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

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology
Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by […]
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet
Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era […]
Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition
A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery […]
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 […]

State News

Students Explore New Early-Career Aviation Maintenance Program

A cohort of ten students from Campbell, Kapolei, and Waipahu high schools is piloting the state’s first aviation maintenance technology program in collaboration with the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (PHAM). The program provides early-career training starting a student’s junior year. The goal is to prepare students for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, enabling them to earn a living wage immediately upon graduation. “As an island state, we rely heavily on aviation and maritime, so we wanted to make sure that we were building those pipelines,” said Wanelle Kaneshiro-Erdmann, director of the Workforce Development Branch for the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education. PHAM worked with the Western Maricopa Education Center to offer students a two-year, 1,900-hour program in the maintenance and repair of aircraft mechanical systems, including jet engines, hydraulics, and propellers. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Director of Education Greg Farris said that there are upcoming shortages for aviator airframe and powerplant mechanics. Through a partnership, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offers students a two-year, 1,900-hour program. “By having a program like this, it sets high school students up to be able to graduate and get their airframe and powerplant certification upon graduation. That launches them directly into a career path with companies such as Hawaiian-Alaska (Airlines),” he explained. “Being able to make $85,000 a year starting is an incredible opportunity for a high school student.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for aircraft mechanics and service technicians is projected to grow significantly. Graduates will enter a high-demand market driven by a retiring workforce and the rapidly expanding air and space industries. Kealana Naluai, a student from Kapolei High School, said that she wasn’t really that big into flying because of a fear of heights. “But I do like the engineering and the mechanics behind everything because it’s just amazing how we were able to get such big, metal, heavy machines into the sky using just engineering and physics. That’s why I’m so interested in this,” she said. Students receive a blend of classroom and hands-on shop instruction from FAA-approved instructors in an FAA-approved hangar. After successful completion, students can test for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. The hybrid learning model requires students to attend class at the training hangar four days a week and report to their home school on Fridays. Naluai remarked, “It gives you such a good opportunity to further your education and your career path. You’re already getting a head start compared to other kids who have to graduate high school first.” Upon graduation and FAA certification, these students are positioned for direct entry into the aviation industry, helping to bridge a critical workforce gap, earning approximately $40 an hour. Devon Allen Araki, a junior from James Campbell High School, said, “I wanted to do engineering, but I didn’t know where to go. And going into this pathway helped me get a direct path. And now I’m fully committed to this.”
West Woodward Airport Unveils New Terminal and Major Infrastructure Upgrades to Fuel Regional Economic Growth

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and West Woodward Airport officially marked the completion of a multi-million dollar transformation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Feb.13, 2026. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and local leaders join the community at West Woodward Airport to debut a $12 million transformation, marking a new era for aerospace and economic growth in Western Oklahoma. The event celebrated the opening of a new terminal building and several vital upgrades engineered to position Woodward as a prime hub for business and general aviation in the Western Oklahoma region. Facilitated by the ODAA’s five-year revolving Airport Construction Program (ACP) plan and fueled by Oklahoma’s Preserving Rural Economic Prosperity (PREP) program, these improvements to West Woodward strengthen a vital link in the state’s airport system. The total cost of the updates comes in at a little more than $12 million. They include a new terminal building and dedicated parking lot ($4 million); a corporate box hangar and expanded apron ($4.4 million); construction of new south taxilane and access road ($2.6 million); and utility infrastructure to support the terminal and hangar ($969,000). The PREP fund, established by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2022, was created specifically to fuel economic growth and invest in workforce development in the state’s rural areas. The improvements at West Woodward Airport are model examples of how those funds have been used to update infrastructure to facilitate commerce and travel within the state. “Oklahoma’s aerospace industry is a vital economic engine for our state,” said Grayson Ardies, ODAA Executive Director. “The completion of these pro-growth projects at West Woodward ensures that Western Oklahoma remains competitive and capable of supporting the evolving needs of both corporate and general aviation.” The ceremony featured remarks from Reps. Carl Newton and Mike Dobrinski (R-Woodward), Sen. Casey Murdock (R-Woodward), Woodward City Manager Shaun Barrett, and Mayor Tom Fisher. The event drew a large crowd of local residents, aviation enthusiasts, and pilots, with fly-ins arriving as early as 9:30 a.m. to tour the new facilities. “This investment is a game-changer for West Woodward Airport and our entire city,” said Mayor Fisher. “Thanks to the State Legislature and our partners at ODAA, we are modernizing our facilities to fuel job creation and long-term economic opportunity across Woodward County and throughout the Western Oklahoma region.” With the addition of the new terminal and corporate hangar, the City of Woodward is focused on attracting new business tenants and increasing revenue-generating storage, securing a prosperous outlook for the greater regional economy. Originally opened as Woodward Army Airfield in March of 1943, modern-day West Woodward Airport serves as a critical gateway for Western Oklahoma, providing essential services for general aviation and corporate travel. Woodward features a 5,502-ft. primary runway and a shorter 2,500-ft. runway. The airport has 27 based aircraft and sees about 6,000 take-offs and landings annually. For more information on Oklahoma’s ACP, visit Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics website.

National News

Airports as Economic Engines: Managing a High-Value Public Asset

Airports generate hundreds of billions of dollars in direct and indirect economic activity annually in the United States, supporting millions of jobs and serving as critical gateways for commerce, tourism, emergency response, and national security. For states and local communities, an airport is often the single largest economic asset they own. Each airport plays a unique role based on its location, airspace, and surrounding economy. When managed well, an airport attracts investment, supports jobs, and generates long-term revenue. When managed poorly, it becomes a financial drag on already constrained municipal and state budgets. The difference between those outcomes comes down to how safely, efficiently, and continuously the airport is managed—and how effectively leadership uses data to improve performance over time. The Regulatory Reality: Compliance Is Not Optional Airport operators and state aviation directors operate within a dense framework of FAA Orders, Advisory Circulars, and grant assurances. For any airport accepting FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding, compliance is not discretionary—it is a fiduciary obligation to the public. Recognizing both the operational burden and opportunity for modernization, the FAA explicitly acknowledged in its 2020 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) that uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) could help airports manage assets more efficiently, improve safety, and reduce costs—especially for general aviation and smaller commercial airports that lack revenue from airlines, charter operations, or training schools.The FAA identified eight priority areas where drones can immediately improve airport operations: Pavement inspections Wildlife hazard management Foreign Object Debris (FOD) ARFF situational awareness Obstruction surveys Lighting inspections Perimeter surveillance Construction monitoring Several of these capabilities are no longer theoretical—they are operational today. Pavement Inspections Without Runway Closures Runway pavement is one of an airport’s most valuable and expensive assets. In 1998, the GAO highlighted the high cost, inconsistency, and safety risks of traditional pavement inspection methods. This led to the FAA’s push for 100% detailed inspections and standardized Pavement Condition Index (PCI) evaluations under ASTM D5340. Traditional vehicle- and foot-based inspections: Require runway closures Place personnel in active movement areas Produce inconsistent, non-repeatable results Are labor-intensive and costly By contrast, FAA-approved drone-based inspections, combined with AI analysis and engineer review: Meet all FAA safety, legal, and fiduciary requirements Eliminate runway closures Produce repeatable, auditable data Reduce inspection costs dramatically Support long-term maintenance planning and grant compliance This is not just safer—it is better asset management. Wildlife Hazard Management: Solving Hidden Problems Bird strikes are a well-known risk, but fewer airport leaders realize what attracts birds to runways in the first place. One surprising culprit: anthills. Ant colonies can: Attract birds searching for food Erode subsurface materials under runways, taxiways, and aprons Increase long-term maintenance costs Create safety hazards that are difficult to detect visually High-resolution 3D drone data allows airport operators to identify and mitigate these issues early, reducing wildlife risk while lowering long-term repair costs—something traditional inspections simply cannot do at scale. FOD: Identifying the Source, Not Just the Debris The FAA has determined that most FOD originates from pavement distress. Cracking, raveling, and joint failures generate debris that damages tires, engines, and aircraft structures.Once an airport is digitized using FAA-approved cameras: A baseline 3D model identifies where FOD is being generated AI analysis correlates pavement distress with daily operations Airport staff can proactively address high-risk areas Damage is mitigated before costly incidents occur This shifts FOD management from reaction to prevention. Obstruction Surveys Made SimpleDrone-based surveys using FAA-specified cameras generate precise 3D point clouds of pavement and surrounding features, making it easy to identify: Obstructions Vegetation encroachments Objects in the OFZ, RSA, and imaginary surfaces Structures affecting Part 77 compliance What once required multiple surveys and consultants can now be done through a single, repeatable digital process. One Digitization, Many Uses The real power of drone-based inspections is reusable data.FAA guidance typically considers data valid for six months, with a preference for leaf-on and leaf-off conditions. In practice, drones are now so efficient—and AI processing so fast—that they are becoming part of daily airport operations, supporting: Part 139 inspections ARFF response planning Perimeter security Construction monitoring Asset management systems One digital twin replaces dozens of redundant inspections. AIP Grant Eligible and Easy to Implement Yes—UAS inspections are AIP-eligible. The FAA’s Airport Data Information Portal (ADIP) makes grant requests straightforward. Using simple dropdown menus and short narratives, applications can be submitted electronically and routed to the appropriate FAA authority quickly. No friction. No guesswork. Sustainability, Safety, and Fiscal Responsibility Runways, roadways, and rail systems endure extreme loads and environmental stress. Rehabilitation is inevitable—but unnecessary rehabilitation is wasteful and avoidable.Inaccurate inspections lead to: Premature demolition Excess material production Increased air pollution Unnecessary environmental impact Silent Falcon’s inspection and analytics are precise enough to determine: Exact material quantities Targeted repair locations Optimal maintenance timing This reduces waste, lowers emissions, protects wildlife, and saves public funds—all while improving safety. Always Open, Always Safe Silent Falcon inspections do not disrupt operations. Airports remain fully functional while leaders receive: Accurate PCI ratings Georeferenced, auditable data Predictive maintenance insights Defensible FAA compliance documentation Our PavPrint™ technology creates an AI-powered digital fingerprint of your airfield, combining: High-fidelity digital twins Proprietary AI analysis Forward-looking maintenance forecasting One inspection. Endless insight. Data Access, Anytime Silent Falcon is developing an iOS application (launching Spring/Summer) that will allow airport leaders to access infrastructure data 24/7—on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. This is not about drones.It’s about better decisions, safer operations, and stronger airport economics. Airports are too valuable to manage any other way.
Air Care Alliance Welcomes Shakeel Mozaffar as New Director

The Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nonprofit public service organization representing a nationwide network of volunteer pilot groups that deliver impactful and inspiring service through aviation, has announced the appointment of Shakeel Mozaffar to its Board of Directors. Shakeel Mozaffar “Our Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated team of leaders committed to fostering and enhancing charitable aviation,” said Mark Hanson, President of Air Care Alliance. “We are excited to leverage Shakeel’s diverse experience and enthusiasm for public benefit flying to not only further our mission, but expand our reach and the possibilities of general aviation doing even more in the communities that we work, live and fly within.” With a long history in business and philanthropy, Shakeel Mozaffar is a global executive with extensive leadership experience across finance, international relations, technology, and global supply-chain management. Former CEO of the Altruism Research Institute, Corp., he presently devotes full-time to philanthropic pursuits. Throughout his corporate career, he has held senior executive roles including Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Head of New Product Development, Sales and Marketing at Polaroid Corporation, as well as Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Chief Technology Officer at ICI Plc. in London. “I am honored to join the Air Care Alliance board,” said Shakeel Mozaffar. “I am a firm believer that every public benefit flight represents an opportunity to make a profound difference – whether it be to provide a person who cannot access medical care because of distance with free air transportation; enable a Veteran to access care and support; assist in the transportation of animals to start a new life or become a service animal; educate students with STEM Flights to promote a career in aerospace or support a community in times of natural disaster crisis with supplies that are not accessible. In those moments, Air Care Alliance along with the volunteer pilot organizations throughout the United States turn compassion into motion and hope quite literally takes flight.” A committed humanitarian, Shakeel serves as a Volunteer Mission Pilot with Angel Flight NE, an Air Care Alliance member, and was honored with the 2023 National Endeavor Award for Philanthropy in Aviation. He has not only flown patients so they can access medical care, but he has also flown many long-distance disaster relief flights, most recently the flooding in the Carolinas, bringing much needed supplies to those affected by this natural disaster. He lives in Lincolnville, Maine with his wife Joan. With more than 13,000 volunteer pilots across the United States, these compassionate humanitarians are leveraging their talents and resources to assist those in need whether it be patients who need to travel long distances to access healthcare; an animal that requires relocation to enhance its adoption possibilities or to be a service animal for someone in need; educate students with STEM flights and for other compelling needs, an activity commonly known as “public benefit flying”. However, the power of general aviation and volunteerism within it is not very well known and for this reason Air Care Alliance is committed to educating the community about its benefits; encouraging more pilots to volunteer and continuing to expand its organizational network of volunteer pilot organizations (VPOs).

International News

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by customers, partners, officials and company employees. The unveiling also was viewed by a worldwide audience via a live-streamed presentation. TBM 980 deliveries are to begin this month following certification by the European and U.S. airworthiness authorities. “Our TBM 980’s motto, ‘Fly Differently,’ is more than just a slogan, because this aircraft redefines the way that pilots – and their passengers – want to fly. The aircraft is more intuitive and easier to operate,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “Its touchscreen-controlled flight deck truly revolutionizes the interface between pilots and the avionics, while the passenger experience is further elevated in the six-seat cabin with such features as the capability to install a Starlink Mini terminal for satellite-based internet connectivity, along with 100-watt USB-C ports for the charging of mobile devices, as well as an upgraded passenger display with enroute flight data.” Chabbert said airworthiness certification has been issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), along with validation by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), enabling Daher to begin TBM 980 deliveries this month.” “The TBM 980 is the sixth aircraft launched by Daher in the TBM 900-series since we acquired the TBM product line in 2014,” stated Didier Kayat, the Daher Chairman and CEO. “This underscores our firm commitment to the airplane family’s evolution through the continual application of innovation, and with our close working relationship with key suppliers.” The Garmin 3000® PRIME avionics’ highly intuitive and refined interface significantly improves cockpit ergonomics. Three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen displays ensure seamless control of flight functions, with significant improvements in screen and image quality. Pilot workload is reduced through customizable presets and a streamlined user interface. Its app-based interface uses shortcuts that enable pilots to quickly access essential functions (radios, transponder, flight plan, procedures, etc.) without navigating through multiple menus – thereby improving efficiency and reducing workload. The checklist button is replaced with a four-position joystick for up/down scrolling, check and quick access. Safety remains paramount aboard the TBM 980 with Daher Aircraft’s e-copilot® concentration of technological innovation and automated systems, proven across the TBM 900-series aircraft. This includes advanced weather detection, icing protection, flight envelope monitoring and the emergency descent mode, along with the game-changing HomeSafe™ emergency autoland functionality. The TBM 980 also is equipped with Garmin’s GWX™ 8000 all-digital radar, which has excellent range and performance with precision target imaging. StormOptix technology automatically adjusts radar settings for more accurate 3D profiling of storm cells. Precision piloting and excellent operational efficiency are ensured with the TBM 980’s features adopted from Daher’s best-selling TBM 960 version, including Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6E-66XT intelligent turboprop engine and the five-blade Hartzell composite propeller – both of which are controlled by a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system. The TBM 980 is approved for full “PRIST-free” operations, eliminating the need for anti-icing additives in the fuel system. Connectivity on the TBM 980 is possible with a Starlink Mini satellite Internet terminal using the factory-installed mounting in the cockpit and a dedicated 100-watt USB-C power port, as well as a comprehensive suite of subscription-based digital services – including Garmin PlaneSync™ (for remote aircraft activation, status monitoring and automated database updates using the Me & My TBM application), the Garmin Pilot™ and ForeFlight apps, Jeppesen aviation databases, and SiriusXM weather and audio services. The TBM 980 is the first airplane to be certified under the Daher Aircraft identity. As part of the parent Daher Group’s overall restructuring in its “Takeoff 2027” strategic plan, Daher Aircraft has become the legal structure that regroups all activities related to the company’s airplane product lines. As of December 31, 2025, a total of 1,294 TBMs had been delivered worldwide.
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era of smart and safe Personal Aviation™. The Vision Jet is recognized as the world’s first single-engine Personal Jet and the best-selling jet in aviation. Known for its V-tail design, quiet and spacious cabin, safety systems and intuitive Perspective Touch+™ avionics, the Vision Jet was designed with the pilot and passengers in mind. Cirrus is now delivering the G3 Vision Jet. “The G3 Vision Jet is a testament to our relentless innovation, continued investment in Personal Aviation and our owners who want to travel efficiently with award-winning safety features, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®) and Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland for peace of mind,” said Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus. “The G3 Vision Jet interior was engineered for excellence and comfort, now offering expanded seating for increased mission capability. The Cirrus Perspective Touch+ flight deck adds new features for reduced pilot workload, including ATC Datalink and Alerts-Linked Checklists, while new Cirrus Spectra™ wingtips illuminate the ramp.” A Reimagined Cabin The G3 Vision Jet cabin supports expanded mission capability while prioritizing pilot and passenger comfort. Now, the G3 can seat a total of seven occupants (six adults, one child) with the Premium and Arrivée trims or Xi-Designed aircraft. The cabin showcases newly designed seating, tray tables, personal device mount locations and interior aesthetic enhancements to create a flexible, productive and streamlined environment that adapts to every mission. Cabin Seating Expands The cabin now features a sleek, comfortable and convenient third-row bench seat that elevates the passenger experience by increasing spaciousness for seven passengers. Enhanced bolstered seats feature fine-tuned ergonomics, providing support to the headrest, armrests and knee area for a comfortable journey. The pilot and co-pilot seats can now be adjusted to their full aft range with single-handed operation, while the middle and third-row seats remain modular and can be removed or installed to serve the pilot’s mission. Cabin Aesthetic Upgrades All G3 seats feature a new hardshell back with hand-wrapped Alcantara. Depending on the G3 Vision Jet trim, seatbacks are now part of the design experience and carbon-fiber-equipped at the Arrivée level. Interior colorways are enhanced with two new Standard colors, five Premium offerings and a new collection of Arrivée colors, now aligning with the SR Series product line. Flight Deck and Exterior Light Enhancements The G3 Vision Jet adds Perspective Touch+ flight deck features to reduce pilot workload, increase safety and maximize productivity: ATC Datalink: Pilots can text to communicate with air traffic control to receive route updates, altitude assignments and more. Automatic Database Updates: Flight data is always up to date, streamlining the preflight process with the Cirrus IQ PRO Advanced™ subscription. Alerts-Linked Checklists: Provide quick access to relevant checklists in high-workload scenarios when a caution or warning alert may arise. Taxiway Routing and 3D SafeTaxi®: Increase situational awareness in airport environments with clear airport surface maps and directions for navigating unfamiliar airports. Cirrus Spectra™ Wingtips & Lights: New wingtip and landing lights are 2.7 times brighter, while the signature Cirrus halo light distinguishes the jet on the ramp. Cirrus Aircraft Ownership Over 700 Vision Jets have been delivered worldwide, maturing to serve business owners, entrepreneurs and those who demand efficient and cost-effective travel. Owners enjoy a lifetime of concierge, streamlined aircraft ownership through the Cirrus ecosystem of services for aircraft sales and management, finance and insurance, flight training, service and more.

Unmanned Systems

Airports as Economic Engines: Managing a High-Value Public Asset

Airports generate hundreds of billions of dollars in direct and indirect economic activity annually in the United States, supporting millions of jobs and serving as critical gateways for commerce, tourism, emergency response, and national security. For states and local communities, an airport is often the single largest economic asset they own. Each airport plays a unique role based READ MORE
Drone Survey Results: Citizens in Europe Welcome Drones in Life-saving Operations

Photo above – Sakari Röyskö | Forum Virium Helsinki A series of surveys reveals that citizens in six European cities strongly favor drone usage for emergency services and environmental monitoring. In Helsinki, citizens worry about criminal activity and invasion of privacy. In six cities, Helsinki, Hamburg, Stockholm, Gdansk, Riga, and Tartu, more than 8 000 READ MORE

Aviation Education

Students Explore New Early-Career Aviation Maintenance Program

A cohort of ten students from Campbell, Kapolei, and Waipahu high schools is piloting the state’s first aviation maintenance technology program in collaboration with the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (PHAM). The program provides early-career training starting a student’s junior year. The goal is to prepare students for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, enabling them to READ MORE
Women’s Aviation Career Symposium Inviting Women to Explore Careers in Aviation

The Women’s Aviation Career Symposium (WACS) will be held for the eighth year on February 28, 2026. This event is a professional career conference for women from high school through retirement and will be held at Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation in Battle Creek, Michigan. The WACS event will award over $50,000 in scholarships READ MORE

IAWA Announces New President, Board of Directors and 2026 Initiatives

February 9, 2026February 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA), a global leader in advancing leadership across the aviation and aerospace industries, has announced its incoming President, Board of Directors, and a slate of transformative initiatives planned for 2026 that further its mission to connect, inspire, and lead. 2026 Board of Directors: Global Leadership, Collective Impact IAWA’s 2026 Board […]

Oregon Department of Aviation Applauds FAA’s Draft Plan to Transition to Unleaded Aviation Fuel

February 9, 2026February 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Oregon Department of Aviation applauds the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for releasing its draft Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline, a significant step toward modernizing general aviation while maintaining safety, reliability, and environmental stewardship. Aviation gasoline known as 100LL, which contains lead, is currently used by many piston engine aircraft operating at local airports […]

MAC General Aviation Airports Record Another Year of Growth

February 9, 2026February 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – An aircraft on approach to land on Runway 32-14 at St. Paul Downtown Airport. Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission. 2025 proved to be another strong year for general aviation airports operated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC). New year-end data shows the MAC supported 387,302 operations (takeoffs or landings) at its six […]

Women’s Aviation Career Symposium Inviting Women to Explore Careers in Aviation

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Women’s Aviation Career Symposium (WACS) will be held for the eighth year on February 28, 2026. This event is a professional career conference for women from high school through retirement and will be held at Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation in Battle Creek, Michigan. The WACS event will award over $50,000 in scholarships […]

Federal Resources Directed to Kansas Airports in Appropriations Package

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation – directed more than $26 million in federal investments to repairs and safety improvements at regional airports in Kansas. This funding was included in the five-bill appropriations package […]

Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $442,422 in Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics is pleased to announce that the Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) has officially approved $442,422 in grant funding to support 15 organizations through the FY2026 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program. These grants are designed to support organizations that focus on aviation education and help develop […]

Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $9 Million in State Airport Funding

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) approved more than $9 million in State and Local Colorado Discretionary Aviation Grant (CDAG) funding to support aviation infrastructure improvements at airports across the state during its Jan. 27, 2026 meeting. The first round of 2026 CDAG awards will provide $9,064,332 in state funding to 20 Colorado airports, leveraging an […]

Bismarck to Budapest – Airports Report Record Passenger Stats in 2025

February 6, 2026February 6, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Kim Stevens From Bismark to Budapest, airports had record-breaking years in 2025. Throughout the U.S. and around the globe, the message was the same – passenger numbers were up. “2025 was the busiest year in the history of the airport,” said Steven C. Hennigan, C.M., A.C.E., executive director and CEO of the Lee County […]

Air Care Alliance Welcomes Shakeel Mozaffar as New Director

February 4, 2026February 9, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nonprofit public service organization representing a nationwide network of volunteer pilot groups that deliver impactful and inspiring service through aviation, has announced the appointment of Shakeel Mozaffar to its Board of Directors. “Our Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated team of leaders committed to fostering and enhancing […]

AOPA Announces Leadership Transition as CEO Moves to Advisory Role

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) today announced a leadership transition as President and CEO Darren Pleasance steps out of the day-to-day CEO role and into an advisory capacity to support AOPA and the Board of Trustees during the search for AOPA’s next leader. Over time, it’s become increasingly clear that the AOPA CEO […]

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

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

Ontario International Airport Unveils Bold New Monument Sign Celebrating New Era