State Aviation Journal

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification
BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs […]
FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy
Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director […]
ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction
Photo – Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Executive Director Grayson Ardies led the Bartlesville Municipal Airport’s ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the airport’s taxiway on Monday, Sept. 8. The airport also broke ground on the future 20,000-square-foot hangar project anticipated to be completed by summer 2026. Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace […]
“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial
The “Yellow Rose”, the christened name of the vintage B-25J Mitchell WWII bomber, is once again touring the American skies. The bomber is completely restored to its wartime capabilities and is operated by the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. Photographer Griffey Bostock took advantage of the aircraft’s recent stop at Centennial Airport in Englewood, […]

State News

West Georgia Technical College Launches Cutting-Edge Drone Training Program in Partnership with USI

West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) and Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) have announced the launch of a new Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) training initiative, designed to meet the rising demand for certified drone professionals across agriculture, public safety, and commercial sectors. “As new regulatory updates continue to be released, the timing for this program launch couldn’t be better,” said Josh Olds, CEO & President at USI. “With new legislation, the already high demand for safe, skilled UAS professionals is only going to continue to grow, so we’re thrilled to partner with WGTC to offer these programs in Georgia.” The commercial drone market is projected to grow by over 50% in the next five years. In the U.S., the FAA forecasts show continued robust growth in new commercial drone registrations, driven by expanding applications in package delivery, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, construction, public safety, entertainment, and emergency response. “Launching this initiative represents exactly what we aim to do at West Georgia Tech—deliver innovative, accessible training that prepares our students and workforce for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Dr. Julie Post, President of WGTC. “This partnership with USI positions our college, our students, and our region for success in one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation.” The program begins October 20, 2025, with a week-long FAA Part 107 Workshop, a preparatory course for earning the commercial remote pilot certificate. This workshop is ideal for professionals looking to integrate drone technology into their work or for hobbyists who are ready to advance into commercial UAS operations. Following the workshop, the USI Primary Program is set to launch the week of November 3, 2025. This intensive 8-week, hybrid bootcamp provides industry-recognized certifications, hands-on flight training, and prepares students for careers in the fast-growing UAS industry. “The foresight that WGTC has shown by launching this initiative, positions them at the forefront of one of the fastest growing industries – drones,” stated USI Director of Academic Partnerships, Roberto Torreggiani. “By giving students and working adults access to hands-on flight training and UAS certifications, we’re helping them reskill and step directly into high-paying, high-demand careers. These are the kinds of opportunities that change lives, strengthen communities, and fuel economic growth across western Georgia and eastern Alabama.” This new program at WGTC is the first of its kind in the state of Georgia, a state emerging as a leader in agricultural drone adoption. Farmers are using drones for precision agriculture, including crop health monitoring, targeted spraying, and irrigation management. WGTC will deliver the program at its Carrollton Campus, with plans to expand to additional campuses in the near future. “We are proud to be the only institution within the Technical College System of Georgia currently providing this specialized training,” said Steve Cromer, Vice President of Economic Development at WGTC. “By offering the latest in drone technology training, we’re not only meeting industry demand but also providing our students with a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving field. We’re thrilled to collaborate with USI to bring this cutting-edge program to the west Georgia region.” Additional program offerings are expected to launch in Spring 2026, including USI’s UAS Maintenance Technician track, and the USI Advanced Program, which focuses on beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) training. Registration Details: FAA Part 107 Workshop: Begins 10/20/2025 | Cost: $550 | Registration Deadline: 10/14/2025 USI Primary Bootcamp Program: Begins 11/3/2025 | Cost: $4,000 | Registration Deadline: 10/25/2025 For registration or more information, please visit https://www.flyusi.org/uas-bootcamp-at-west-georgia-technical-college or contact Steve Cromer at steve.cromer@westgatech.edu or 706-756-4563. West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson, and Troup counties and class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers more than 120 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is one of the largest of the state’s 22 technical colleges. For more information, please visit www.westgatech.edu.
Kent State University Receives Federal Grant for Airport Improvements

The Federal Aviation Administration has awarded Kent State University $4,106,553 for upgrades to its airport, including the reconstruction of 1,500 square yards of the existing Compass Calibration Pad Apron pavement and 3,700 feet of existing paved Taxiway A pavement. The grant funds the final phase of these projects. The airport is the longest-surviving public-use airport in Ohio and celebrated its centennial in 2020. U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) provided a letter in support to help bolster the grant application. “The Kent State University Airport plays a pivotal role in our community, ensuring that the next generation of aviators can receive the best education, right here in Northeast Ohio. These funds will help ensure that we are continuously repairing and making upgrades to the airport, so it can serve generations to come,” said Rep. Sykes. “Kent State University is grateful for this investment in our airport and in Ohio’s largest collegiate flight training program. The reconstruction of the Compass Calibration Pad Apron will ensure that our students and faculty continue to train in a safe, modern environment while preparing the next generation of professional pilots. Since the 1960s, Kent State has been advancing aviation education and meeting Ohio’s workforce needs, and today we proudly offer seven professional pilot pathway programs that connect students directly to careers,” said Christina Bloebaum, Ph.D., Dean, Kent State University College of Aeronautics and Engineering.

National News

NBAA Announces Promotion of Aviator, NAS Expert Heidi Williams to Association Vice President

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has named Heidi Williams vice president, air traffic services and infrastructure, expanding her role in overseeing the association’s policies and coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), state and local officials. Heidi Williams “Heidi has been instrumental in advocating for business aviation at the highest levels of government, helping to ensure that our members retain equitable access to airports and airspace across the National Airspace System (NAS),” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Her technical expertise and experience in air traffic system operations has helped ensure that business aviation is well understood by regulators and other policymakers.” Williams and other NBAA Air Traffic Services staff represent business aircraft operators on the floor of the FAA’s Air Traffic Control System Command Center (ATCSCC), a coordination hub from which government and industry collaborate on a daily basis regarding aviation system management and decision-making. Other industry segments represented at the center include the passenger, cargo, low-cost and international carriers. Williams also leads the association’s emerging technologies initiatives and airspace and air traffic modernization efforts, including notice to airmen (NOTAM) modernization. She recently served as the industry chair on the NOTAMs Task Force. Prior to joining NBAA in 2016 as director, air traffic services, Williams held roles at Lockheed Martin and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). A 25-year veteran of the aviation industry, Williams is a commercial pilot and flight instructor. She received her bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Justin Wortman Joins RS&H to Support Firm’s National Aviation Architecture Services

Employee-owned, national architecture, engineering and consulting firm RS&H welcomes Justin Wortman as an Associate Vice President, Senior Project Director, Aviation. With two decades of experience leading large-scale airport programs, Wortman will help further strengthen RS&H’s ability to deliver transformative solutions for aviation clients nationwide. His expertise spans planning, design management and program leadership for major projects at airports across the country, including Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, O’Hare International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Wortman’s knowledge and skills have supported clients on large-scale efforts such as the LAX Delta Sky Way program and program design for the development of LAX Terminal 9. Justin Wortman Known for his data-driven approach and collaborative leadership, Wortman has worked closely with airport authorities and airline stakeholders to enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and deliver high-value programs. His ability to synthesize complex problems and distill the options into a series of well-defined scenarios empowers clients to make quick decisions with confidence. “Justin is a great addition to our growing team,” said Dennis Iskra, CM, AIA, LEED AP, Vice President and Senior Principal Architect at RS&H. “His incredible passion and experience in the aviation industry are a great addition to the RS&H team and will be instrumental in delivering integrated solutions to our clients. We are incredibly excited to have him join during such a pivotal time in our company’s growth.” “I am excited to join such a dynamic team capable of supporting the full spectrum of planning, design, and construction management services at airports across the country,” said Wortman. Wortman received his Bachelor’s of Environmental Design in architecture from North Carolina State University and his Master’s of architecture from the University of Southern California.

International News

GAMA Second Quarter Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report Shows Increase in Overall Value

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2025 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, show increased shipments in the business jet and piston airplane sectors and an increase in the overall value of aircraft shipments. Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, saw piston airplanes increase 5.1% with 810 units, turboprops decrease 4.3% with 268 airplanes, and business jets increase 9.9% with 354 airplanes. The value of airplane deliveries through the second quarter of 2025 was $12.3 billion, an increase of 9.9%. Helicopter shipments through the second quarter of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, saw piston helicopters decrease by one unit to 106, and turbine helicopters decrease 2.3% with 302 units. The value of civil-commercial helicopter deliveries was $2.0 billion. Six Month Aircraft Shipment & Billing Aircraft Type20242025% ChangePiston Airplanes771810+5.1%Turboprops280268-4.3%Business Jets322354+9.9%Total Airplanes1,3731,432+4.3%Total Airplane Billings$11.2B12.3B+9.9%Piston Helicopters107106-0.9%Turbine Helicopters309302-2.3%Total Helicopters416408-1.9%Total Helicopter Billings$1.7B$2.0B+20.3% GAMA’s complete 2025 second quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs as flight schools struggle with aging fleets and rising costs amid unprecedented pilot demand. The B23 platform already holds EASA CS-23 certification in Europe, where over 1,100 Bristell aircraft have been delivered since 2009, establishing proven performance in commercial training operations. Nearly 100 Bristell aircraft are already operating in the United States today, popular among both flight schools and private pilots for cross-country flying, providing a foundation of real-world experience for the company’s certified aircraft expansion. Strategic Market Entry “This first FAA certification enables us to address the pilot shortage crisis with modern training solutions,” said Martin Bříštěla, CEO and Co-founder of Bristell Aircraft. “Flight schools need alternatives to aging fleets with 40-year-old designs. Additional B23 variants will follow this initial certification as we expand our certified portfolio.” B23 Interior The company plans to grow its North American dealer network by 50% within 18 months while pursuing certification for the complete B23 lineup, including Rotax 912iS, 915iS, 916iS, and IFR variants, providing comprehensive solutions for diverse aviation needs from basic training to advanced cross-country flying. Modern Training Economics The certified B23 delivers compelling economics with its 100 HP Rotax 912S3 engine featuring 2,000-hour TBO intervals and 4.5 gallons per hour fuel consumption, certified for both 100LL AVGAS and unleaded automotive fuel. “Training organizations save up to 35% on operational costs compared to traditional alternatives,” said David Copeland, Vice President of Sales. “For private pilots, the 700-nautical-mile range and spacious cockpit make it ideal for comfortable cross-country adventures, while the BRS parachute system provides an additional layer of safety that gives both pilots and passengers peace of mind.” Bristell Manufacturing Facility Czech Republic Advanced safety features include all-metal construction with rigid cockpit design. Key specifications: 1,654 lbs MTOW, 662 lbs useful load, and the widest cockpit in class at 51 inches for enhanced pilot comfort during extended flights. Market Availability Deliveries of the FAA-certified B23-912 begin Q4 2025 through Bristell’s North American dealer network. Sales inquiries and customer support available 24/7 worldwide through Bristell Direct at +1-316-215-8651.

Unmanned Systems

West Georgia Technical College Launches Cutting-Edge Drone Training Program in Partnership with USI

West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) and Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) have announced the launch of a new Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) training initiative, designed to meet the rising demand for certified drone professionals across agriculture, public safety, and commercial sectors. “As new regulatory updates continue to be released, the timing for this program launch couldn’t READ MORE
Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s K1000ULE Becomes Longest-Endurance UAS on DoD’s Blue UAS Cleared and Blue UAS Select Lists

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace announced that its fully electric K1000ULE UAS has been added to both the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit Blue UAS Cleared List and the Blue UAS Select List, the government’s trusted rosters of drones validated as secure, NDAA-compliant, ready for immediate procurement. The K1000ULE is the longest-endurance, longest-range aircraft in READ MORE

Aviation Education

ATP Flight School Begins Training First Class of American Airlines Cadet Academy Students

ATP Flight School began training its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at its Charlotte-Concord training center. This milestone marks the first group of cadets to enroll in the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway through ATP, following ATP’s selection as an official partner school earlier this year. ATP Flight School welcomed its inaugural class READ MORE
Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the READ MORE

Cirrus Aircraft and ALSIM Form Alliance to Provide Next-Level Training

January 10, 2022January 10, 2022 Kim Stevens

At Cirrus CX 2022 in Knoxville Tennessee, Cirrus Aircraft and ALSIM Simulators announced an alliance to provide Cirrus customers with a complete flight training solution. ALSIM currently has their ALSR20 simulator, an exact replica of a new Cirrus SR20 G6, on display at the conference. The ALSR20 will be installed at the Cirrus Training Center […]

SDDOT Secretary Joel Jundt Named to National Transportation Research Board

January 10, 2022January 10, 2022 Kim Stevens

Joel Jundt, South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) Secretary, will officially be welcomed as a new board member for the Transportation Research Board (TRB) during the upcoming organizational annual meeting. As part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the TRB provides leadership in transportation improvements and innovation in all modes of transportation. […]

William P. Hobby Becomes First Airport in North America to Earn a 5-Star Int’l Rating

January 10, 2022January 10, 2022 Kim Stevens

The City of Houston now boasts the only 5-Star rated airport throughout the state of Texas and North America after William P. Hobby Airport achieved a 5-Star Airport status in the Skytrax World Airport Star Rating for 2022. William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, Tx is the first North American airport to achieve a 5-Star […]

Ray Foundation Award to Allow UND Phoenix to Offer Flight Scholarships to 25 Military Vets

January 10, 2022January 10, 2022 Kim Stevens

The UND Aerospace Foundation announced a $300,000 award by The Ray Foundation, Inc. to be used for scholarships to help 25 U.S. Military Veterans earn their Private Pilot License. Training will take place at the UND Phoenix Flight Training Center (UND Phoenix), beginning as early as February 2022. The scholarships are designed to cover nearly […]

Memphis City Council Approves Appointment of Belinda Anderson to Airport Authority Board

January 9, 2022January 9, 2022 Kim Stevens

The Memphis City Council has approved the appointment of Belinda Anderson to the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) Board of Commissioners. Anderson, who was nominated by City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland, will serve her new term from January 1, 2022, until December 31, 2028. Anderson has extensive experience in the airline industry, beginning as […]

FAA to Hire Experienced Air Traffic Controllers

January 9, 2022January 9, 2022 Kim Stevens

If you’re an experienced air traffic controller eager to put your talents to use, consider applying for a job with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA is providing a window of opportunity for experienced air traffic controllers to apply for positions from Jan. 7 until Jan. 13. The announcement is open to candidates who […]

Allegiant Announces Purchase of 50 Boeing 737 Aircraft

January 9, 2022January 9, 2022 Kim Stevens

Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) announced an agreement with Boeing to purchase 50 new 737 MAX aircraft as part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to modernize and expand its fleet. The multi-year deal – Boeing’s first with an ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States – includes the purchase of 737-7 and 737-8-200 models, as well […]

Piper Aircraft Expands Brand Ambassador Program to Include Minnesota State University – Mankato

January 9, 2022January 9, 2022 Kim Stevens

Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced the expansion of its brand ambassador program to include Minnesota State University at Mankato (MNSU). Piper Brand Ambassadors leverage their social media channels to promote their individual pilot training journey and act as advocates for the aviation industry. The program is designed to increase awareness of the aviation degree paths offered […]

Gov. Whitmer Announces Air Mobility Corridor Development in Michigan and Ontario

January 8, 2022January 8, 2022 Kim Stevens

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has announced that Michigan and Ontario are collaborating on a first-of-its kind technology initiative involving unmanned aerial systems (UAS), more commonly known as drones. This effort involves studying the feasibility of a commercial drone skyway in three proposed areas, including an international connection between Michigan and Ontario, southeast Michigan, and any […]

NATA Welcomes Keith DeBerry as Senior Vice President of Safety & Education

January 8, 2022January 8, 2022 Kim Stevens

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is pleased to announce that Keith DeBerry has been named Senior Vice President of Safety and Education. Keith DeBerry has served as NATA’s Senior Advisor of Regulatory Affairs (Maintenance) and liaison for its Aircraft Maintenance and Systems Technology Committee since January 2020. In his new full-time role, DeBerry will […]

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction

“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial