming to Tampa Executive Airport

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tampa Executive Airport (VDF) is experiencing a major growth spurt, adding four hangar facilities that are all scheduled to be available later this year. These hangar projects by various private developers mark one of the largest General Aviation infrastructure expansions to date for Hillsborough County Aviation Authority facilities at VDF. The four hangars will add […]

Prime Minister Carney Welcomes Largest Order of Commercial Aircraft in Canadian History

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The world is changing rapidly and in response, Canada’s new government is focused on what they can control. The country is building a stronger economy with an ambitious plan to catalyze $1 trillion in total investment in Canada over the next five years. In the past year, they have signed 20 new economic and defense […]

New Jersey Governor Recognizes History and Service to State and Nation of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, as New Jersey “Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Day.” The proclamation, the Governor stated, commemorates the Wing’s 85th Anniversary of service to the State and Nation, “as a fitting occasion to recognize its enduring contributions and honor the commitment of all […]

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The skies over Kitsap County will come alive once again as the Bremerton Air Show takes flight for its fourth consecutive year at the Bremerton National Airport July 11th & 12th. This show promises a thrilling weekend of high-flying excitement, historic aircraft, and family-friendly entertainment. More than just an air show, this event is a […]

San Antonio Aviation & Aerospace Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Honorees

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The San Antonio Aviation and Aerospace Hall of Fame invite you to join them on September 15 at The Boeing Center at Tech Port as they honor the visionary leaders who continue to shape San Antonio’s aerospace industry and inspire the next generation. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, innovation, and commitment have […]

Another Step Across the Atlantic: LOT Polish Airlines Inaugurates Direct Flights to San Francisco

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

Last week LOT Polish Airlines launched its first-ever flight from Warsaw to San Francisco. The new transatlantic route will run during the 2026 summer season, with up to four flights per week. San Francisco becomes LOT’s sixth regular U.S. destination, joining Chicago, New York, Newark, Miami and Los Angeles. LOT Polish Airlines continues to expand […]

Lufthansa Launches New Premium Onboard Experience in Every Travel Class on All Long-Haul Flights

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

One airline, two years of development, three guiding principles, and four cabin classes – FOX (short for Future Onboard Experience), Lufthansa’s new long-haul service, launched on Wednesday, May 6th. The new service concept represents one of the most significant investments in the airline’s premium onboard customer experience to date. With a strong focus on the […]

AOPA Highlights Mental Health in May, Delivers Resources for Pilots

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has launched a monthlong initiative to highlight pilot mental health, bringing together educational content, expert guidance, and advocacy updates throughout May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month. The initiative, sponsored by Jeppesen ForeFlight, is designed to address common concerns among pilots, including the fear of losing their medical […]

VIRTOWER Enhances Airspace Safety With Remote ID Drone Detection Upgrade

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Virtower Government Support Vehicles with Drone Detection Virtower LLC has announced the successful upgrade of its sensor systems to support Remote ID drone detection—marking a major advancement in airspace safety for general aviation and commercial airport environments. With this upgrade, Virtower’s platform can now detect and display Remote ID-equipped drones in real time, […]

Update: FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration has published new Airport Procedure Boards on its public involvement website, Community Engagement – Phoenix | Federal Aviation Administration. The proposed procedure boards provide a graphic representation of proposed departures and arrivals at the region’s airports, waypoints that represent specific latitude/longitude points along those flight paths, and representations of the flight […]

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year

Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport