Georgia

Innovation Isles Aerospace Park Certified ‘Ready for Accelerated Development’

Kim Stevens

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), in cooperation with the Golden Isles Development Authority, today announced that the Innovation Isles Aerospace Park has earned a “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development” (GRAD) certification with “Select” status. The site’s new “GRAD Select” status provides an additional seal of approval that makes it especially attractive for future industrial development.

“The Innovation Isles Aerospace Park is a key addition to our GRAD site portfolio for its strategic location,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “The park is adjacent to Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, a regional airport with daily service to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and only a short distance to the Port of Brunswick, a national Ro/Ro hub. Combined with the speed-to-market advantages of a GRAD site, the park is a prime location for manufacturers and aerospace service or R&D companies.”  

The 650-acre Innovation Isles Aerospace Park is located off Innovation Drive and Jetport Road in Brunswick. The site is adjacent to the Brunswick Golden Isles Airport and less than 30 minutes away from the Port of Brunswick, which is one of two facilities that make Georgia Ports Authority the second busiest in the nation for total Ro/Ro trade. 

The site is just over five miles from Interstate 95, the major east coast artery from Miami to the Houlton–Woodstock Border Crossing between Maine and the Canadian province of New Brunswick. In addition, Innovation Isles Aerospace Park is less than 10 minutes from Brunswick’s central business district. Existing road access through the adjacent North Glynn Commerce Park will be expanded to become the primary entrance.

“We are thrilled to announce the GRAD certification of our new industrial site, a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to economic growth in the Golden Isles,” said Ryan Moore, CEO and President, Golden Isles Development Authority. “As we market our site and community for investment, it’s crucial that our workforce strategies evolve in tandem with our business attraction efforts.”

In 2020, the Golden Isles Development Authority and the Brunswick–Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce launched an effort to develop a community-wide talent development strategy for Brunswick and the Golden Isles facilitated by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia.

The results of these efforts have produced initiatives such as the teacher externship program, allowing middle through high school educators to step out of the classroom and into local industries. This firsthand exposure equips participants with the knowledge to guide students toward fulfilling careers in their community. The student industry tours, led by the CEO of the Golden Isles College and Career Academy and the Talent Development Strategy Leader, are another example of the proactive approach to workforce development in Brunswick and the Golden Isles.

Completing the GRAD certification program with GDEcD is a hands-on way for both community planners and landowners to help catalyze economic growth and industrial development in their regions. To qualify for GRAD status, available sites must meet the program’s due diligence standards, be reviewed by a third party, and earn the final approval of a board of advisors comprised of public and private sector economic development professionals. The GRAD Select status is an indication that a site has met or exceeded more rigorous certification requirements. 

The Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) Program offers more than 60 industrial certified sites that are ready for fast-track industrial projects, thanks to extensive prior planning and investment into site readiness. Economic development groups and landowners interested in obtaining GRAD certification for their property are encouraged to visit www.georgia.org/grad-certified-sites/application for additional information.

For aerial views of GRAD certified sites and property details visit: www.georgia.org/site-selector.

Open House June 22 Will Commemorate 80th Anniversary of D-Day

Kim Stevens

Photo above – Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia invites the public to its June 22 Open House to view WWII aircraft and other activities, in honor of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Airbase mechanics spend years restoring vintage WWII aircraft so the public can see and hear them in flight, or actually ride in one. Here, Maintenance Officer Randy Hawkins completes metalwork on a P-47 Thunderbolt undergoing restoration. (Photo courtesy of CAF Airbase Georgia)

Sights and sounds of the 1944 Allied invasion of Europe will be recreated at the CAF Airbase Georgia Summer Open House June 22, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Normandy. All activities will be at the Airbase hangar, 1200 Echo Ct., Peachtree City, adjacent to the Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field, from noon to 4 p.m.

Sit in on a reenactment of a bomber mission briefing, have a dog tag made, and enjoy the fleet of meticulously restored World War II aircraft on display and in the air at the Airbase Georgia hangar. For more excitement, book a Living History Flight Experience on one of the Airbase vintage aircraft available that day. Flights may be booked in advance at https://airbasegeorgia.org, subject to aircraft availability.

Volunteers dressed as Rosie the Riveter and WWII military personnel will add to the 1940s atmosphere. Exhibits and activities will include bomber turrets, paratrooper gear, a Link trainer, memorabilia for sale, and refreshments from a local food truck. The National Infantry Museum will be on hand with authentic equipment used by the U.S. Army in the fight to liberate Normandy. Visitors also may view aircraft undergoing restoration, including a Stearman biplane and a P-47 Thunderbolt.

“This may be the only event in the Atlanta area commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day,” said Airbase Leader Joel Perkins. ‘The mission of the Commemorative Air Force is to honor, inspire and educate. Airbase Georgia is proud to honor such a momentous event as a tribute to those who gave so much for the Allied victory in World War II.”

ACI Rankings Show Hartsfield-Jackson Leading the Skies Once Again as World’s Busiest Airport

Kim Stevens

In the heart of Atlanta, amidst the hustle and the constant hum of movement, stands Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – a titan of travel, a crossroads of culture, and now, once again, the world’s busiest airport.

Airport Council International (ACI) released their world airport rankings today based on the preliminary compilation of their World Airport Traffic Dataset. In 2023, ATL welcomed 104.7 million passengers, marking an impressive 11.7 percent increase from the previous year.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens reflects on this achievement with a mix of pride and perspective, “ATL’s success is Atlanta’s success and being home to the world’s busiest airport underscores our city’s economic vitality. It is a testament to our global connectivity and an affirmation of our city’s place on the world stage. This accolade celebrates not just the Airport’s success but the collective spirit and hard work of every individual who contributes to our city’s lifeblood, and my vision of Moving Atlanta Forward.”

“Securing the title of the world’s busiest airport once again is credited to the dedication and passion of the entire ATL team,” said Airport General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari. “Our shared vision of One Team, and our relentless pursuit of excellence keep us at the pinnacle of global aviation. Every takeoff, every landing, and every passenger served is a chapter in our ongoing story of success and service.”

Transportation Committee Chair Byron Amos adds a forward-looking perspective, “This recognition fuels our drive for continuous improvement and innovation. It is a reminder of our commitment to maintain and enhance the ATL experience in every way possible – to ensure that ATL remains the busiest, most efficient, innovative, and welcoming airport in the world.”

ATL’s story is more than numbers; it is the heartbeat of a city that welcomes the world at its gates. It is a gateway to possibilities, a beacon of Southern hospitality, and a testament to the endless potential of Atlanta.

Changes in the Georgia DOT Aviation Program

Kim Stevens
Colette Williams

On December 1, 2023, Steve Brian, the aviation program manager at the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) for the last nine years stepped down to make way for Colette Williams as the new manager. Ms. Williams has served as the assistant manager of the program for the last nine years. She played a key role in overseeing the Federal Aviation Administration’s State Block Grant and State Airport Aid Programs, administering on average $100 million in airport funding annually. Her former role provided her valuable experience in supervising project managers, monitoring project compliance issues, and providing technical assistance to airport sponsors and local governments.

Colette is a graduate of Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and holds a graduate degree from Central Missouri State University in Aviation Safety. She is an accredited member of the American Association of Airport Executives and a licensed commercial pilot. Before coming to Georgia DOT, she was in operational positions at the Titusville, Brunswick/St. Simons, and Savannah airports.

In taking on this new role, Colette said, “what an exciting time it is for airports and aviation. We are witnessing incredible growth in commercial and business aviation, along with electrifying development (literally and figuratively) in advanced air mobility within the industry. The sky is no longer the limit!”

Steve Brian will take on a new role as special projects manager for Georgia DOT’s Division of Intermodal on a part-time basis using his 44 years of experience in airports and transportation to assist the agency.

Tuskegee Airmen PT-19 Trainer Restored by CAF Airbase Georgia Returns to the Skies

Kim Stevens

Photo above – A WWII PT-19 Cornell trainer initially used by Tuskegee Airmen takes off for its first flight after two years of complete restoration by CAF Airbase Georgia members. (Photo by Charles Burcher)

After two years of dedicated restoration work, Fairchild PT-19A, serial number 42-83511, took to the skies again at Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field, in Peachtree City, Ga., on Jan.18, 2024. 

“This historic aircraft, originally used to train Tuskegee Airmen in World War II, had flown for Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia for many years, but the leadership team decided it was time to take it apart and inspect, restore and repaint it,” said Airbase Leader Joel Perkins. “Re-skinning the aircraft with fabric and applying an authentic paint scheme took a lot of time, but our members were committed to recreating a piece of aviation history.”

The aircraft was completely disassembled and inspected. The horizontal stabilizer was replaced, some supporting wood structures were replaced, and all canopy glass was replaced.  The aircraft was re-covered with polyester fabric, primed with a UV protectant and painted with Ranthane silver polyurethane. After new weight-and-balance calculations and final inspections, Air Force Major Gen. (Ret.) George Harrison, an Airbase Georgia pilot, was cleared to conduct a ground engine test and then take off.

This PT-19A was built Nov. 1, 1943, and CAF Airbase Georgia acquired it in 2006. It had been modified with a closed cockpit like the later model PT-26, to allow flying in inclement weather. It flew throughout the Southeast at airshows and fly-ins, offering rides to the public, until it was brought back to the shop for its restoration in 2022.

The PT-19 series was developed for the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1940 as part of its expansion program. It was a more advanced type of aircraft; inexpensive, simple to maintain and virtually viceless. It was one of a handful of primary trainer designs that enabled cadets to become pilots in the U.S. and Commonwealth training programs throughout WWII and beyond.

The cantilever, low-wing monoplane with fixed landing gear and a tailwheel featured two-place, tandem seating and an open cockpit. The simple but rugged construction included a fabric-covered, welded steel tube fuselage. The remainder of the aircraft used plywood construction, with a plywood-sheathed center section, outer wing panels and tail assembly.

Georgia DOT Seeks Aviation Technology Manager

Kim Stevens

On behalf of our client (Georgia Department of Transportation), applications are sought for the position of Aviation Technology Manager, for a long-term contract assignment working at their offices in Atlanta, GA. The primary duties of this position are to guide a state transportation program to advance air transportation related to Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). This position will be responsible for executing an aggressive implementation plan in coordination with other key personnel. The position will supervise staff with expertise in these areas of advanced technology.  

AAM involves the integration of innovative technologies, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and urban air mobility, to create efficient and sustainable transportation solutions for urban and regional environments. The manager will play a critical role in coordinating various aspects of AAM operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving the successful implementation of AAM initiatives in the State of Georgia. UAS responsibilities are limited to the Department’s program for use of these aircraft to improve internal safety, efficiency, and reduced cost to the department due to the advancement of this technology.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Operations Management:
    1. Develop and implement operational strategies for the deployment and management of eVTOL aircraft and related infrastructure in urban and regional settings.
    1. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish efficient operational workflows, including aircraft maintenance, charging infrastructure, airspace management, and passenger services.
    1. Monitor AAM operations in real-time, identifying and addressing any operational issues or disruptions.
  2. Regulatory Compliance:
    1. Stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and policies related to AAM and urban air mobility from aviation authorities and government agencies.
    1. Ensure that all AAM operations adhere to relevant safety and regulatory standards, obtaining necessary permits and approvals.
  3. Stakeholder Engagement:
    1. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, local governments, technology providers, and community members.
    1. Collaborate with stakeholders to address concerns, gather feedback, and communicate the benefits of AAM to the community.
  4. Technology Integration:
    1. Work closely with engineering and technology teams to facilitate the integration of eVTOL aircraft, avionics systems, and software platforms for seamless operation.
    1. Identify opportunities for technological advancements that enhance the safety, efficiency, and user experience of AAM services.
  5. Risk Management:
    1. Assess potential operational and safety risks associated with AAM operations and develop mitigation strategies.
    1. Develop emergency response plans and procedures to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the public.
  6. Data Analysis and Reporting:
    1. Collect and analyze operational data to measure the performance of AAM services and identify areas for improvement.
  7. Prepare regular reports for management and stakeholders to track key performance indicators and milestones.

Application Process: Client is not accepting inquiries and applications. Please direct all inquiries and applications to: (candidates should submit a cover letter and resume)

Mike Martin, Senior Account Manager

ResourceTek

520 Summit Hill Drive, Suite 1202, Knoxville, TN 37902

Direct: 865.934.4163

Email: mmartin@resource-tek.com

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in aviation management, aerospace engineering, transportation management, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in aviation operations, transportation management, or a related industry.
  • Strong knowledge of aviation regulations and safety standards, particularly as they apply to new and emerging technologies.
  • Excellent project management skills, including the ability to coordinate and manage multiple tasks and stakeholders simultaneously.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement and team collaboration.
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions and solve complex problems.
  • Familiarity with advanced air mobility concepts, eVTOL technology, and urban air mobility trends is a plus.
  • Joining a rapidly evolving field, the Advanced Air Mobility Manager will contribute to shaping the future of urban transportation while ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The role requires a dynamic individual who can navigate complex regulatory environments and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Transportation Planning, Engineering, or a related field
  • Five (5) years’ experience managing airport projects and supervising staff or consultants in the administration of aviation projects and/or programs
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to organize priorities and determine objectives/strategies to achieve assigned goals
  • Experience writing technical documents and understanding/interpreting federal/state regulations, statutes, planning and design standards
  • Experience using computer applications including spreadsheets and databases
  • Committed to providing quality customer service
  • Physical mobility necessary to maneuver over irregular terrain to conduct airport inspections

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience managing statewide and/or regional transportation projects
  • Experience working with Federal/State/Local government agencies
  • Experience managing capital improvement programs
  • Experience as a FAA Licensed Pilot
  • Experience in the fields of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)

Position Requirements: Full-time position with an office in Atlanta. The position further requires approximately 20% travel with some overnight stays. Successful candidates will be required to submit to and pass a drug test and criminal background check.

Salary and Benefits: Salary is based on qualifications and experience.  A full range of competitive benefits is offered.

CAF Airbase Georgia to Display 2 WWII Aircraft at Girls in Aviation Day

Kim Stevens

Two restored World War II aircraft from Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia will be part of this year’s annual Girls in Aviation Day Sept. 16 at Covington Municipal Airport, Covington, Ga. Women in Aviation International (WAI) arranges the entire day dedicated to inspiring young women and girls to explore careers in aviation. Activities are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Airbase Georgia, based in Peachtree City, Ga., will be displaying its popular P-51 Mustang, “Red Nose”, and a rare P-63 Kingcobra meticulously restored by the Airbase a few years ago, and named “Miss Betty” in honor of a Georgia woman who actually worked on building it. Betty Bishop was one of thousands of “Rosie the Riveter” women who staffed America’s factories during WWII. Some costumed “Rosies” from Airbase Georgia also will participate.

Photo courtesy of C. S. Smith.

“One of the key missions of the CAF and Airbase Georgia is to inspire young people to pursue careers in aviation, which fits perfectly with this event hosted by the Wheels Down South chapter of WAI,” said Airbase leader Joel Perkins. “Approximately 250 young people will have the opportunity to enjoy a full day dedicated to aviation.”

John Foster Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from IADA

Kim Stevens

OGARAJETS co-founder and a leader of the business aircraft resale industry John Foster III was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA). The award was in recognition for Foster’s 50 years in aviation sales while serving as a model of professional standards for the entire industry.

John Foster’s family celebrating the Lifetime Achievement Award from IADA (L-R) son David Foster, John Foster, son Johnny Foster, and Linda Foster, John’s wife.

Over 30 years ago, Foster was a founding member of the National Aircraft Resale Association, IADA’s predecessor organization. The association’s Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Foster at IADA’s annual spring meeting attended by more than 300 of his peers from throughout the global industry.

John Foster’s Mantra: Do the Right Thing, Always

“John Foster is an icon who is trusted, admired and emulated throughout the entire business aircraft resale industry,” said IADA Executive Director Wayne Starling, who presented Foster with the award. “A decorated Navy pilot, he successfully transitioned to general aviation and became a truly respected, very successful and well-known entrepreneur in private aviation. John Foster’s mantra has always been, ‘Do the right thing, always,’” added Starling.

Foster remains active at OGARAJETS, which he co-founded and is now headed by his son Johnny Foster. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes John Foster’s exemplary embodiment of IADA’s purpose and mission throughout his career. Foster is also a founding member, and past president, of the National Aircraft Resale Association (NARA).

Foster’s resale industry business practices have helped to influence and shape the entire aircraft transaction industry. Foster and IADA’s shared mission is to be the acknowledged leader in developing standards for efficient, effective and ethical business aircraft transactions, valued by highly skilled aircraft transaction professionals.

John, his wife Linda and family, have lived in Atlanta since 1973. The family is involved in their church and community, and have always been drawn to hiking, skiing, tennis and outdoor activities.

Legacy of Service

Following his service in the Vietnam War, decorated Navy carrier fighter pilot John Foster III moved from the military to join the general aviation community in 1973. He initially worked at Atlantic Aviation and Rockwell aircraft sales, and later became a leading sales representative at Beechcraft. In 1980, John and his squadron-mate and close friend, Ed O’Gara, founded O’Gara Aviation Company.

The company enjoyed steady growth over the decades. Today, the OGARAJETS team provides a full range of aircraft brokerage, private jet acquisitions, management, leasing and operational services for its growing list of clients in the U.S. and around the globe. The company has formed longstanding relationships with key personnel at major manufacturers including Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault Falcon, Cessna, Embraer, and Hawker Beech. In addition, the OGARA team formed business relationships with general aviation’s most prominent lenders, legal experts, maintenance facilities and aircraft refurbishment providers. The team has also provided leadership within the pre-owned jet broker/dealer community.

As an inventorying dealer for corporate jets—not merely a broker—OGARAJETS has an ownership perspective that benefits its clients. OGARAJETS is able to expertly evaluate operational and performance issues and provide insight on the true, total cost of aircraft ownership. OGARAJETS also has the financial strength to purchase trade-in aircraft—often a key factor in facilitating a transaction.

Hartsfield-Jackson Achieves Weather-Ready Ambassador Designation

Kim Stevens

Just in time for the start of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) attains the Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador designation. This earned classification formally recognizes National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) partners strengthening the nation’s resistance to extreme weather, water and climate events. As a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador, ATL will educate stakeholders and local communities on severe weather preparedness. Additionally, ATL is working with NOAA and other Ambassadors to strengthen national resilience against extreme weather.

This designation, received in mid-May, furthers the collaboration ATL’s Emergency Management (EM) has established with the National Weather Service (NWS) and strengthens the Airport’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its passengers and employees. ATL’s EM Preparedness Team spearheaded the effort to meet all requirements and guidelines.

“Our Emergency Management unit is the best in our industry,” said ATL General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari. “The safety of our customers, staff, and stakeholders is always our top priority. Pursuing and earning the Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador designation speaks to our commitment to ensure that when nature is at its worst, we are at our best.”

“I’m proud of the EM team’s actions that led to this designation,” said ATL Assistant General Manager of Emergency Management Gus Hudson. “This designation represents our ongoing commitment to partnering with our stakeholders, surrounding communities, state and federal partners in preparedness efforts of weather awareness.

This is ATL’s second designation by the NWS. It also earned StormReady designation in 2017, which underscores its commitment to increased weather safety awareness for passengers and employees. The designation also provides assurance of effective communication and preparedness before and during severe weather events. ATL is the first airport in Georgia and the second commercial site in the state to achieve StormReady certification.

Vintage FG-1D Corsair Gets New Paint Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

Kim Stevens

A World War II-era Corsair fighter based at Commemorative Air Force  (CAF) Airbase Georgia in Peachtree City has a new coat of navy-blue paint, courtesy of PPG and employee volunteers at the Delta Air Lines Technical Operations Center in Atlanta. Recently featured in the movie, “Devotion,” the FG-1D Corsair was carefully stripped to bare metal and repainted to return it to like-new condition. The paint design represents VMF-312, a Marine Corps squadron known as the “Checkerboards” that flew Corsairs in WWII and Korea. The unit flies F/A-18 Hornets today.

“We are extremely grateful to the employees and volunteers at Delta Air Lines for restoring this Corsair to its original appearance,” said Airbase Leader Joel Perkins. “This will delight the public and aviation fans who come to see the Corsair at airshows, aviation events and our Warbird Museum. We plan to showcase our Corsair at a Corsair Reunion scheduled for the EAA Air Venture in July, and for the Navy Legacy Flight Foundation program where it will fly in close flight maneuvers with today’s frontline fighters.”

The newly painted FG-1D Corsair from CAF Airbase Georgia gleams in the sun as it begins its flight from Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson International Airport to Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field in Peachtree City Ga. The entire plane was repainted by volunteers at the Delta Technical Operations Center, with paint donated by PPG.
(Photos courtesy of CAF Airbase Georgia and Josh Frizzell)

This Corsair was built by Goodyear as a supplemental manufacturer, giving it the FG designation. It never saw military combat but was used stateside in various roles until the U.S. Navy struck it from active duty in 1956. It was privately owned for a few years until it was sold in 1960 to CAF Hall of Fame member Marvin L. “Lefty” Gardner. The Corsair was last painted in 2001 at the Vought Industries Dallas facility, where it received the number 530 from VMF-312, representing 1st Lt. MO Chance. CAF Airbase Georgia has been home for the FG-1D “530” since August 2012.

Chance Vought manufactured 12,571 F4U Corsairs in the longest production run of any piston-engined fighter in U.S. history (1942–53). The Corsair served in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, Fleet Air Arm and the Royal New Zealand Air Force, as well as the French Navy Aéronavale and other smaller air forces, until the 1960s. It quickly became the most capable carrier-based fighter-bomber of World War II. Some Japanese pilots regarded it as the most formidable American fighter of the war, and the U.S. Navy counted an 11:1 kill ratio with the F4U Corsair. The Corsair also proved to be an excellent fighter-bomber, serving almost exclusively in that role throughout the Korean War and during the French colonial wars in Indochina and Algeria.