Mark E. Gale, A.A.E., Chair of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) for 2022-23 has awarded Oklahoma Director of Aeronautics Grayson Ardies a 2022 AAAE Leadership Award for his work on the U.S. Contract Tower Association Policy Board. Founded in 1928, AAAE is the world’s largest professional organization representing the individuals who work at […]
Oklahoma
Oklahoma Ranked #1 regarding State Readiness for Drone Commerce
In a Mercatus Special Study released this week, Oklahoma was ranked #1 in the United States regarding state readiness for drone commerce. In “Is Your State Ready for Drone Commerce?” Brent Skorup identified the strengths and improvement markers presented by George Mason University and compiled a state-by-state scorecard. Currently, the best place for drone commerce […]
Aeronautics Commission Approves 5-year Construction Program, Invests $184 Million in Airport Projects
During its May meeting in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission approved a $184 million Airport Construction Program (ACP) for fiscal years 2023-2027, with a total of 85 airport infrastructure projects serving 57 communities throughout Oklahoma. “I am thrilled to see this commitment and investment in Oklahoma’s rapidly growing aeronautics industry,” said Governor Kevin Stitt. […]
Oklahoma Legislation Creates Flight Path for Core Credit for High School Aviation Classes
Photo above – Career and Online Education Director David Day with Pryor High School Innovation Center is one of Five Oklahoma Aviation High Schools of Excellence teaching the AOPA “You Can Fly” curriculum. A three-year effort to qualify aviation and aerospace courses as core curriculum for students has been signed into law. The goal was […]
Oklahoma Legislation Lands Grant Program for More Direct Flights
A two-year effort has landed legislation into law to increase the number of direct flights between Oklahoma airports and premiere destination cities. Senate Bill 1461, by Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, and Representative Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City created the Oklahoma Air Service Development Grant Program (OASDGP), which will be administered by the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission […]
Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission Encouraging Grant Applications as Deadline Approaches
The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission’s (OAC) Aviation Education Program will conclude its application acceptance for the 2022-2023 academic year on May 31, 2022. Grants are for education programs that are aviation and aerospace minded for primary through post-secondary grade levels. The program funds are part of more than $335,000 the agency annually provides to programs statewide […]
American Airlines and OSU-Tulsa host Girls in Aviation Day
American Airlines and Oklahoma State University-Tulsa (OSU) joined together to host the first Girls in Aviation Day this past weekend. Held at American Airlines Hangar 80, located at the airline’s Base Maintenance facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Women in Aviation International event focuses on introducing young girls to the exciting field of aviation, educating them […]
Aeronautics Commission Staffer Recognized for 25 Years of Service to Oklahoma
At its meeting on Wednesday, March 9, the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission recognized Sandra Shelton for her 25 years of service to the State of Oklahoma by presenting her with a commendation from Governor Kevin Stitt and state service pin. Sandra Shelton started her service with the State of Oklahoma when she was hired by the […]
AERO Oklahoma Set to Soar March 30 at State Capitol
On Wednesday, March 30, 2022, from 9:30 am – 2:00 pm, the aviation and aerospace industry will assemble at the State Capitol for “AERO Oklahoma” Aviation, Aerospace & Defense Awareness Day. The purpose of the day is to recognize Oklahoma’s aviation, aerospace, and defense industry as a vital economic engine for our state. It is […]
Five Oklahoma High Schools Lead Aviation Education Charge, Named Schools of Excellence
There is a grass-roots aeronautics movement taking off in Oklahoma classrooms, and the aviation and aerospace industry is counting on an innovative program to reach new heights. The 4-year “You Can Fly” High School Curriculum developed by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is being adopted by independent school districts at a record pace […]