State Aviation Journal – Page 2 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology
Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by […]
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet
Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era […]
Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition
A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery […]
Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era
Photo – Alan Wapner (second from right), President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, and Curt Hagman, Vice President of the Board, unveil the new monument sign at ONT. Ontario International Airport (ONT) unveiled a striking new monument sign at Archibald Avenue and Airport Drive, marking a powerful visual statement of […]

State News

Ontario International Congratulates China Airlines on Welcoming its 1 Millionth Passenger through ONT

Photo – From left, China Airlines flight attendant; James Kessler, Senior Vice President of Operations and Maintenance; Jack (Chih-Chao) Chih, China Airlines’ Vice President of Americas; Mr. Cheng; and Eren Cello, ONT Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing. Ontario International Airport (ONT) congratulated China Airlines, a Taiwan-based carrier, on achieving an extraordinary milestone: the airline’s 1 millionth passenger to travel through ONT since launching service between Ontario and Taipei, Taiwan, in 2018. The 1 millionth passenger, Mr. Cheng, was welcomed during a brief ceremony on Monday evening, February 2, marking another significant chapter in the long-standing partnership between ONT and China Airlines and highlighting the continued growth of international travel at the Inland Empire’s airport. Since becoming the airport’s first carrier to offer nonstop, transoceanic passenger service, China Airlines has played a foundational role in positioning Ontario International as a global gateway for Southern California, providing travelers with convenient access to Taiwan and onward connections throughout Asia. In 2025, nearly China Airlines served nearly 195,000 passengers through ONT. “China Airlines’ success at Ontario International Airport is a testament to the strength of this market and to the vision both organizations shared when service was launched in 2018,” said Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners. “Welcoming the 1 millionth China Airlines passenger is not only a celebration of this airline’s achievement, but also a powerful affirmation of ONT’s growing role as an international gateway. It reflects our shared commitment to delivering world-class service, expanding global connectivity, and providing Southern California travelers with a more convenient and accessible option for international travel.” “Ontario International Airport is an ideal gateway for passengers traveling between Asia and major cities throughout the country. Through our cooperation with Southwest Airlines, travelers can easily connect to and from the Inland Empire to many more destinations across Asia and the United States. Looking ahead, China Airlines remains committed to enhancing our services, expanding our network, and delivering a safe, comfortable, and high-quality travel experience. We will continue working closely with our partners to bring more value and more choices to our passengers.” said China Airlines’ Vice President of Americas Jack (Chih-Chao) Chih. Over the past several years, ONT has experienced record growth in international travel, driven by expanded service to Asia and Latin America and reinforced by major investments in facilities, passenger amenities, and federal inspection infrastructure. International passenger volumes increased sharply in 2025, further solidifying Ontario’s position as one of the fastest-growing international airports in California. Wapner said that the milestone also reflects the airport’s broader transformation since its return to local control. “A region as large and dynamic as Greater Los Angeles deserves more than one global gateway. China Airlines helped make that vision real at Ontario, and this achievement demonstrates how far we’ve come together.” As ONT continues to expand its international footprint, partnerships such as the one with China Airlines remain central to its mission of delivering convenient, efficient, and globally connected air service for Southern California.
Ross Griffin Joins Aviation Team at INDOT

The Indiana Department of Transportation has selected Ross Griffin as Chief Airport Inspector. Ross Griffin Ross currently is a Chief Warrant Officer 2 in the Indiana Army National Guard flying UH-60L/M Blackhawk as a MEDEVAC pilot. He was previously a lead mechanic on the A/MH-6 Little Bird. “He comes to us with a commercial pilot license, SEL, MEL & Helicopter as well as a Part 107 remote pilot certificate. He is a graduate of Indiana State University with a degree in Aviation Management,” noted Marcus A. Dial, State Aviation Director. His official office duties will entail ensuring a uniform level of safety at all our aviation facilities across the state through our certification program. This will include the inspection of roughly 118 facilities a year to ensure they meet state safety standards. This position also includes performing master record inspections via a contract through FAA, Tadera & NASAO. When not performing inspections, Ross will oversee the production of our Indiana Aeronautical Chart and various duties around the office.

National News

Air Care Alliance Welcomes Shakeel Mozaffar as New Director

The Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nonprofit public service organization representing a nationwide network of volunteer pilot groups that deliver impactful and inspiring service through aviation, has announced the appointment of Shakeel Mozaffar to its Board of Directors. Shakeel Mozaffar “Our Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated team of leaders committed to fostering and enhancing charitable aviation,” said Mark Hanson, President of Air Care Alliance. “We are excited to leverage Shakeel’s diverse experience and enthusiasm for public benefit flying to not only further our mission, but expand our reach and the possibilities of general aviation doing even more in the communities that we work, live and fly within.” With a long history in business and philanthropy, Shakeel Mozaffar is a global executive with extensive leadership experience across finance, international relations, technology, and global supply-chain management. Former CEO of the Altruism Research Institute, Corp., he presently devotes full-time to philanthropic pursuits. Throughout his corporate career, he has held senior executive roles including Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Head of New Product Development, Sales and Marketing at Polaroid Corporation, as well as Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Chief Technology Officer at ICI Plc. in London. “I am honored to join the Air Care Alliance board,” said Shakeel Mozaffar. “I am a firm believer that every public benefit flight represents an opportunity to make a profound difference – whether it be to provide a person who cannot access medical care because of distance with free air transportation; enable a Veteran to access care and support; assist in the transportation of animals to start a new life or become a service animal; educate students with STEM Flights to promote a career in aerospace or support a community in times of natural disaster crisis with supplies that are not accessible. In those moments, Air Care Alliance along with the volunteer pilot organizations throughout the United States turn compassion into motion and hope quite literally takes flight.” A committed humanitarian, Shakeel serves as a Volunteer Mission Pilot with Angel Flight NE, an Air Care Alliance member, and was honored with the 2023 National Endeavor Award for Philanthropy in Aviation. He has not only flown patients so they can access medical care, but he has also flown many long-distance disaster relief flights, most recently the flooding in the Carolinas, bringing much needed supplies to those affected by this natural disaster. He lives in Lincolnville, Maine with his wife Joan. With more than 13,000 volunteer pilots across the United States, these compassionate humanitarians are leveraging their talents and resources to assist those in need whether it be patients who need to travel long distances to access healthcare; an animal that requires relocation to enhance its adoption possibilities or to be a service animal for someone in need; educate students with STEM flights and for other compelling needs, an activity commonly known as “public benefit flying”. However, the power of general aviation and volunteerism within it is not very well known and for this reason Air Care Alliance is committed to educating the community about its benefits; encouraging more pilots to volunteer and continuing to expand its organizational network of volunteer pilot organizations (VPOs).
AOPA Announces Leadership Transition as CEO Moves to Advisory Role

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) today announced a leadership transition as President and CEO Darren Pleasance steps out of the day-to-day CEO role and into an advisory capacity to support AOPA and the Board of Trustees during the search for AOPA’s next leader. Over time, it’s become increasingly clear that the AOPA CEO role should be based full-time in Frederick, Maryland, at AOPA’s headquarters. The AOPA Board appreciates the substantial time Darren has spent traveling from his home in Bend, Oregon, to be present in Frederick and with members across the country. Recognizing this, now is the right time to transition leadership in a way that best supports the organization’s long-term needs. “Darren has brought energy, perspective, and a deep commitment to serving pilots and protecting the freedom to fly,” said Jim Hauslein, Chairman of the AOPA Board of Trustees. “He has been deeply engaged with our members across the country, taking time to listen to their experiences, understand their challenges, and represent their voices in the work we do every day. We are grateful for his leadership and are pleased he will continue to support AOPA during this transition.” “I’m incredibly proud of what we were able to set in motion at AOPA in a relatively short period of time,” Pleasance said. “In addition, I had the opportunity to meet thousands of members across the country, hear their stories, and work on issues that matter to everyday pilots, which has been deeply meaningful. The most special part of AOPA, though, is the staff. The people here care deeply about pilots and the mission, and it’s been a privilege to work alongside them.” Effective immediately, AOPA’s day-to-day operations will be jointly led by Chief Financial Officer Jill Baker and Senior Vice President of Membership Strategy and Growth Katie Pribyl, who will serve as Acting Co-Presidents during this interim period. Both are members of AOPA’s executive leadership team and will lead the organization’s operations, staff, and strategic execution, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making across the association. AOPA’s leadership team and staff remain fully focused on the work pilots rely on every day, including advocacy at all levels of government, advancing aviation safety and training, and delivering trusted member programs and services as the Board conducts a thoughtful search for AOPA’s next leader. The AOPA Board of Trustees will initiate a formal search shortly for the next President and CEO. The process will be designed to be thoughtful, inclusive, and aligned with the long-term needs of AOPA’s members and the general aviation community. Earlier this week, AOPA announced GA visionary Dale Klapmeier, co-founder and former CEO of Cirrus Aircraft, has been appointed to the AOPA Board of Trustees. Klapmeier’s decades of leadership in advancing aircraft safety, innovation, and pilot engagement add important industry perspective to the Board. Additional details about his appointment were shared in a separate announcement on Monday.

International News

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by customers, partners, officials and company employees. The unveiling also was viewed by a worldwide audience via a live-streamed presentation. TBM 980 deliveries are to begin this month following certification by the European and U.S. airworthiness authorities. “Our TBM 980’s motto, ‘Fly Differently,’ is more than just a slogan, because this aircraft redefines the way that pilots – and their passengers – want to fly. The aircraft is more intuitive and easier to operate,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “Its touchscreen-controlled flight deck truly revolutionizes the interface between pilots and the avionics, while the passenger experience is further elevated in the six-seat cabin with such features as the capability to install a Starlink Mini terminal for satellite-based internet connectivity, along with 100-watt USB-C ports for the charging of mobile devices, as well as an upgraded passenger display with enroute flight data.” Chabbert said airworthiness certification has been issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), along with validation by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), enabling Daher to begin TBM 980 deliveries this month.” “The TBM 980 is the sixth aircraft launched by Daher in the TBM 900-series since we acquired the TBM product line in 2014,” stated Didier Kayat, the Daher Chairman and CEO. “This underscores our firm commitment to the airplane family’s evolution through the continual application of innovation, and with our close working relationship with key suppliers.” The Garmin 3000® PRIME avionics’ highly intuitive and refined interface significantly improves cockpit ergonomics. Three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen displays ensure seamless control of flight functions, with significant improvements in screen and image quality. Pilot workload is reduced through customizable presets and a streamlined user interface. Its app-based interface uses shortcuts that enable pilots to quickly access essential functions (radios, transponder, flight plan, procedures, etc.) without navigating through multiple menus – thereby improving efficiency and reducing workload. The checklist button is replaced with a four-position joystick for up/down scrolling, check and quick access. Safety remains paramount aboard the TBM 980 with Daher Aircraft’s e-copilot® concentration of technological innovation and automated systems, proven across the TBM 900-series aircraft. This includes advanced weather detection, icing protection, flight envelope monitoring and the emergency descent mode, along with the game-changing HomeSafe™ emergency autoland functionality. The TBM 980 also is equipped with Garmin’s GWX™ 8000 all-digital radar, which has excellent range and performance with precision target imaging. StormOptix technology automatically adjusts radar settings for more accurate 3D profiling of storm cells. Precision piloting and excellent operational efficiency are ensured with the TBM 980’s features adopted from Daher’s best-selling TBM 960 version, including Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6E-66XT intelligent turboprop engine and the five-blade Hartzell composite propeller – both of which are controlled by a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system. The TBM 980 is approved for full “PRIST-free” operations, eliminating the need for anti-icing additives in the fuel system. Connectivity on the TBM 980 is possible with a Starlink Mini satellite Internet terminal using the factory-installed mounting in the cockpit and a dedicated 100-watt USB-C power port, as well as a comprehensive suite of subscription-based digital services – including Garmin PlaneSync™ (for remote aircraft activation, status monitoring and automated database updates using the Me & My TBM application), the Garmin Pilot™ and ForeFlight apps, Jeppesen aviation databases, and SiriusXM weather and audio services. The TBM 980 is the first airplane to be certified under the Daher Aircraft identity. As part of the parent Daher Group’s overall restructuring in its “Takeoff 2027” strategic plan, Daher Aircraft has become the legal structure that regroups all activities related to the company’s airplane product lines. As of December 31, 2025, a total of 1,294 TBMs had been delivered worldwide.
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era of smart and safe Personal Aviation™. The Vision Jet is recognized as the world’s first single-engine Personal Jet and the best-selling jet in aviation. Known for its V-tail design, quiet and spacious cabin, safety systems and intuitive Perspective Touch+™ avionics, the Vision Jet was designed with the pilot and passengers in mind. Cirrus is now delivering the G3 Vision Jet. “The G3 Vision Jet is a testament to our relentless innovation, continued investment in Personal Aviation and our owners who want to travel efficiently with award-winning safety features, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®) and Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland for peace of mind,” said Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus. “The G3 Vision Jet interior was engineered for excellence and comfort, now offering expanded seating for increased mission capability. The Cirrus Perspective Touch+ flight deck adds new features for reduced pilot workload, including ATC Datalink and Alerts-Linked Checklists, while new Cirrus Spectra™ wingtips illuminate the ramp.” A Reimagined Cabin The G3 Vision Jet cabin supports expanded mission capability while prioritizing pilot and passenger comfort. Now, the G3 can seat a total of seven occupants (six adults, one child) with the Premium and Arrivée trims or Xi-Designed aircraft. The cabin showcases newly designed seating, tray tables, personal device mount locations and interior aesthetic enhancements to create a flexible, productive and streamlined environment that adapts to every mission. Cabin Seating Expands The cabin now features a sleek, comfortable and convenient third-row bench seat that elevates the passenger experience by increasing spaciousness for seven passengers. Enhanced bolstered seats feature fine-tuned ergonomics, providing support to the headrest, armrests and knee area for a comfortable journey. The pilot and co-pilot seats can now be adjusted to their full aft range with single-handed operation, while the middle and third-row seats remain modular and can be removed or installed to serve the pilot’s mission. Cabin Aesthetic Upgrades All G3 seats feature a new hardshell back with hand-wrapped Alcantara. Depending on the G3 Vision Jet trim, seatbacks are now part of the design experience and carbon-fiber-equipped at the Arrivée level. Interior colorways are enhanced with two new Standard colors, five Premium offerings and a new collection of Arrivée colors, now aligning with the SR Series product line. Flight Deck and Exterior Light Enhancements The G3 Vision Jet adds Perspective Touch+ flight deck features to reduce pilot workload, increase safety and maximize productivity: ATC Datalink: Pilots can text to communicate with air traffic control to receive route updates, altitude assignments and more. Automatic Database Updates: Flight data is always up to date, streamlining the preflight process with the Cirrus IQ PRO Advanced™ subscription. Alerts-Linked Checklists: Provide quick access to relevant checklists in high-workload scenarios when a caution or warning alert may arise. Taxiway Routing and 3D SafeTaxi®: Increase situational awareness in airport environments with clear airport surface maps and directions for navigating unfamiliar airports. Cirrus Spectra™ Wingtips & Lights: New wingtip and landing lights are 2.7 times brighter, while the signature Cirrus halo light distinguishes the jet on the ramp. Cirrus Aircraft Ownership Over 700 Vision Jets have been delivered worldwide, maturing to serve business owners, entrepreneurs and those who demand efficient and cost-effective travel. Owners enjoy a lifetime of concierge, streamlined aircraft ownership through the Cirrus ecosystem of services for aircraft sales and management, finance and insurance, flight training, service and more.

Unmanned Systems

Drone Survey Results: Citizens in Europe Welcome Drones in Life-saving Operations

Photo above – Sakari Röyskö | Forum Virium Helsinki A series of surveys reveals that citizens in six European cities strongly favor drone usage for emergency services and environmental monitoring. In Helsinki, citizens worry about criminal activity and invasion of privacy. In six cities, Helsinki, Hamburg, Stockholm, Gdansk, Riga, and Tartu, more than 8 000 READ MORE
NDOT Aeronautics Division Strengthens Drone Security Through Approved Drone List

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Aeronautics Division has published a list of approved drones in compliance with the Secure Drone Purchasing Act (LB660). Under this law, NDOT Aeronautics Division must create and maintain the list in order to meet state and federal cybersecurity standards. The list is published and maintained at dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/drones. Starting Jan. READ MORE

Aviation Education

Women’s Aviation Career Symposium Inviting Women to Explore Careers in Aviation

The Women’s Aviation Career Symposium (WACS) will be held for the eighth year on February 28, 2026. This event is a professional career conference for women from high school through retirement and will be held at Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation in Battle Creek, Michigan. The WACS event will award over $50,000 in scholarships READ MORE
Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $442,422 in Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics is pleased to announce that the Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) has officially approved $442,422 in grant funding to support 15 organizations through the FY2026 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program. Students pilot small drones during a hands-on training session at the Wings Over the Rockies READ MORE

Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $442,422 in Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics is pleased to announce that the Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) has officially approved $442,422 in grant funding to support 15 organizations through the FY2026 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program. These grants are designed to support organizations that focus on aviation education and help develop […]

Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $9 Million in State Airport Funding

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) approved more than $9 million in State and Local Colorado Discretionary Aviation Grant (CDAG) funding to support aviation infrastructure improvements at airports across the state during its Jan. 27, 2026 meeting. The first round of 2026 CDAG awards will provide $9,064,332 in state funding to 20 Colorado airports, leveraging an […]

Bismarck to Budapest – Airports Report Record Passenger Stats in 2025

February 6, 2026February 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Kim Stevens From Bismark to Budapest, airports had record-breaking years in 2025. Throughout the U.S. and around the globe, the message was the same – passenger numbers were up. “2025 was the busiest year in the history of the airport,” said Steven C. Hennigan, C.M., A.C.E., executive director and CEO of the Lee County […]

Air Care Alliance Welcomes Shakeel Mozaffar as New Director

February 4, 2026February 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nonprofit public service organization representing a nationwide network of volunteer pilot groups that deliver impactful and inspiring service through aviation, has announced the appointment of Shakeel Mozaffar to its Board of Directors. “Our Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated team of leaders committed to fostering and enhancing […]

AOPA Announces Leadership Transition as CEO Moves to Advisory Role

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) today announced a leadership transition as President and CEO Darren Pleasance steps out of the day-to-day CEO role and into an advisory capacity to support AOPA and the Board of Trustees during the search for AOPA’s next leader. Over time, it’s become increasingly clear that the AOPA CEO […]

Drone Survey Results: Citizens in Europe Welcome Drones in Life-saving Operations

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Sakari Röyskö | Forum Virium Helsinki A series of surveys reveals that citizens in six European cities strongly favor drone usage for emergency services and environmental monitoring. In Helsinki, citizens worry about criminal activity and invasion of privacy. In six cities, Helsinki, Hamburg, Stockholm, Gdansk, Riga, and Tartu, more than 8 000 […]

AeroTime Appoints Julius Norkunas as New CEO

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

AeroTime, a leading aviation news and media outlet, has appointed Julius Norkunas as its new Chief Executive Officer to support the company’s international growth and further strengthen the quality and reach of its aviation coverage. Norkunas brings nearly five years of experience in the aviation industry, alongside a background in technology, digital products, and scaling […]

Baron Weather Advances Global Aviation Weather Data and Expertise

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Baron Weather, a global provider of aviation weather intelligence, today announced advancement of its worldwide aviation services. Backed by decades of aviation experience and 24/7 operational meteorology, Baron provides aviation weather and information services that drive operational decision-making. As part of this advancement, Baron has appointed Dave Hubner to lead its aviation services and deepen […]

NDOT Aeronautics Division Strengthens Drone Security Through Approved Drone List

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Aeronautics Division has published a list of approved drones in compliance with the Secure Drone Purchasing Act (LB660). Under this law, NDOT Aeronautics Division must create and maintain the list in order to meet state and federal cybersecurity standards. The list is published and maintained at dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/drones. Starting Jan. […]

Lee County Port Authority Welcomes New Deputy Executive Director and Chief Development Officer

February 2, 2026February 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

Steven Cornell, PE, has joined the Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) as Deputy Executive Director and Chief Development Officer. In this role, Cornell will lead the Development Division and is responsible for overseeing engineering & construction, planning & environmental compliance and capital programming at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Page Field (FMY) in Fort […]

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era