State Aviation Journal – Page 391 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center
Lufthansa Group recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Lufthansa with a major ceremony. As part of the event, Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center of Lufthansa Group at Frankfurt Airport, was officially opened. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered the official keynote speech. Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa Group: […]
FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project
The Federal Aviation Administration will host four virtual public workshops in May as part of the Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project. The project is led by the FAA and proposes new and updated satellite‑based flight procedures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of airspace serving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and surrounding airports. The […]
Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin
It was a special date for Lufthansa and a special day for all the employees who have shaped the airline with the crane logo: Exactly 100 years ago on April 6, 1926 – Lufthansa (at that time: “Luft Hansa”) took to the skies on its first flights. On that day, two aircraft took off from […]
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform
Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s […]

State News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

National News

EAA Aviation Foundation Awards More Than 120 Scholarships to Students in 2026

The 2025-26 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships gave 127 students a financial boost toward pursuing their aviation goals. With the support of the foundation’s donors, the scholarships total more than $800,000 in value. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing flight training or post-secondary education. For flight training, this can cover costs associated with a glider license, Private Pilot’s License (PPL), sport pilot license, flight ratings, and endorsements. Post-secondary scholarships can be applied to tuition costs at colleges, universities, or trade schools, for majors such as aviation management, aerospace engineering, airframe and powerplant (A&P) maintenance, and more. “Over the past three years, the EAA Aviation Foundation has tripled the number of scholarships we are able to award to students,” said Rebecca Greskoviak, Scholarship and Fund Stewardship Coordinator. “We are grateful for our donors who contribute to our goal of helping more students achieve their aviation dreams.” In addition to these scholarships, EAA will also be awarding more than 50 camperships to students attending EAA’s Air Academy Camp this summer. These scholarships offset the tuition cost for the multi-day camps in Oshkosh that feature hands-on activities and unique aviation experiences.
A Century of Possibility: American Airlines Celebrates 100 Years Moving Forever Forward

On April 15, 1926, a DH-4 biplane took off from Chicago bound for St. Louis. This flight, carrying only mail, operated under Robertson Aircraft Corporation. Driven by the possibilities aviation could unlock for the country and the world, this flight set into motion the creation of one of the world’s most iconic airlines: American Airlines. Watch video One hundred years later, American is commemorating this milestone anniversary in the skies with a similar excitement and passion for all that lies ahead. Hear from Robert Isom, American’s CEO, about what this milestone means for American. Celebrating our customers and team members American’s story is a result of the dedication of our customers and team members. From the first passenger flights on the Douglas DC-3 between Chicago and New York, to the dawn of the Jet Age with the introduction of the Boeing 707, the establishment of major hub-and-spoke carriers, and more, customers have had choices when they fly. Taken together, the moments where travelers chose American were instrumental in crafting the airline’s century of progress, innovation and global reach. This century of achievement is also the result of the team members who drove our progress and success through every era of change. The past 100 years have included every kind of experience — spanning from immense challenges to great successes — and at every moment, American’s team members rose to the occasion and cared for people on life’s journey. American will be celebrating this milestone with both customers and team members across the country. In Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (LGA), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), customers traveling on the 100th scheduled departure of the day will enjoy a celebration of our history with a glimpse into our future. Together with various partners, travelers will enjoy an elevated celebration with keepsakes to show our appreciation before being welcomed on board to the future of travel. Throughout the month, customers at all of our Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges can enjoy themed cocktails and hand-passed light bites to celebrate a taste of the culinary trends that have shaped the last century. At John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), customers will enjoy a similar celebration with a surprise and delight with a special twist. Flight 100 to London (LHR) will operate with N735AT bearing the “Flagship DFW” special livery, while American’s centennial-themed livery will aptly operate Flight 1926 from ORD to STL and back. Throughout the year, American is sharing stories and celebrations about its rich history at aa.com/american100. With details about special liveries, team member stories and a timeline of key events in the airline’s history, American’s story is one of triumph, progress and continued connections with customers.

International News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

Unmanned Systems

DSLR Pros Joins GeoCue Distribution Network

GeoCue has welcomed DSLR Pros to its growing distribution network, expanding nationwide access to TrueView 3D Imaging Sensors and LP360 point cloud processing software for geospatial professionals across the United States. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, DSLR Pros has spent more than a decade pioneering commercial drone technology and tailored solutions for customers in geospatial, READ MORE
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform

Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s READ MORE

Aviation Education

EAA Aviation Foundation Awards More Than 120 Scholarships to Students in 2026

The 2025-26 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships gave 127 students a financial boost toward pursuing their aviation goals. With the support of the foundation’s donors, the scholarships total more than $800,000 in value. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing flight training or post-secondary education. For flight training, this can cover costs associated with a READ MORE
K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

Kansas State University Salina is reintroducing an aviation summer camp experience that will allow high school students to become immersed in the world of flying that provides real piloting opportunities, with the launch of the new K-State Aviation Academy, June 21-27. The weeklong camp is for high school students between 15-17 years of age, and READ MORE

AAAE and TSA Offer Airports Virtual Training Course in Effort to Mitigate Inside Threat

September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 Kim Stevens

For National Insider Threat Awareness Month, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) encourage use of a recently developed virtual insider training course. The two organizations jointly developed the virtual training to help badged employees at airports recognize and report behaviors and activities that could indicate a threat to […]

Policy Brief : Modernizing the Passenger Facility Charge to Improve Aviation

September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 Kim Stevens

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the transportation sector hard and perhaps the aviation industry hardest. At its worst in April 2020, U.S. air passenger transportation declined by 96% year-over-year. While air travel has rebounded since that nadir, full recovery is expected to take years, particularly for international and business travel. The passenger air transportation market at […]

David Pekoske Confirmed for Second Term as TSA Administrator – Aviation Associations Applaud Decision

September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 Kim Stevens

The U.S. Senate has confirmed David Pekoske to serve as TSA Administrator for a second term. Aviation Associations including the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), welcomed the confirmation. GAMA President and CEO, Pete Bunce said the TSA plays an essential role […]

Aviation Fuel Market to Garner Momentum in North America with the Implementation of Supportive Regulatory Initiatives

September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 Kim Stevens

“The aviation fuel market size is anticipated to cross USD 325 billion in annual value by 2028, powered by the increasing preference for air travel and the improving middle-class living patterns,” says Global Market Insights Inc. With significant advancements in the aerospace industry and the rising popularity of air transport, the demand for aviation fuels […]

State Aviation Officials Applaud House Passage of Drone Infrastructure Grant Legislation

September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 Kim Stevens

The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act (H.R. 5315). The bill will be sent to the Senate for consideration. “State aviation officials are very pleased to see this legislation pass the House. It represents a landmark in the ability of […]

NASAO Concludes 91st Annual Convention, Announces 2022 Award Winners

September 17, 2022September 17, 2022 Kim Stevens

The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) successfully concluded its 2022 Annual Convention and Tradeshow in Greenville, SC with 38 State aviation leaders and 43 exhibitors participating. “State aviation leaders and their partners from the FAA, other aviation associations and the private sector gathered in record numbers this week,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President […]

NASAO Announces 2022-2023 Board Members

September 16, 2022September 16, 2022 Kim Stevens

Yesterday, the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced members of the 2022–2023 Board of Directors at NASAO’s 91st Annual Convention & Tradeshow in Greenville, SC. The NASAO Board of Directors – comprised of NASAO’s Executive Committee and Regional Directors – will be led by David Ulane of Colorado as Chair. “I’m truly honored […]

AIA, AIAA Join Space Industry Coalition to Develop Skilled Technical Workforce

September 10, 2022September 13, 2022 Kim Stevens

The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will join the new initiative to develop a skilled technical workforce announced by Vice President Kamala Harris at the recent National Space Council meeting at NASA Johnson Space Center. “Exploration is part of America’s DNA and space is one of the […]

NTSB and FAA Sign Agreement on Commercial Space Mishap Investigations

September 10, 2022September 10, 2022 Kim Stevens

Photo above – NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and FAA Acting Administrator Billy Nolen sign MOA at NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston. National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy and Federal Aviation Administration Acting Administrator Billy Nolen signed an agreement Friday clarifying the roles of their respective agencies and how the NTSB and FAA will […]

Aero Club of Washington Appoints Stephanie Griffith as New Executive Director

September 9, 2022September 9, 2022 Kim Stevens

The Board of the Aero Club of Washington is pleased to announce Ms. Stephanie Griffith as its newly hired Executive Director. Stephanie effectively started her new position September 6 and oversees the full operational and management needs of the Aero Club of Washington. Ms. Griffith has more than seven years of experience working within the […]

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin

Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform