State Aviation Journal

Aims Celebrates New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center
Aims Community College in Colorado celebrated National Aviation Day, August 19, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new, state-of-the-art Aircraft Maintenance Training Center (AMTC). This is a soft opening for the nearly 60,000 square foot facility. Renovations are still underway and classes are set to begin for the new Aircraft Maintenance Technician program in January […]
Skyborne Partners with Stratus Financial to Break Down Barriers to Pilot Training in the US
Skyborne Airline Academy has announced a partnership with Stratus Financial to provide funding solutions and tailored support to aspiring pilots in the US. Students based at Skyborne’s facility in Vero Beach, Florida can apply for loans of up to $140,000 to cover the full cost or a portion of their chosen course, helping to make […]
John T. Hart Named DOAV Deputy Director for Airport Services
John T. Hart has been chosen as the Virginia Department of Aviation’s (DOAV) new deputy director for Airport Services following a nationally competitive search process. He replaces Vernon Carter who retired earlier this year after 38 years of service to the Commonwealth. As deputy director, Hart will oversee 10 professionals in engineering, environmental, planning, and […]
Narrow-Body Aircraft Leading the Way Toward Greater Energy Efficiency in the Air Cargo Industry
The role of narrow-body freighter in the air cargo industry has progressed quickly in recent years, largely due to the introduction of new-generation freighters tailored to meet current logistics demands. Certain aircraft, like the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A321-200, have been introduced with more fuel-efficient engines and optimized cargo configurations, making them ideal for short- […]

State News

New Amelia Earhart Terminal Opens at Purdue University Airport

Photo above – The Purdue University Fire Department provides a water cannon salute Friday (Aug. 8) as a plane taxis at a ceremony marking the opening of the new Amelia Earhart Terminal at the Purdue University Airport. (Purdue University photo/Kelsey Lefever) History took flight August 8th with a special ceremony marking the opening of the new Amelia Earhart Terminal at the Purdue University Airport and the enhancement of commercial air services. The terminal was named for Amelia Earhart to honor her historic connection to Purdue. Earhart was an advisor and counselor in careers for women at Purdue from 1935-37. She focused on vocational aptitudes, goals and careers for women. She also flew out of Purdue University Airport in the 1930s when it became the nation’s first university-owned airport. Cutting the ribbon during Friday’s (Aug. 8) ceremony were, from left, Purdue President Mung Chiang; West Lafayette Mayor Erin Easter; Gary Lehman, chair of the Purdue Board of Trustees; Jessica Robertson, Purdue’s associate vice president for Auxiliary Services; and Kevin Peters, director of United’s network and fleet strategy. (Purdue University photo/ Kelsey Lefever) The terminal opening event brought together university leaders, project partners and community members to celebrate the completion of the new terminal and launch of United Express flights operated by SkyWest, which started Tuesday (Aug. 5). The new terminal expands access to convenient air travel while enhancing Purdue’s presence as a regional hub for innovation and connectivity. A project with this kind of impact is successful largely due to the university’s partnerships with various stakeholders, including Lilly Endowment Inc., READI and surrounding communities. “Thanks to the partnerships with leaders of our state and local community, Purdue University Airport now has a new commercial passenger service terminal honoring the Boilermaker legacy of Amelia Earhart who once taught aviation right here,” said Purdue President Mung Chiang. “The new aircraft and service are yet another reflection of the tremendous economic growth in Greater Lafayette today and will further accelerate the creation of jobs, talent and innovation along America’s Hard Tech Corridor.” The 10,000-square-foot facility is designed and built to meet Transportation Security Administration and Federal Aviation Administration requirements. It also meets the needs of the larger, 50-passenger commercial flights between Purdue University Airport and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The terminal, named to honor Amelia Earhart’s historic connections to Purdue, features Purdue-branded displays, new screening equipment, and a waiting area with new furniture and a small marketplace. (Purdue University photo/ Kelsey Lefever) “United and SkyWest are excited to partner with Purdue University to launch this new jet service,” said Kevin Peters, director of United’s network and fleet strategy. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to making the service a success, and we thank Purdue for its vision and support that made it a reality. With just one flight to Chicago, passengers can easily connect to destinations around the world on United’s global network.” The terminal’s exterior features curbside drop-off space, new signage and landscaping. A hangar was demolished to make way for a new parking lot, and safety improvements have been made to other parking areas and the railroad pedestrian crossing. Once passengers check in for their flight in the lobby, featuring Purdue-branded graphics, they progress through security, which includes new screening equipment from the TSA. After security, passengers will wait to board planes in an area with new furniture and a small marketplace. “It was important for this terminal to have a special look and feel while also providing convenience and comfort,” said Jessica Robertson, Purdue’s associate vice president for Auxiliary Services. “Providing commercial air services again is a significant achievement for the university, and we want to share the Boilermaker pride with passengers traveling to and from our historic airport.”
Future of South Carolina Aviation on the Rise

Photo above – Gary Siegfried, Executive Director of the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission. Aviation is having a tremendous impact on the state of South Carolina. Events such as Aviation Week bring together airports, industry leaders, educators, and public officials to highlight the value of aviation to communities throughout the state, and the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission (SCAC) will continue to be “right in the middle of it,” says Gary Siegfried, Executive Director. While the South Carolina Aviation Association organizes and leads this statewide event, SCAC helps by providing data, expertise, and strategic support that help tell the full story of aviation’s impact in South Carolina. “We work closely with airports, state leaders, and local partners to showcase airport improvement projects funded through state and federal programs, and we use the week to share the latest economic impact data, highlight workforce development efforts, and reinforce the importance of aviation safety and infrastructure planning,” said Siegfried. The collaboration is seeing results. “I think the future of aviation in South Carolina is on the rise—literally and figuratively. From rising passenger traffic and thriving general aviation to our world-class aerospace industry, the opportunities are tremendous,” noted Siegfried. “Our airports connect communities, fuel local economies, and open doors for tourism and business.” Siegfried says the Aeronautics Commission is investing in runways and taxiways, supporting education opportunities for the next generation of aviation professionals, and showcasing South Carolina as a place where aviation can truly take off. “Our challenge is to find additional revenue sources to ensure that we can support our airports’ much needed capital improvements.” The result of this year’s state budget was good news-bad news-good news. “The good news was that we received $5.35M in recurrent funding and $5.0M in one time funding to support our general aviation airports,” said Siegfried. “This will supplement our normal revenue stream of about $13.5M.” The recurrent funding represents the first time that significant, reliable funding has been added to the agency’s budget. As long as the normal revenue stream remains consistent, the Commission should be in a good position to fund general aviation airports’ capital needs. “The bad news is that the agency requested significantly more recurrent funding than $5.35M, hoping to implement a new program for our commercial airports,” said Siegfried. “We were not successful this year but hope reigns eternal and we will try again during next year’s budget cycle.” There was good news however for the commercial service airports in this year’s budget. “The legislature did allocate $80M for commercial airports through the Commerce Department,” noted Siegfried. “So, even though this money is not coming through Aeronautics, it was directed toward the commercial airports to help them with their vital capital improvements, and we consider that a win.” Although the recurrent funding was not what they hoped it would be, Siegfried believes the fact that they received some reflects a growing recognition by the state leadership of the critical role aviation plays in South Carolina’s economic and community wellbeing. “We are thankful for this show of support and confidence from Governor McMaster and our legislators.” Funding has always been tight. When Siegfried arrived at Aeronautics in 2016, the agency had about $1.9 million available to support the airport development program. “My predecessors, Paul Werts and James Stephens, laid important groundwork for increased funding, and because of their efforts, we now do a much better job supporting our general aviation airports.” Going forward, the major emphasis for the Commission remains largely the same as in previous years; The ongoing effort to secure additional funding, especially for the commercial service airports. When Siegfried became director in September 2022, one of his top priorities was to advocate for state funding for commercial airports. “With our normal revenue stream (airline property tax and aviation fuel tax) and the addition of $5.35M recurring funding, we are able to keep up with most of the general aviation needs,” said Siegfried. “But we will continue to advocate for the commercial service airports to bring them reliable, recurrent state assistance.” Siegfried says the next point of emphasis is their ongoing challenge with incompatible land uses encroaching upon their airports. “With the explosive growth in South Carolina we are seeing ongoing and increasing development encroachment around our airports. It is crucial that we protect airports so that their utility and safety remain intact.” There has also been explosive growth in drone technology. Having invested in drones early, the Commission continues to integrate drones into their airport operations in meaningful ways. “They are an essential tool for our airport inspection process, allowing us to safely and efficiently collect detailed imagery of close-in approaches to identify potential obstructions,” said Siegfried. Beyond inspections, they use drones to capture aerial imagery during construction projects, helping to monitor progress and ensure accuracy. “As the technology evolves, we’re exploring new ways drones can support safety, planning, and engineering—making them a versatile and increasingly important part of our toolbox.” For Siegfried, who plans on retiring at the end of the year, holding the position of Executive Director has been one of the most challenging—and most rewarding—chapters of his career. “South Carolina is growing rapidly, and with that growth comes the challenge of protecting our airports from development encroachment while ensuring they can meet the needs of our communities. It hasn’t always been easy, but I believe I’m leaving the agency stronger than I found it, with our airports better positioned to serve South Carolinians well into the future.” As for the next chapter in his life, Siegfried does plan to stay connected to aviation in some way, saying, “it’s hard to remember a time when I wasn’t interested in aviation.” But first, he wants to spend a year traveling. There’s a huge part of the United States he’s never seen, and plenty of bucket-list destinations waiting. “Once I’ve had my fill of that adventure, I’ll see where my path in the aviation industry might lead next.”

National News

Future of South Carolina Aviation on the Rise

Photo above – Gary Siegfried, Executive Director of the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission. Aviation is having a tremendous impact on the state of South Carolina. Events such as Aviation Week bring together airports, industry leaders, educators, and public officials to highlight the value of aviation to communities throughout the state, and the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission (SCAC) will continue to be “right in the middle of it,” says Gary Siegfried, Executive Director. While the South Carolina Aviation Association organizes and leads this statewide event, SCAC helps by providing data, expertise, and strategic support that help tell the full story of aviation’s impact in South Carolina. “We work closely with airports, state leaders, and local partners to showcase airport improvement projects funded through state and federal programs, and we use the week to share the latest economic impact data, highlight workforce development efforts, and reinforce the importance of aviation safety and infrastructure planning,” said Siegfried. The collaboration is seeing results. “I think the future of aviation in South Carolina is on the rise—literally and figuratively. From rising passenger traffic and thriving general aviation to our world-class aerospace industry, the opportunities are tremendous,” noted Siegfried. “Our airports connect communities, fuel local economies, and open doors for tourism and business.” Siegfried says the Aeronautics Commission is investing in runways and taxiways, supporting education opportunities for the next generation of aviation professionals, and showcasing South Carolina as a place where aviation can truly take off. “Our challenge is to find additional revenue sources to ensure that we can support our airports’ much needed capital improvements.” The result of this year’s state budget was good news-bad news-good news. “The good news was that we received $5.35M in recurrent funding and $5.0M in one time funding to support our general aviation airports,” said Siegfried. “This will supplement our normal revenue stream of about $13.5M.” The recurrent funding represents the first time that significant, reliable funding has been added to the agency’s budget. As long as the normal revenue stream remains consistent, the Commission should be in a good position to fund general aviation airports’ capital needs. “The bad news is that the agency requested significantly more recurrent funding than $5.35M, hoping to implement a new program for our commercial airports,” said Siegfried. “We were not successful this year but hope reigns eternal and we will try again during next year’s budget cycle.” There was good news however for the commercial service airports in this year’s budget. “The legislature did allocate $80M for commercial airports through the Commerce Department,” noted Siegfried. “So, even though this money is not coming through Aeronautics, it was directed toward the commercial airports to help them with their vital capital improvements, and we consider that a win.” Although the recurrent funding was not what they hoped it would be, Siegfried believes the fact that they received some reflects a growing recognition by the state leadership of the critical role aviation plays in South Carolina’s economic and community wellbeing. “We are thankful for this show of support and confidence from Governor McMaster and our legislators.” Funding has always been tight. When Siegfried arrived at Aeronautics in 2016, the agency had about $1.9 million available to support the airport development program. “My predecessors, Paul Werts and James Stephens, laid important groundwork for increased funding, and because of their efforts, we now do a much better job supporting our general aviation airports.” Going forward, the major emphasis for the Commission remains largely the same as in previous years; The ongoing effort to secure additional funding, especially for the commercial service airports. When Siegfried became director in September 2022, one of his top priorities was to advocate for state funding for commercial airports. “With our normal revenue stream (airline property tax and aviation fuel tax) and the addition of $5.35M recurring funding, we are able to keep up with most of the general aviation needs,” said Siegfried. “But we will continue to advocate for the commercial service airports to bring them reliable, recurrent state assistance.” Siegfried says the next point of emphasis is their ongoing challenge with incompatible land uses encroaching upon their airports. “With the explosive growth in South Carolina we are seeing ongoing and increasing development encroachment around our airports. It is crucial that we protect airports so that their utility and safety remain intact.” There has also been explosive growth in drone technology. Having invested in drones early, the Commission continues to integrate drones into their airport operations in meaningful ways. “They are an essential tool for our airport inspection process, allowing us to safely and efficiently collect detailed imagery of close-in approaches to identify potential obstructions,” said Siegfried. Beyond inspections, they use drones to capture aerial imagery during construction projects, helping to monitor progress and ensure accuracy. “As the technology evolves, we’re exploring new ways drones can support safety, planning, and engineering—making them a versatile and increasingly important part of our toolbox.” For Siegfried, who plans on retiring at the end of the year, holding the position of Executive Director has been one of the most challenging—and most rewarding—chapters of his career. “South Carolina is growing rapidly, and with that growth comes the challenge of protecting our airports from development encroachment while ensuring they can meet the needs of our communities. It hasn’t always been easy, but I believe I’m leaving the agency stronger than I found it, with our airports better positioned to serve South Carolinians well into the future.” As for the next chapter in his life, Siegfried does plan to stay connected to aviation in some way, saying, “it’s hard to remember a time when I wasn’t interested in aviation.” But first, he wants to spend a year traveling. There’s a huge part of the United States he’s never seen, and plenty of bucket-list destinations waiting. “Once I’ve had my fill of that adventure, I’ll see where my path in the aviation industry might lead next.”
H55’s All-Electric B23 Energic Concludes 8-State “Across America” Tour

H55 has completed its landmark 8-state “Across America” tour, introducing its Electric Propulsion System (EPS) aboard the Bristell B23 Energic to flight schools, aircraft owners, professional pilots, aviation universities, the US Air Force, aviation enthusiasts and industry stakeholders. Over a four-month period, the aircraft completed 192 all-electric passenger flights, visiting 25 airports across Florida, Alabama, Arizona, Nevada, California, Colorado, Wisconsin, and New York—offering the U.S. market a firsthand experience of electric flight technology now ready for real-world application. Proving the Commercial Case Over the course of the tour, H55 validated that the B23 Energic is market-ready — with no price, performance, or reliability barriers preventing near-term sales. Flight schools and private buyers responded immediately, with instant commitments from early adopters and active large-scale procurement discussions underway. “During the tour, I met countless pilots who joined us for demonstration flights. The smiles on their faces as they stepped out of the airplane said it all. The advantages of electric aviation were immediately clear to every passenger—no noise, no vibration, no emissions, reduced maintenance, and minimal downtime—an unforgettable experience. Some pilots were so convinced they placed orders on the spot. Our U.S. tour proved two things beyond doubt: electric aviation, and especially the B23, delivers exactly what flight schools are looking for—and it already exceeds the expectations of many private and professional pilots,” said André Borschberg, H55 Co-Founder and Executive Chairman. Key Proof Points from the Tour Noise breakthrough: 1/10th of intensity of the noise measured in comparison to the piston aircraft (10–15 dB quieter). Operating cost savings: Taxi and run-up for just ~$0.25 in electricity vs. ~$13 in fuel. Reliability: Zero technical issues over 192 flights and 63 flight hours. Performance edge: Strong climb rates at 9,524 ft density altitude and 36 °C (97 °F) — outperforming many combustion trainers in hot-and-high conditions. “In four and half months, we completed 192 passenger flights without a single technical issue. Not once did we have to cancel a flight. In fact, the tour allowed us to expand the flight envelope, operating in conditions we had never experienced before—from extreme heat to high-altitude airports—all without downtime. This is a strong validation that our technology is not only ready, but also robust and reliable in real-world conditions. And it’s worth noting that such consistent availability is not always the case with comparable combustion-powered aircraft,” said Gregory Blatt, H55 Co-Founder. A Rapidly Growing Market The global electric aircraft market is forecast to soar to $80 billion by 2035 according to Roots Analysis, fueled by tightening regulations and operator demand for lower costs. With its EASA and FAA to be certified Electric Propulsion System, respectively in 2026 and 2027, H55 holds a clear first-mover advantage in this rapidly expanding space. The company’s revenue spans aircraft sales, propulsion system licensing, and long-term battery replacement and aftermarket support—with flight schools alone representing a market for hundreds of units. As competitors struggle to match H55’s certification status, performance, and reliability, the company is poised to dominate the flight trainer segment, a strategic market entry as the company now moves into broader applications with larger aircraft. Next Steps — Scaling Beyond the U.S. Following its Hamptons finale, H55 heads to Montréal, Canada (Aug. 25–29) for the inauguration of its Canadian facilities planned on Thursday 28 August. This will be a unique opportunity for H55 to engage with Canadian operators, government officials, and investors as well as presenting the B23 Energic to the local aviation community and the media. H55 will also use its presence in Montreal to expand its “Ambassador Program” to the Canadian market inviting aviation innovators, educators, and change-makers to share the story of electric flight worldwide.

International News

NAV CANADA Announces Appointment of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

NAV CANADA has announced that Micheline Pion will join NAV CANADA on October 6, 2025 and will assume the position of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective January 8, 2026. Ms. Pion will replace Donna Mathieu who will be retiring as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on January 7, 2026. Ms. Pion is a highly accomplished executive with over 20 years of progressive experience in finance, strategy, and business transformation. She has held several senior leadership positions across the energy and resources sectors, most recently serving as General Manager, Business Development at Rio Tinto Aluminium, where she supported the development and execution of a global growth strategy. Prior to this, she served as CFO of Evolugen – Brookfield Renewable, where she was responsible for financial oversight, leading strategic financial planning, capital markets, investor relations, regulatory compliance, and risk management. “I am very pleased to welcome Micheline to NAV CANADA. This is a critical leadership role as we continue to strengthen our financial sustainability and deliver value to our stakeholders. Micheline’s deep expertise in financial strategy will be invaluable, particularly as we navigate the complexities of our strategic direction and maintain a strong, transparent approach to financial stewardship,” said Mark Cooper, President and CEO.
Global Aviation Executive, Safety Advocate to Guide VAI’s Next Chapter

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) has announced the appointment of François Lassale as its next president and CEO, following a global search for a proven leader to guide the association through its next phase of growth and influence. With more than 35 years of experience in military, public service, and commercial aviation in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, Lassale brings operational expertise, strategic vision, and an international perspective to his new role. In North America, he is known for his work with US military, air medical, public safety, utility, and offshore operators, and he has deep ties across the US rotorcraft community. Francois Lassale His career includes service as a military aviator, senior roles in commercial and civil helicopter and fixed-wing operations, and leadership positions with HeliOffshore, the safety-focused association for the global offshore helicopter industry. He also has been an active volunteer for aviation organizations such as the Flight Safety Foundation, the European Helicopter Association, the National Business Aviation Association, and he recently served as special advisor to the VAI Board of Directors on international issues. “François is the right leader at the right time for VAI,” says Rick Kenin, chairman of the VAI Board of Directors and COO of transport for Boston MedFlight, an air ambulance operator in the US Northeast. “As our industry evolves to include both traditional rotorcraft and powered-lift technologies, his safety-first mindset, ability to unify diverse voices, and focus on delivering results will position VAI to lead the evolution and expansion of vertical flight.” Kenin noted the Board was particularly impressed with Lassale’s clarity of vision and grasp of this pivotal moment for the vertical aviation industry. “François understands that VAI must not only navigate this period of transformation—we must define it. With his operational and executive background, history of industry advocacy and leadership, and global experience, VAI under François’s leadership will be the most trusted voice uniting the vertical aviation community and driving sustainable growth.” Lassale most recently served as CEO of SGi, an Indonesian operator, and then as group managing director and CEO for a three-company aviation group, overseeing helicopter operations and an aircraft leasing company in Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. In that role, he delivered operational efficiency, financial stability, and innovative partnerships, including agreements to introduce sustainable electric VTOL solutions. “I am honored to join VAI at this pivotal moment for vertical aviation,” Lassale says. “Our industry is undergoing transformative change, from technology adoption and airspace integration to evolving safety standards and workforce needs. VAI has a critical role to play in guiding that evolution, advocating for our members, and ensuring vertical aviation remains safe, innovative, and economically viable. In my first months, I’ll be listening closely to our members across the United States and internationally to validate a focused set of priorities for VAI.” Emphasizing his commitment to collaboration, Lassale continues: “I believe in listening first to understand the needs of our members, partners, and stakeholders and then working together to create solutions. My priorities will be to strengthen VAI’s voice in policy, continue to elevate the industry’s safety culture, and increase the value we deliver to our global membership.” In addition to his operational and strategic accomplishments, Lassale has long been an advocate for safety and regional cooperation within the industry. He recently led the development of VAI’s inaugural Southeast Asia Aviation Safety Conference, to be held in Bali in May 2026, aimed at advancing safety and operational standards across the region. “François understands that success for any organization results from providing people with the environment and resources that empower them—and that principle will serve our members well,” Kenin adds. Lassale will assume his role at VAI this fall, following completion of standard US work-authorization formalities now in process. The VAI Board of Directors thanks Gray Talent Advisors for their support and guidance throughout this search.

Unmanned Systems

AgEagle Aerial Systems Announces New RedEdge-P Green Camera to Advance Precision Agriculture

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc., has announced the launch of the RedEdge-P™ Green, a groundbreaking multispectral camera designed to revolutionize precision agriculture from planting to harvest. The new RedEdge-P Green camera delivers high-quality data and modularity, enabling advanced deep learning capabilities in data-rich, cost-effective imaging. The RedEdge-P Green will provide agronomists and researchers with actionable, high-resolution READ MORE
North Carolina, Georgia Announce First Advanced Air Mobility Interstate in the Sky

The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation and Georgia Department of Transportation are joining forces to study the creation of the nation’s first interstate advanced air mobility (AAM) corridor to improve air mobility. This innovative initiative, the nation’s first interstate advanced air mobility corridor, will aim to connect Charlotte and Atlanta via a dedicated READ MORE

Aviation Education

Thrust Flight Launches Phoenix Flight School Amid Soaring Demand for Airline Pilots

Thrust Flight has officially opened its newest flight school at Falcon Field Airport in Mesa, Arizona, responding to a surge in demand for professional pilots across the Southwest. Marking its fourth location and first outside of Texas, Thrust Flight is expanding its proven model of accelerated, professional pilot training into one of the most aviation-friendly READ MORE
Aims Celebrates New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center

Aims Community College in Colorado celebrated National Aviation Day, August 19, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new, state-of-the-art Aircraft Maintenance Training Center (AMTC). This is a soft opening for the nearly 60,000 square foot facility. Renovations are still underway and classes are set to begin for the new Aircraft Maintenance Technician program in January READ MORE

Global Aviation Executive, Safety Advocate to Guide VAI’s Next Chapter

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 Kim Stevens

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) has announced the appointment of François Lassale as its next president and CEO, following a global search for a proven leader to guide the association through its next phase of growth and influence. With more than 35 years of experience in military, public service, and commercial aviation in North America, Europe, […]

Southwest Florida International Airport Reports July Increase in Traffic

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 Kim Stevens

During July, 720,973 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers. This was an increase of 6.5 percent compared to July 2024 and the second-best July in the 43-year history of the airport. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is down 0.8 percent. The traffic leader in July was Delta with 173,395 passengers. Rounding out […]

The National Aeronautic Association Announces 2025 Brewer Recipient

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) has announced that Doug Matthews has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Frank G. Brewer Trophy. The Brewer Trophy, established in 1943, honors significant contributions of enduring value to aerospace education in the United States and is housed at the National Air & Space Museum in Washington, D.C. […]

The National Aviation Hall of Fame Welcomes Basil Papayoti

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced the appointment of Basil Papayoti to its Board of Trustees. Basil Papayoti brings extensive leadership experience in aviation maintenance, engineering, and technical operations to the NAHF Board of Trustees. Currently serving as Vice President of Delta TechOps Commercial, Delta’s MRO business with a strategic focus on […]

National Aviation Hall of Fame Celebrates Illinois Senator and Kansas Representative with Congressional Leadership Awards

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced that U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., has been selected to receive the prestigious 2025 National Aviation Hall of Fame Congressional Leadership Award, recognizing her exemplary dedication and unwavering support of America’s aviation and aerospace industry. Also being recognized with the award is Congressman Ron Estes (R-KS) […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Accelerates Contributions to Oklahoma’s Aerospace Education Programs for FY2026

August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) is investing in the state’s future aviation and aerospace professionals. The August Commission meeting focused on the approval of more than $820,000 in grants for 103 aerospace focused education programs around the state. Oklahoma ranks first in the nation for high school aerospace education. That distinction is […]

AOPA Partners with TDOT to Bring Aviation STEM Curriculum to Tennessee Teachers

August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The AOPA Foundation, which offers a free high school aviation STEM curriculum to more than 1,400 schools across the country, will visit three Tennessee cities over the next month to introduce the program to educators and school leaders. The goal is to expand access to STEM and aviation education statewide. In partnership with the Tennessee […]

North Dakota Sets New July Passenger Record with Over 122,000 Boardings

August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 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. In July 2025, North Dakota’s eight commercial service airports recorded 122,238 passenger boardings, establishing a new all-time high for the month of July. This total surpasses the previous record of 112,141 set in […]

Air Charter Safety Foundation Welcomes Candace Covington to Its Board

August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) has announced that Candace Covington has joined its Board of Directors. Candace currently serves as the Senior Director of Aviation at Adobe, where she built and leads a top-notch corporate flight department. Her focus is on delivering safe, seamless, and exceptional travel experiences for Adobe’s executives and guests. Before […]

Serve on an ACRP Project Panel and Help Guide Airport Research

August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

ACRP engages airport professionals throughout its research process to ensure a broad representation of perspectives. During the research process, airport industry professionals help to drive research to respond to and address airport industry challenges. ACRP is currently recruiting project panelists for fiscal year 2026 projects. ACRP has selected 19 research projects for FY26 on topics […]

Aims Celebrates New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center

Skyborne Partners with Stratus Financial to Break Down Barriers to Pilot Training in the US

John T. Hart Named DOAV Deputy Director for Airport Services

Narrow-Body Aircraft Leading the Way Toward Greater Energy Efficiency in the Air Cargo Industry