Month: December 2023

Tidewater Tech and Aviation Institute of Maintenance Host Governor Youngkin and State Officials to Discuss Workforce Development

Kim Stevens

Tidewater Tech and Aviation Institute of Maintenance were honored to welcome Governor Glenn Youngkin, G. Bryan Slater, Secretary of Labor, and Carrie Roth, Director of the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement, for a productive visit to the schools. The purpose of the visit was to engage in discussions about workforce development and skilled trades training, with a focus on building a strong pipeline of skilled tradesmen and women.  

Dr. Kenneth Alexander, Norfolk Mayor and Dr. Joel English, Executive Vice President of the schools, were present to provide the local government and educational perspective. In part, the Governor’s visit was a continuation of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) roundtable discussion Dr. English hosted last month. During the roundtable, school leadership, government officials, and industry partners came together to emphasize the importance of collaboration and partnerships in increasing access to training and pathways necessary to meet the growing demand in the skilled trades.

“Governor Youngkin is a champion for workforce development, and it was an honor to show him how we engage our industry partners such as Newport News Shipbuilding and the shipyards in our welding and maritime programs,” said Dr. English.  “Aviation Institute of Maintenance graduates 77% of all Virginians who graduate from Aviation Maintenance programs, according to the Aviation Technician Education Council. The Governor was able to see these future aerospace professionals building their skills and working toward FAA certification.”

At Tidewater Tech, the distinguished guests had the opportunity to tour various labs and witness students in action. They visited the welding lab, where they observed students undergoing hands-on training. They also visited the Automotive lab, where students worked on hybrid vehicles, and the HVAC lab and construction trades workshop. 

Following their visit to Tidewater Tech, the group proceeded to Aviation Institute of Maintenance. There, they met with students and instructors who were actively engaged in hands-on training in the powerplant lab, hangar, and sheet metal lab. The students performed a run-up of a PT6A engine, displaying their skills to the Governor. Governor Youngkin took the time to speak with the students, discussing their backgrounds, potential career pathways, and commending them for their dedication to their training.  

“It was incredible to tour Tidewater Tech and the Aviation Institute of Maintenance to see firsthand the workforce training and skills they provide students. Growing Virginia’s workforce and helping Virginians acquire in-demand and marketable skills is a top priority for my administration. We must continue to invest in results-oriented programs that boost our workforce readiness for the long-term health and prosperity of the Commonwealth,” said Governor Youngkin.

The visit highlighted the commitment of Tidewater Tech and Aviation Institute of Maintenance to providing quality education and training in the skilled trades. By fostering partnerships with government officials and industry leaders, the schools aim to meet the demand for skilled tradesmen and women and contribute to the growth of Virginia’s workforce. 

As Congress Passes Second FAA Extension; NBAA Reaffirms Call for Long-Term Reauthorization Bill

Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) marked last night’s passage of a second congressional extension to maintain authorization for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations with a renewed call for Congress to move forward with a new multi-year authorization bill for the agency.

With this extension, the FAA will operate through March 8, 2024, under the terms of the five-year FAA reauthorization bill passed by Congress in 2018.

This is the second three-month extension passed in lieu of a long-term measure since Sept. 30. While the House of Representatives passed its long-term, bipartisan FAA reauthorization measure earlier this year, similar legislation remains under consideration in Senate.

“We thank lawmakers for extending FAA authorization into 2024,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “However, an ongoing series of extensions creates the potential for disruptions to long-term planning for the FAA, and to the operational, safety and other agency services needed by the aviation sector, which is among the nation’s most highly regulated industries. We will continue working with Congress to pass a multi-year authorization bill as soon as feasible.”

In addition to securing the FAA’s long-term operation, the House reauthorization measure contains many priorities supported by NBAA, including removal of barriers to pursuing aviation careers and expanding the aviation workforce pipeline; improved training standards; and renewed funding for airport infrastructure, with a focus on investments for small and general aviation airports.

Last month, NBAA joined with other general aviation associations in submitting a written statement to a House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation hearing on the risks in delays to securing a long-term FAA reauthorization measure. Read the full statement.

$66 Million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding Invested in Airport Improvements Across the Country

Kim Stevens

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will award $66.2 million from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to airports in 23 states and Puerto Rico. The 66 projects are funded exclusively by non-discretionary grant funds under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program. In total the infrastructure law invests $25 billion over five years in U.S. airports to modernize terminals, increase safety, expand capacity, replace equipment, and more. 

“With Americans once again traveling in record numbers, we must ensure that our airports are ready to meet the demand,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Thanks to President Biden, we are delivering historic funding to modernize airports across the country, creating jobs, growing local economies, and supporting passengers for years to come.”

View a data visualization of the airports receiving funding.

“We are replacing and upgrading key infrastructure and equipment as quickly as possible to improve facilities for air passengers. These investments keep us on track for seamless improvements that fliers will notice in the future,” said FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E.

Many grants contain an element that involves improving drainage, replacing or purchasing equipment and building new terminals, towers, roads, taxi lanes, and runway signage.

Among them are:

Approximately $3.2 million will be used to rehabilitate airport terminals, including:

  • $133,770 at Yakima Air Terminal/McAllister Field in Washington   
  • $1,797,035 at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport in Amarillo, Texas
  • $1,278,900 at Great Falls International Airport in Montana

Approximately $1 million will be used to purchase snow removal equipment, including: 

  • $924,790 at Lewiston/Nez Perce County in Idaho
  • $145,497 at Myers Field in Canby, Minnesota

Approximately $1.8 million will be used to rehabilitate towers, including:

  • $1,610,100 at Rafael Hernandez in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
  • $190,294 at Joplin Regional in Missouri

$890,535 will be used to improve airfield drainage:

  • $890,535 at Minot International Airport in North Dakota

$69,866 will be used to purchase aircraft fire and rescue equipment, including: 

  • $30,000 at Liberal Mid-America Regional Airport in Kansas
  • $39,866 at McNary Field in Salem, Oregon   

A full list of all grants being awarded is available on the FAA website.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $15 billion over five years for the AIG program. The money can be invested in runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections and roadway projects.

For a third year, FAA has made $2.89 billion available to U.S. airports. To date, nearly $9 billion in AIG funding has been made available to airports across the country. Learn more at faa.gov/bil.  

The President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes a historic investment in our nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness. It will rebuild America’s roads, bridges and rails, upgrade and expand public transit, modernize the nation’s ports and airports, improve safety, tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice and invest in communities that are too often left behind. It will drive the creation of good-paying union jobs and grow the economy sustainably and equitably to help everyone get ahead for decades to come.

North Dakota Airline Passenger Boardings up 15% in November

Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released the monthly report that provides information relating to the airline passenger traffic at the eight commercial service airports within the state.

Commercial airline boarding numbers for November 2023 reached 96,897 passengers, which represents a growth of 12,898 boardings or a 15% increase from November of 2022. All eight of the commercial service airports also had higher passenger numbers than during this same period last year.

This is the second-best November on record for airline passenger boardings in North Dakota. The current record month of November is from the oil boom era year of 2014 when the state experienced 102,517 boardings.

The mild winter weather has helped to ensure an extremely low rate of flight cancellations throughout North Dakota and the aircraft load factor (percentage of available seats that are filled with passengers) continues to remain healthy at an average 84%.

“A statewide airline passenger growth of 15% from last November is outstanding.” stated Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the NDAC. “Our airports have successfully accommodated the record level of air travel demand that the U.S. experienced throughout the Thanksgiving weekend. We also anticipate strong demand to continue throughout the end of the year with the remaining holiday travel still remaining.”

November 2023 Boarding Records:

The Fargo Hector International Airport achieved a new monthly passenger record with 42,271 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for month of November was set in 2022 with 38,014 passengers.

The Devils Lake Airport also achieved a new monthly passenger record with 749 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for month of November was set in 2021 with 622 passengers.

View the November Airline Boarding Report

November 2023 Statewide Airline Passenger Statistics

  • Total Airline Passenger Boardings: 96,897
  • Available Airline Departure Seats: 115,922
  • Average Aircraft Load Factor: 84%
  • Number of Successful Airline Departure Flights: 1,397
  • Number of Airline Departure Flight Cancellations: 1
  • Airline Departure Flight Cancellation Rate: 0.1%

The National Aeronautic Association Recognizes the Best in Humanitarian Flying

Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) is honored to announce the 2023 Public Benefit Flying Awards recipients.

Created in partnership with the Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nationwide league of humanitarian flying organizations, the Public Benefit Flying Awards recognize volunteer pilots, other volunteers, and organizations engaged in flying to help others and those supporting such work.

Uniting their love of flying and selfless devotion to humankind, pilots and other volunteers engaged in Public Benefit Flying combine their talent and time with the desire to help others. Types of Public Benefit Flying include medical transport, environmental and conservation support, search and rescue, emergency response, and pet transport. The people chosen to receive Public Benefit Flying Awards this year combine their love of flying with the capabilities of general aviation to create a rewarding and valuable part of the aviation story.

The 2023 Public Benefit Flying Awards recipients are:

Distinguished Volunteer Pilot

Dennis Phelan, for altruistically giving his time, talent, and resources to transport hundreds of passengers to their life-saving medical care as an Angel Flight West volunteer pilot and Earth Angel. Phelan has flown over 880 missions to help passengers reach life-saving medical care.

Distinguished Volunteer

David Brubaker, for his dedication to youth aviation education. Brubaker is helping to build the next generation of Public Benefit Flying pilots through STEM Flights, an organization mentoring youth and encouraging them to pursue STEM careers.

Teamwork Award

All General Aviation Pilots Involved in the Maui Relief, represented by Rainbow Helicopters, in recognition of their outstanding efforts to transport essential supplies to displaced families on the island of Maui after the deadly wildfires of 2023.

Outstanding Achievement in Advancement of Public Benefit Flying

Jim Hesseman, for outstanding service to public benefit flying and as a volunteer pilot with generosity and compassion that exceeds all expectations. Hesseman works tirelessly to build awareness of volunteer flights.

Champion of Public Benefit Flying

Lightspeed Aviation, for their outstanding and inspiring support for volunteer pilots and charitable aviation. Lightspeed spreads the word about Public Benefit Flying through media and published materials, such as their book, Flying for Compassion.

“The selfless dedication of these people is remarkable, and their impact is staggering,” said Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO. “From a child with a terminal illness to an organ that needs to get across the country for transplant to the movement of people escaping natural disasters, these pilots represent the best in aviation. It’s our honor to recognize them and share their impact for the recognition and inspiration of others.”

Members of the 2023 Public Benefit Flying Selection Committee:

  • Ed Bolen, National Business Aviation Association
  • Linda Daschle, LHD & Associates, Inc
  • Jenna Gerdes, Angel Flight Central
  • John Lunseth, 2022 Public Benefit Flying Award recipient
  • Rol Morrow, Air Care Alliance
  • Greg Pecoraro, National Association of State Aviation Officials
  • Patty Wagstaff, Patty Wagstaff Aviation Safety, LLC

The presentation of the Public Benefit Flying Awards will occur in Washington, D.C., on a date to be determined.

Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission Meeting Highlights 2023 Work at Oklahoma Airports, Sets the Stage for 2024

Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) reflected on a successful year, at the December Commission meeting, closing out 2023 with 29 total projects at a total of 22 airports across the state with a total investment of $31,401,053.

“2023 was marked with multiple wins across the state for the Oklahoma airport system as well as the aerospace industry,” said Grayson Ardies, ODAA Executive Director. “We are looking forward to continuing our mission in 2024 to advance the Oklahoma aerospace industry and the continued growth and improvement of our state’s vast airport structure.”

During the December meeting, Commissioners approved an amendment to the five-year Airport Construction Program (ACP) for state fiscal year 2024 which added the following five projects:

  • David Jay Perry (Goldsby) – Fuel System
  • Durant Regional Airport/Eaker Field – Hangar Building
  • Okmulgee Regional Airport – Terminal Building
  • West Woodward Airport – Land Acquisition
  • William R. Pogue Municipal Airport (Sand Springs) – Fuel System

Through its ACP, the Department determines airport projects at the 108 public airports across the system and the how they will be funded with the various sources of federal and state grants. Projects are prioritized based on safety, preservation, standards, and economic benefit. Federal grants typically require 10 percent in matching funds from the airport sponsor or owner; however, for projects identified in the ACP, the Department makes half the federal match. Regular state grant funding require five percent matching funds whereas terminal buildings require 50 percent matching funds and hangars require 60 percent matching funds.

More than $174 million in federal funds will pay for the majority of the projects based on the financial numbers, while $113 million in state grants and $55 million in local matching funds will cover the remaining costs.

To see the entire list of projects included in the proposed ACP, click here.

A Prep Fund project was approved at West Woodward Airport to acquire 104 acres of land at the north end of the runway to help the airport with their growth plans. Based on the certified appraisal, the cost to acquire the land is $214,800 and will be funded 100% with PREP funds.

ODAA Executive Director Ardies concluded the meeting with an end-of-the-year wrap-up outlining the Department’s 2023 achievements.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Elected Member of Board of Governors at IATA

Kim Stevens

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer has been elected to the International Air Transport Association’s Board of Governors.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is the trade association for the world’s airlines, representing some 320 airlines or 83% of total air traffic. IATA’s mission is to represent, lead, and serve the airline industry where it advocates for the interests of airlines across the globe.

Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer

Engr. Badr Al-Meer will be able to support the association in shaping the future growth of safe, secure and sustainable air transport, working with members to connect and enrich our world through air travel. His strong aviation sector experience and knowledge will be put to use with his appointment as a Member of the Executive Committee of the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization (AACO).

AACO is the regional association of the Arab Airlines representing 34 carriers. Its mission is to promote cooperation amongst its members in many areas such as aero-political affairs, environmental sustainability and training through its regional training center. Engr. Badr Al-Meer can draw upon his aviation industry experience in AACO’s mission to cooperate with regional and international organizations, governmental and non-governmental bodies, airlines, manufacturers and service providers.

Engr. Badr Al-Meer became GCEO of Qatar Airways on 5 November 2023 following more than 10 years as the Chief Operating Officer of Hamad International Airport. While leading HIA, Qatar’s global hub airport and gateway to the world, he played an instrumental role in leading major airport milestone projects, including the expansion project “The Orchard” – an incredible tropical garden located at the center of the terminal expansion, with world class dining outlets and luxurious shopping that has redefined the airport experience. The extension project was one of Doha’s most challenging engineering programs and completed ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

From 2018 to 2020, Engr. Badr Al-Meer was a Board Director of the Airports Council International in the Asia/Pacific Region, where his expertise contributed to Future Airport Development and Airport Sustainability.

His leadership was pivotal in Hamad International Airport receiving a number of industry accolades including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airport in the World’ in 2021 and 2022, a testament to the capability and dedication of the entire organization.

In his career, Engr. Badr Al-Meer has played key roles in some of Qatar’s most iconic developments. As the Chief Operating Officer of Hamad International Airport (HIA) since 2014, he led critical divisions such as MATAR – the Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management, Qatar Duty-Free, Qatar Aviation Services, Qatar Aviation Catering Company, Qatar Distribution Centre, Dhiafatina, and real estate. Engr. Badr Al-Meer has built an outstanding track record in construction, and large-scale project development. In his new role as Group CEO, Engr. Badr Al-Meer’s experience in delivering successful outcomes in aviation and project management positions him uniquely to lead Qatar Airways Group’s exciting new era that will see innovation cultivate a unified and motivated workforce.

Thrive Aviation partners with Southwest Airlines in the Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program

Kim Stevens

Thrive Aviation announces its partnership with the Southwest Airlines® Destination 255° Pilot Pathways Program. By building hours with verified partners, the Cadet Pathway creates opportunities for new pilots to become Southwest Airlines First Officers in as little as four years. Thrive Aviation is honored to join this partnership with Southwest Airlines and is eager to welcome their cadets to the Thrive Aviation flight line.

Thrive Aviation G600 and two Longitudes.

“As a Southwest Airlines alum, this partnership has an entirely different meaning—it’s certainly a full circle moment for me. The program catalyzes a new pilot’s aviation career, offering them mentorship, training, and the opportunity to build the needed hours. This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of culture and innovation” says Chief Executive Officer, Curtis Edenfield.

The Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program paves the way for those launching their dream of an aviation career and gets them started on the right foot. Cadets undergo a two-step process; the first phase is completing various courses and flight training requirements. From there, cadets earn their first few hours of single and multi-engine aircraft and simulator training. Once achieved, cadets receive their commercial pilot’s license. The program’s second phase includes cadets becoming certified flight instructors, earning additional hours, and qualifying them to apply for the program’s various partners until they’re competitively qualified for an opportunity to join the Southwest crew.

Thrive Aviation pilots prepare for departure.

“Southwest is excited to welcome Thrive Aviation to our Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program as a new partner in our Cadet Pathway,” said Lee Kinnebrew, Vice President Flight Operations at Southwest Airlines. “The program aims to support and inspire pilots interested in joining Southwest as a First Officer, and we look forward to working with cadet candidates as they build flight experience.”

In addition to the Destination 225° Program, Thrive Aviation has found great success and value in its involvement with Southwest Business and Southwest Business Assist™. Our engagement at the national account level solidifies the continued and ongoing partnership across multiple levels that Thrive Aviation has with Southwest Airlines.

Edenfield continues, “Southwest Business has proven invaluable to Thrive Aviation and our operation. We rely on Southwest Business weekly – often daily – to fly our employees across the entire network. It’s an incredible tool, and we could not be happier!”

Boca Raton Airport Receives City Proclamation, Celebrates 75 Years of Innovation, Community, and Growth

Kim Stevens

The Boca Raton Airport is celebrating 75 years of service, and to commemorate this significant milestone, the city of Boca Raton presented the Boca Raton Airport Authority with a proclamation honoring its history and contribution to the City and region. Boca Raton Mayor Scot Singer has officially recognized December 28 as the 75th Anniversary of the Boca Raton Airport.

As a vital hub for aviation, innovation, and community engagement, The Boca Raton Airport has a rich history, from its WWII transformation into the Boca Raton Army Airfield to its commissioning of the Air Traffic Control Tower in 2000, and the 2018 addition of a US Customs and Border Protection facility for international flights.

“As we mark 75 years of aviation excellence, the Boca Raton Airport stands as a beacon of innovation and community engagement,” said Mayor Scot Singer. “The Airport has had substantial positive impacts on our business climate and local economy and served as a resource for residents for three quarters of a century. As Mayor, I join so many in our city celebrating this milestone and the Airport’s continued role in fostering progress, connectivity, and innovation.”

The impact of the Boca Raton Airport extends far beyond its runways. The 2022 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Economic Impact Study quantified the Airport’s contribution to the local economy at an impressive $693 million annually. Additionally, 4,843 individuals are employed by the Airport and its tenants annually. This data underscores not only the Airport’s economic footprint, but its role in shaping the region as a thriving destination for tourism, business, and residency.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 75 years of aviation excellence and community partnership,” said Executive Director Clara Bennet. “We want to thank Mayor Singer and the City for this great honor. Our Airport’s history is deeply intertwined with the growth and prosperity of Boca Raton, and we’re committed to ensuring its continued positive impact on our region.”

As the Boca Raton Airport marks its 75th anniversary, it looks forward to a future filled with continued growth, collaboration, and innovation. Join us in celebrating this remarkable journey by visiting www.bocaairport.com/75years to learn more about upcoming events and initiatives happening throughout our 75th year.

Global TransPark Hosts VIPs to Increase Capability Awareness

Kim Stevens

Photo above – VIPs pose in front of Draken International adversarial support aircraft. Photo by Tim Moore.

Last Thursday, military, state/local government, academia, and industry leaders from around the state met for lunch and a VIP Tour at the North Carolina Global TransPark (NCGTP). Also in attendance were representatives from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) and the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC).

Global TransPark Airport Manager, Rick Barkes in front of Draken International adversarial support aircraft. Photo by Kim Stevens.

This event aimed to increase awareness of the North Carolina Global TransPark’s capabilities in the aerospace industry sector and its role in military support while having access to academic resources (workforce training).

The goals for the event were:

  • Explore the state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure at the NCGTP, including the Kinston Regional Jetport, which offers extensive airport infrastructure and access to utilities.
  • Gain insights into the history and mission of the NCGTP and its economic impacts on the region.
  • Learn about the various transportation options available, such as air, rail, and highway connections and proximity to North Carolina’s international ports.
  • Discuss potential collaborations and partnerships with other industry experts, researchers, representatives from military commands, and state government.
  • Discover the potential for your organization to benefit from the skilled workforce, research and development efforts, and economic investment opportunities in Eastern North Carolina.

The tours showcased the significant aerospace and aviation industries at the North Carolina Global TransPark and the availability for future growth for existing and new industries and manufacturers. The event was a great networking opportunity as well.

VIPs were able to see FlyExclusive’s paint shop facilities. Photo by Tim Moore.

Thanks to Draken International, FlyExclusive, LLC, Fleet Readiness Center East, NC Emergency Management, and Lenoir Community College.

The North Carolina Global TransPark (GTP) is a 2,500 acre, multi-modal industrial/airport site in Eastern North Carolina. As an agency of the State of North Carolina, the GTP is considered a key engine for driving the economy of Eastern North Carolina. The park offers access to multi-modal transportation options: air, rail, highways, and North Carolina’s two international ports. The GTP is part of an economic development initiative in eastern North Carolina intended to spur transition in the region from an agricultural base to one of skilled labor and industrial manufacturing. Industries targeted by the GTP are aerospace, defense and logistics sectors.