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

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide
Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 […]
New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]
Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector
Driven by the strong momentum of the global aeronautics industry, the discreet Toulouse-based Satys Group is consolidating its growth, recovering its pre-Covid profitability ratios, and entering 2026 with solid development ambitions across its six markets: commercial aviation, regional aviation, business aviation, helicopters, defense, and aircraft repainting. “This favorable environment contrasts sharply with the extreme difficulties […]
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 […]

State News

Lee County Port Authority Names New Deputy Executive Director and Chief Commercial Officer

The Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) has named Jesse Flint as Deputy Executive Director and Chief Commercial Officer. In this role, Flint is responsible for managing and optimizing revenue-generating activities, encompassing aeronautical and non-aeronautical growth and business development, at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Page Field (FMY) in Fort Myers; including oversight of concessions, information technology, properties and risk management. Jesse Flint Flint joined the Lee County Port Authority in 2019 and assumed increasing responsibilities in the properties department. Most recently, he was director of properties and risk management, where he and his team worked to negotiate favorable business agreements with outside agencies and airport business partners, as well as develop a comprehensive Risk Management Program to control risks and mitigate losses for LCPA. Before this, Flint started as manager of properties and was promoted to senior manager of properties & contracts. Prior to LCPA, Flint was an associate attorney and law clerk for the Law Office of Townsend J. Belt, P.A. and Florida Advocates in Tampa, Fla. Flint earned his juris doctor from Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport, Fla., and is a member in good standing with the Florida Bar since 2015. He holds a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in finance from Florida State University in Tallahassee, Fla.
Pensacola International Airport Hosts Wings for All® Mock Flight with Delta Air Lines and The Arc Gateway

Pensacola International Airport (PNS), in partnership with Delta Air Lines and The Arc Gateway, hosted a Wings for All® event on February 24th – a mock flight experience designed to help children with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families, become more comfortable with air travel. The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Pensacola International Airport, Delta Air Lines, The Arc Gateway, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), OHM Concessions Group, and the City of Pensacola, all working together to create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive experience for participating families. “Our Wings for All event last week was a tremendous success exposing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to the airport travel process,” said Matt Coughlin, Pensacola International Airport’s Airport Director. “Special thanks to the ARC Gateway, Delta Air Lines, TSA and OHM Concessions.” Wings for All allows families to experience the full airport journey in a structured, low-stress environment, including ticketing, TSA security screening, boarding, and time onboard an aircraft—without the pressures of an actual flight. For many families, the experience represents a meaningful first step toward making air travel a realistic and positive option. The Wings for All® program was created by Delta Air Lines as part of the airline’s long-standing commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Since its inception, the program has supported thousands of individuals nationwide by helping reduce anxiety, build familiarity, and empower travelers of all abilities. Community leaders and partners emphasize the importance of creating travel experiences that feel welcoming from the very start. “I’m proud that we can be part of the team that is making the Wings for All® experience possible,” said Mayor D.C. Reeves. “Traveling is an exciting—and sometimes intimidating—experience for every family. Anything we can do to make it a little bit easier for all families to feel at home at our airport when they start their journey is an easy thing to say yes to.” For Pensacola International Airport, the event reflects a broader commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and community partnership. “Air travel should be accessible to everyone,” said Coughlin. “Wings for All is incredibly impactful because it replaces fear of the unknown with confidence and excitement. We are honored to host this event and to partner with Delta, The Arc Gateway, and our local collaborators to ensure families feel supported, understood, and welcome at PNS.” That sense of confidence-building is at the heart of The Arc Gateway’s mission. “We’re thrilled to be a part of such a unique experience for people with disabilities in our community,” said Missy Rogers, CEO of The Arc Gateway. “Allowing them to participate in real-world ventures in a safe environment minimizes the possibility of complications when the time comes for future air travel. We are incredibly grateful to our partners—especially Delta Air Lines and Pensacola International Airport—for bringing this to fruition.” Support from airport partners further enhances the experience, helping create a welcoming environment throughout the terminal. “OHM Concessions Group is proud to support Pensacola International Airport’s Wings for All event in partnership with The Arc Gateway,” said Amanda Carrubba, Director of Operations for OHM. “We are honored to play a small part in creating an inclusive, welcoming experience for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Opportunities like this allow young travelers to explore the airport environment in a safe, encouraging way—building confidence, reducing stress, and opening doors for future travel. We are grateful to be involved in an event that makes such a meaningful, lasting impact on our community.” Pensacola International Airport is committed to creating an inclusive travel experience for all passengers. PNS proudly participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative that allows travelers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly indicate they may need additional time, patience, or assistance while traveling. Airport staff receive ongoing training to ensure every traveler is treated with dignity, respect, and care.

National News

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 aircraft as part of a structured, project-based STEM curriculum. Students will gain real-world experience in engineering, manufacturing, teamwork, and leadership while working alongside educators, industry mentors, and community partners. “Tango Flight was founded to change lives through aviation education,” said Dan Weyant of Tango Flight. “Partnering with Sling Aircraft North America allows us to deliver a proven, modern aircraft platform to schools nationwide, giving students the opportunity to build something extraordinary — and see what they’re capable of achieving.” The Sling 2 is an all-metal, low-wing aircraft widely recognized for its performance, durability, and build quality. By integrating this aircraft into high school programs, the partnership ensures students work with industry-relevant materials and standards while gaining exposure to potential aviation and aerospace career pathways. “We are proud to support Tango Flight’s mission of uplifting young people through hands-on aviation education,” said Matt Liknaitzky, Co-CEO of Sling Aircraft North America. “Together, we are helping schools create transformational learning experiences that open doors to college, careers, and lifelong opportunity.” Students who participate in completing a Sling 2 aircraft at a Tango Flight partner high school are also eligible for a free discovery flight at any Sling Pilot Academy location. The partnership will begin rolling out to select schools in the 2026 academic year, with plans to expand nationally in phases.
Green Taxi Aerospace Receives FAA Concurrence on Certification Approach

Green Taxi Aerospace announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concurred with the certification approach for its electric taxi system program, as submitted by Green Taxi Aerospace’s certification partner StandardAero. The FAA’s concurrence follows its review of Green Taxi Aerospace’s compliance checklist summary and FAA conformity plan. It also provides for the Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program to be delegated to StandardAero’s ODA on behalf of Green Taxi Aerospace. StandardAero is supporting the development and execution of the certification program as Green Taxi Aerospace progresses toward STC approval. “We appreciate the FAA’s review and concurrence on our certification approach,” said David Valaer, CEO of Green Taxi Aerospace. “This reflects a major milestone with continued progress in our certification program and the strong collaboration with our certification partners.” John Miedwig, Director, Certification Services at StandardAero, added: “StandardAero is pleased to support Green Taxi Aerospace in the execution of its certification program. We look forward to continuing our collaboration as the program advances through the STC process.” Green Taxi Aerospace’s electric taxi system enables Zero Engine Taxi™, allowing aircraft to taxi without using their main engines saving up to $300,000 per year per aircraft. The system is designed to reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, decrease brake wear, eliminates the need for pushback tugs, and improve operational efficiency during ground operations.

International News

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based solutions. Areas of cooperation include professional training programs, joint scientific research, methodology development, and the establishment of infrastructure to support UAV deployment. As part of the framework, the parties intend to explore: Establishing a UAV training and professional development center Conducting online and in-person seminars and knowledge exchange programs Creating a technical maintenance and service center for UAVs Developing methodologies for effective drone usage in agriculture Evaluating the potential use of drones across up to 300,000 hectares of intensively cultivated cotton fields The Uzbek partners would be responsible for providing local servicing infrastructure and agricultural inputs, while Kaizen Aerospace would contribute drone technology expertise and operational know-how. The Memorandum of Cooperation is non-binding and serves as a foundation for further discussions and potential definitive agreements. It does not create financial commitments or legally binding obligations between the parties. The memorandum reflects a shared interest in leveraging advanced aerial technologies to support agricultural efficiency, productivity, and sustainable development initiatives in Uzbekistan.
Air Canada and CAE Announce Eight Recipients of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship

Air Canada and CAE, two of Canada’s premiere aerospace companies headquartered in Montréal, announced the eight recipients of the seventh edition of the Air Canada and CAE Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. Every year, up to eight Canadian women studying to become commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers are awarded scholarships to pursue their training. Of these recipients, four aspiring commercial pilots will join the CAE Women in Flight program as ambassadors. “Each year, the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship allows us to witness the incredible talent, perseverance, and passion of women who are shaping the future of aviation in Canada. This year’s recipients stand out not only for their academic excellence and technical skill, but for the leadership and mentorship they demonstrate within their communities,” said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs at Air Canada. “Their achievements embody the very spirit of this scholarship – honoring Captain Judy Cameron’s trailblazing legacy while empowering the next generation of women to pursue careers as commercial pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers. We are proud to support their journeys and remain deeply committed to advancing gender parity in STEM and technical aviation careers.” “Today, women still represent just about five percent of commercial pilots worldwide. CAE is proud to once again support the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship, an initiative that plays a meaningful role in encouraging more women to pursue careers in aviation and inspire the next generation. This year’s recipients reflect the talent and determination that will help shape the future of our industry, and we are honored to fuel their aspirations and support their path,” said Marie-Christine Cloutier, Vice President, Strategy & Marketing. “Four of the recipients will become CAE Women in Flight ambassadors to serve as role models, promoting diversity in aviation and inspiring other women to follow in their footsteps.” “Air Canada launched the Captain Judy Cameron scholarship program seven years ago, and it has been truly inspiring to celebrate the remarkable achievements of past recipients as they go on to become flight instructors, medevac pilots, and First Officers at major airlines,” said Judy Cameron, Boeing 777 Captain at Air Canada (retired), and Director, Northern Lights Aero Foundation. “The 2026 recipients exemplify excellence, not only in their own training, but in the way they actively uplift and encourage other women in their aviation journeys. I am incredibly proud of CAE and Air Canada’s continued commitment to advancing women in aviation through its partnership with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation.” The Air Canada recipients for 2026 are: Faith Mulholland of Eden Mills, Ontario Afrah Khan from Edmonton, Alberta Aymie Rioux from St. Germain, Québec Kesaia Bruni from Mississauga, Ontario The following individuals will join the CAE Women in Flight Program: Katelyn Flear of Caledonia, Ontario Madison Crane from Etobicoke, Ontario Sophia Hutchcroft of Calgary, Alberta Natasha Razzak from Sherwood Park, Alberta The annual Captain Judy Cameron Scholarships, established in honor of Air Canada’s first female pilot to help foster the next generation of women following in her trailblazing footsteps, are awarded in conjunction with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. The Captain Judy Cameron scholarships were introduced in 2019 and initially awarded to four recipients. In 2023, Air Canada and CAE joined forces to double the number of scholarships, awarding a total of eight to eligible students. To learn more about the program, go to CAE Women in Flight Ambassador Program

Unmanned Systems

Kaizen Aerospace and Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture Sign Memorandum to Advance Agricultural Drone Collaboration

Kaizen Aerospace, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Scientific-Design Institute “Oʻzdavyerloyiha” to explore the development and implementation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. The memorandum outlines a framework for collaboration focused on modernizing agricultural practices through drone-based READ MORE
Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Partners with OAIRE to Propel Drone Innovation in High School Classrooms

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) in partnership with OAIRE, the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, hosted a professional development event and drone build for Oklahoma aerospace teachers on Feb. 27-28. The event, held at Oklahoma State University, highlighted the state’s commitment to “pushing the boundaries of flight.” Oklahoma aviation teachers READ MORE

Aviation Education

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 READ MORE
Air Canada and CAE Announce Eight Recipients of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship

Air Canada and CAE, two of Canada’s premiere aerospace companies headquartered in Montréal, announced the eight recipients of the seventh edition of the Air Canada and CAE Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. Every year, up to eight Canadian women studying to become commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers are awarded scholarships to pursue their training. Of READ MORE

Green Taxi Aerospace Receives FAA Concurrence on Certification Approach

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Green Taxi Aerospace announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concurred with the certification approach for its electric taxi system program, as submitted by Green Taxi Aerospace’s certification partner StandardAero. The FAA’s concurrence follows its review of Green Taxi Aerospace’s compliance checklist summary and FAA conformity plan. It also provides for the Organization Designation […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Partners with OAIRE to Propel Drone Innovation in High School Classrooms

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) in partnership with OAIRE, the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, hosted a professional development event and drone build for Oklahoma aerospace teachers on Feb. 27-28. The event, held at Oklahoma State University, highlighted the state’s commitment to “pushing the boundaries of flight.” The strategic partnership […]

Tennessee Aeronautics Commission and TDOT Aeronautics Announce 2025 Airport Award Recipients

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Tennessee Aeronautics Commission (TAC) and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Aeronautics Division have announced the recipients of the 2025 Tennessee Airport Awards, recognizing exceptional achievement, leadership, and long-standing contributions to aviation across the state. Each year, these awards honor airports, governing bodies, and aviation professionals whose work strengthens airport operations, enhances safety, and […]

Careers and Opportunities Discovered at the 8th Annual Women’s Aviation Career Symposium

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Women’s Aviation Career Symposium (WACS) celebrated their eighth year that included over 225 participants and more than $53,000 in scholarships awarded to women pursuing careers in aviation. The annual professional career conference for women – from high school juniors through retirees – took place at Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation. WACS brought together […]

Kevin Burke Named 2026 Trade Association Executive of the Year

March 7, 2026March 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

ACI-NA’s President and CEO, Kevin Burke, was recently named the 2026 Trade Association Executive of the Year at the annual Salute to Association Excellence awards luncheon. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding leadership and impact within the association community. Kevin was recognized for not only his longstanding commitment to the association world but also to the […]

Asheville Regional Airport Posts Second-Highest Year in History with 2.24 Million Passengers in 2025

March 7, 2026March 7, 2026 Kim Stevens

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) served 2,240,877 million passengers in 2025, marking the second-busiest year of passenger utilization in the airport’s history. This achievement underscores the region’s continued demand for air travel and highlights AVL as a vital and resilient gateway to western North Carolina. Despite significant challenges, including impacts from Hurricane Helene and ongoing terminal […]

ADB SAFEGATE Sharpens Strategic Focus on Airside Operations

March 4, 2026March 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

ADB SAFEGATE today announced the divestment of its Terminal business line, reinforcing its strategic commitment to airside operations and accelerating its investment in next-generation airfield technologies. As global air traffic grows and operational complexity intensifies, airports face mounting pressure to enhance safety, capacity, resilience, and sustainability — simultaneously. ADB SAFEGATE is responding by concentrating its […]

Chapman Freeborn Arranging Emergency Charters Amid Middle East Aviation Disruptions

March 4, 2026March 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

Chapman Freeborn maintains an active global crisis response framework and has been arranging emergency passenger and cargo charter flights, including evacuation missions, amid ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East and disruption to global aviation routes. According to flight tracking data from Flightradar24, more than 2,000 flights to and from major Gulf airports have been […]

From Childhood Fascination to International Career: How Curiosity Powered an Aviation Dream

March 2, 2026March 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

Algirdas Norušas turned his childhood fascination with airplanes into a leadership role overseeing the development of a new aircraft maintenance hub in Punta Cana. His journey, from training engineers and technicians to managing large projects, highlights how the aviation industry offers global career growth and values a people-first approach, with safety as the top priority. […]

Mount Royal University in Canada expands its flight training capabilities with the ALSIM AL250 simulator

March 2, 2026March 2, 2026 Kim Stevens

ALSIM proudly announces the addition of an AL250 simulator at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada. This new addition strengthens the university’s commitment to delivering high-quality and immersive pilot training. The AL250 simulator addresses the initial phase of training needs (PPL, CPL, Instrument and Multi Engine ratings) and is a SEP/MEP reconfigurable simulator certified as […]

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity

Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology