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

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026
The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]
VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport
VertiPorts by Atlantic, a subsidiary of Atlantic Aviation and the operator of the East 34th Street Heliport (6N5), hosted a successful demonstration flight of Joby Aviation’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of advanced air mobility in New York City. Conducted on Friday, May 1, at one […]
Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education
Photo – Gulfstream President Mark Burns (center) with representatives from the University of Georgia, Savannah Technical College, Middle Georgia State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Mercer University and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced a $5 million investment in Georgia education, reinforcing its long-standing […]
Marshall Receives $900,000 Federal Grant to Expand Aviation Training in Eastern Panhandle
Marshall University has received a $900,000 federal grant secured by U.S. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., to support the development of a new aviation training facility at Martinsburg Airport, advancing the university’s growing aviation mission in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Moore secured funding to establish in-person training opportunities for Marshall University Aviation through his work on […]

State News

Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day Brings Together a Wide Coalition to Promote The Commonwealth’s Industry

By Eric Blinderman Pa. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Photos by Eric Blinderman, Narrative Aviation Industry leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and students came together to connect, collaborate and share at the 3rd annual Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg. The event emphasizes the high-wage jobs and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s aerospace sector. Lt. Governor Austin Davis, who also serves as chair of the Aerospace States Association, kicked off the event, which featured industry exhibits, policy hearings, and networking to showcase Pennsylvania’s growing aerospace economy. “While Florida and Texas may get much of the attention for having big NASA centers, it’s important for young people in Pennsylvania to know that they can pursue their aerospace dreams right here in the Commonwealth,” Davis said. The event, attended by hundreds, was organized by the PA Chamber of Business and Industry, Keystone Space Collaborative, and Aerium. Glenn Ponus of Aerium with NASA astronaut Mike Fincke (who ranks fourth among U.S. astronauts with 549 days in space). “We’re proud to bring together middle and high school students, industry leaders, NASA astronauts, and Pennsylvania legislators to show the next generation that aerospace careers are real, they’re here, and they’re coming fast,” said Glenn Ponus, Executive Director of Aerium, a nonprofit that fosters collaborative economic and workforce development partnerships to ensure Pennsylvania leads in marketing cutting-edge technologies. Talent development took center stage at a PA Chamber–led panel, “Aligning Workforce Development with Aerospace and Aviation Needs,” exploring how the next generation of workers can become better prepared for careers in the industry. “Pennsylvania’s aerospace and aviation story is one of momentum—powered by the talent coming out of our world-class universities, driven by innovation from companies investing here, and strengthened by policy reforms that are delivering real results,” said PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein. With an eye on the future, the event also highlighted progress and impact being made today. “We are building an integrated, statewide system for next-generation aviation — on the ground and in the air, not just words on a slide dec,” Ponus added. “That means electric-powered aircraft, drones, advanced air mobility, and autonomous flight.”
John Ivanoff Named Vice President of Operations at Tucson Airport Authority

The Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) has announced the hiring of John Ivanoff as Vice President of Operations. As Vice President, Ivanoff will be a member of TAA’s Executive Team. In his role as Vice President of Operations, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of operations at Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Ryan Airfield (RYN). He will oversee Airside Operations, Police, Fire, Emergency Management, Maintenance & Custodial Services, and a number of other functional areas. John Ivanoff served the TAA for over 32 years in various roles, including 25 years in a supervisory or management role including Chief of Police, Chief of Public Safety, and Vice President of Operations. He retired in 2020. “The TAA is pleased that John Ivanoff is willing to return and lend his vast knowledge and experience to our organization,” said TAA President and CEO Danette Bewley. “He is a proven leader who will share his experience to support and mentor emerging leaders.” John is a native of Tucson and has 32 years of Public Safety experience.

National News

Aviation Workforce Crisis Meets Action: I Hart Flying Foundation Launches $20,000+ National Scholarship Initiative

As the aviation industry faces ongoing workforce shortages and increasing demand for skilled talent, the I Hart Flying Foundation (IHFF) has announced the launch of its 2026 national scholarship cycle, delivering more than $20,000 in flight training funding, pilot equipment and industry-supported resources. The initiative, “Access Granted: Runway to Rise,” marks the first phase of IHFF’s multi-year HART-LED: Cleared for Takeoff campaign, focused on a critical gap in aviation: ensuring aspiring pilots not only begin training, but complete it. Through its HART-LED: Approach, a structured, investable model, the organization provides support across three critical phases: Access, Advancement, and Completion. Eliminating funding gaps and sustaining momentum so women can progress seamlessly from their first flight to professional aviation careers. Women represent less than 6% of pilots globally and less than 3% of aircraft maintenance technicians, highlighting the need for a stronger, more robust aviation workforce pipeline. While many industry efforts focus on recruitment, IHFF is addressing a deeper challenge: training disruption caused by financial barriers at the earliest stages of flight training. “It’s not a capability problem. It’s a continuity problem,” said Rachelle Spector, Founder and CEO of I Hart Flying Foundation. “We’re ensuring women don’t just gain access to aviation, but have the support to advance, complete, and lead.” The Runway to Rise scholarship series supports women at the earliest and most vulnerable stage of flight training, where financial interruption most often occurs. This cycle provides direct funding, essential pilot supplies, and structured mentorship aligned with key certification milestones, helping scholars maintain momentum from their first flight through career progression. A Structured Model Delivering Measurable Results IHFF’s scholarship model is milestone-based and designed for accountability, aligning funding with key training phases, supported by mentorship and a national Selection Committee using a structured, blind review process. The approach is already demonstrating strong outcomes. To date, IHFF has: ● Awarded nearly $400,000 in flight training scholarships and in-kind support ● Supported approximately 50 HART Scholars across North America ● Achieved a 98% advancement rate to the next certification level ● Maintained a 100% completion rate among advancing scholars The Selection Committee includes aviation leaders such as Captain Beth Powell, Lisa Holland, and Glendon Fraser, among others across the industry. Aviation leaders across the industry are aligning behind this structured approach to workforce development. “Strengthening the aviation workforce requires intentional investment in both entry and long-term career pathways,” said Paul Floreck, Board Member of IHFF and Senior Vice President of Sales, US and Canada at Dassault Falcon Jet. “IHFF is creating a clear, structured path for women to not only enter aviation, but successfully advance within it.” “Partnering with I Hart Flying Foundation gives us direct visibility into the next generation of aviation talent,” said Lisa Holland, Chief Executive Officer of Sheltair Aviation. “We’ve seen HART Scholars progress firsthand at national industry events, and the impact is real.” The 2026 scholarship cycle is supported by a growing network of industry partners, including Gulfstream Aerospace, Dassault Falcon Jet, Clay Lacy Aviation, Solairus Aviation, Sheltair Aviation, and Enterprise Mobility Foundation, along with in-kind contributions from King Schools, Bose Aviation, and Starbucks. Beyond funding, IHFF connects scholars with industry leaders through national aviation events and mentorship opportunities, providing early exposure to career pathways and professional networks. Applications for the Access Granted: Runway to Rise scholarship cycle open April 21 and remain open through May 25. As IHFF approaches its 10-year milestone, the organization continues to scale a model focused on one outcome: ensuring women in aviation have a clear, continuous path to advance, complete, and lead.
Kinexis Consulting Welcomes Lorena de Rodriguez as Business Development Manager

Kinexis Consulting continues to expand its expert airport advisory team by adding Lorena de Rodriguez as its business development manager. With more than thirty years of experience across airport and airline operations, safety, security, and workforce development, Lorena brings deep expertise and experience supporting TSA programs, training initiatives, and industry-wide efforts through ACI World – Airports Council International, ACRP, and Safe Skies PARAS. Lorena de Rodriguez “I am pleased to welcome Lorena to Kinexis Consulting. Lorena’s strategic mindset and results-driven approach align perfectly with our vision as we continue to grow and innovate in the aviation sector,” said Saurabh Pethe, Kinexis President. Lorena told the State Aviation Journal that she is excited to be a part of the Kinexis team. “I joined Kinexis because I believe airport management deserves consultants who lead with experience. The Kinexis Airport Advisory Team is built around professionals who understand the full scope of airport operations. A team that knows security systems, compliance, and airfield safety and who bring genuine empathy to every engagement,” said Lorena. “That combination of depth and dedication is rare, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.” Lorena, who previously led the team at Safety & Security Instruction (SSi, Inc) for more than twenty years, will be based in Arizona.

International News

NBAA Names Recipients of Hilsmann Memorial Scholarships

The Maintenance Committee of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) announced the recipients of the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship. The two recipients will be able to attend model-specific training courses to advance their careers as business aviation maintenance technicians. Douglas Stevenson, student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Jackie Wilson, student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University The NBAA Maintenance Committee and NBAA Charities, in coordination with Dassault Falcon Jet and Dassault’s authorized training providers CAE and Flight Safety International, offer the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship to current and aspiring aviation maintenance technicians and military personnel transitioning to business aviation. The scholarship was created to honor the memory of Hilsmann, whose strength of character inspired a high standard of caring in the business aviation community. In his most recent position as a field representative with Dassault Falcon Jet, as well as in his previous positions as an aviation mechanic and pilot, Hilsmann was known for his integrity and pride in his work. Applications for the 2027 Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship will be available in Fall 2026. Learn more about the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship. In addition to the Hank Hilsmann Memorial Scholarship, NBAA Charities offers several other scholarships and programs to promote professional development and business aviation careers. For more information, visit nbaa.org/scholarships.
B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. B-29 ‘Doc’ photos by Kim Stevens “As AirVenture is the world’s largest annual gathering of warbirds, we are happy to be welcoming the B-29 Doc back to Oshkosh,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This B-29 is always a big favorite on Boeing Plaza when it appears in Oshkosh, especially as it is one of only two flying examples in the world of the legendary aircraft.” As currently scheduled, Doc will take centerstage for display on Boeing Plaza on July 24-26. When not on display at Boeing Plaza, flight experiences on Doc will be available July 20-23, based at Appleton International Airport, approximately 20 miles north. Doc was built in 1944 and for many years was part of a squadron known as the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in upstate New York at Griffiss Air Force Base (hence, the name Doc). The airplane was retired in 1956 as the jet bomber age began and sat as a target for Navy training missions in China Lake, California, until 1998. A restoration group took possession of the airplane from the U.S. government and hauled it back to Wichita, Kansas, in pieces in 2000. After 16 years and more than 450,000 volunteer hours, Doc made its first flight after restoration in July 2016, 60 years after it had been retired. Flight experience information for Doc at Oshkosh is available at https://www.b29doc.com/rides/. Doc is owned and operated by Doc’s Friends, Inc., a non-profit based in Wichita.

Unmanned Systems

Palm Springs Police Department Expands Drone Responder Program with MatrixSpace Radar Network

MatrixSpace, an intelligent sensor innovator, has enabled the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) to expand its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, establishing the largest first responder agency coverage area (37 square miles) monitored by radar sensors instead of humans in the United States. The PSPD’s program expansion was made possible with multiple remote drone READ MORE
Pyka’s Autonomous DropShip Completes First Flight

Pyka has announced the successful first flight of DropShip, its next-generation heavy-lift autonomous aircraft built for contested logistics and multi-mission operations. From concept to flight in just six months, this program sets a new benchmark for rapid development of advanced autonomous systems, delivering the mission-critical capabilities required today. It is engineered to extend reach, resilience, READ MORE

Aviation Education

Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day Brings Together a Wide Coalition to Promote The Commonwealth’s Industry

By Eric Blinderman Pa. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Photos by Eric Blinderman, Narrative Aviation Industry leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and students came together to connect, collaborate and share at the 3rd annual Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg. The event emphasizes the high-wage jobs and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s READ MORE
Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education

Photo – Gulfstream President Mark Burns (center) with representatives from the University of Georgia, Savannah Technical College, Middle Georgia State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Mercer University and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced a $5 million investment in Georgia education, reinforcing its long-standing READ MORE

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 to Convene the UK Government

May 3, 2026May 3, 2026 Kim Stevens

The UK Government has confirmed its largest commitment to the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow to date. It’s being held July 20 -24th. The engagement reaffirms the event’s role as a central platform for the UK Government to further strengthen its international relationships with allies and partners to support defense and wider foreign policy. The announcement […]

Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education

May 3, 2026May 3, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Gulfstream President Mark Burns (center) with representatives from the University of Georgia, Savannah Technical College, Middle Georgia State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Mercer University and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced a $5 million investment in Georgia education, reinforcing its long-standing […]

MAMA Extends Scholarship Deadline to May 31

May 3, 2026May 3, 2026 Kim Stevens

College students preparing for aviation careers are encouraged to apply for either of the two scholarship programs being offered by the Massachusetts Airport Management Association. The deadline to apply for both scholarship programs is May 31, 2026. Crocker Snow Memorial Scholarship The Snow Scholarship is valued at $2,000 and seeks candidates who are focusing their […]

Aviation Workforce Crisis Meets Action: I Hart Flying Foundation Launches $20,000+ National Scholarship Initiative

April 28, 2026April 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

As the aviation industry faces ongoing workforce shortages and increasing demand for skilled talent, the I Hart Flying Foundation (IHFF) has announced the launch of its 2026 national scholarship cycle, delivering more than $20,000 in flight training funding, pilot equipment and industry-supported resources. The initiative, “Access Granted: Runway to Rise,” marks the first phase of […]

Kinexis Consulting Welcomes Lorena de Rodriguez as Business Development Manager

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

Kinexis Consulting continues to expand its expert airport advisory team by adding Lorena de Rodriguez as its business development manager. With more than thirty years of experience across airport and airline operations, safety, security, and workforce development, Lorena brings deep expertise and experience supporting TSA programs, training initiatives, and industry-wide efforts through ACI World – […]

Southwest Florida International Airport Reports Historic March Traffic

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

During March, 1,521,149 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, which was a historic monthly record. This was an increase of 3.9 percent compared to March 2025. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 1.9 percent. “March 2026 was the busiest March and best single month in the 43-year history of Southwest Florida […]

Pyka’s Autonomous DropShip Completes First Flight

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

Pyka has announced the successful first flight of DropShip, its next-generation heavy-lift autonomous aircraft built for contested logistics and multi-mission operations. From concept to flight in just six months, this program sets a new benchmark for rapid development of advanced autonomous systems, delivering the mission-critical capabilities required today. It is engineered to extend reach, resilience, […]

AutoFlight Completes First 2-Ton-Class eVTOL Tea Delivery in China

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

AUTOFLIGHT has successfully completed China’s first 2-ton-class eVTOL dedicated spring tea transport trial in Guizhou, a mountainous province in western China. The trial deployed AutoFlight’s CarryAll (V2000CG) – a fully autonomous, unmanned eVTOL aircraft – to transport fresh spring tea between Anshun and Guiyang, two Guizhou cities approximately 120km apart. The unmanned flight crossed rugged […]

Texas A&M-RELLIS and Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) Announce Partnership to Expand Drone Training Across Texas

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

Texas A&M-RELLIS, and Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) have announced a new partnership to expand access to professional drone and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) instruction across Texas. The collaboration is intended to support statewide labor force and economic development priorities by preparing Texans for high-demand careers in industries increasingly reliant on drone technology. Across Texas, sectors […]

Burke Lakefront Supporters Meet with FAA Leadership to Oppose Airport Closure Proposal

April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP) met with FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Daniel J. Edwards yesterday to express unified opposition to Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s proposed closure of Burke Lakefront Airport. In the meeting, Edwards told the LAPP that safety will be the top priority when examining any potential closure. “We appreciate Associate Administrator […]

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026

VertiPorts by Atlantic Hosts Electric Air Taxi Demonstration by Joby Aviation at New York City’s East 34th Street Heliport

Gulfstream Invests $5 Million to Support Georgia Education

Marshall Receives $900,000 Federal Grant to Expand Aviation Training in Eastern Panhandle