State Aviation Journal – Page 2 – 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

America’s 250th Anniversary to be Commemorated During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Above – Boeing Plaza at AirVenture 2025 – Photo by Kim Stevens The heritage, innovation, and technological advances of aviation in the United States over the past century will be part of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the Experimental Aircraft Association’s annual fly-in convention, on July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “’Celebrating the Freedom of Flight’ will focus on the unique role aviation has played in America’s progress since that first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “Be it innovations by individuals or colossal accomplishments by the nation’s companies and our military, America’s leadership role in the progress of flight has been a remarkable part of our nation’s history that we’ll celebrate at Oshkosh.” That focus at Air Venture will cover the more than 120 years since the first flights at Kitty Hawk, starting with the “Pioneers of Flight” exhibits and program covering powered aviation’s first 25 years, to the latest fighter jets, unmanned aircraft, and spaceflights that showcase cutting-edge technology. That theme will be represented on the main Boeing Plaza ramp and during the daily air shows, as well as in evening programming at Theater in the Woods and at the Fly-In Theater. In addition, individual areas at EAA AirVenture will feature unique aspects of America’s preeminent role in aviation. That includes the remarkable civilian aviation progress represented by the “Class of ‘46” general aviation aircraft in the Vintage area and red, white, and blue paint schemes on amateur-built aircraft on the grounds. “We see this theme evolving over the next several months as the showcase of American ingenuity through the decades comes together at Oshkosh,” Larsen said. “While the EAA fly-in convention has always been the gathering place for every segment of aviation, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable display of what aviation has meant to our nation and to the world at large.” Further details on aircraft and activities in support of this theme will be announced as they are finalized.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 Introduces Vertical Lift Center, Offering Focal Point for Rotorcraft and Vertical Lift Technology

Rotorcraft and vertical lift technology will be the featured highlights at the new EAA Vertical Lift Center to be unveiled during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. “While homebuilt rotorcraft have long been a judged category at Oshkosh and we’ve always welcomed other rotorcraft, drones, and similar technology as part of the world of flight, the EAA Vertical Lift Center is a unique area that focuses on this unique segment and its potential,” said Ren Scott, EAA’s vice president of business development, sales, and events. “Working with Robinson Helicopter and VAI brings the expertise in this area that connects with the rotorcraft and vertical lift communities with the international visibility available only at Oshkosh.” As announced at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, this area will feature an emphasis on helicopters and VTOL aircraft as part of a partnership with the Robinson Helicopter Company and Vertical Aviation International (VAI), a membership organization dedicated to supporting the vertical lift industry. The dedicated space within AirVenture’s Aviation Gateway Park will display aircraft as well as promote rotorcraft education, industry recruitment, and innovative technology in the vertical lift industry. “Vertical aviation is entering a period of fast growth and real change, and the new Vertical Lift Center at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh gives us a high-visibility place to show the public where this sector is headed,” said François Lassale, president and CEO of Vertical Aviation International. “VAI is proud to partner with Robinson Helicopter Company and EAA to highlight the full spectrum of vertical lift, from today’s rotorcraft operations to emerging VTOL technologies, while inspiring the next generation of pilots, maintainers, and engineers who will power this industry upward.” Those involved in the rotorcraft and vertical lift community see the AirVenture connection as an innovative way to reach a broader audience with the technology and innovations that are advancing that aviation segment. “The future of flight is vertical, and EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh is an ideal stage to sponsor and showcase the innovation happening across our industry, from traditional rotorcraft to the next generation of piloted, remotely piloted and unmanned systems,” said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter and sponsor of the inaugural Vertical Lift Center at AirVenture 2026. “As the demand for skilled engineers, A&P mechanics, and test pilots reaches an all-time high, Robinson is committed to supporting education and careers across vertical lift. We encourage everyone to visit the Vertical Lift Center to discover how these advancements are shaping the next era of flight and how they can become a part of it.” Companies interested in exhibiting or displaying an aircraft in the inaugural year of the EAA Vertical Lift Center should contact the EAA Business Development team at Exhibits@EAA.org.

National News

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.
VPAR Kickoff Meeting at MMAC Signals Strong Momentum for Advanced Air Mobility Collaboration

On March 26, 2026, stakeholders from across the aviation ecosystem gathered at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) in Oklahoma City for the VPAR (Vertical Procedures/Performance and Analysis Range) Kickoff Planning and Collaboration Meeting—an event marked by high energy, strong participation, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The meeting brought together representatives from FAA divisions, industry partners, state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) organizations, academia, and other key stakeholders. The robust attendance and dynamic discussions reflected a growing alignment across sectors and underscored the collective momentum driving VPAR forward. Participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue around the critical role VPAR plays as a collaborative integrator within the AAM ecosystem. By uniting regulatory expertise, operational experience, research innovation, and community perspectives, VPAR is helping to establish a strong foundation for the safe and scalable integration of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into the National Airspace System. Throughout the session, a clear theme emerged: meaningful progress in AAM depends on strong public-private partnerships and clearly aligned objectives. Discussions emphasized how coordinated efforts can accelerate operational readiness, workforce development, infrastructure planning, and equitable access to AAM benefits across rural, tribal, and urban communities. The enthusiasm and forward-looking dialogue demonstrated that stakeholders are not only addressing today’s technical and regulatory challenges but are also building a framework for long-term scalability. By fostering shared data environments, validating performance benchmarks, and promoting cross-sector collaboration, VPAR is positioning itself as a proving ground for innovation that serves the broader public interest. “We are committed to building on this momentum through strong relationships and the strategic leveraging of each partner’s unique capabilities,” said Michael Coffman (AAM-510). As VPAR moves forward, the outcomes of this kickoff meeting signal a promising path ahead—one defined by collaboration, innovation, and a shared dedication to advancing safe, efficient, and accessible air mobility for all.

International News

America’s 250th Anniversary to be Commemorated During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Above – Boeing Plaza at AirVenture 2025 – Photo by Kim Stevens The heritage, innovation, and technological advances of aviation in the United States over the past century will be part of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the Experimental Aircraft Association’s annual fly-in convention, on July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “’Celebrating the Freedom of Flight’ will focus on the unique role aviation has played in America’s progress since that first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “Be it innovations by individuals or colossal accomplishments by the nation’s companies and our military, America’s leadership role in the progress of flight has been a remarkable part of our nation’s history that we’ll celebrate at Oshkosh.” That focus at Air Venture will cover the more than 120 years since the first flights at Kitty Hawk, starting with the “Pioneers of Flight” exhibits and program covering powered aviation’s first 25 years, to the latest fighter jets, unmanned aircraft, and spaceflights that showcase cutting-edge technology. That theme will be represented on the main Boeing Plaza ramp and during the daily air shows, as well as in evening programming at Theater in the Woods and at the Fly-In Theater. In addition, individual areas at EAA AirVenture will feature unique aspects of America’s preeminent role in aviation. That includes the remarkable civilian aviation progress represented by the “Class of ‘46” general aviation aircraft in the Vintage area and red, white, and blue paint schemes on amateur-built aircraft on the grounds. “We see this theme evolving over the next several months as the showcase of American ingenuity through the decades comes together at Oshkosh,” Larsen said. “While the EAA fly-in convention has always been the gathering place for every segment of aviation, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable display of what aviation has meant to our nation and to the world at large.” Further details on aircraft and activities in support of this theme will be announced as they are finalized.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 Introduces Vertical Lift Center, Offering Focal Point for Rotorcraft and Vertical Lift Technology

Rotorcraft and vertical lift technology will be the featured highlights at the new EAA Vertical Lift Center to be unveiled during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. “While homebuilt rotorcraft have long been a judged category at Oshkosh and we’ve always welcomed other rotorcraft, drones, and similar technology as part of the world of flight, the EAA Vertical Lift Center is a unique area that focuses on this unique segment and its potential,” said Ren Scott, EAA’s vice president of business development, sales, and events. “Working with Robinson Helicopter and VAI brings the expertise in this area that connects with the rotorcraft and vertical lift communities with the international visibility available only at Oshkosh.” As announced at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, this area will feature an emphasis on helicopters and VTOL aircraft as part of a partnership with the Robinson Helicopter Company and Vertical Aviation International (VAI), a membership organization dedicated to supporting the vertical lift industry. The dedicated space within AirVenture’s Aviation Gateway Park will display aircraft as well as promote rotorcraft education, industry recruitment, and innovative technology in the vertical lift industry. “Vertical aviation is entering a period of fast growth and real change, and the new Vertical Lift Center at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh gives us a high-visibility place to show the public where this sector is headed,” said François Lassale, president and CEO of Vertical Aviation International. “VAI is proud to partner with Robinson Helicopter Company and EAA to highlight the full spectrum of vertical lift, from today’s rotorcraft operations to emerging VTOL technologies, while inspiring the next generation of pilots, maintainers, and engineers who will power this industry upward.” Those involved in the rotorcraft and vertical lift community see the AirVenture connection as an innovative way to reach a broader audience with the technology and innovations that are advancing that aviation segment. “The future of flight is vertical, and EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh is an ideal stage to sponsor and showcase the innovation happening across our industry, from traditional rotorcraft to the next generation of piloted, remotely piloted and unmanned systems,” said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter and sponsor of the inaugural Vertical Lift Center at AirVenture 2026. “As the demand for skilled engineers, A&P mechanics, and test pilots reaches an all-time high, Robinson is committed to supporting education and careers across vertical lift. We encourage everyone to visit the Vertical Lift Center to discover how these advancements are shaping the next era of flight and how they can become a part of it.” Companies interested in exhibiting or displaying an aircraft in the inaugural year of the EAA Vertical Lift Center should contact the EAA Business Development team at Exhibits@EAA.org.

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

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
NAHF Selects Tennessee Educator Dan Mills for 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced that Dan Mills, aviation educator at Elizabethton High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee, has been selected as the 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year. Dan Mills With more than five decades of aviation experience, Mills has built one of the nation’s most impactful high READ MORE

NAHF Honors the National Air Traffic Controllers Association with the 2026 Milton Caniff Spirit of Flight Award

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) announced that the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Milton Caniff Spirit of Flight Award. This distinguished honor recognizes NATCA’s enduring commitment to aviation safety, professionalism, and public service, as well as its vital role in advancing the nation’s […]

“Elevating Horizons: Navigating Growth and Change,” Theme of North Carolina Airports Association 46th Annual Conference

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Scotty Malta The North Carolina Airports Association (NCAA) conference committee along with Emily Winberg, Business Manager and her team, developed and pulled off another record-breaking conference. The 46th Annual Conference, themed “Elevating Horizons: Navigating Growth and Change” was held in Downtown Charlotte, NC and had over 560 attendees, 56 sponsors, 51 exhibitors and 47 […]

AAAE’s ACT Releases New Report on How Airports Are Adapting to Rising Electrical Demand

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Airport Consortium on Transformation (ACT), comprised of innovative airport leaders and aviation industry experts, has released an industry report examining how U.S. airports are preparing for unprecedented electrical demand and increasingly utility-like operational responsibilities. As airports electrify vehicles, ground service equipment fleets, terminals, heating systems, and airside operations […]

North Dakota Records Second-Strongest Spring Travel on Record for ND Airports

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its March 2026 airline passenger statistics for the state’s eight commercial service airports. North Dakota’s commercial airports recorded 117,481 passenger boardings in March 2026, a 4.6 percent decrease from the record-setting March 2025 total of 123,187. Despite this decline, March 2026 ranks as the second-strongest March on […]

New Braunfels National Airport Named 2026 Airport of the Year

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – From left are; Ty Helton: President, Texas Airports Council, Michael Capizzi: New Braunfels City Council – District 2, Jeff Jewell, Director of Economic & Community Development, City Of New Braunfels, Dr. Robert Lee: Airport Director (New Braunfels National Airport), City of New Braunfels, Robert Camareno: City Manager, City Of New Braunfels, Dan Harmon: […]

Former U.S. Secretary Elaine L. Chao to Receive the 2026 Donald D. Engen Trophy for Aviation Excellence

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Board of Governors of the Aero Club of Washington is pleased to announce that the 18th U.S. Secretary of Transportation and 24th U. S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Donald D. Engen Aero Club Trophy for Aviation Excellence. “Secretary Chao’s distinguished career in public […]

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

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

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 […]

Agencies Participate in Triennial Emergency Exercise at Kapalua Airport

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) was joined by emergency responders and volunteers in a triennial emergency exercise at Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui on Friday, April 17. The drill simulated response to a Cessna 208 Grand Caravan having its nose gear collapse upon landing. The aircraft was simulated with a tractor. Volunteer actors […]

First U.S. ‘Runway-to-Space’ Challenge for Spaceplane Payload Test Flights, Flying from Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport

April 19, 2026April 19, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), in partnership with Dawn Aerospace, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the Runway-to-Space Spaceplane Challenge. This first-of-its-kind U.S. competition invites researchers to fly payloads aboard Dawn’s Aurora suborbital uncrewed spaceplane operating out of the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport (formerly Oklahoma Air and Space Port). The […]

K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

April 14, 2026April 14, 2026 Kim Stevens

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 […]

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