ACEA, BETA Technologies, and NARTP Showcase Pioneering Aerospace Innovations and Sustainable Aviation at Exclusive New Jersey Event

Kim Stevens

Photo above – From left to right are, Mr. Lauren Moore, President, ACEA; Michael Viscount, Board of Trustees Chair, ACEA; Blain Newton, Chief Operating Officer, BETA Technologies; Howard Kyle, President, NARTP; Mark Loeben, Board of Trustees Chair, NARTP; Stephen Dougherty, Executive Director, South Jersey Transportation Authority; and Lexi Pace, BETA Technologies.

The Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), the National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP), and BETA Technologies recently hosted an exclusive event, offering a captivating preview into the future of aerospace innovation. This gathering at the Atlantic City International Airport provided an extraordinary platform for attendees to explore the latest advancements and visionary developments shaping the industry.

Lauren Moore, President of ACEA, expressed his enthusiasm for the revolutionary developments showcased by BETA Technologies. “We are thrilled to see the cutting-edge innovations BETA Technologies is bringing to the aerospace sector. This event has truly highlighted the transformative potential of electric aviation and its capacity to revolutionize the industry. We are proud to host BETA Technologies right here in Atlantic County!”

The event drew professionals, policymakers, and aviation enthusiasts from across New Jersey and the national aerospace community. Attendees were treated to a firsthand look at BETA Technologies’ groundbreaking all-electric ALIA aircraft, marking a significant achievement in sustainable aviation technology.

Driven by innovations like those from BETA Technologies, the aerospace industry is on a transformative journey. As electric and sustainable aviation technologies continue to evolve, they promise to reshape air travel, making it more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Blain Newton, Chief Operating Officer, BETA Technologies, said, “At BETA, we’re working to change the way goods and people are moved, by electrifying aviation to make it cleaner, more reliable, and more cost-effective. As we move closer and closer to getting this technology into the market, it’s critical that the surrounding ecosystem is ready to support it. This transition will take all of us, and we look forward to continuing to work with our government partners and leaders across New Jersey like the NJEDA, ACEA and NARTP to make this future a reality.”   

Reflecting on the collaboration, Mark Loeben, Board Member of the National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP), said, “The collaboration between the Atlantic County Economic Alliance, NARTP, and BETA Technologies showcases the vast potential for aerospace growth here in Atlantic County. BETA’s ALIA aircraft is a prime example of how innovative technology can drive progress and create new opportunities. This event highlights our commitment to cultivating a dynamic hub for advanced air mobility in South Jersey.”

Based in Vermont, BETA Technologies is dedicated to transforming air transportation to be safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective. Recently, their ALIA aircraft completed a successful four-day military exercise with the U.S. Air Force, showcasing its versatility in various operational scenarios. This fixed-wing electric aircraft represents a pivotal advancement in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), aiming to revolutionize air travel and logistics. BETA is also advancing an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, currently undergoing FAA certification.

Beyond aircraft development, BETA Technologies is leading the charge in establishing charging infrastructure to support electric transportation across sectors, including aircraft, cars, buses, and tugs. With 20 operational charging locations along the East and Gulf coasts and plans for over 50 more underway, their infrastructure expansion is critical. This effort aligns with projections that the U.S. AAM market will grow to $115 billion annually by 2035, creating over 280,000 high-paying jobs. In New Jersey, initiatives led by the ACEA and NARTP are positioned to drive significant economic benefits through the development of the AAM industry.

Tavaero Jet Charter Serves as a Catalyst Sponsor and Table Host for Women Inspiring the Next Generation through STEM Breakfast

Kim Stevens

Tavaero Jet Charter Corp. recently served as a Catalyst sponsor of the Lone Star Flight Museum’s 2024 Women Inspiring the Next Generation through STEM (WINGS) breakfast. The event was held in May at River Oaks Country Club in Houston and raised more than $45,000 for the museum and its educational programs.

Seated, from left are, Alicia Diaz, Jo Schenkenfelder, Marion Keller, and Melissa Zuber. Standing, from left are, Joni Becker, Zundrell Green, Marcela White, Sarah Wendt, Stephanie Abrego, and Donna Bruney. (Photo credit: Lone Star Flight Museum)

Kimberly Allen Dang, chief executive officer of Kinder Morgan, served as the honorary chair of the event. Kinder Morgan served as the Changemaker presenting sponsor. Serving as keynote speaker was Lena Andrews, author of the national best seller Valient Women: The Extraordinary American Servicewomen Who Helped Win World War II.

Located in Houston at Ellington Airport, the Lone Star Flight Museum is a 501c3 aviation museum and STEM learning center. The museum’s mission is to celebrate flight and achievements in Texas aviation history and to educate and engage youth through science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Lone Star Flight Museum is home to a flying collection of rare and historic commercial, general aviation, and military aircraft.

“We are thankful to Tavaero and all of our WINGs event sponsors for their support. Girls in Aviation and STEM education programming at Lone Star Flight Museum combines aviation and STEM principles with real-world applications to excite students of all ages about learning, and about careers in both the STEM and aviation industries. Girls in Aviation programming focuses on the many opportunities in aviation, the achievements of female role models like Marcela and to reinforce to girls ages 8 to 17 that they can become anything they set their minds to,” commented Anna Hawley, president and CEO of Lone Star Flight Museum.

Launched by Women in Aviation International 10 years ago, Girls in Aviation Day is a free event that is being held for kids and teens all over the world on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2024. On this day, the Lone Star Flight Museum will welcome 300 girls (and boys) ages 8 to 17 who are interested in learning about air and space career opportunities.  Lone Star Flight Museum’s Girls in Aviation Day event will include complimentary breakfast and lunch, a panel discussion with accomplished women in aviation and aerospace, a STEM Career Fair and exhibit booths, hands-on demonstrations, flight simulator experiences, a tour of the museum’s hangars and aircraft, and many other special activities and programs. Registration is now open, and sponsorship opportunities are available.  Access the Girls in Aviation Day video here.

Marcela White, co-owner of Tavaero, hosted nine special guests who included Stephanie Abrego, Jefferson Enterprise;  Joni Becker, Tavaero Jet charter; Donna Bruney,  Jefferson Enterprise; Alicia Diaz; Zundrell Green, Tavaero Jet Charter; Marion Keller, writer for Air Charter Journal and others; Jo Schenkenfelder, flight department coordinator;  Melissa Zuber, Tavaero Jet Charter; and Sarah Wendt, corporate pilot.

“Tavaero is supportive of women and men of all ages who are interested in pursuing a career in aviation and other Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields. Sponsoring Lone Star Flight Museum’s 2024 WINGS event is one of many ways that our Tavaero team demonstrates our commitment to developing the workforce of the future.,” White commented. “I enjoy mentoring women and young professionals,  and I welcome opportunities to support anyone who is eager to learn and grow.”

Microdrones Welcomes Lengemann Corporation to Its Global Distribution Network

Kim Stevens

Microdrones has announced that Lengemann Corporation, a leading supplier of positioning solutions for Construction, Engineering, and Surveying Professionals, has joined the Microdrones distribution network. Lengemann Corporation is now authorized to sell the fully integrated EasyOne Drone LiDAR systems and LP360 3D Point Cloud Software, expanding their offerings in Florida and the Caribbean.

The EasyOne system from Microdrones includes a drone, perfectly integrated LiDAR sensors, LP360 software, workflow, training, and support. The equipment easily packs into a compact case that is easy to transport. All EasyOne systems are made in the U.S. and available in NDAA-compliant versions.

“Adding the Lengemann Corporation to our distribution chain will help expand our coverage and network throughout the state of Florida, ” said Aaron Beach, Western Regional Sales Manager for Microdrones. “Their extensive experience and dedication to customer service are a great match with our values. With their expertise, we are confident that Lengemann will effectively introduce our EasyOne solutions to a wider audience, benefiting surveying and engineering professionals throughout Florida and the Caribbean.”

Mike Woodley, Sales Manager at Lengemann Corporation, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: ” The reputation of the Microdrones products and their fully integrated solutions speak for themselves. The EasyOne will help enable our customers to create powerful data deliverables like 3D point clouds and orthomosaics. These systems will help our clients collect data efficiently and safely while cutting costs and saving time.”

Lengemann Corporation has been in business for over 60 years and is known for its exceptional customer service and technical support. They are the only authorized Topcon and Sokkia master repair facility in Florida and operate one of the largest privately-owned GPS networks in the U.S., known as L-Net. Their new onsite training facility is equipped to meet all survey and machine control needs.

“The addition of LP360 software to our product lineup is a significant advantage for our customers,” added Woodley. “It’s one of the premier software solutions for analyzing and creating point clouds for LiDAR and photogrammetry. It’s intuitive and easy to use, which we believe will greatly enhance our customers’ workflows.”

The EasyOne systems from Microdrones are compact, optimized, lighter, safer, and more efficient. These fully integrated systems make it easier than ever for users to plan, fly, collect, process, and visualize geospatial data projects. Lengemann Corporation’s knowledgeable staff is committed to meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations daily.

“We are excited about this new partnership,” said Woodley. “Combining Microdrones professionalism and cutting-edge technology with our customer service and expertise will create a tremendous opportunity for our clients.”

IADA Foundation Opens Business Aviation Scholarship Applications Deadline Sept. 1

Kim Stevens

Applications are now open for IADA Foundation Business Aviation Scholarships. These scholarships were created by the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) to aid and inspire the next generation of business aviation professionals through educational opportunities, creating gateways for young people to flourish in the industry.

“The IADA Foundation is now accepting applications from qualified students attending colleges and universities offering course work in Corporate Aviation Management, Aerodynamics, Aircraft Systems, Aviation Safety, Finance, Business Marketing, Economics and/or studies that relate to Aviation Business/Management,” said Johnny Foster, IADA Foundation Board Chair, and President & CEO of OGARAJETS. “Scholarships are monetary awards between $1,000 and $5,000,” he added.

Through a new sponsorship relationship with Alpha Eta Rho, the IADA Foundation has increased the approved universities in the scholarship program to 63 colleges that have aviation programs, and the process is still open to consider students from other schools with such programs. Alpha Eta Rho is a professional collegiate aviation fraternity founded in 1929 to bring together students that have a common interest in the field of aviation.

Students seeking scholarships can now apply directly online to the IADA Foundation at International Aircraft Dealers Association | IADA. Applications are now open and will close Sept. 1. For a list of currently approved colleges go to International Aircraft Dealers Association | IADA.

This award is available to full-time, undergraduate (freshman through senior) students (taking a minimum of 12 hours/semester) and graduate students. Applicants must have a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA on a 4.0 grade scale (high school GPA for freshman applicants).

Tysen Pina Selected to Lead K-State Salina’s Aviation Program as Department Head

Kim Stevens

In its mission to become a leading institution for aerospace and technology talent development, Kansas State University Salina has appointed Tysen Pina as the new department head of aviation.

Tysen Pina

As the department head, Pina will oversee the aviation program, focusing on expanding industry-relevant academic offerings, strengthening alumni and industry partnerships, enhancing safety management and strategically positioning the program for future success.

Having retired from the U.S. Air Force, Pina brings more than 21 years of aviation experience. His expertise spans program management, process improvement, strategic planning, aviation training and leadership. Pina plans to leverage K-State Salina’s rich aviation history of excellence and build upon the foundation that has already been laid over the past 33 years under the Kansas State University system and previously, with the campus leading in aviation training since the 1960s.

“My heart is in all things aviation, building organizations and pouring into people and making them better every day,” said Pina. “I knew that once my time in the Air Force was over, I knew I wanted to be in aviation. When I first met the K-State Salina faculty, their connection and excitement really shone through. This campus and the spirit that it has really motivated me.”

Additionally, as the aviation industry continues to see major transitions in its hiring practices, needs and criteria, K-State Salina is committing itself to supporting all learners through educational offerings that will set its students up to impact the industry.

“We are committed to providing quality education to all learners – whether they are looking for a certificate or associate, bachelor’s or a master’s degree,” said K-State Salina CEO and dean Alysia Starkey. “With Tysen’s focus on safety, excellence and mentorship, K-State Salina graduates will continue to be highly sought-after professionals, ready to excel in the ever-changing industry regardless of their career entry point.”

Pina holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree in business organization and leadership from the University of Kansas.

His distinguished Air Force career includes roles such as commander for the 966th Airborne Air Control Squadron with E-3G AWACS aircraft; director of operations for 16th Airborne Command and Control Squadron with E-8C JSTARS aircraft, wing inspector general with the 116th Air Control Wing; regional engagement strategist for Air Force Central Command in Qatar; and assistant director of operations for the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base.

Pina has flown over 100 combat missions. After having moved more than 12 times for his career, he is ecstatic to be able to call Salina home for a long time.

Airbus Helicopters’ New Logistics Hub at Albacete, Spain is Equipped and Operated by Daher with First-of-Its-Kind Automation and Robotization

Kim Stevens

Airbus Helicopters has officially opened its new logistics hub at Albacete, Spain, which is equipped and operated by Daher as the lead logistics partner.

Airbus Helicopters’ newly inaugurated logistics hub is equipped and operated by Daher as the lead logistics partner, using cutting-edge technology from Exotec, a leading French warehouse automation systems specialist. (Photo credit: Daher)

Located adjacent to the Airbus Helicopters production facility at Albacete, this 50,000 square meter warehouse will optimize operations and create several hundred new skilled jobs for the wider Castilla-La Mancha region.

During the design of all aspects for the new hub, Airbus Helicopters called on its trusted logistics service provider, Daher. To ensure delivery of the required service level, Daher equipped the new hub with a highly automated and robotized storage system – the first of its kind in the aeronautics industry – using cutting-edge technology from Exotec, a leading French warehouse automation systems specialist.

The hub’s ambitious and disruptive technologies reduce the total amount of storage space required, as well as delivering the specified levels of efficiency and responsiveness, while also significantly reducing the need for operators to move around the site. Every aspect of the design focuses on optimizing quality control, reducing human error, maximizing safety and improving operator working conditions.

Inter-site transportation – also provided by Daher – will utilize biofuel-powered trucks that reduce CO2 emissions by 90% when compared to diesel fuel.

The new facility will eventually employ more than 300 people – 85 percent of them operators recruited and trained by Daher in partnership with the Confederation of Employers of Albacete (FEDA) based on a strictly defined procedure to guarantee the long-term future of the jobs created.

“We’re proud to be putting our expertise and innovative capabilities to work for Airbus Helicopters, using technology that positions Daher firmly on the pathway toward Industry 4.0, and fully delivering on the goals of this project,” said Aymeric Daher, CEO of Daher’s Logistics division.

Elixir Aircraft Recruits Marc Douton as Director of Customer Support

Kim Stevens

Elixir Aircraft has recruited Marc Douton as Director of Customer Support. With his extensive experience of customer relations in the aviation industry, an international career and a solid technical background, he will reinforce the executive team as Elixir production ramps up. He took up his new post, based at La Rochelle headquarters, on 1st July 2024.

From KLM to Dassault Aviation

Marc Douton has very good knowledge of customer support, in all types of aviation structures: MRO*, and operators of commercial and business aircraft.

After starting his career in bench-mark maintenance workshops such as those of Air France, KLM, AOM, Air Tahiti Nui and SOGERMA, Marc Douton joined the customer support teams of leading aircraft manufacturers. For Airbus initially, he was a representative for the Emirates, based in Dubai, then for Malaysia Airlines in Kuala Lumpur; in both cases to support the A380 entry into service.

Marc Douton then worked in the Dassault Aviation group for ten years, as Falcon customer service representative in Eastern Europe, Asia and Polynesia. In 2022, he joined the consulting firm McLarens Aviation. He holds several type ratings in the Airbus A340, A380, Boeing 767, 737 and Dassault Falcon 7X/8X families.

As a result, Elixir Aircraft’s customers will now be able to enjoy services and procedures from airline aviation.

Structuring Customer Support

With orders for 200 aircraft – including orders, pre-orders and letters of intent – and 25 aircraft in operation in Europe, Elixir Aircraft is currently organizing its customer support department.

Marc Douton supervises a team of five: two customer support managers, a workshop manager and two mechanics. This team provides customer support, training and stock management of spare parts. The team is set to expand as production develops.

To this end, Elixir Aircraft is continuing its recruitment campaign for its three La Rochelle sites, before starting to recruit the teams expected at the Sarasota site in the USA in early 2025.

“In addition to his industrial experience in commercial and business aviation, Marc’s keen interest in light aviation was a deciding factor in his recruitment. He holds a Part-66 aviation maintenance license, is a pilot and owner of a microlight, and has a passion for mechanics. We welcome him!” said Arthur Léopold-Léger, CEO and co-founder of Elixir Aircraft.

“I’m proud to join Elixir Aircraft, a manufacturer that is about to revolutionize the training market. I’d like to thank the co-founders for their confidence in me and assure them of my determination to achieve maximum customer satisfaction,” said Marc Douton, Elixir Aircraft’s Customer Support Manager.

Frontiers of Flight Museum Celebrates the 55th Anniversary of National Moon Day with Space-Themed Activities for the Community

Kim Stevens

In celebration of the 55th Anniversary of National Moon Day, the Frontiers of Flight Museum will host its 16th Annual Moon Day event. Taking place Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this enriching and engaging day of space exploration will feature interactive activities, one-of-a-kind exhibits and space-themed presentations for the entire community to enjoy. Tickets for this highly anticipated signature event are on sale now on the Frontiers of Flight Museum’s website.

In 1969, history was made, and the world was changed when Apollo 11 became the first spaceflight to land humans on the Moon. This monumental milestone, known as National Moon Day, marked the beginning of endless possibilities for space exploration and has been commemorated by the Frontiers of Flight Museum since 2009.

“We are extremely proud to host our annual event to celebrate the past, present and future of space exploration, while inspiring the next generation of space explorers,” said Abigail Erickson-Torres, CEO of the Frontiers of Flight Museum.  “It is the perfect day to explore the history and progress of space and aviation, in a fun and welcoming environment.”

For the first time ever, attendees of the 16th Annual Moon Day event will have an exclusive opportunity to view a unique exhibition called “Legends of Space Innovation: David Clark Company,” which will feature two rare prototype space suits and headsets designed and manufactured by the David Clark Company based in Worcester, MA.  On loan from the David Clark Company, the pieces are the newest addition to the Frontiers of Flight Museum and will be available for viewing through December 31, 2024.  Additionally, art and exploration will unite with the premier of a commissioned life-sized painting of 10 Apollo astronauts by Polish-born Maciej Maga, who has lived in Dallas nearly 20 years. The painting will be available for viewing through October 31, 2024.

This year’s event will also feature a special keynote presentation from Colonel Gregory H. Johnson, retired US Air Force officer, aerospace engineer, and NASA astronaut. He’ll share colorful and inspiring stories from his aviation and spaceflight experiences including his time as pilot of the STS-123 Endeavour. The STS-123 Endeavour crew performed a record five spacewalks and the mission was accomplished in 250 orbits of the Earth, traveling more than 6 million miles in 15 days, 18 hours and 10 minutes.

“The keynote presentation is a highlight for our guests as we have hosted several astronauts throughout the years,” said Rosalie Wade, Director of Education for the Frontiers of Flight Museum. “It is truly an honor to offer our visitors new one-of-a-kind components to our signature Moon Day event and to have Colonel Johnson share insight and wisdom from his astounding career.”

The Frontiers of Flight Museum’s 16th Annual Moon Day is a public event that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and space-themed activities and displays for the young, young at heart and avid aviation aficionados. Additional highlights include a book signing by Jim Keyes, author of “Education is Freedom: The Future is in Your Hands,” as well as over 20 exhibitors, seven speakers, autograph signings, educational hands-on activities, food trucks and music. Guest speakers will also discuss a variety of topics ranging from “Pioneering the Path to the Moon” to “The Voyager Spacecraft: Humanity’s Farthest Journey.”

While enjoying the many Moon Day festivities, families are encouraged to explore the rich diversity of aviation and flight history throughout the two-level 100,000-square-foot space. The Frontiers of the Flight Museum is home to more than 40 aircraft and space vehicles including the Apollo 7 command module, 16 galleries and displays and more than 35,000 historic artifacts.  Among the many exhilarating exhibitions are “Dreamers and Early Flyers,” “Lighter than Air,” “Modern Air Power” and “Golden Age.”  In addition, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can earn badges and K-12 Educators can earn CPE credits while attending the Moon Day event.

Tickets to attend the 16th Annual Moon Day event are $15 for children and $20 for adults and are free for children two years of age and younger. To purchase tickets, learn more and view the complete schedule of activities, please visit www.flightmuseum.com/events/moonday.

The Frontiers of Flight’s 16th Annual Moon Day event is made possible through gracious sponsors: The Dan and Gena Hamilton Family Fund and PlainsCapital Bank.

Southwest Florida International Airport Sees 11% Increase in May Traffic

Kim Stevens

During May, 843,270 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers. This was an increase of 11 percent compared to May 2023. It was also the second-best May reported in the 41-year history of the airport. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 21 percent.

The traffic leader in May was Delta with 192,204 passengers. Rounding out the top five airlines were Southwest (150,279), American (146,034), United (133,218) and JetBlue (71,519).

Southwest Florida International Airport had 6,945 aircraft operations; a decrease of 0.2 percent compared to May 2023. Page Field saw 16,861 operations, which was a 13 percent decrease compared to May 2023.

Southwest Florida International Airport served more than 10 million passengers in 2023 and is one of the top 50 U.S. airports for passenger traffic. No ad valorem (property) taxes are used for airport operation or construction. For more information, visit flylcpa.com or facebook.com/flyRSW.

Governor, HDOT and U.S. Army Sign 50-Year Lease for Former Dillingham Airfield

Kim Stevens

Governor Josh Green, M.D., the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) and U.S. Army Garrison Hawai‘i (USAG-HI) have signed a new 50-year lease at Kawaihāpai Airfield (HDH), formerly known as Dillingham Airfield. The new lease went into effect July 6, 2024, at which time airfield operations will continue normal operations, including uninterrupted water service to the tenants; water service to nearby off-airport users will continue as described below.

“Kawaihāpai Airfield plays a significant role in aircraft training for civilians and the military and a significant role in a healthy, diversified economy,” said Governor Green. “I’m proud that as a state we are able to come together with the varied stakeholders at Dillingham to continue to operate as a civil aviation resource and reach a mutual solution for water delivery.”

“This new 50-year lease will ensure Kawaihāpai Airfield remains open for commercial activities and will continue to serve as a critical economic resource for O‘ahu’s North Shore community,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “This was a collaborative effort that brought together the state, the Army Garrison Hawai‘i, Army Corps of Engineers Honolulu District, local businesses, elected officials and community members, all focused on a common goal of ensuring the continued operation of Kawaihāpai Airfield. We appreciate the tremendous efforts of the Army Garrison and Corps of Engineers in working with us and our community stakeholders to reach this important milestone.”

“This joint effort between the Army Garrison Hawai‘i, Corps of Engineers Honolulu District and the state of Hawai‘i Department of Transportation represents the commitment we all have to the local community, local vendors and the diverse set of users of Kawaihāpai Airfield,” said Col. Steve McGunegle, commander U.S. Army Garrison Hawai‘i. “We want to also highlight that Aqua Engineers has come on board to run the Dillingham Public Water System (PWS) as a third party and this is critical for the airfield and local community.”

For the past 10 years, HDOT and the Army have been working to address lease-related issues that have limited HDOT from receiving federal grants for Kawaihāpai Airfield. Specifically, in July 2023, HDOT formally informed the Army that the state could not continue to operate HDH unless three critical issues were resolved. Working together, HDOT, the Army Garrison Hawai‘i and the Army Corps of Engineers Honolulu District reached agreements on each of these conditions.

First, HDOT required a long-term lease and Joint Use Agreement so that HDOT could remain eligible for federal grants to support infrastructure improvements and continue deferred maintenance work in support of ongoing civilian operations. Second, HDOT required a new lease that would provide sufficient rights and powers to satisfy the department’s obligations under federal law and pursuant to federal grants.

The third condition required that HDOT would continue to have access to necessary water to operate and maintain the airfield, but would no longer be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Dillingham PWS. The Dillingham PWS serves HDH tenants and about 30 water users, including select residents, and Camp Erdman. Historically, HDOT has retained oversight of the airfield’s water system; however, continuing to do so would not comply with federal funding requirements.

In support of the new lease, the Army has established a separate five-year license with community-based Aqua Engineers to be the operator of the Dillingham PWS beginning July 6, 2024. This new arrangement will ensure service continues to current water users, both at the airfield and in the nearby community. Within the five-year term of the license, the Army will work with Aqua Engineers to secure a long-term agreement for the continued operation of the Dillingham PWS.

Kawaihāpai Airfield is part of Dillingham Military Reservation, an active U.S. Army installation, and is leased from the U.S. Army to the HDOT for the operation of a joint military/civil airfield. The priorities for use of Kawaihāpai Airfield are (a) military flight operations, (b) military ground maneuvers and (c) civil aviation and sport parachute operations.

“This is tremendous work and partnering with Hawai‘i Department of Transportation and U.S. Army Garrison. This 50-year lease provides significant benefits to the community and enhances readiness in the Pacific,” said Lt. Col. Christopher “Ryan” Pevey, Commander for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Honolulu District. “I am excited the larger community will be able to continue to have access to this general aviation airport.”

The Army routinely conducts exercises and training where the use of the airfield is required for ground training and aviation purposes including helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Systems and cargo planes. The Army also hosts the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center, a large-scale training exercise, at the airfield, serving a vital role in ensuring regional combat preparedness.

The civilian-owned-and-operated businesses at the airfield cater to visitors and local patrons for their recreational aviation interests including glider flying, free-fall parachuting, sightseeing and occasionally, trips to neighboring islands.