State Aviation Journal – Page 168 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport
The City of Springfield and the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board has announced the appointment of David Schaumburg, AAE, as director of aviation, effective June 28. His salary will be $220,000. “I am very pleased to announce Dave Schaumburg as the next director of aviation for the Springfield-Branson National Airport,” said City Manager David Cameron. “Dave’s […]
Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership
Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed […]
Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale
As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end […]
Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI
Photo above – Greg Principato with a US drone racing athlete at the World Games in Chengdu China, August 2025. By Kim J Stevens Throughout his life Greg Prinicipato has never taken for granted the men and women that he has worked with and met during his day to day regimen leading organizations like ACI-NA, […]

State News

Game on! MSP Airport First to Open Portal Lounge

The new Portal Lounge at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Photo Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission. Air travelers and gamers have a new way to unite at Portal Lounge, a first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment and social venue at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Portal Lounge — located in Terminal 1 at the intersection of Concourses C and D, and a short walk from the Concourse C tram — provides guests a full-scale work, rest and play destination that offers elevated food, bar and gaming experiences. “Our passengers have been asking for more unique and elevated experiences, and we’re excited to be the first airport to bring this new lounge concept to life here at MSP,” said Isabella Rhawie, vice president and commercial revenue officer for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP. “Beyond typical and standard, this airport lounge stands out in its experiential offerings that are sure to create a welcomed energy for a broad mix of our travelers.” Portal Lounge builds on the success of Gameway lounges, currently operating across multiple airports in the country. Founders Jordan and Emma Walbridge intentionally designed this concept to feel more like a social destination than a traditional airport lounge, combining premium food and beverage offerings with immersive entertainment experiences. The space offers signature menu items and a bar program with a star attraction — a robotic bartender that works in tandem with expert staff to create signature drinks exclusively for lounge guests. The 3,800 square foot space includes 600 square feet for gamers, featuring 17 dedicated stations with a mix of Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation and custom-built gaming PCs. Guests can access more than 25 of today’s most popular titles across casual, competitive, multiplayer and streaming-friendly gameplay. “Our mission has always been to make airports entertaining, and Portal Lounge is the fullest expression of that yet,” said Emma Walbridge, co-founder of Gameway. “This is what happens when you design a lounge for the next generation of travelers. The Metropolitan Airports Commission saw that future early and had the boldness to help bring it to market.” “The airport lounge category has remained relatively unchanged for years, while traveler expectations have evolved dramatically,” said Jordan Walbridge, co-founder of Gameway. “Portal Lounge was built around the idea that modern travelers are looking for experiences and destinations, even within the airport.” Travelers will be drawn to the space from afar with its custom portal-style entrance. Inside, its art deco-inspired design features lighting, artwork, music and custom furniture that boldly counters usual airport dwell time experiences. Portal Lounge is open to all travelers with walk-in access for approximately $70, if seating is available. Guests can also access the lounge through Priority Pass and participating credit card programs including Chase, American Express and Capital One.
Electra Completes First Urban Flight of Hybrid-Electric Ultra Short Aircraft in Downtown Charleston, Signaling a New Era of Regional Air Travel

Electra announced the successful completion of the first urban demonstration of its Ultra Short airplane at the Columbus Street Terminal, offering a real-world look at how regional air travel can move beyond airports to become faster, simpler, and far more accessible. Hosted by SC Ports during the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Americas, the flight (captured on video) highlights how Electra’s hybrid-electric propulsion and blown-lift technology enable takeoffs and landings in 150 feet or less, opening up entirely new places for air services to operate, called Ultra Short Access Points, like parking lots, rooftops, fields, and barges. While Electra’s EL2 technology demonstrator completed the flight, Electra’s flagship EL9 nine-passenger aircraft will ultimately serve as a regional shuttle to fill the regional mobility gap. “This demonstration is about showing what’s possible in the real world for urban/suburban airspace access,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. “When you can offer air services close to where people live, work and play, that opens the door to transformative options for regional mobility. It is new way to travel that’s more direct, flexible, and much easier to use.” This new approach is called Direct Aviation—a model that targets the more than 35 million daily trips that fall between driving and flying on routes where travelers can save hours by going direct without the usual friction of commercial air travel. It’s designed for a wide range of travelers, from business professionals looking to save hours in a day, to families trying to make the most of a weekend getaway, or anyone who wants to stay connected to loved ones without turning a short trip into an all-day journey. The Charleston demonstration builds on Electra’s recent release of the first-ever Direct Aviation Market Outlook, a nationwide analysis of U.S. travel patterns that quantifies the scale of regional mobility demand and outlines how Direct Aviation will reshape it. The report uncovers a massive opportunity: tens of millions of trips happen every day at distances that are too long to drive efficiently but poorly served by traditional aviation. These are exactly the kinds of trips where Direct Aviation will cut hours off door-to-door travel times. Among routes with at least 1,000 travelers per day, the analysis identifies: 1,851 routes with more than one hour of potential time savings 540 routes with more than two hours of potential time savings 227 routes with more than three hours of potential time savings Earlier this year, Electra was selected as an inaugural participant in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advanced Air Mobility pilot operations program (the “eIPP”), which is accelerating the safe deployment of Advanced Air Mobility aircraft. As part of that effort, Electra is working with public and private partners on groundbreaking demonstrations including connecting urban and regional destinations in Florida and linking metropolitan centers in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The company also supported the submission from the State of Louisiana.

National News

FAA Invests $523 Million to Modernize Airport Infrastructure in 43 States

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced last week that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has invested more than $523 million in airports nationwide to modernize infrastructure, improve safety and deliver a more efficient travel experience for American families. The Department delivered 332 grants to airports in 43 states through the Airport Infrastructure Grants program to support runway rehabilitation, apron and taxiway improvements, terminal upgrades, and other airfield investments. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “American families deserve state-of-the-art runways and infrastructure that will make their travel experience safer, smoother, and more efficient.” “The FAA is moving at record speed to deliver these investments to airports nationwide,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These projects will improve reliability across the aviation system while helping airports meet growing demand.” Airports receiving funding include: $70 million to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport for runway rehabilitation. $46.9 million to Charlotte/Douglas International Airport for apron expansion. $41.9 million to Miami International Airport for terminal reconstruction and fuel farm expansion. $18.7 million to New York’s Syracuse Hancock International Airport for deicing pad expansion and reconstruction. $18.6 million to Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport for new taxi lane construction. $18 million to Philadelphia International Airport for taxiway pavement reconstruction. $16.2 million to Orlando Sanford International Airport for taxiway extension. $10.9 million to Louisiana’s Baton Rouge Metro Airport, Ryan Field for terminal and baggage system replacement. $10.5 million to Nebraska’s Eppley Airfield in Nebraska for terminal and boarding bridge reconstruction. Additional Information: AIG funding may be used for airport planning, development, sustainability projects, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs. View a data visualization of the airports receiving funding.
Connico Welcomes Three New Hires to Support Continued National Growth

Connico has announced the additions of Spencer Grassi as scheduling project specialist, Melanie Moorhouse as analyst 1 and Gaurang Bhimani as analyst 2. Their expertise enhances Connico’s ability to provide detailed cost insights, support project schedules and strengthen field coordination, helping clients navigate complex project decisions with enhanced data and insight. “We’re building a team that can think deeper, move faster, and provide sharper insight for our clients,” said Sri Kumar, Connico president and CEO. “Spencer, Melanie, and Gaurang each bring practical expertise that strengthens how we show up in the field and at the table. This is exactly the kind of talent that helps Connico deliver innovative solutions.” Spencer Grassi, scheduling project specialist Grassi comes to Connico with nine years of construction industry expertise. He possesses a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Eastern Michigan University and is a certified project management professional from the Project Management Institute. In his role, Spencer will support the firm’s aviation and infrastructure scheduling services, ensuring deliverables remain efficient and aligned with client goals. Melanie Moorhouse, analyst 1 Moorhouse previously joined Connico as an intern while earning her bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from the University of Cincinnati. In her new role supporting cost estimating, Melanie develops data-driven cost projections for infrastructure and field services projects, helping clients make informed decisions, manage risk, and maintain budget alignment from planning through execution. Gaurang Bhimani, analyst 2 Bhimani joins Connico with five years of construction industry experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in construction management. In his role, Gaurang contributes to developing data-driven solutions and collaborates across Connico’s team to support successful project outcomes.

International News

Data-Driven Infrastructure Decision Making: Artificial Intelligence, Safety, Efficiency & Cost Savings

Silent Falcon’s Modification of Standard (MOS) for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AC 150/5380-7B Pavement Inspection has been made available for approved use. This process improves safety and is more efficient than the traditional inspection method—while also reducing pavement management costs. Approximately 3,300 public-use airports are part of The National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) and qualify for federal funding under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Silent Falcon has supported airport leaders with the application process. A step-by-step guide is also provided. The FAA last updated the list of NPIAS Airports in November 2024 Silent Falcon’s Inspection Method: Precise, Fast, and Saves Money Silent Falcon digitizes the airfield down to the thickness of a penny (approximately 1.5 millimeters) then uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze and assess collected data. This process highlights the macro and micro details of the surface. Silent Falcon provides accurate and meaningful intelligence so that organizations can make necessary repairs to meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The information provided to airport leaders guides decision making, which typically reduces rehabilitation costs while also improving Pavement Condition Index (PCI) scores.ASTM D5340 is the standard for airport pavement condition index surveys in support of the PCI test method. ASTM D5340 Section 7.5.1, the FAA-preferred approach, requires inspection of every sample unit within a pavement section to provide the most accurate and comprehensive PCI assessment. This is the methodology that Silent Falcon performs because it delivers a complete evaluation of pavement condition rather than relying on statistical estimates from a limited sample. In approximately one to two months, clients receive the final product from Silent Falcon after a scan. For instance, the team inspected Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport—one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. The project was completed without closing runways. After collecting required data and utilizing AI as well as predictive analysis to identify trends and patterns of airport runway pavement, Silent Falcon delivered the information via ArcGIS and Paver. This level of efficiency improves safety and saves money. Whatever is typically spent on pavement management, imagine using only half the cost with Silent Falcon’s capabilities. Silent Falcon’s inspections are conducted in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular 150/5380-7B, using the ASTM D5340 Section 7.5.1 methodology to inspect 100% of pavement sample units. The team also provides a complete, FAA-compliant assessment of pavement condition. Silent Falcon supports the inspection, documentation, and maintenance monitoring activities required under FAA Order 5190.6B, helping airport sponsors maintain compliance, prioritize repairs, and support long-term asset management planning. For anyone interested, please go to the company link or the ADIP portal and select Silent Falcon. Let’s see what industry leaders have to say about Silent Falcon! Jack McAfee, Vice President of Airport Operations at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), stated the following. Silent Falcon’s inspection of our runway at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport allowed us to delay an unnecessary and expensive rehabilitation project that had been recommended based on a traditional partial inspection. Their high-resolution digital twin and full-surface analysis revealed that our runway was actually in excellent condition, with a PCI score of 81 — well above any threshold for repair and federal funding. The accuracy, speed, and clarity of their process gave us confidence in our pavement management decisions, and their technology sets a new standard for airfield assessments. All done entirely without interruptions to our aircraft operations. I would strongly recommend Silent Falcon to any airport or agency looking for precise, defensible pavement evaluations and data-driven infrastructure planning. John Gorham, Manager of Projects at Jacobs said that Silent Falcon’s “100% coverage of pavement distresses provided flexibility in planning pavement rehabilitation projects as the data included all the distresses and quantities of the same.” Nate Cole, Airport Operations Supervisor at Missoula, Montana “The Silent Falcon team surveyed the airfield with precision and accuracy. It minimized our engineers’ exposure time on the runway and reduced our normal assessment time by 7 days.” Cameron Humphries, Part 139 Executive and former Los Alamos Airport Manager stated that our team “…did a superb job! Their technology optimizes every dollar and man hour spent on pavement maintenance.” Supplemental Information Imagine having massive amounts of information that support data-driven decision making! With AI, predictive analysis, and consideration of key variables, a runway’s lifespan can be accurately assessed. Some do not realize that the traditional inspection method covers around 10% of the surface, thereby resulting in the estimation of the condition for the other 90%. This guesstimate for approximately 90% of the surface leads to inflated budgets. There may be damage in the 10% of the inspected surface, but that does not necessarily equate to damage in the other 90% of the surface. Correctly identifying and repairing distress damage results in improved safety and increased cost savings. With the information that Silent Falcon provides clients, data for other variables can be analyzed such as wildlife and environmental trends, paint marking requirements, rubber deposits, airspace obstructions, security operations, financial analysis…yes, a client wanted to increase fuel sales so Silent Falcon looked at the data and provided courses of action to double fuel sales. However, fuel sales quadrupled! Global Support and the Future It’s incredible—the technology that comes from digitizing the airfield and putting it in the hands of smart people like airport managers, engineering folks, and fixed based operators. Silent Falcon has operated in several countries, to include working with the Royal Australian Air Force. Silent Falcon trained them virtually to collect required data then processed it and sent back the information in a usable format. Silent Falcon has inspected approximately 400 airfields to include U.S. Air Force installations. Information the company provides can assist with specific questions, like weather or not there is a 3-millimeter difference with slab edges. This is not manageable with the traditional inspection approach for millions of square feet of transportation infrastructure. Digitizing an airfield, having the surface completely detailed, and eventually providing clients with access to their data READ MORE
Inauguration of the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport New Terminal Recently Held

On May 26, VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council, respectively manager and owner of the airport, officially inaugurated the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc airport’s new terminal, in the presence of local elected officials and many stakeholders. The new infrastructure, result of a combined investment of €2.5 million co-financed by VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council, represents a major step in the airport’s development. Completed after 18 months of work between July 2024 and January 2026, the project is part of the overall €10 million investment plan launched by VINCI Airports upon taking over the concession in 2022, covering the fifteen-year concession period. The redevelopment of the terminal responds to a dual ambition: to improve the passenger experience, while aligning the infrastructure with high environmental standards. Carbon emission reduction: a decrease of 30 tons of CO2 equivalent per year thanks to the cessation of gas use, reinforced thermal insulation and precise monitoring equipment for water and electricity consumption. Improved customer and employee experience: with modernized spaces, the creation of three passenger lounges instead of one previously, and a dedicated crew area. Employees also benefit from more ergonomic and comfortable workspaces. Improved accessibility: integration of a new forecourt facilitating access for people with reduced mobility. This project is part of a comprehensive modernization plan for Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc airport. Since 2022, several renovations have been carried out on existing infrastructure, including: The restoration of runways, taxiways and aircraft stands; The installation of a new fuel station incorporating a charging point for electric aircraft and enabling the distribution of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Rémi Maumon de Longevialle, CEO of VINCI Airports, stated: “The inauguration of this new terminal marks a key milestone in the development of Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc airport. It reflects our commitment to providing optimal service quality to all passengers while integrating the airport into a sustainable and energy-efficient approach. Alongside the Haute-Savoie Council, we have leveraged our expertise to enhance the region’s influence and meet the shared ambitions for the airport’s future. I would like to warmly thank our teams and those of the Council for their outstanding commitment and work.”

Unmanned Systems

Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale

As the Federal Aviation Administration continues advancing the regulatory framework for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is expanding the real-world test environment companies need to move from promising technology to operational reality. Located in Springfield, Ohio, NAAMCE is the only facility in the United States offering an end-to-end READ MORE
Vantis Expands BVLOS Capabilities as Frontier Precision Joins as New Champion Operator

Vantis, North Dakota’s beyond‑visual‑line‑of‑sight (BVLOS) system, has reached another major milestone with the onboarding of Frontier Precision as its second champion operator. Frontier Precision has secured a new FAA waiver for BVLOS operations, expanding their operational capabilities available through the Vantis service volumes. The waiver is fully aircraft‑agnostic for systems under 55 pounds, allowing Frontier READ MORE

Aviation Education

Epic Flight Academy Launches 6-Month Fast Track Pilot Program

Epic Flight Academy has launched a six-month fast track pilot program for students who prefer to accelerate their flight training. Students commit to training 7 days a week and dedicate 12–14 hours per day to flight training, simulator work, and study. They will earn private pilot, instrument, commercial single-engine, and commercial multi-engine ratings. Epic founder READ MORE
Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Photo Caption: West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt and Marshall University President Brad D. Smith sign a ceremonial agreement launching a new aviation pathway for West Virginia students. West Virginia students will have a direct route to high-demand and high-wage careers through the new Aviation Innovation and Readiness West Virginia (AIRWV) Pathway developed READ MORE

Crisalion Mobility Strengthens Management Team and Appoints Alberto MuÃ±oz-Domper as CFO

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

Crisalion Mobility, a Spanish leader in the design and development of advanced electric mobility solutions that are efficient, safe and sustainable, has appointed Alberto MuÃ±oz-Domper as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With more than two decades’ experience in the financial sector, Alberto MuÃ±oz-Domper’s invaluable strategic expertise will be crucial to Crisalion Mobility’s future growth. […]

GeoCue Welcomes The LiDAR Pros to Its Distribution Network Expanding LiDAR Coverage Throughout the Western U.S.

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

GeoCue, a leading provider of drone LiDAR mapping hardware and software, is pleased to announce the addition of The LiDAR Pros (TLP) to its growing distribution network. Based in Las Vegas, Nevada, The LiDAR Pros will serve as a key distributor covering Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Southern California, and Western Arizona providing TrueView 3D Imaging Sensors, […]

Aviation Institute of Maintenance Welcomes New Campus Executive Director in Manassas

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Dengler to the role of Campus Executive Director at the Manassas campus. Dengler brings over three decades of experience in admissions, operations, and campus leadership, making him a valuable addition to the AIM family. Dengler holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in […]

VI&E Solutions Appoints Jeremiah Behling as Board Chairman

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

Volatus Infrastructure & Energy Solutions has continued to grow its Board of Directors by appointing Jeremiah Behling “JB” as Board Chairman. JB brings a wealth of knowledge from the financial industry and will help direct and advise VI&E Solutions as the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry matures. “We are honored to have Jeremiah not only […]

Legendary Designer Burt Rutan Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

Burt Rutan, whose innovative designs have captured the world of flight ranging from homebuilt aircraft to space vehicles, will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2024 with appearances and forums coinciding with the 50th anniversary of his VariEze canard aircraft design. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 is July 22-28 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “Burt […]

Greater Delaware Valley ‘Girls in Aviation Day’ Coming to Northeast Philadelphia Airport

March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 Kim Stevens

A rescheduled date of Saturday, March 16, Women in Aviation International (WAI) corporate member Atlantic Aviation at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) is hosting their first Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) Greater Delaware Valley at PNE – an annual outreach event organized by nonprofit, Aviation Influence, Inc. (AVi). Taking place at Atlantic Aviation’s PNE location, this […]

Dynamic Group of Keynote Speakers Set for WAI2024 Conference

March 4, 2024March 4, 2024 Kim Stevens

Women in Aviation International members and conference attendees will no doubt be inspired with the stellar roster of speakers scheduled for the 35th Annual Women in Aviation Conference, March 21-23 at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida. “Our annual three-day gathering is a unique opportunity to meet an inspiring group of keynote speakers […]

Piper M700 FURY Earns Type Certification by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration

March 4, 2024March 4, 2024 Kim Stevens

Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced today the type certification of its new flagship aircraft, the Piper M700 FURY, by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, achieved on February 29, 2024. This certification is a significant milestone for Piper Aircraft, coming quickly after the new aircraft’s announcement on February 6, 2024. Customer deliveries will begin immediately. With a […]

Banner Year for AOPA Foundation You Can Fly Challenge

March 4, 2024March 4, 2024 Kim Stevens

Helping to ensure a bright future for general aviation through important initiatives that grow the pilot population and help keep it safe, AOPA members and the GA community once again came through in droves. Between the You Can Fly Challenge window of June 1 and December 31, 2023, more than 2,900 donors gave more than […]

Commercial Drone Alliance Welcomes Guardian Agriculture’s Matt Beckwith to its Board of Directors

March 4, 2024March 4, 2024 Kim Stevens

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA), an independent 501c6 non-profit organization led by key members of the commercial drone industry, has announced that Matt Beckwith, VP of Business Development and Regulatory Affairs at Guardian Agriculture, has joined its Board of Directors. Guardian Agriculture develops electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) systems for commercial-scale sustainable farming. “Our […]

Dave Schaumburg Named Next Director of Aviation for Springfield-Branson National Airport

Marshall and W.Va. Department of Education Launch Aviation Pathway Partnership

Ohio’s NAAMCE Expands the Test Environment Advanced Air Mobility Innovators Need to Validate and Scale

Principato Leading in Air Sports World as President of FAI