State Aviation Journal – Page 21 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

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 […]
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 […]

State News

Electra Joins Virginia Smart Airspace Program to Establish National Blueprint for Advanced Air Mobility Instrument Flight Rules

Photo – Electra’s Direct Aviation model uses the nine-passenger EL9 Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in as little as 150 feet, to unlock thousands of new Ultra Short access points – including fields, parking lots, and underutilized runways – bringing air travel closer to where people live, work, and play. Credit: Electra Electra announced a new partnership with the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Smart Airspace Program to design, implement, and test a first-of-its-kind, low-cost instrument flight rules (IFR) network for Ultra Short and other advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft complete with new, FAA-certified access points. Nearly all commercial aviation services operate under IFR to ensure reliability, predictability, and safety, especially when the weather is not clear. However, existing IFR arrival and departure procedures are not designed with AAM aircraft in mind. Without AAM-specific procedures, there could be unsustainable airport congestion, reduced time savings for passengers, and challenges in attaining full commercial viability of AAM aircraft. The program’s IFR routing, procedures, and new access points will separate AAM traffic from conventional flights, enable more direct routing, and be based on GPS navigation, making it a low-cost, scalable model for replication around the United States. Electra, which has developed the world’s first hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft, joins as a technical lead alongside NAVOS Air. The program is led by Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership (MAAP), supported financially by the Virginia Small Aircraft Transportation Systems Lab, and supported financially and technically by the Virginia Department of Aviation. “The Virginia AAM Smart Airspace Program is establishing the regulatory, procedural, and operational foundation for real-world AAM deployment—not in the future, but now,” said Tombo Jones, the Director of MAAP, an FAA Designated Test Site. “With FAA engagement, proven technical methods, and scalable infrastructure, Virginia is helping to define the national blueprint for how Advanced Air Mobility will operate in everyday airspace.” “This partnership marks a critical step forward on our path to unlocking a new era of aviation – one that is simpler, faster, and without the hassle of today’s commercial services,” said Parker Vascik, Director of Product Strategy, Electra. “By creating the necessary operational, physical, and digital infrastructure in an affordable package, we are one step closer to enabling safe, scalable, and reliable all-weather AAM operations across the country. Ultimately, our goal is to transform the future of travel, giving people the freedom to travel from where they are to where they want to go.” Electra’s team of aerospace engineers and pilots will work with the other technical leads to design, implement, and test instrument procedures for Ultra Short aircraft, including during the most technically difficult part of flying in poor weather – proceeding from cloud coverage to a landing site. The GPS-developed procedures will enable flight in instrument meteorological conditions: broadly, when flight visibility is less than 3 miles and cloud ceilings are less than 1,000 feet above the ground. The program will also research the successful implementation of Ultra Short access points. The program will also create a repeatable and scalable model for expanding AAM IFR networks, starting with the strategic connection of four Virginia nodes: Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI): an off-airport Ultra Short access point in Blacksburg. Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport (KROA): an on-airport Ultra Short access point that keeps AAM aircraft separated from conventional runways and flight patterns at a large airport. Allen C. Perkinson Airport, Blackstone (KBKT): an existing FAA-approved vertiport in a mixed civilian/military use environment that supports Ultra Short access. Shannon Airport: an existing rural airport with a turf runway in a commuter community in northern Virginia. A summer 2024 economic analysis conducted by the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Logistics Systems to measure the impacts of enabling AAM operations across Virginia projected more than $16 billion generated in new economic activity, $2.8 billion generated in tax revenue, and the creation of more than 17,000 high-value jobs across the aerospace ecosystem through 2045. Electra’s Direct Aviation model uses Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in as little as 150 feet, to unlock thousands of new Ultra Short access points – including fields, parking lots, and underutilized runways – bringing air travel closer to where people live, work, and play. By pairing practical infrastructure with transformative capability, Direct Aviation enables trips that were previously impractical or impossible and expands economic opportunity to communities of every size. For more information, visit https://www.electra.aero.
Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport Remains the Fastest-Growing Major Airport in the United States

The Rhode Island Airport Corporation has announced that Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) remains the fastest-growing major airport in the United States for the second year in a row, according to the latest U.S. Department of Transportation data. The data confirms PVD is the fastest-growing major airport in the United States by seats and passengers for year-over-year growth over a 12-month period ending October 2025, comparing the largest 75 airports in the country. During this timeframe, total passengers increased by 11 percent and total seat capacity increased by 10 percent. “PVD is the only major airport in the country to achieve double-digit passenger and seat growth for this time period. This is a remarkable achievement for PVD travelers and it reinforces the importance of the airport to Rhode Island’s economy,” stated Iftikhar Ahmad, president and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. “We will continue to invest in our infrastructure to keep pace with this growing demand.” “During my administration, we have continued to make investments in destination marketing, and the return has clearly been impactful. With expanded direct flight options, the convenience of our airport, and our top-notch hotels and restaurants, Rhode Island continues to set record-breaking tourism numbers. Each year, more and more visitors from across the globe are coming to experience all that the Ocean State has to offer,” said Governor Dan McKee. Aviation and tourism together represent two of Rhode Island’s most significant economic engines. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, aviation activity in Rhode Island generates approximately $2.7 billion annually in total economic impact, supporting jobs, business activity, and statewide connectivity. In parallel, a 2024 statewide tourism economic impact study found that tourism generated a total economic impact of $8.8 billion, driven by $6 billion in direct visitor spending across lodging, food and beverage, transportation and retail. The sustained growth at PVD directly supports both sectors by expanding access, capacity and competitiveness for the Ocean State. “On behalf of RIAC’s Board of Directors, we could not be more pleased with the growth and direction of the airport. There has been a collective effort over the past decade from the executive team at RIAC, our federal delegation, the Governor, and House and Senate leaders that has produced this transformative era,” stated Jonathan Savage, chair of RIAC’s Board of Directors.

National News

NBAA-Supported Senate Bill Calls for Enhanced Surveillance Capabilities at Contract Towers

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcomed the introduction of bipartisan legislation in the U.S. Senate to direct installation of cost-effective air traffic technologies to fill a critical safety gap at many general aviation (GA) airports across the country. Introduced by Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), the Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to procure and install Airborne Position Reference Tool (APRT) technology at more than 90 smaller and rural airports under the Federal Contract Tower (FCT) program. APRT uses automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) data from aircraft to present controllers with a real-time display of local airspace, offering significantly greater situational awareness over use of visual observations and radio calls to separate traffic, and greatly reduced installation and maintenance costs when compared to radar-integrated systems. “This off-the-shelf technology will have a huge and immediate impact at many contract tower facilities across the country that currently manage a significant amount of mixed operations without any digital assistance,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “APRT is critical to reducing risk and maintaining operational safety. We are pleased to see this important safety legislation introduced in the Senate and urge its swift passage.” FCTs currently operate at 265 airports across the country. If enacted, this NBAA-supported legislation would facilitate acquisition, installation and operating expenses for APRT at the FCT airports that currently lack Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems (STARS) or similar radar-integrated air traffic displays. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 called on Congress to direct the FAA to approve systems like APRT to improve operational situational awareness at FCTs. The agency approved the first APRT last summer, with several additional airports deploying APRT to positive effect in the time since. In addition to NBAA, the Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act is also endorsed by the Regional Airline Association; U.S. Contract Tower Association; Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and Airlines for America.
NBAA Welcomes Senate Confirmation of Ryan McCormack to Key DOT Post

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcomes the Senate’s confirmation of Ryan McCormack as the Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) undersecretary with responsibility for policy. Ryan McCormack McCormack was confirmed by the Senate on Feb. 26. He has been serving as deputy chief of staff for Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy since January 2025. “This is an important role at a critical time for DOT as the agency undertakes an historic modernization initiative, while continuing its core work to keep transportation safe and reliable,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We congratulate Mr. McCormack and look forward to working with him in his new role.” The DOT and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are working to build a brand-new air traffic control infrastructure in coordination with a coalition of about 60 industry stakeholder groups, called Modern Skies, of which NBAA is a founding member. McCormack came to DOT from the U.S. Export-Import Bank, after working on Capitol Hill as chief of staff to Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-5-WI). He was also legislative director for DOT Secretary Sean Duffy when he served in the House of Representatives.

International News

ADB SAFEGATE Sharpens Strategic Focus on Airside Operations

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 innovation, capital, and expertise on the operational core of the airport: the airside. Accelerating Airside Innovation ADB SAFEGATE is advancing its roadmap across new-generation airfield lighting systems, intelligent power solutions, and digital platforms for Airfield, Apron, and Tower applications — designed to improve operational performance and resilience in complex airport environments. The company is expanding research and development investments, including the continued growth of its ADB SAFEGATE LABS initiative. The program accelerates co-creation with airport partners, enabling emerging technologies to be tested, validated, and scaled in live operational settings. Investment in R&D and Modern Manufacturing in Europe ADB SAFEGATE is strengthening its R&D and manufacturing footprint in Machelen, Belgium, through state-of-the-art facility upgrades and modernized production capabilities. These investments enhance product development cycles, quality control, and production capacity for next-generation airside technologies — reinforcing Belgium’s position as a global center of excellence for airside innovation. Launch of the Airside Innovation Summit Aligned with its renewed strategic direction, ADB SAFEGATE will launch the Airside Innovation Summit (http://www.airsideinnovationsummit.com), a global forum bringing together airport operators, regulators, technology partners, and industry experts to address emerging challenges in safety, automation, digitalization, and sustainability. Laurent Dubois, CEO of ADB SAFEGATE, said: “Airports are under unprecedented operational pressure. This decision allows us to dedicate our expertise, innovation, and resources entirely to the most safety-critical and performance-sensitive part of airport operations — the airside. Our ambition is to lead the digital transformation of airside environments and support airports worldwide in converting operational complexity into measurable performance gains.” A Clear Strategic Direction The divestment reflects a deliberate portfolio decision designed to create a sharper focus for both organizations. ADB SAFEGATE will concentrate fully on advancing intelligent airside solutions, while the Terminal business continues under new ownership with long-term growth ambitions. With a strengthened, pure-play airside focus, ADB SAFEGATE is positioning itself to shape the future of airport performance for decades to come.
Chapman Freeborn Arranging Emergency Charters Amid Middle East Aviation Disruptions

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 cancelled, reflecting the scale of operational disruption across the region. In response to the current situation, Chapman Freeborn has worked in collaboration with government ministries and authorities across multiple countries to deliver critical air support. These operations include: Emergency passenger and cargo charter flights, including evacuation missions Time-critical cargo movements through bespoke charter solutions Strategic routing and operational coordination across disrupted air corridors Rapid-deployment charter options to maintain global continuity for our clients The company works closely with airlines, civil aviation authorities, governments, and humanitarian organizations to ensure every mission is carefully coordinated and every aircraft deployed with precision. With airspace restrictions shifting hour by hour, Chapman Freeborn’s global flight support and charter teams are operating 24/7 to provide clarity, safe routing, and uninterrupted operational continuity. “During periods of geopolitical uncertainty, speed, flexibility, and reliable operational planning are critical for our clients,” said Saska Gerasimova, Group Chief Executive Officer at Chapman Freeborn. “Our global teams remain ready to support airlines, cargo operators, and governments with safe, compliant, and responsive charter solutions as conditions continue to evolve, with a constant focus on protecting lives and safeguarding operations.” For urgent assistance related to evacuations or emergency air charters, Chapman Freeborn’s crisis response team is available 24/7: +44 (0) 1293 655 422 Flightsupport@chapmanfreeborn.aero PAX@chapmanfreeborn.aero Cargo@chapmanfreeborn.aero

Unmanned Systems

Everdrone Launches Next-Generation Medical Drone for Emergency Medical Transport

The Swedish company Everdrone is launching a new medical transport drone, E3. The drone is fully developed by Everdrone and features increased capacity to carry multiple types of medical equipment, significantly improving its performance compared to previous versions. “The new drone is faster, safer, and can carry heavier payloads. This will save lives,” says Mats READ MORE
FAA Radar Data Feed Activated in North Dakota

Senator John Hoeven announced last week the activation of the Vantis Federal Radar Data Enclave, a secure integration of unfiltered radar data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with the Vantis system at the Northern Plains Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Site. Senator Hoeven (center) announces activation. The test site is the first non-federal entity READ MORE

Aviation Education

City of Riverside Partners with Education Institutions to Explore Job and Economic Growth Through the Learning Institute for Flight Technology (LIFT)

The City of Riverside is working with two local school districts and several local colleges to explore ways to create additional jobs and long-term growth in the aviation, aerospace, and related technology sectors through the Learning Institute for Flight Technology (LIFT). “This will ensure Riverside remains proactive, not reactive, about aerospace and advanced manufacturing jobs,” READ MORE
Westmoore High School Wins Inaugural Oklahoma High School Aviation State Championship

In a historic weekend for Oklahoma education and industry, Westmoore High School has been crowned the first-ever Oklahoma High School State Aviation Champions. The Jaguars secured the title at the event hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and FlightSafety International in Tulsa. Westmoore High School placed first among 12 teams at READ MORE

AutoFlight Unveils Water-based Green Vertiport, Debuts World’s First Integrated Sea-Air Mobility Solution

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 Kim Stevens

On November 22, 2025, AutoFlight Aviation Technology unveiled the world’s first “Integrated Sea-Air Low-Altitude Economy Solution.” The system comprises a zero-carbon Water-based Green Vertiport (WGV) that extends eVTOL infrastructure across vast water areas, addressing key challenges such as difficult site selection, slow deployment, and complex take-off and landing operations. This advancement accelerates the transition of […]

Acron Aviation Academy Awarding Four Scholarships to Commemorate Its 40th Anniversary

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 Kim Stevens

To celebrate 40 years at the forefront of pilot training, Acron Aviation Academy, in Sanford, FL, is offering $20,000 in scholarship awards to kickstart the careers of aspiring pilots. The scholarships are open to all U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Applications must be submitted on or before December 15, 2025 and students must begin their […]

Southwest Florida Int’l Airport Reports Record-Breaking October Traffic

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 Kim Stevens

During October, 774,689 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers. This was an increase of 18 percent compared to October 2024 and was the best October in the history of the airport. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 1.4 percent. The traffic leader in October was Delta with 171,055 passengers. Rounding out […]

DOAV Deputy Director Set to Retire after Eight Years of Amazing Opportunities

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – John Campbell with the ICON A5. By Kim Stevens John Campbell has announced his retirement from the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV) as Deputy Director, Communications and Education. He began his time with the agency on December 10, 2017. His last day in the office will be December 10, 2025. “If I could […]

Centennial Airport Announces First-in-the-Nation Fleet Purchase of All-Electric Trainers

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – B23 Energic aircraft flying at Centennial Airport during the “Across America” Tour July 2025. Centennial Airport announced that Centennial Flyers, a flight school based at the airport, has confirmed an order for six all-electric training aircraft e-powered by H55, a Swiss electric propulsion systems manufacturer. Centennial Flyers will be the first operator in […]

Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group Complete Merger

November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 Kim Stevens

Republic Airways Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: RJET) announced the successful completion of the merger between Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group, Inc. The transaction was announced on April 7, 2025 and approved by Mesa stockholders on November 17, 2025. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Republic stockholders now own approximately 88% of the combined company’s […]

Training Bridges the Gap as Cockpits Span Generations

November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 Kim Stevens

SAJ photo above by Andrew Stevens Today’s flight decks are pairing experienced Generation X captains with tech-native Generation Z first officers. As the aviation industry faces a projected shortfall of 141,000 pilots in Europe by 2032, training organizations are addressing a shift: type rating courses should prepare pilots not just to operate specific aircraft, but to work effectively across generational divides. With Gen Z now comprising over a quarter of the global workforce, the […]

GAA Nominations Deadline Extended into December

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors announces an updated submission deadline for applications and nominations for the 2026 awards for National Flight Instructors, Aviation Maintenance Technicians, and FAA Safety Team Representatives until midnight on December 19, 2025. Submissions and additional information on the process can be accessed at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate. The program, a cooperative […]

MIA, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines Host Tour for Children with Disabilities Before the Holidays

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutié (center) with more than 150 children at the MIAair tour on November 19. A week before the Thanksgiving travel season begins, Miami International Airport (MIA), Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines hosted the airport’s latest MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness […]

Ohio Businesses, Pilots, and Schools Unite to Oppose Request to Close Burke Lakefront Airport

November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has joined the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), a coalition made up of local businesses, aviation organizations, and schools—to oppose Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s misguided effort to permanently close Burke Lakefront Airport. Last month, Mayor Bibb asked the federal government to relieve the city of Cleveland of its […]

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

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

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