Author: Kim Stevens

Aviation Associations, State Agencies Mourn Passing of Former Senator James Inhofe

Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics as well as numerous national aviation associations, marked the passing of general aviation advocate and former Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK), who tirelessly fought on behalf of the industry throughout his decades of public service.

Sen. James Inhofe

“Sen. Inhofe was a master legislator and general aviation’s great champion,” said National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Those two truths are reflected in every aviation bill that has passed Congress and been signed into law over the past 35 years.”

“His Discharge Petition, General Aviation Revitalization Act, Pilots Bill of Rights, Basic Med and numerous FAA Reauthorization bills that have protected general aviation’s access to airspace and airports represent just a fraction of what Jim Inhofe has done to promote aviation,” Bolen added. “There is no one who has done more to help the United States have the largest, safest, most diverse and most efficient aviation system in the world. We will miss him greatly.” 

As an accomplished aviator, Inhofe brought a deep appreciation and understanding of the industry to policy debates on Capitol Hill. Over the course of his career, he supported legislation that ensured general aviation would continue connecting communities and remain a vital contributor to the nation’s economy, including through his work as a key proponent of legislation creating aviation workforce grants.

Greg Pecoraro, President and CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), said Senator Inhofe was a passionate aviator, as well as a dedicated public servant. “Guided by his passion and experience, his many legislative accomplishments in this field helped shape the nation’s aviation policy for decades. He was a true champion for aviation in the Senate and we will always remember his tremendous impact on our industry. NASAO and its members send their deepest sympathies to Senator Inhofe’s family and friends.”

National Air Transportation Association (NATA) President and CEO Curt Castagna, noted that Sen. Inhofe’s legislative skill and deep understanding of the importance of general aviation left an indelible mark on our nation’s aviation infrastructure and skilled workforce. “We are a stronger, more resilient industry because of the Senator’s wisdom, leadership, and dedication.”

“Just last week NATA hosted its annual Air Charter Summit in Sen. Inhofe’s home state of Oklahoma, where we saw firsthand how his passion for his constituents and for our industry shaped a vibrant, innovative aviation landscape that continues to flourish. We are confident that his legacy will inspire future aviation advocates and professionals for generations to come,” Castagna added.

Grayson Ardies, Executive Director, Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics noted that in a legacy of public service that spanned over 40 years, no one did more for aviation, aerospace, and defense than James Mountain Inhofe. “A tireless champion of airports and infrastructure, his advocacy ensured that our air transportation system was the envy of the world and the safest in the world. It is fair to say that Jim Inhofe beneficially impacted every public airport in Oklahoma during his time in public service.”

Ardies said that advocating for the Oklahoma aviation and aerospace industry was a task of love that was always at the top of his list whether you were American Airlines, Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, or a small aviation business with less than 50 employees. “The Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City never had a bigger champion than Senator Jim Inhofe and its successes in keeping our air transportation system safe and efficient are thanks to his advocacy over the years. When it comes to aviation and aerospace, Jim was a mountain of a man,” said Ardies. “He was Oklahoma’s #1 Airvangelist! Thank you, Senator Inhofe, for everything you’ve done for our Nation, for our State, and for the aviation, aerospace, and defense industry.”

NBAA Tells Congress Workforce Growth Key to Continued US Aviation Leadership

Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) highlighted the need to redouble the focus on attracting the next generation of industry professionals as a national priority and urged Congress to ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) effectively implements plans contained in the agency’s newly enacted reauthorization to build a workforce that preserves America’s global aviation leadership.

An emphasis on promoting workforce-development initiatives was the central theme in testimony provided by Jo Damato, CAM, senior vice president of education, training and workforce development with NBAA, before a hearing convened by the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure’s Aviation Subcommittee.

“This hearing highlights the importance of recruiting, retaining and engaging aviation talent, and underscores the work that must be energized” to ensure a large, qualified and diverse cohort of industry professionals is equipped to lead the industry in the years ahead, Damato said. She noted that the issue is a top concern for business aviation, which supports 1.2 million U.S. jobs and $247 billion in economic output.

Damato, who learned to fly as a teenager and trained other pilots before joining NBAA, recently represented business aviation on the Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force, an industry-government group formed to provide workforce-development recommendations to federal transportation leaders.

The subcommittee’s hearing comes as the industry confronts a pressing, two-fold challenge: first, analysts predict that hundreds of thousands of aviation professionals, with a diversity of skill sets, will be needed in the coming decades; second, and of equal concern, a series of bottlenecks – including financial and cultural barriers, limited access to information and other hurdles – are impeding the workforce growth needed to meet the coming demand.

Damato joined the hearing panelists in commending Congress for its bipartisan collaboration with NBAA and others to address the issue, largely through workforce-focused provisions included in the recently codified FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. Specifically, the legislation helps remove barriers for aviation career seekers, while expanding the industry’s workforce “pipeline” and improving training standards.

“This pipeline is critical to our strength as a nation,” Damato said, adding that if the provisions in the FAA bill to support it are implemented effectively, the aviation community will be equipped to move forward on job growth “in ways that have not been possible in recent decades.”

To illustrate her point, Damato cited several prescriptive measures in the FAA law that are aimed at catalyzing aviation workforce development. Those measures – which reflect recommendations from the DOT’s Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force, as well as guidance from a related government-industry group, the FAA’s Women in Aviation Advisory Board – include language to:

  • Build early awareness and engagement with young people;
  • Improve access to information about careers in aviation and aerospace;
  • Create a national strategic plan for workforce development that connects existing programs;
  • Provide financial support to pursue training and education, and;
  • Address factors that negatively impact the recruitment and retention of women and other minorities.

“We applaud the leaders on this subcommittee, and in both congressional chambers, who understand that America’s leadership in aviation is central to the nation’s leadership in the world,” Damato said. “An investment in a highly trained and dedicated workforce is an imperative not just for the industry, but for the citizens, companies and communities that depend on it.

“We thank the subcommittee for holding this hearing, and we look forward to working with Congress to promote initiatives that ensure the U.S. remains the global leader in aviation, five, 10 and 25 years into the future.”

Read Damato’s full written testimony before the July 10 hearing of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Aviation.

Multi-State Research Project Wins ARISE Grant to Advance Aviation in Appalachian N.C.

Kim Stevens

The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation announced Monday the state has received a $500,000 Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies grant to research ways to improve aviation in western North Carolina.

“This grant is a game-changer for our state and the broader Appalachian region,” said Dr. Daniel Findley, associate director of the Institute for Transportation Research and Education at N.C. State University. “The funding will enable us to conduct crucial research and determine the best strategies to advance air mobility, ensuring North Carolina airports can meet the demands of the future.”

North Carolina was among three states that received the grant. The ARISE grant, funded in part by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will pay for research to identify necessary upgrades at general aviation airports in Appalachian counties. The upgrades will aim to prepare airports in the western part of the state for emerging technologies in the Advanced Air Mobility sector (AAM) and sustainable electric aviation.

North Carolina has 13 general aviation airports in the Appalachian counties, which play a critical role in supporting local economies. However, outdated infrastructure has limited their potential. The research funded by the ARISE grant will identify targeted upgrades, providing a roadmap for implementing these improvements and ensuring the airports are AAM-ready.

During the research, North Carolina State University’s Institute of Transportation Research and Education and Ohio University will assess the infrastructure needs of the region’s airports, including upgrading electric utility capacity and installing charging capabilities required to support AAM aircraft.

“Preparing our airports for AAM is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with our state’s Advanced Transportation Mobility Strategic Plan,” said Becca Gallas, NCDOT’s director of Aviation. “This project exemplifies our commitment to innovation, economic development and sustainable infrastructure. Through this research, we will develop models and strategies that can be applied across the region, ensuring that North Carolina remains at the forefront of aviation innovation.”

The grant will help amplify North Carolina’s airports, which contribute $72 billion to the state’s economy each year and support 330,000 jobs.

NASAO Announces 2024 Henry Ogrodzinski Scholarship Recipients

Kim Stevens

The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced the three recipients of the 2024 Henry Ogrodzinski (Henry O.) Scholarship:

  • Julia Cagasan (Liberty University)
  • Christine Larson (Southern Utah University)
  • Tatum Navrkal (University of Nebraska at Omaha)

Established by NASAO in 2014, this scholarship is awarded in memory of Henry Ogrodzinski, who led NASAO as its President and CEO from 1996 to 2013. Henry O. (as he was referred to by the industry) dedicated his life to higher education and academic achievement. The Henry O. Scholarship Program awards $1,000 to three college upperclassmen who are pursuing a career in the aviation or aerospace industry.

“From more than 40 applicants, we are pleased to have selected these individuals for the Henry O. Scholarship,” said Mike McHugh Chair of NASAO’s Aviation Education Committee and Aviation Education Coordinator of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “We hope to continue Henry’s legacy while aiding these students in pursuing their dreams. Congratulations to the recipients!”

“NASAO is excited to once again advance the future of aviation by awarding scholarships to these three outstanding students,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “Through the support and encouragement, we can offer these students, we advance both our industry and honor the legacy of our long-time president, Henry O.”

Delta State University Chooses the ALSIM ALSR20 Simulator

Kim Stevens

ALSIM is pleased to announce that Delta State University has chosen the ALSR20 simulator to support flight training in its growing Aviation Department.

The ALSIM ALSR20 has the latest Cirrus SR G6 specific interior cockpit and flight deck including a real Garmin GDU 1050A and GFC 700 Autopilot. It is further equipped with a Garmin® GMA 350C® – All digital Audio Panel and a Garmin® GCU 479®. It can also simulate the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®). The ALSR20 is compliant with the latest aviation standards from EASA and the FAA (FTD Level 5) to Transport Canada and the CAAC.

Alsim flight simulator ALSR20. Photo – Tim Fox.

Garrett Gee, Manager of Flight Operations for Delta State University, comments: “Delta State University was looking for a Flight Training Device that is able to meet the needs of our growing aviation department.  Having just acquired 5 new Cirrus SR20-G6 aircraft, we needed something to help make the transition to these aircraft easier for our students.  We wanted something that was able to provide as realistic as possible training to our students, and the ALSR20 checked all of the boxes.  ALSIM also has a good reputation within the flight training industry and that was also important to us.  Additionally, having a recommendation from Cirrus on the quality of the ALSIM brand was a big plus.”

Jason Da Costa, Business Development and ALSIM Sales Manager, says: “ALSIM is extremely proud to have been chosen as the flight training device manufacturer for Delta State University’s advanced aviation educational program. Delta State University’s recent acquisition of 5 new Cirrus SR20-G6 aircraft meant that they needed a premium solution that allowed for a seamless transition from the flight training device to the aircraft. ALSIM’s ALSR20 flight training device fits their needs perfectly and allows Delta State University to continue delivering innovation and excellence in aviation training. With a flight training device manufacturer such as ALSIM, that shared vision continues.”

SCAA Announces 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Kim Stevens

South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) has awarded five scholarships to South Carolinians pursuing careers in the aviation industry. They are LeeAnne Aganos, Colin Crader, John Gay, Karlie Hayes and Oswaldo Trejo.

LeeAnne Aganos, of Horry, a standout student at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, began the Aviation Maintenance Program in January 2024 and quickly impressed her peers and instructors with her hard work and determination. LeeAnne’s passion for aviation maintenance, inspired by her grandfather’s military stories and her own automotive mechanics experience, is evident in her performance. She was recently selected for the MRO Americas’ AMC competition due to her exceptional team skills and active participation in extracurricular activities. Despite personal challenges, LeeAnne remains dedicated to creating a better future for her family through her education and career in aviation maintenance.

Colin Crader, of Clemson, a dedicated student in the Aircraft Maintenance Technology program at Greenville Technical College, has achieved significant milestones. Since starting the program in Fall 2023, Crader has maintained perfect attendance and passed his general written exam. He has also been accepted into the PSA Airlines Maintenance Student Pathway Program and earned his ASE Refrigerant Recycling/Recapture certification. Crader plans to take his airframe exams in April 2025 and his powerplant exams in February 2026, aiming to start his own Aircraft on Ground business in the future.

John Gay, of Jasper, an exceptional student at Polaris Tech, has shown remarkable growth and passion in their Aerospace Program. Known for his enthusiasm and keen aptitude for both theoretical and practical aerospace concepts, John stands out among his peers. He plans to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, renowned for its prestigious aviation programs, where he will study aeronautical science to become a pilot. Beyond academics, John is recognized for his outstanding character, leadership skills and dedication to helping others, making him a deserving candidate for any aviation scholarship.

Karlie Hayes, of Pickens, a standout student in the Aeronautics – Professional Pilot degree program at Charleston Southern University, has demonstrated exceptional potential as a future commercial pilot and leader. One of only two professional pilot students in the prestigious Honors Program, Karlie excels despite a demanding course load and rigorous flight training. Known for her intellectual curiosity, preparation and performance both in the classroom and on the flight line, Karlie aims to become a cadet for Republic Airlines. Her long-term goal is to fly for a major airline like Southwest or Delta, eventually becoming an international wide-body captain.

Oswaldo Trejo, of Jasper, a valedictorian for the class of 2024 at Hardeeville Junior and Senior High School, will be the first in his family to attend college this fall. He plans to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering at the College of Charleston. Oswaldo stands out as one of the most dedicated and driven students, consistently demonstrating a high level of intelligence, curiosity and commitment to excellence. In addition to his outstanding academic performance, he possesses remarkable leadership skills and a genuine passion for aviation and technology. He actively engages in aerospace engineering, having attended the Jasper County Career and Advanced Technology Education Center as well as the Technical College of the Lowcountry. Oswaldo dreams of working for NASA or The Boeing Company and aims to become an aerospace engineering instructor.

SCAA’s scholarship program is open to South Carolina residents who attend, or will attend, an educational institution or flight school inside or outside the state. The application period for the next program cycle will open in Spring 2025.

SCAA actively promotes and encourages aviation and airport development to meet air transportation needs and assist the state in achieving economic development goals. Its membership is comprised of S.C. airports, aviation industry partners and aviators across the state. For more information, please visit scaaonline.com.

Boca Raton Airport Breaks Ground on New Observation Area

Kim Stevens

Pictured above from left are BRAA staff; Christine Landers (Office Manager) Robert Abbott (Finance Director) Richard Gurzo (Accounting Coordinator) Clara Bennett (Executive Director) Leonel Romero (Operations Intern), Hannah Naveda (Operations Coordinator) Travis Bryan (Operations Director) Katy Guerra (Accounting Intern).

The Boca Raton Airport Authority (BRAA) held a groundbreaking ceremony on July 9 to mark the start of the construction of the new Observation Area. The Observation Area will provide the public with the opportunity to experience aircraft up close and photograph planes without hindrance.

Pictured from left are: House Rep Peggy Gossett-Seidman, Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer, Boca Raton Executive Director Clara Bennett, City Council Members Fran Nachlas and  Marc Wigder.

The upcoming Observation Area will feature a modern, circular design with shaded seating for the public as they watch planes arrive and depart the airport. The observation area will be on a four-foot-tall platform with ADA-accessible concrete ramps and aluminum handrails. It will also have bicycle parking that can house eight bicycles and ample parking spaces for motor vehicles including accessible parking.

Additionally, the Observation Area will have several educational features incorporated into its design to help guide guests as they view a variety of aircraft. One exciting educational feature will be signage displaying background information on several aircraft housed at the airport. The observation area will also include an anemometer that will allow guests to observe the wind speed at the airport and a compass explaining different departure paths. These educational elements will hopefully create a fun experience for children and adults alike!

“The observation area will be a place where people of all ages can come and enjoy seeing planes take off at a close, safe distance,” said Boca Raton Airport Authority Executive Director Clara Bennett. “The Airport understands the importance of community and that is why we are excited to provide this area that will educate, inspire, and create memorable experiences.”

The Airport awarded the contract to build the Observation Area to Recreational Design & Construction, Inc. (RDC) in Fort Lauderdale. RDC was selected due to its impressive portfolio and 29 years of experience in the South Florida community. The Boca Raton Airport Authority looks forward to working with RDC to complete the Observation Area by the end of the year.

Annual ACE Academy Brings Aviation Careers to 32 Idaho Students

Kim Stevens

The Idaho Division of Aeronautics held their annual ACE (Aviation Career Education) Academy June 26-28, presenting aviation career options to 32 Idaho high schoolers from around the state.

“After months of planning and coordinating, the ACE Academy was a great success!” said coordinator Shelly Towner. “The teamwork was one of the best I have experienced – it all worked like a well-oiled machine.”

Participants were able to visit the Boise Air Traffic Control Tower, utilize Mission Aviation Fellowship’s flight simulator, and tour the Boise Airport where the biggest draw was seeing the bomb-detecting dog in action. Students toured the TSA baggage area, and viewed the ongoing expansion project from the top of the parking garage.

Students also visited the Idaho National Guard to learn about aviation career fields in Rotary Wing and Fixed Wing aircraft. They visited Skywest to explore airline careers, and Western Aircraft to explore turboprop and business jet aviation. The National Weather Service covered aviation weather services, and at the National Interagency Fire Center the kids saw how smokejumpers, drones and aircraft are used to fight fires. The Idaho 99s taught a mini-ground school, T-Craft Aero Club discussed opportunities to train in a flying club, and our 12 volunteer pilots took the kids flying.

Many participants were enthusiastic in their review of the 2024 ACE Academy:

  • “This camp was so awesome! I loved every minute of it and I really wish I could do it again next year. I want to be a pilot and I learned so much. Thank you!” – Mason
  • “I am grateful I was selected for this unique, exciting, and fun opportunity. – Nick
  • “Thank you so much for the opportunity!” – Anon
  • “Thank you so much for putting ACE together! I had a great time and learned a lot.” – Anon
  • “All of the instructors were so good, and they really made us feel like it was something amazing to be a part of and the way they were so passionate about it really inspired me!” – Anon

Pyka Signs SLC Agrícola as Customer for All-Electric Crop Protection Aircraft

Kim Stevens

Pyka, manufacturer of large-scale autonomous electric aircraft for crop protection and cargo transport, has signed a landmark commercial agreement with SLC Agrícola, one of Brazil’s largest agricultural producers, for the delivery of its fully autonomous and 100% electric crop protection aircraft, Pelican Spray.

Pyka Pelican Spray

This marks a significant additional customer engagement for Pyka, furthering its entrance into one of the largest agricultural markets in the world and setting the stage for the expansion of Pelican Spray operations into major row crops, including soybeans, corn, and cotton.

SLC Agrícola operates 1.7 million acres of farmland in Brazil and is a leader in innovative farming practices. The integration of Pelican Spray into its fleet will be tested with the aim of enhancing the company’s operational efficiency, reducing chemical use, and lowering carbon emissions, significantly furthering both its business and sustainability goals.

“We are delighted to work with Pyka and are excited to access the capabilities of Pelican Spray,” said Ronei Sana, SLC Agrícola’s Digital Agriculture Manager. “We have searched the market for an autonomous solution for aerial application that satisfies the requirements of our operation, and Pyka’s product is an ideal platform. As a fixed-wing UAS, Pelican Spray offers a rare combination of useful payload and spray precision that has the potential to reduce our operating costs for aerial application and help us meet our sustainability goals.”

“We are proud to welcome SLC Agrícola into Pyka’s family of customers,” said Volker Fabian, Pyka’s Chief Commercial Officer. “SLC Agrícola is a market leader in Brazil and an ideal partner to harness the capabilities of Pelican Spray. We look forward to seeing positive results as they integrate our aircraft across their operation.”

MSP Tops U.S. Airport in Travel and Hospitality Survey

Kim Stevens

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) was named the No. 1 U.S. airport in the 2024 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, which were announced July 9.

​The World’s Best Awards are based on hundreds of thousands of surveys from Travel + Leisure readers ranking airports, hotels, resorts and other sectors that define standards of excellence in travel and hospitality. MSP’s ranking jumped to the top spot from fourth place in last year’s World’s Best Awards survey.

Airports were rated in multiple categories, including access, check-in and security, restaurants and bars, shopping, and design.

“The best accolades are those that come directly from customers and travelers, so it’s an honor for MSP to be recognized by Travel + Leisure readers for industry excellence,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which owns and operates MSP. “Our many partners across the airport community are focused on delivering best-in-class service, creating accessible facilities, offering a refreshing mix of shops and restaurants, and — most of all — providing exceptional airport experiences for our travelers.”

MSP served nearly 35 million passengers in 2023 and is the second largest hub for Delta Air Lines, as well as the hometown base for Sun Country Airlines. Travel + Leisure wrote that MSP manages the flow of passengers well.

“This is, by far, my favorite airport in the country. It’s easy to figure out, easy to get around, and there are a lot of interesting shops and decent restaurants,” wrote one Travel + Leisure voter.

The 2024 World’s Best Awards are featured in the August 2024 issue of Travel + Leisure.

MSP is the 19th busiest commercial airport in North America. Earlier this year, MSP won top global and large airport awards in Cirium’s 2023 On-Time Performance Review. Airports Council International (ACI) also named MSP as the best airport in North America in 2023 through its global passenger survey program, in the 25-40 million passenger category. That recognition marked the third straight year — and seventh out of the last eight years — that MSP received the Airport Service Quality program title.