State Aviation Journal

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification
BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs […]
FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy
Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director […]
ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction
Photo – Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Executive Director Grayson Ardies led the Bartlesville Municipal Airport’s ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the airport’s taxiway on Monday, Sept. 8. The airport also broke ground on the future 20,000-square-foot hangar project anticipated to be completed by summer 2026. Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace […]
“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial
The “Yellow Rose”, the christened name of the vintage B-25J Mitchell WWII bomber, is once again touring the American skies. The bomber is completely restored to its wartime capabilities and is operated by the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. Photographer Griffey Bostock took advantage of the aircraft’s recent stop at Centennial Airport in Englewood, […]

State News

ATP Flight School Begins Training First Class of American Airlines Cadet Academy Students

ATP Flight School began training its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at its Charlotte-Concord training center. This milestone marks the first group of cadets to enroll in the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway through ATP, following ATP’s selection as an official partner school earlier this year. ATP Flight School welcomed its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at the Charlotte-Concord training center, marking the first group to begin training through the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway with ATP. “There’s a real sense of momentum as we welcome our first cadets to ATP’s Charlotte training center. This moment reflects both their ambition and our commitment to investing in future aviators,” said George Stahle, Managing Director of Regional Planning at American. “Launching this partnership in Charlotte is especially meaningful, and we’re excited to see how it opens doors for aspiring pilots in a region that’s so important to our company.” The cadets join 30 fellow students training in ATP’s industry-leading Airline Career Pilot Program in Charlotte, alongside more than 2,700 ATP pilots nationwide, to train in pursuit of their commercial pilot and flight instructor certificates. Through the Cadet Academy, cadets benefit from a clear and streamlined pathway to a career as an American pilot, while gaining the ATP advantage with a proven airline-oriented curriculum, a state-of-the-art fleet and a nationwide network of training resources. After graduating, the cadets will gain additional experience flying as flight instructors, then advance to one of American’s wholly owned regional carriers before transitioning to its mainline operations. Along the way, they receive support from ATP’s training and career services teams, as well as mentorship and professional development from American. “ATP’s official launch as an American Airlines Cadet Academy partner school is the next evolution of ATP’s proven track record of placing more than 1,500 graduates with American’s regional carriers,” said Michael Arnold, Vice President of Marketing, ATP Flight School. “We are proud to work with American Airlines to develop and foster their next generation of professional pilots, while continuing to provide our students with pathways and partnerships that lead to successful and rewarding airline pilot careers.” ATP’s collaboration with the Cadet Academy offers aspiring pilots in the Charlotte metro area a direct, accessible path to the flight deck and a career at American—the state’s largest carrier. To celebrate the launch of the partnership, ATP and American are hosting an open house and information session at ATP’s Charlotte training center Sept. 24, at Concord Regional Airport (JQF). Starting at 10 a.m., aspiring airline pilots in the area are invited to join, learn more about the Cadet Academy pathway at ATP and speak with pilot recruiters from American and its wholly owned regional carriers: Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines and PSA Airlines. For more details, visit atpflightschool.com/aaca-event.
Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the start, Legacy Flight Training has focused on one mission: delivering professional, technology-specific instruction that sets the bar for PA-46 safety and proficiency. Unlike other training providers, Legacy Flight Training offers: Standardized, professional training programs across all PA-46 models, ensuring consistency and excellence for every pilot. The only complete fleet of PA-46 flight simulators in the world, giving customers an unmatched opportunity to practice scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. Flexible training options that include classroom instruction, in-flight training in the owner’s aircraft, advanced flight simulators, and convenient online learning modules. “Our mission has always been clear—to deliver world-class, professional training that gives PA-46 owners and pilots confidence and peace of mind in every flight,” said Bill Inglis, Founder and Owner of Legacy Flight Training. “Marking 15 years in Vero Beach and 10 years in Scottsdale is a proud moment for our team. These milestones reflect the trust of our customers and the importance they place in the added safety provided by the addition of training in our simulators.” With a strong focus on safety, innovation, and customer service, Legacy Flight Training remains committed to providing Piper pilots and maintenance professionals with the highest-quality training experience available.

National News

GAMA Welcomes Two New Members

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has announced the additions of Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems and NLign Analytics as Members. Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems is headquartered in Bonita Springs, Florida, and was founded in 1981. They are a leading designer and manufacturer of aviation oxygen systems and accessories. Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems product lines include complete oxygen systems for OEMs, TSO certified oxygen masks, PMA cylinders, and MRO and aftermarket services. NLign Analytics, developing software since 2005 as a division of Etegent Technologies and officially established as its own entity in 2021, develops advanced software solutions for digital inspection, maintenance, and manufacturing data management. By unifying traditionally siloed inspection, performance, and design data into a single 3D environment, NLign maps results onto digital models with patented accuracy. In doing so, it transforms fragmented information into actionable intelligence that improves readiness, reduces risk, and strengthens decision-making across the product lifecycle. Trusted by leading aerospace and defense organizations for nearly two decades, NLign has delivered proven time and cost reductions while enhancing efficiency and fleet support.
Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs as flight schools struggle with aging fleets and rising costs amid unprecedented pilot demand. The B23 platform already holds EASA CS-23 certification in Europe, where over 1,100 Bristell aircraft have been delivered since 2009, establishing proven performance in commercial training operations. Nearly 100 Bristell aircraft are already operating in the United States today, popular among both flight schools and private pilots for cross-country flying, providing a foundation of real-world experience for the company’s certified aircraft expansion. Strategic Market Entry “This first FAA certification enables us to address the pilot shortage crisis with modern training solutions,” said Martin Bříštěla, CEO and Co-founder of Bristell Aircraft. “Flight schools need alternatives to aging fleets with 40-year-old designs. Additional B23 variants will follow this initial certification as we expand our certified portfolio.” B23 Interior The company plans to grow its North American dealer network by 50% within 18 months while pursuing certification for the complete B23 lineup, including Rotax 912iS, 915iS, 916iS, and IFR variants, providing comprehensive solutions for diverse aviation needs from basic training to advanced cross-country flying. Modern Training Economics The certified B23 delivers compelling economics with its 100 HP Rotax 912S3 engine featuring 2,000-hour TBO intervals and 4.5 gallons per hour fuel consumption, certified for both 100LL AVGAS and unleaded automotive fuel. “Training organizations save up to 35% on operational costs compared to traditional alternatives,” said David Copeland, Vice President of Sales. “For private pilots, the 700-nautical-mile range and spacious cockpit make it ideal for comfortable cross-country adventures, while the BRS parachute system provides an additional layer of safety that gives both pilots and passengers peace of mind.” Bristell Manufacturing Facility Czech Republic Advanced safety features include all-metal construction with rigid cockpit design. Key specifications: 1,654 lbs MTOW, 662 lbs useful load, and the widest cockpit in class at 51 inches for enhanced pilot comfort during extended flights. Market Availability Deliveries of the FAA-certified B23-912 begin Q4 2025 through Bristell’s North American dealer network. Sales inquiries and customer support available 24/7 worldwide through Bristell Direct at +1-316-215-8651.

International News

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs as flight schools struggle with aging fleets and rising costs amid unprecedented pilot demand. The B23 platform already holds EASA CS-23 certification in Europe, where over 1,100 Bristell aircraft have been delivered since 2009, establishing proven performance in commercial training operations. Nearly 100 Bristell aircraft are already operating in the United States today, popular among both flight schools and private pilots for cross-country flying, providing a foundation of real-world experience for the company’s certified aircraft expansion. Strategic Market Entry “This first FAA certification enables us to address the pilot shortage crisis with modern training solutions,” said Martin Bříštěla, CEO and Co-founder of Bristell Aircraft. “Flight schools need alternatives to aging fleets with 40-year-old designs. Additional B23 variants will follow this initial certification as we expand our certified portfolio.” B23 Interior The company plans to grow its North American dealer network by 50% within 18 months while pursuing certification for the complete B23 lineup, including Rotax 912iS, 915iS, 916iS, and IFR variants, providing comprehensive solutions for diverse aviation needs from basic training to advanced cross-country flying. Modern Training Economics The certified B23 delivers compelling economics with its 100 HP Rotax 912S3 engine featuring 2,000-hour TBO intervals and 4.5 gallons per hour fuel consumption, certified for both 100LL AVGAS and unleaded automotive fuel. “Training organizations save up to 35% on operational costs compared to traditional alternatives,” said David Copeland, Vice President of Sales. “For private pilots, the 700-nautical-mile range and spacious cockpit make it ideal for comfortable cross-country adventures, while the BRS parachute system provides an additional layer of safety that gives both pilots and passengers peace of mind.” Bristell Manufacturing Facility Czech Republic Advanced safety features include all-metal construction with rigid cockpit design. Key specifications: 1,654 lbs MTOW, 662 lbs useful load, and the widest cockpit in class at 51 inches for enhanced pilot comfort during extended flights. Market Availability Deliveries of the FAA-certified B23-912 begin Q4 2025 through Bristell’s North American dealer network. Sales inquiries and customer support available 24/7 worldwide through Bristell Direct at +1-316-215-8651.
WAI Celebrates 11th Annual International Girls in Aviation Day

Thousands of girls, ages 8-18, around the world on September 20 will be able to experience the 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day in their local communities through unique events hosted by Women in Aviation International (WAI) chapters and corporate members. WAI also offers additional virtual resources, activities, information, and instructional videos via the free Aviation for Girls (AFG) app, available year-round. Already over 190 events are planned at airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars across 40 U.S. States, two U.S. territories, and 30 countries across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Some 40,000 youth attendees will be introduced to the career and lifestyle possibilities in aviation and aerospace through meeting positive role models, career panels, exploring airplanes and airports, and a host of hands-on, fun, and educational activities ranging from sectional chart scavenger hunts, to making a tailwheel airplane, to learning about aircraft engines and avionics with maintenance technicians. To enjoy the full Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) educational experience, WAI event hosts provide activity kits to participants featuring a GIAD backpack filled with Aviation for Girls 2025, a propeller activity to teach aviation concepts, an aviation sectional chart for early navigation practice, a WAI sticker, an empowering glitter tattoo, the WAI Career Guide titled The Sky is Unlimited (www.WAI.org/aviation-careers) and a bandana to honor our pioneers. Additionally, caps, keychains, and special edition GIAD T-shirts for adults and children are available for a small cost. Kids who don’t have access to an in-person event can download the Aviation for Girls app for free to participate in a virtual Girls in Aviation Day. “In 2025, Women in Aviation International proudly celebrates the 11th anniversary of Girls in Aviation Day,” said WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “Thanks to the generous support of our partners, we’ve been able to grow this event far beyond a single day—reaching girls throughout the year through our Aviation for Girls program. Girls in Aviation Day has played a vital role in opening doors to aviation and STEM careers for thousands of girls worldwide.” To find a GIAD event near you, click here: https://www.wai.org/giad2025-events. You can also use the interactive map on the Aviation for Girls app to explore all events across the globe. Additional information and updates about Girls in Aviation Day are available at www.WAI.org/giad.

Unmanned Systems

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s K1000ULE Becomes Longest-Endurance UAS on DoD’s Blue UAS Cleared and Blue UAS Select Lists

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace announced that its fully electric K1000ULE UAS has been added to both the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit Blue UAS Cleared List and the Blue UAS Select List, the government’s trusted rosters of drones validated as secure, NDAA-compliant, ready for immediate procurement. The K1000ULE is the longest-endurance, longest-range aircraft in READ MORE
AgEagle Aerial Systems MicaSense Series RedEdge-P Multispectral Camera Available Now on Ascent’s SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ UAV Platforms

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. announced the successful integration and availability of its MicaSense RedEdge-P™ multispectral camera on Ascent AeroSystems’ rugged SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ coaxial UAV platforms. This fully integrated solution, now available for order, delivers unparalleled agricultural and environmental intelligence in a seamless, quick-connect package. The MicaSense RedEdge-P is an industry-leading multispectral and panchromatic sensor, READ MORE

Aviation Education

ATP Flight School Begins Training First Class of American Airlines Cadet Academy Students

ATP Flight School began training its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at its Charlotte-Concord training center. This milestone marks the first group of cadets to enroll in the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway through ATP, following ATP’s selection as an official partner school earlier this year. ATP Flight School welcomed its inaugural class READ MORE
Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the READ MORE

SBA Announces Newest Associate Team Member

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 Kim Stevens

Steven Baldwin Associates has announced the addition of Matthew Boemi as its newest team member. Boemi is joining SBA as an airport program director and will manage the execution of Syracuse Hancock International Airport’s (SYR) capital improvement program. Boemi comes to SBA from the Port Authority of NY & NJ, aviation department, and his most […]

3C and Horizon Aircraft Sign MOU for Collaboration on Certification and Services

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 Kim Stevens

Following a series of joint meetings, Flight Test Centre of Excellence (3C) and Robinson Aircraft ULC (Horizon Aircraft), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under which the two companies will collaborate on aspects of the continued development and path to certification of Horizon Aircraft’s Cavorite X5 program. The MOU establishes a framework for ongoing expansion […]

Warner, Thune Introduce Legislation to Support Integration of Drones into Airspace

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 Kim Stevens

Last week, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and John Thune (R-SD) introduced the Increasing Competitiveness for American Drones Act of 2023, comprehensive legislation to streamline the approvals process for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flights and clear the way for drones to be used for commercial transport of goods across the country […]

Golden LEAF Foundation Awards Funding to Coastal Carolina Regional Airport

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 Kim Stevens

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) recently received $753,700 in funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation as part of its Community-Based Grants Initiative. The funding will be used to extend public utilities and prepare land to serve a 90-acre Corporate Aerospace Development site planned at the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport. The end state of the project […]

Airports and Industry Collaborate to Demonstrate Feasibility of an “Intelligent Apron” Through AAAE’s ACT Program

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 Kim Stevens

The American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Airport Consortium on Customer Trust (ACT) Program, comprised of innovative airport leaders and aviation industry experts, has released its summary findings of a digitization pilot sponsored by Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Supported by industry partners, the pilot aimed to investigate how the application of new technology […]

WSDOT Aviation Welcomes David Ison

February 12, 2023February 12, 2023 Kim Stevens

David Ison recently joined WSDOT Aviation Division for Airport Land Use Compatibility & Emerging Aviation Technologies. He is also charged with monitoring and fostering emerging aviation technologies in the state to include sustainable aviation fuels, electric and hybrid aircraft, as well as advanced/urban/regional air mobility (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft – eVTOLs). Ison’s background […]

Jennie Santoro – Inspired by Terminal Design

February 9, 2023February 9, 2023 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Jennie Santoro represented the young professional’s perspective in a panel discussion entitled “Boomers to Zoomers: Passing the Torch to Generation Z!” at the 2016 ACC/AAAE Planning, Design, and Construction Symposium. Her involvement in the ACC Young Professionals helped her engage in industry organizations, become a speaker at a variety of conferences, and […]

Swift Tactical Systems and the Swift Group to Help Build a Platform for UAVs and UAMs Flight Planning for Urban Environments in Japan

February 9, 2023February 26, 2023 Kim Stevens

Swift Engineering announced its Japanese Subsidiary, Swift Xi, signed an agreement with Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) in a project called “Digital Infrastructure Development Project for Digital Transformation of Industries: Research and development on 3D spatial information infrastructures.” Both Swift Tactical Systems and Swift Engineering will support the project. “As the […]

U.S. Air Force Awards Large Aircraft Automation Study to Reliable Robotics

February 9, 2023February 26, 2023 Kim Stevens

Reliable Robotics, a leader in safety-enhancing aircraft automation systems, today announced a United States Air Force contract to explore the automation of large, multi-engine jets. This study will include a feasibility assessment of full and limited aircraft automation features for cargo operations. Remotely piloted aircraft will enable the Air Force to increase mission tempo worldwide […]

Larger Planes and New Equipment for Yuma Airport

February 6, 2023February 6, 2023 Kim Stevens

American Airlines wasted no time partnering with Envoy Air, Inc. in the wake of Mesa Airlines’ December announcement of their “consensual wind-down” with American Airlines effective April 3rd. This is a seamless transition as Envoy Air Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and operates more than 160 aircraft on 800 daily […]

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction

“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial