State News

Massachusetts Recognizes Aviation with a 577.3M Funding Plan

Kim Stevens

As part of its 2025-2029 Capital Investment Plan, the MassDOT Board of Directors this week voted to approve $577.3M for the MassDOT Aeronautics Division to fund the reliability and modernization of the state’s 35 public use airports. The figure represents the full amount in the original draft plan.

The overall $16.7 billion five-year transportation plan prioritizes a wide variety of local and statewide projects including rail, roadway, and investments in Regional Transportation Authorities.

The vote followed a 21-day public comment period for the draft CIP, which was open from June 20 through July 10. During that period, many MAMA members testified at public hearings and provided written comments in support of full approval of the $577.3M assigned to the Aeronautics Division.

MAMA President Chris Willenborg praised the outpouring of support from the Massachusetts aviation community to the plan which identified nearly two hundred proposed airport capital improvement projects planned over the next five years. Willenborg said, “It’s gratifying to note that the MassDOT Board of Directors recognizes the important work of the Aeronautics Division and the public use airports in Massachusetts.”

For more information on MassDOT’s CIP, please visit: www.mass.gov/CIP. The final FY25-29 CIP will be published on the website over the next few days.

ND Airline Passenger Boardings up 8% in First Half of 2024

Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its monthly report detailing airline passenger traffic at the state’s eight commercial service airports.

North Dakota’s air travel demand remains robust, with residents and visitors taking full advantage of the state’s air service opportunities.

During the first half of 2024, North Dakota’s eight commercial service airports saw a total of 593,550 passenger boardings. This marks an increase of 43,588 passengers, or 8%, compared to the first six months of 2023.

North Dakota airports also had their busiest June on record as passenger boarding numbers reached 102,030 passengers for the month. This surpasses the previous record of 100,067 passengers that was set in June, 2014. This month’s figures also represent a significant year-over-year growth of 11,022 boardings, which is a 12% increase compared to June, 2023.

“The record-breaking passenger numbers that we have been experiencing over the recent summer months is excellent news for the economic vitality of our state,” stated Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “Our airports are thriving and they continue to work hard to offer excellent service and connectivity for our residents and visitors.”

Jamestown Airport Construction Impacts:

The Jamestown Regional Airport’s primary runway had a pre-planned closure from May 7th – June 13th in order to complete a major pavement rehabilitation. Commercial service flights did not occur during this time period and the June’s boarding numbers reflect the impacts of this closure. Air service at the Jamestown airport resumed on Friday, June 14th.

June Passenger Records:

The Fargo Hector International Airport achieved a new monthly passenger record with 45,301 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for the month of June was set in 2023 with 40,174 passengers.

The Devils Lake Airport also achieved a new monthly passenger record with 887 passenger boardings. The previous record for the airport for the month of June was set in 2023 with 792 passengers.

View the June Airline Boarding Report

Aeronautics Commission Awards $10 Million in South Dakota Airport Terminal Program (SDATP) Funds

Kim Stevens

Earlier this summer, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) launched the South Dakota Airport Terminal Program (SDATP) following the successful passage of Senate Bill 144 in the 2024 legislative session. This bill allocated $10 million in funding to support airport terminal projects across the state, representing a significant investment in enhancing South Dakota’s aviation infrastructure.

“The SDATP funds will play pivotal role in strengthening the aviation infrastructure and enhancing economic development in our state,” said Joel Jundt, Transportation Secretary. “The SDATP will help our South Dakota airports meet growing demands and improve services for residents and visitors alike.”

On Thursday, July 18, 2024, SDATP fund requests were reviewed and awarded during the regularly scheduled Aeronautics Commission meeting. Following is a list of airport facilities who were awarded SDATP funds for terminal projects.

Airport Facility and SDATP Allocation:

  • Aberdeen:  $1,2000,000
  • Hot Springs:  $27,000
  • Rapid City:  $3,047,126
  • Sioux Falls:  $2,561,801
  • Spearfish:  $1,319,073
  • Sturgis:  $210,000
  • Tea:  $735,000
  • Watertown:  $900,000

The SDATP funds are unique, as they are one-time appropriations distinct from the traditional Aeronautics Commission policies. SDATP funds are designated strictly for construction reimbursement and exclude costs related to project planning, design, and administration. Local community effort and funding were critical components for consideration.

Eligible projects for SDATP funding had to meet stringent criteria:

  • Projects must be part of the Airport Capital Improvement Plan or included in the National Plan of Integrated Airports (NPIAS) submitted yearly to the state.
  • Projects must receive federal funding through at least one year of Airport Improvement Program (AIP) federal entitlements and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) allocation. This includes having submitted an application, awarded a grant, or committed to applying in the next federal funding round for federal discretionary funds.
  • Projects must not have been completed by the application deadline and must be scheduled to receive federal discretionary grants by Monday, Sept. 30, 2025, to retain eligibility.

WisDOT Celebrating Aviation in Wisconsin During EAA AirVenture

Kim Stevens

Aviation in Wisconsin is being highlighted this week during the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture, taking place in Oshkosh, WI through July 28.

EAA expects to host approximately 677,000 people and 10,000 aircraft and will generate more than $170 million in total economic impact to the region, according to EAA. Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed July 22-28, 2024, Aviation Week in Wisconsin.

“Aeronautics plays such an important role in the economy of our state” WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson said. “EAA AirVenture week is the perfect time to highlight how the state of Wisconsin is at the forefront of innovation in aviation. Our Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) averages $70 million in funding for 80+ airport improvement projects annually and our network of airports enhances the economic vitality of Wisconsin communities.”

The Wisconsin State Airport System is a global gateway for travel and tourism that boasts:

  • 123 public airports
  • 540 approved landing sites.
  • 5 million annual passengers.

Attendees are encouraged to come visit the WisDOT BOA booth in Exhibit Building A during EAA AirVenture week to learn more about the Wisconsin airport system and the various aviation programs that are offered across the state.

The Aviation Careers Education (ACE) program promotes aviation, and space education, and provides students experiences in aviation related jobs. Because of the partnership between industry, schools, and government, the WisDOT BOA can promote aviation/space education, including career opportunities, as well as assist employers in developing the next generation of skilled workers in aviation.

Additionally, the Fly Wisconsin Airport Passport program promotes safety and education by encouraging recreation al flight to all of Wisconsin’s  public use airports. It also supports general aviation airports, area businesses and tourism. This is a collaborative program of WisDOT BOA and the Wisconsin Airport Management Association (WAMA).

To learn more about aviation efforts in Wisconsin, please visit the following links:

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/doing-bus/aeronautics/education/ace.aspx

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/air/pilot-info/flywi.aspx

To learn more about EAA and AirVenture week please visit: https://www.eaa.org/airventure

Four New I Hart Flying Foundation Scholars Advancing Their Wings to Soar

Kim Stevens

Launched on Monday, May 6th and seeing more than 150 qualified applications, I Hart Flying Foundation recently announced the newest four scholars to their growing Hart Nation.

“Our diverse selection committee of industry professionals have the most challenging job to choose the best scholars that represent our Hart Nation,” shared Rachelle Spector, founder of I Hart Flying Foundation (IHFF). “It’s my pleasure to congratulate and welcome these talented women to our Hart Nation as we aid their journeys in flight and help them soar. Congratulations Arian Perez, Kayla Wildes, Ginger Kelly, and Shalynn Swails.”

A private pilot out of Midland, MI where the funds will support her instrument rating, Arian Perez shared, “What an honor to be chosen as a Hart Scholar from so many qualified applicants who undoubtedly share my passion for aviation! I am so grateful for this opportunity, which will allow me to complete the next phase of my training and bring me closer to my goal of spending the rest of my life teaching people to fly. Thank you I Hart Flying team and partners!”

This cycle of awards marks the third large scholarship offering as part of IHFF’s multi-year campaign, Hart Aviation Nation Delivers – H.A.N.D. for short. To date, 12 women became Hart Scholars receiving over $75,000 in flight training awards and packages since the campaign began in spring 2023. Plans for the fourth themed scholarship opportunity for the campaign are already underway. Since inception, I Hart Flying has awarded nearly $250,000 in scholarship funding and industry packages, to 39 scholars on record for the young nonprofit.

Scholarships surely do change lives and I Hart Flying is proud to have helped women soar since 2017. With her goal to become an airline pilot and currently working as a CFII out of Denton, TX, Kayla Wildes has plans to complete her multi-engine instructor rating. “Scholarships change careers, lives, and trajectories. I Hart Flying’s Scholarship just did all three for me! I am so thrilled and almost in disbelief of the opportunity this scholarship has presented. I can’t wait to use this new rating to keep training top notch pilots and changing their lives as well. This scholarship will touch many people, not just me,” expressed Wildes.

This themed scholarship opportunity, “Spring into Action,” is funded through the support of veteran partners Immaculate Flight, Sheltair, a grant from the Enterprise Mobility Foundation and new partners, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). IHFF’s community of donors and partners are loyal and new partners engage with the organization each scholarship cycle as a result of the organization’s success and meeting quality scholarship recipients at various industry shows.

Ginger Kelly, a student pilot in Memphis, TN working toward her private pilot and instrument ratings with the award is learning fast how strong this aviation community rallies behind her. “I am beyond grateful to have received the I Hart Flying scholarship! It will help me continue in my flight training and reach my career goals in aviation. I am also so excited to have such an amazing community supporting me now,” expressed Kelly as her sights are set on becoming either a cargo, freight or airline pilot.

Each opportunity is coupled with youth outreach events and speaking engagements to create a more hands-on approach to encouraging our youth to explore and experience STEM and aviation careers as well. Hart Scholars are given unique opportunities to attend these outreach events and shows where they have the chance to address youth, audiences and even network with industry professionals.

Located in Denver, CO working on her CFI rating toward the goal of becoming an airline pilot, Shalynn Swails shared, “I cannot begin to express my gratitude for this incredible opportunity from I Hart Flying. I will be putting the financial support towards my CFI training and will be able to start instructing students next month! It’s crazy to think that I started my own flight training only a year ago, and now I have the chance to give back to my very own students with the same amazing support and encouragement I have received in the last year through the help of this scholarship.”

These four Hart Scholars will have the support of financial awards, pilot training supplies and other flight equipment by a variety of I Hart Flying’s loyal in-kind partners. Some of these partners include King Schools, Bose Aviation, FLYING Magazine, AEG Fuels, FlyteCo Tower, Go Rentals, Boeing Business Jets, AOPA, Titan Aviation Fuels, Airbus Corporate Jets, Jet Support Services, Inc., Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems, Dassault Falcon Jet, and Veryon to name a few.

Each scholarship launch grows I Hart Flying’s Hart Nation, a community of valued partners, donors, collaborators, scholars, board members and the diverse scholarship committee.

I Hart Flying will have a large presence in Denver Col. September 7, 2024, for their second annual Hart Nation youth outreach event hosted by partner, Sheltair BJC (Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport), paired with a benefit gala hosted by partner, FlyteCo Tower. Interested exhibitors and partners can reach out to Lyndse Costabile, corporate and donor relations, for more information at: lyndse@ihartflying.org.

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.”

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.

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.