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

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era
Photo – Alan Wapner (second from right), President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, and Curt Hagman, Vice President of the Board, unveil the new monument sign at ONT. Ontario International Airport (ONT) unveiled a striking new monument sign at Archibald Avenue and Airport Drive, marking a powerful visual statement of […]
UrbanLink Selects NOEMI Electric Amphibious Aircraft for Future Seaplane Operations in Florida
Elfly Group, developer of the all-electric amphibious aircraft NOEMI (No Emissions), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UrbanLink, a U.S.-based zero-emission mobility company backed by revered US airline entrepreneur Ed Wegel. The agreement includes a 10+10 soft order for the NOEMI electric amphibious seaplane, representing a potential order value of approximately […]
STARLUX Airlines Launches Nonstop Service Between Taipei and Phoenix
STARLUX Airlines, a Taiwan-based luxury carrier, launched nonstop service between Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Jan. 15, marking a milestone that expands the airport’s international connections and is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, STARLUX Airlines Chief Executive Officer Glenn Chai, airport […]
Stralis Aircraft’s European Launch Customer, EVIA AERO, Expands Its Partnership for Hydrogen-Electric Aircraft
Stralis Aircraft has announced a second major commitment from EVIA AERO, strengthening their partnership to bring zero-emission regional aviation to Europe. This new agreement represents the largest single-customer fleet of hydrogen-electric conversions to date, deepening EVIA AERO’s role as one of Stralis’ earliest and most significant European customers. EVIA AERO has committed to five Bonanza-A36-HE […]

State News

Oregon Department of Aviation Adopts 2025 Strategic Plan to Strengthen and Modernize Oregon’s Aviation System

The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has officially adopted its 2025 Strategic Plan, marking a major step forward in strengthening, modernizing, and futureproofing Oregon’s aviation system. Developed through a robust, statewide engagement process, the Strategic Plan sets a clear course for how ODAV will enhance safety, resilience, sustainability, and innovation across Oregon’s 96 public-use airports—while continuing to connect communities, support emergency response, and drive economic growth. “This plan is about positioning Oregon’s aviation system for what’s next,” said Kenji Sugahara, Director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. “It reflects the voices of our aviation community and our shared commitment to building a system that is resilient, sustainable, and ready to meet future demands.” The 2025 Strategic Plan establishes five ambitious, action-oriented goals, including: Securing long-term, stable funding to support and expand Oregon’s aviation system Investing in airport infrastructure, resiliency, and sustainability statewide Modernizing policies and planning tools to align with FAA guidance and emerging technologies Expanding communications and outreach to better engage aviation partners and communities Advancing Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to support innovation, education, and economic opportunity Oregon’s aviation system plays a vital role in wildfire response, disaster preparedness, regional connectivity, and economic development. With this Strategic Plan, ODAV is committing to measurable progress, accountability, and collaboration to ensure aviation continues to serve Oregonians today—and for decades to come. The plan was shaped through workshops, perspective-gathering sessions, and collaboration with airport managers, aviation organizations, industry partners, and state agencies across Oregon. The 2025 Strategic Plan will serve as a guiding framework for agency decision-making, investment priorities, and stakeholder engagement moving forward. The full Strategic Plan is available on the Oregon Department of Aviation website HERE.
New Streamlined Parking System Announced for Kona and Hilo Airports

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has launched a new streamlined parking system at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) that will make it more convenient and efficient for drivers to enter and exit the airport parking lots. HDOT has partnered with Metropolis, an artificial intelligence parking technology company, to implement ticketless parking at the two airports. Airport users can sign up for the new system by downloading the Metropolis app for iOS, visiting app.metropolis.io, or scanning a QR code at any of the KOA or ITO lots. To create an account, users provide their mobile phone number, license plate number and payment method. Once registered, users can simply drive in and drive out, without having to take a ticket. Payment is done automatically online via the user’s designated payment method. Drivers who opt not to register for the program will still take a ticket upon entering the lot and upon exiting, can pay the attendant using cash, credit card, or debit card. Parking rates at KOA and ITO remain unchanged. Beginning in March, passengers will also be able to reserve parking in advance. “The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is committed to delivering a smooth, stress-free travel experience at our airports,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “With this partnership, the two main airports on Hawai‘i Island are among the first airports in the U.S. to have Metropolis’ innovative technology, which will streamline the parking process at KOA and ITO.” “Partnering with Kona and Hilo International Airports is especially meaningful to me, both professionally and personally,” said Courtney Fukuda, chief integration officer at Metropolis. “As someone born and raised in Hawai‘i, I’m proud to help bring our advanced technology to travelers who value speed, ease and simplicity. Together, we’re reshaping the start of the journey for both residents and visitors, reducing friction and maximizing convenience from the moment they arrive. Whether welcoming guests to our islands or helping locals move through their day, our goal is to make everyday transactions effortless with 40-plus Metropolis locations in Hawai‘i and growing.” KOA and ITO are among nine airports nationwide to install Metropolis’ drive-in, drive-out parking technology, after its debut last year.

National News

BrightPortal Celebrates 17 Year Milestone

BrightPortal Resources is celebrating its 17th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their journey to provide innovative solar-powered lighting solutions for taxiways, runways, and heliports. “For 17 years, we have been a trusted partner for airports and heliports, delivering cost-effective solutions that enhance safety and efficiency,” said Tim Cowsert, with BrightPortal. “We offer a turnkey project experience, from design and layout to installation.” As the company looks to the future, they remain committed to their mission of providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable lighting solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. “With a proven track record of successful projects, we continue to innovate and improve our services, ensuring that our customers receive the best possible solutions for their lighting needs,” noted Patti Cowsert, President of BrightPortal.
Bizav Industry Leaders DeMoor, Swanson Inducted into NBAA CAM Fellow Program

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) will recognize two new members of the Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Fellow Program at its Leadership Conference, Feb. 2-4 in San Antonio, TX. The new members, who were industry-nominated and chosen by a peer-evaluated process, are: Ryan DeMoor: head of aviation tax at MySky. Stuart Swanson: chief pilot for S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. DeMoor oversees the tax vertical in MySky’s suite of technology forward aviation finance products. He runs the fully outsourced MySky Managed Tax department and is also in charge of building out of MySky’s SaaS platform to include MySky Tax and MySky Pay. DeMoor also is a former chair of the NBAA Tax Committee and serves on the board of the West Michigan Aviation Academy Foundation. Swanson leads a 16-member team operating Falcon 7x and 8x aircraft globally. Prior to assuming the chief pilot role, he served as the S-76B helicopter operations supervisor and Falcon 900B captain for five years. He currently serves as the chair of the Chief Pilots Roundtable and vice chair of the NBAA CAM Governing Board. The CAM Fellow Program, which was launched in 2024, pays tribute to exceptional individuals who have demonstrated a substantial and ongoing commitment to the business aviation industry and the CAM program’s vision: “Committed to Excellence, Prepared to Lead.” The first fellow class included 19 inductees, and going forward up to two professionals receive the honor each year. Those recognized consistently go above-and-beyond in multiple facets and embody CAM’s values “SERVICES”: safety, ethics, relevance, vision, innovation, commitment, efficiency and security. “The CAM Fellow program recognizes those whose exceptional performance and commitment span every aspect of business aviation,” said Tyler Austin, NBAA senior director, events and credentialing. “Ryan and Stu exemplify the values of the CAM credential and have distinguished themselves as trusted leaders within our industry.” To be considered for recognition as a CAM Fellow, candidates must currently hold the CAM designation, receive at least one nomination by another Certified Aviation Manager, be an NBAA member and be a recognized leader currently employed in business aviation. The CAM Fellow recognition follows on the heels of the CAM certification award for tenure, which was implemented in 2023, and includes levels ranging from traditional CAM to CAM Silver and CAM Gold.

International News

New Board of Directors Appointed at Everdrone Ahead of Accelerated Expansion

Everdrone AB has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors, following a decision at an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. The newly elected board brings broad strategic experience to support the company’s next phase of national and international expansion. Mats Sällström “The new board members will support Everdrone’s next steps to accelerate growth and scale our drone-based solutions to additional regions, healthcare systems, and markets,” says Mats Sällström, CEO of Everdrone. Everdrone is currently in a strong expansion phase both in Sweden and internationally. At this stage, the company requires clear strategic governance, and the shareholders have therefore appointed a board with solid experience in developing and leading companies through a scaling phase. “The new board will primarily focus on ensuring access to capital, while prioritizing investments in market expansion, R&D, and regulatory matters.” The board brings together expertise in aviation, healthcare, commercialization, growth companies, and financial governance. The elected members are Ann-Christine Hvittfeldt (Chair), and board members Richard Tejme, Åke Lundén, Mats Sällström, and Magnus Hallberg von Geijer. Ann-Christine Hvittfeldt, Chair, has more than 15 years of experience in board work as a member and chair of owner-led, listed, and state-owned companies, including nine years as a board member of the Swedish Transport Agency (LFV). She is currently active at the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI), where unmanned aviation is one of the transport modes under research. Ann-Christine contributes strategic focus, structure, and a growth perspective. Richard Tejme is an investor, advisor, and board member with more than 25 years of experience from senior leadership roles as CFO and CEO across multiple industries. He is Chairman of the Board of Capitainer and Copture, and a board member of Mindler. Richard contributes deep financial expertise, strategic leadership, and hands-on experience in building and scaling growth companies. Åke Lundén is an entrepreneur and business angel, and founder of Benify and Friends Capital. He has extensive experience from board roles in startup companies, with a particular focus on go-to-market strategies and B2B SaaS. Mats Sällström has more than 20 years of experience in business development, marketing, and technical project management. Prior to Everdrone, he worked as a production and project manager at HiQ Gothenburg, where he was responsible for delivering innovative solutions to clients including Lego, Volvo Cars, and Electrolux. Mats is CEO and co-founder of Everdrone and has led the company from concept stage to commercial operations. Magnus Hallberg von Geijer has more than 25 years of experience in Life Sciences, with a background at international corporations such as GSK and Johnson & Johnson, and in recent years as an entrepreneur and investor. He has a strong focus on translating innovation into commercial value within healthcare. Magnus is Chief Commercial Officer at Everdrone.
Farnborough International Airshow 2026 Unveils New Features to Accelerate Global Aerospace Growth as Trade Tickets Launch

Trade tickets for the most important aerospace and defense event of the year, Farnborough International Airshow 2026, are officially on sale, marking an unparalleled edition of the global aerospace showcase. Returning from 20–24 July 2026, the airshow will be the largest and most ambitious in its 78-year history, following record-breaking demand and the addition of a brand-new sixth exhibition hall. With exhibitor space selling out exhibition halls and chalets 12 months in advance, and a waiting list of more than 50 organizations, the 2026 airshow is set to welcome more international participation than ever before, reinforcing the airshow’s position as the premier platform for innovation, collaboration, and investment across aerospace, defense, space, and adjacent sectors. This landmark edition introduces major new features designed to influence and accelerate financial innovation across the sector, strengthen global industry ecosystems and empower SMEs: Defense SME Zone Highlighting Farnborough’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and innovation in defense, the Defense SME Zone will make its debut as a dedicated showcase for high-potential international organizations specializing in defense and security technologies. Designed exclusively for businesses with a turnover under £10 million, the zone provides an unprecedented opportunity for SMEs to engage directly with the global defense supply chain; connect with primes, investors, media, and government delegations; participate in exclusive networking events; and showcase innovations to more than 100,000 visitors. Sponsored by FTSE 100 defense company Babcock International, the Defense SME Zone will accelerate the visibility and growth of next-generation defense suppliers. Growing businesses, including the likes of Cognitive Design by CDS, Elite EMC Ltd, Emergent, Infortecorp Solutions Limited, Inspectahire, and Needles And Pins Aerospace, will have a presence during the show. The Enterprise Gateway: Where Knowledge Meets Opportunity Launching at the heart of the show alongside the renowned Business Connections Exchange, The Enterprise Gateway is a three-day expert-led program designed to drive supply chain development and unlock growth opportunities for SMEs and primes across multiple sectors. Speakers include a Partner at Mercurea, General Partner at Twin Track Ventures and Managing Director of Alatar Ltd. Taking place 21–23 July 2026, this new feature will provide practical workshops on procurement, regulation, exports, and funding; keynotes and mentoring from industry leaders and policymakers; live pitching sessions connecting SMEs with investors and primes; and insights aligned with the UK Government’s Plan for Change. Built to transform insight into action, The Enterprise Gateway equips businesses with the tools, connections, and confidence to scale sustainably in an evolving global market. A Record-Breaking Airshow Ahead With the largest-ever international industry presence, the 2026 edition underscores the demand from the world’s most influential organization to do business at one of the most trusted airshows in the world, and Farnborough’s unmatched ability to convene the global industry. Twenty-six international pavilions, including India, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, and Switzerland, are already confirmed. The week concludes with Pioneers of Tomorrow on Friday, 24 July, welcoming thousands of young people for a dedicated STEM day, inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. Exhibitors, known as Champions of Tomorrow, will be demonstrating the opportunities within the sector and enable businesses to engage with the future workforce throughout the day directly helping to solve the skills-gap. The day will include dedicated features and activity, including a Careers Fair and digital Job Board to advertise apprenticeships, graduate schemes and entry-level roles, as well as competitions and on-stand experiences targeted at young people. Organizations already involved include Babcock International Group, Parker Aerospace and Belcan. Ticket Information Trade visitor ticket sales for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are officially open. With demand at an all-time high, attendees are encouraged to secure their place early for what promises to be the most dynamic and future-focused edition yet. Prices start from £59+VAT. To purchase your airshow tickets or for more information, visit: https://www.farnboroughairshow.com/ The Farnborough International Airshow is held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, Hampshire, UK.

Unmanned Systems

New Board of Directors Appointed at Everdrone Ahead of Accelerated Expansion

Everdrone AB has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors, following a decision at an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. The newly elected board brings broad strategic experience to support the company’s next phase of national and international expansion. Mats Sällström “The new board members will support Everdrone’s next READ MORE
Indiana’s National Drone Site Puts Arrive at the Center of Autonomous Delivery Scale

Arrive AI highlighted last week the strategic importance of Indiana’s selection as a newly designated federal Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) testing site. It’s the first such designation in more than a decade. Announced by U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, the designation places Indiana at the center of READ MORE

Aviation Education

Pilot Training Market 2025: Ab Initio Growth Contrasts with Type Rating Slowdown

The global flight training market in 2025 was largely defined by contrasts. Initial pilot (ab initio) and MPL (Multi-crew Pilot License) training expanded as airlines invested in future pilot pipelines. Type rating activity, on the other hand, faced headwinds from aircraft delivery delays and market adjustments. For training organizations, 2025 required balancing immediate constraints with READ MORE
Enid High School Aviation Program Reaches New Heights with Inaugural Flight of Student-Built Aircraft

Several Garfield County community members were on hand to see Enid High School’s aviation students’ hard work take to the skies Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2026 at Woodring Regional Airport. Enid celebrated the inaugural flight of its student-built RV-12iS Light Sport Aircraft as part of the Tango Flight (TFI) aircraft construction program. Enid High School celebrated READ MORE

James Lawrence Appointed Chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission

January 25, 2026January 25, 2026 Kim Stevens

James Lawrence has been appointed chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) board, which oversees Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and six general aviation airports in the Twin Cities. Lawrence currently chairs the commission’s Planning, Development and Environment Committee and is acting vice chair of the 15-member board. He was first appointed in 2021 to […]

McFarland Johnson Announces David Edwards as Executive Aviation Advisor

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 Kim Stevens

McFarland Johnson, Inc. (MJ) has announced that David Edwards, former Chief Executive Officer of Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), has joined the firm as an Executive Aviation Advisor. In this advisory role, Edwards will support McFarland Johnson’s growing aviation practice with a focus on airport strategy, executive advisory services, and program management support for complex capital […]

Hartsfield-Jackson’s Gateway to Growth Program Kicks off Second Year

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 Kim Stevens

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) announced the second cohort of its Concessions Small Business Program. The program is designed to educate, empower, and create opportunities for small businesses to operate at the Airport. It consists of two distinct components to ensure clear progression and opportunities: Gateway to Growth – the ATL Airport Concessions Small Business […]

Contour Airlines Announces New Seasonal Flights from Cape Girardeau, MO to Pensacola, FL

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 Kim Stevens

Contour Airlines has announced new seasonal nonstop service from the City of Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI) in Missouri to Pensacola International Airport (PNS), starting May 6, 2026. This new route expands Contour’s growing seasonal network and provides travelers with convenient nonstop access to the Florida Gulf Coast during the peak spring and summer travel […]

Award-Winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Enters Fourth Year at Sky Harbor

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 Kim Stevens

Traveling by air can be very hectic even for seasoned fliers, but it can be overwhelming for someone experiencing dementia. An estimated 7 million people in the United States experience dementia, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has proudly offered the Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop to passengers and caregivers of people with dementia, to […]

AOPA Launches Member Call to Action on ADS-B Misuse

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has launched a member call to action asking its 300,000 members to contact their senators and representatives in Congress and urge them to cosponsor the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA), legislation that would address growing concerns over the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data, including its […]

Omni Aircraft Maintenance Expands with New 40,000-Square-Foot Hangar

January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 Kim Stevens

Omni Aircraft Maintenance has acquired a new 40,000-square-foot hangar facility at KTUL to support increasing demand from individual aircraft operators and fleet customers. The expansion also includes an additional 18,000 square feet of office and customer workspace designed to enhance collaboration, communication, and customer engagement throughout the maintenance process. The additional capacity strengthens Omni’s ability […]

Op Ed: Why Franchising Makes Sense in a Growing Aviation Industry

January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Dustin Zeitler I’ve spent more than two decades working in the aviation industry and in that time seen cycles of growth, consolidation, and reinvention. One thing, however, has never changed: aviation rewards those who respect the details, which is what led us to start RealClean and after a great deal of deliberation—to become the […]

Pilot Training Market 2025: Ab Initio Growth Contrasts with Type Rating Slowdown

January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

The global flight training market in 2025 was largely defined by contrasts. Initial pilot (ab initio) and MPL (Multi-crew Pilot License) training expanded as airlines invested in future pilot pipelines. Type rating activity, on the other hand, faced headwinds from aircraft delivery delays and market adjustments. For training organizations, 2025 required balancing immediate constraints with […]

UrbanLink Selects NOEMI Electric Amphibious Aircraft for Future Seaplane Operations in Florida

January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 Kim Stevens

Elfly Group, developer of the all-electric amphibious aircraft NOEMI (No Emissions), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UrbanLink, a U.S.-based zero-emission mobility company backed by revered US airline entrepreneur Ed Wegel. The agreement includes a 10+10 soft order for the NOEMI electric amphibious seaplane, representing a potential order value of approximately […]

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era

UrbanLink Selects NOEMI Electric Amphibious Aircraft for Future Seaplane Operations in Florida

STARLUX Airlines Launches Nonstop Service Between Taipei and Phoenix

Stralis Aircraft’s European Launch Customer, EVIA AERO, Expands Its Partnership for Hydrogen-Electric Aircraft