State Aviation Journal – Page 382 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X
In a dramatic unveiling before more than 400 customers, partners and aviation leaders gathered in a new production hall in Bordeaux-Mérignac, Dassault Aviation rolled out the Falcon 10X—its most ambitious business jet ever. As the drape lifted at 8:00 p.m. CET, the aircraft emerged as a bold new benchmark for the future of long-range business […]
Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow
Signature Aviation announced the debut of its newest terminal at Glasgow Airport (GLA) in Scotland. The cutting-edge facility was officially introduced during a grand opening celebration this week, showcasing the enhanced guest experience and spotlighting the terminal’s expansive, thoughtfully designed amenities. The new Signature GLA terminal was designed to enhance the guest experience as a […]
Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide
Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 […]
New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]

State News

OU’s Max Westheimer Airport Earns Airport of the Year Award

By Jacob Guthrie The University of Oklahoma’s Max Westheimer Airport has received the prestigious Airport of the Year Award for 2026 from the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association. Airport Director Lance Lamkin was also named the 2026 Airport Manager of the Year. From left: Max Westheimer Airport Director Lance Lamkin, Oklahoma Airport Operators Association President Dan Lutterll, and Max Westheimer Airport Operations Officer Derek Malone. Photo provided. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the grit, pride and behind-the-scenes effort our team shows every single day,” Lamkin said. “Winning the 2026 OAOA Airport of the Year Award isn’t just an achievement; it’s proof of what this group is capable of when they set the standard and refuse to settle.” A key factor in determining Oklahoma’s Airport of the Year is planned, ongoing and completed infrastructure improvements. Max Westheimer Airport has recently completed its first comprehensive master planning effort in 26 years, which now serves as the airport’s guiding document for phased growth, infrastructure investment, land-use strategy and Federal Aviation Administration coordination, positioning the airport for sustainable development and long-term operational success. Construction is currently underway on a new state-of-the-art air traffic control tower following a transformative $17.3 million infrastructure investment. The project replaces aging facilities with a modern tower designed to improve controller visibility, operational efficiency and long-term safety. The new tower was made possible by the efforts of Rep. Tom Cole, the late Sen. Jim Inhofe and ODAA. The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2027. The airport will also break ground this month on a comprehensive airfield reconfiguration project that will extend runways to enhance safety and allow for the accommodation of larger and more diverse aircraft while strengthening Max Westheimer’s long-term capacity. The facility has also participated in the site selection and building design coordination for a new $60 million Oklahoma Aviation Academy. This critical educational investment will serve as a statewide workforce development engine, preparing future aviation professionals and strengthening Oklahoma’s aviation pipeline.
David Smith, PE, Joins McFarland Johnson as Regional Director

McFarland-Johnson, Inc. (MJ) has announced the appointment of David P. Smith, P.E., as Regional Director for New York, further strengthening MJ’s expertise and expanding its leadership presence in the region. David P. Smith Smith will lead the growth of MJ’s transportation practice in New York, with a specific focus on Central New York. With an impressive 33-year career at the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), Smith has served the last decade as Regional Director for Central New York. In this role, he led a team of over 500 professionals across a six-county region, overseeing vital projects such as the I-81 Project—NYSDOT’s largest undertaking—and key initiatives, including transportation improvements to accommodate the Micron Technology development. Smith’s leadership ensured the delivery of annual and multi-year capital improvement plans for state and local highways, while fostering collaboration among government officials, developers, and community stakeholders. His legacy includes a pivotal role in advancing major infrastructure projects and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the safety, efficiency, and modernization of Central New York’s transportation system. “We are thrilled to welcome Dave Smith to MJ as our new Regional Director in our Syracuse office. His extensive experience and leadership will be instrumental as he drives MJ’s growth across service lines in the region, with a particular emphasis on transportation. Bringing Dave on board is a key part of our strategic initiative to expand in Central New York and further enhance the value and service we provide to our clients throughout New York,” said Erik Atkins, McFarland Johnson’s Director of Transportation. “I am excited to join MJ and help drive the firm’s growth across all service lines, with particular focus on advancing our Transportation practice. MJ’s commitment to strategic expansion in Central New York aligns perfectly with my experience and passion for serving clients in this area. By leveraging MJ’s expertise and resources, I look forward to enhancing our ability to deliver innovative solutions and superior service to our clients. Together, we will strengthen MJ’s presence in the region and continue to support the evolving infrastructure and transportation needs of our communities,” said Smith. “We are excited for what lies ahead with Dave leading the team. His vision and experience will enable us to continue growing, innovating, and serving our clients at the highest level,” said Chad Nixon, President and Chairman of McFarland Johnson.

National News

AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Launches New Video Series: “Expert Insights”

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Air Safety Institute (ASI) has launched a new signature video series called Expert Insights. Expert Insights features interviews with specialists in their fields, who give pilots information on a wide range of topics relevant to general aviation safety, and useful practical tips they can use right away. So far, ASI has released three sets of videos, with more to come later this year. “We have put a lot of thought into this series, and we hope it will be informative and instructional to aviators across general aviation,” Mike Ginter, senior vice president of ASI, said. “Our first release, Crash Considerations, launched in late January and features Melanie A. Folcik-Barillaro, an experienced flight instructor and accident investigator, who gives insights on how to best survive a crash landing.” In the second series, Risk Management, US Coast Guard pilot Justin Moore explains how pilots can reframe the risk management equation by asking themselves four simple questions ahead of every flight. Our third series, Survival Equipment, features survival specialist Doug Ritter, who gives pilots tips on essential gear to have on board when flying over sparsely populated areas, and how to effectively use it in the case of an off-airport landing and while awaiting rescue. Pilots can also earn FAA WINGS credit after viewing each set of videos by completing a 15-question multiple-choice quiz for each course. In the coming months, ASI plans to tackle other relevant themes like pilot mental performance, mental health, NTSB investigations, and more. Expert Insights joins ASI’s other engaging and insightful educational materials which include the signature video series, “Early Analysis,” “Real Pilot Stories,” and “Accident Case Studies.” These videos, along with ASI’s other safety content, are viewed about 10 million times every year. “With Expert Insights, we hope that aviators will learn new tips and tricks to make their flying safer, and also that they will share these with their peers,” Ginter said. “At ASI, our mission remains to help all pilots make better decisions. Our featured speakers’ real-world expertise in this new video series builds upon ASI’s long tradition of pragmatic and effective pilot education.” ASI’s videos are available on YouTube here.
Coalition Promotes Burke Lakefront Opportunities, Pushes Back Against Mayor’s ‘Hypothetical Concepts’ for Redevelopment

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), along with the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), laid out their vision for the future of Burke Lakefront Airport during an open house with media, local officials, and other stakeholders, while pushing back against “hypothetical concepts” for possible redevelopment of the airport site released today by the mayor. “From delaying critical, life-saving care, to ending opportunities for local students to learn about aviation—today’s event made it clearer than ever that the impact of closing Burke Lakefront Airport would be felt far and wide,” said AOPA Great Lakes Regional Manager Kyle Lewis. The event, hosted by Aitheras Aviation—a medical evacuation and transport company—comes after weeks of planning and coordination with airport officials and organizations that would be impacted. At the same time, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb—who is attempting to circumvent federal law to close the airport—and the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation released a report showing concepts to possibly redevelop the site. “By releasing what they call ‘hypothetical concepts,’ it’s clear that the mayor wants to distract from the good being done at the airport—and all without a comprehensive plan,” said Lewis. “And just hours after its release, it’s clear that Cleveland residents aren’t buying it. They know it’s a waste of money, while taking away this unique public resource.” These concepts, which include two options for redevelopment, feature a campground, walking trails, parkland, golf course, a sledding hill, and a “great lawn,” and each plan would cost taxpayers more than $21 million per year to operate. “As it stands today, Burke Lakefront Airport costs taxpayers nothing. It is funded through Cleveland’s airport system and operates like reliever airports in every other major city—to serve general aviation while not impacting commercial operations at larger airports,” said Lewis. “This report also does nothing to explain how the city plans to accommodate the more than 50,000 takeoffs and landings from Burke Lakefront at nearby airports. The nearest reliever airports in Cuyahoga County and Lake County are full. And nobody—from Mayor Bibb to air traffic controllers to the traveling public—should want to add traffic to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which does not have the infrastructure to handle this influx.” “Everything the mayor and the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation want to accomplish can be done through compatible use,” added Lewis. “Now that the mayor has commissioned a report on alternative uses of the property, we continue to urge the mayor to work with the FAA on an Airport Master Plan and compare the two. This would not only take into account possible uses for the site, but also account for the extensive remediation that would be required, which today’s report did not touch on at all.” (A report from the Center for Cleveland in November found that remediation of just over half of the airport property could cost $800 million.) The full list of organizations that participated in the open house is below: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Aitheras Aviation Argonaut Davis Aerospace & Maritime High School Cleveland National Air Show National Air Transportation Association (NATA) National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) North East Ohio Pilots Association (NEOPA) Signature Aviation

International News

CAPA Announces Complimentary Content ~ Aviation in 2026 – A CAPA Perspective

CAPA has announced the launch of the official CAPA Outlook for 2026, an exclusive report titled, “Aviation in 2026 – The CAPA Perspective”. This comprehensive report provides expert insights, key trends, and bold predictions that will shape the global aviation industry in the year ahead. Compiled by CAPA’s esteemed global analysis team, with over 150 years of combined industry experience, the report draws on their extensive and diverse data sets, world-renowned news aggregator platform and informative analysis articles—available exclusively through CAPA membership. Whether you are navigating challenges or seizing opportunities in aviation, this report is an essential resource for industry professionals looking to stay ahead in 2026. Don’t miss out on this invaluable perspective as the aviation sector continues to evolve. What’s Inside the Report? Global Industry Trends Deep-dive into aviation’s economic growth, sustainability efforts, and strategic shifts in operations for 2026. Key trends include business travel recovery, decentralized connectivity, and advancements in technology and infrastructure. The section also covers the balance between passenger convenience and security. Regional Focus Discover the key regional trends shaping aviation in 2026. From emerging growth markets to sustainability initiatives and evolving travel patterns, gain insights into how regions like Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East are transforming the industry. Airports Spotlight Explore the pivotal role of airports in shaping aviation’s future. Learn how major hubs and emerging mid-tier airports are driving connectivity, innovation, and sustainability, while adapting to evolving passenger needs and global industry demands. The CAPA Perspective Discover our esteemed experts analysis on industry trends, regional dynamics, and strategic shifts shaping the future of global aviation, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. How You Will Benefit 👉 Airline Executives: Gain strategic insights on sustainability, market trends, and regional dynamics. 👉 Airport Operators: Uncover trends in connectivity, innovation, and passenger needs to drive growth. 👉 Investors: Identify emerging opportunities and understand key drivers shaping aviation’s future. 👉 Tourism Professionals: Uncover insights into evolving travel patterns and industry growth drivers. 👉 Aviation Enthusiasts: Discover exciting developments, technological advancements, and trends shaping the industry’s future. Download Your Free Report Now
National Airlines’ First Boeing 777-200 Freighter Commences Test Flights

National Airlines has reached a significant milestone in its fleet modernization journey as the first of its four Boeing 777-200 Freighters (N791CA) has commenced test flights last week. Registered as N791CA, the aircraft is planned to enter revenue service in May 2026, following the completion of a series of mandatory flight tests, performance evaluations, and regulatory procedures. The remaining three B777-200 freighters are scheduled to undergo their respective test flight programs in the coming months. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 1. The introduction of the B777-200F represents a transformative advancement in National Airlines’ long-haul cargo capabilities. Recognized as one of the most advanced and efficient freighters in global aviation today, the aircraft offers a payload capacity exceeding 102 tons, a range of over 9,000 kilometers, and fuel-efficient twin-engine performance. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and advanced flight systems, the B777F ensures enhanced operational precision, fuel efficiency, and reliability across intercontinental routes. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 3. National Airlines Chairman Mr. Christopher Alf commented, “we are excitedly waiting to see the Boeing 777-200 Freighter enter commercial operations, offering our customers an enhanced fleet option to support their evolving charter requirements. The induction of the B777-200 freighters marks a significant step in strengthening our global cargo network, enabling greater efficiency, reach, and operational flexibility. This milestone further reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class transportation solutions and consistently exceeding the expectations of our partners and customers worldwide.” The addition of the B777-200 freighter signals the beginning of a new chapter in the airline’s fleet modernization program and complements the existing fleet of nine Boeing 747-400 freighters, and passenger fleet of Airbus A330-300 and A330-200 aircraft. In today’s rapidly evolving air cargo landscape, driven by e-commerce growth, global supply chain demands, and the need for faster, more reliable air freight movement, the Boeing 777-200 freighter plays a critical role owing to its performance capability and sustainability technologies.

Unmanned Systems

Commercial Drone Alliance Promotes Whole-of Government Approach to Secure U.S. Drone Dominance

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has urged the Administration to adopt vital reforms needed to bolster U.S. manufacturing, create high-skilled American jobs, and reduce reliance on foreign critical components. The CDA called for a whole-of-government approach to support the collective ambition of the Administration to ensure the economic and societal benefits of commercial drone innovation READ MORE
Everdrone raises SEK 36 million – Enters Commercial Phase for Drone Services in Emergency Healthcare

Everdrone currently operates the world’s first operational drone service integrated into the emergency response chain for cardiac arrest in the Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. The company has now raised SEK 36 million in a funding round to validate methodology and system integration for drone support in emergency healthcare, as well as to further develop its READ MORE

Aviation Education

Innovation Soars at State Capitol as Leaders Celebrate Oklahoma’s $44 Billion Aerospace Economy

Photo – The crowd of aerospace industry stakeholders, military members, educators and students filled the second-floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol for the 2026 AERO Oklahoma Day. The event brought together more than 1,000 attendees to advocate for the state’s $44 billion aerospace and defense industry. The second floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State READ MORE
North Carolina Students Earn National Recognition in Aviation Art Contest

Photo – First place winner in Junior Category Aaron Chen Multiple North Carolina students received national honors for their artwork depicting how aviation helps save lives. The annual competition, hosted by the National Association of State Aviation Officials and the National Aeronautic Association, encourages students ages 6 to 17 to explore aviation through art. This READ MORE

Drone Delivery Company Flytrex Secures $9.3M with Venture Financing and Innovation Grant

March 18, 2021 Kim Stevens

Flytrex has announced the closing of an $8 million financing led by existing investors Benhamou Global Ventures (BGV) and btov. The financing complements a recently awarded grant from the Israel Innovation Authority for a total of $9.3 million. The funds will be used to expand Flytrex’s footprint across the U.S. and to continue to scale-up […]

Hector International Airport Awarded North Dakota’s “2020 Commercial Service Airport of the Year”

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

Fargo’s Hector International Airport has received the “2020 Commercial Service Airport of the Year” award. The award is for excellence in maintaining safety, project management, and community outreach and is sponsored by the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission in partnership with the Airport Association of North Dakota. Airport Accomplishments for 2020: 2020 saw airports across the […]

Hettinger-JB Lindquist Regional Airport Awarded “2020 General Aviation Airport of the Year”

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

The JB Lindquist Regional Airport has received the North Dakota “2020 General Aviation Airport of the Year” award. The award was announced on March 9th, 2021 at the Fly-ND Conference held online. The award is sponsored by the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission in partnership with the Airport Association of North Dakota. This award is for […]

Kansas State Polytechnic to Host Free Webinar on UAS Ops in Public Safety Organizations

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

Public safety agencies are one of the fastest-growing adopters of unmanned aircraft systems technology. Utilizing UAS provides opportunities and advantages to law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency management personnel, but knowing where to start in developing a UAS operation can be complicated. Kansas State Polytechnic is offering a free webinar and live question and answer […]

Boca Raton Airport First to Install New FAA Approved LED Rotating Beacon

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Boca Raton Airport has become the first airport in the United States to install the new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified, Hali-Brite LED Rotating Beacon. A rotating beacon is a visual navigation aid that projects a beam of light used by pilots to visually locate a lighted airport at night. For civil airports, like […]

IADA Verifies AirFleet Capital Inc. as Products and Services Member

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

AirFleet Capital Inc., a company focused solely on aircraft financing, is the newest Verified Products and Services member of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA). A national leader in aircraft financing, AirFleet Capital becomes the 62nd aircraft transaction support company to be verified by IADA’s rigorous acceptance process, ensuring adherence to strong ethical business practices. […]

Amber Floyd joins Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority as General Counsel

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) has announced the addition of Amber Floyd as its new General Counsel, effective April 5. Floyd will be responsible for overseeing Airport Authority legal matters including litigation, legal advice, claims, leasing and contracts and risk management. She will report to MSCAA President and CEO Scott Brockman. Floyd has been […]

USDA Wildlife Services Shares Reports on Wildlife Hazards to Aviation

March 15, 2021March 15, 2021 Kim Stevens

In February, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services released Wildlife Strikes to Civil Aircraft in the United States: 1990-2019. Through an interagency agreement, Wildlife Services’ Airport Wildlife Hazards Program reviews and compiles all reported wildlife strikes to the FAA National Wildlife Strike Database (NWSD) to ensure data […]

GAMA Welcomes Five New Memberships; Announces Leadership Additions

March 15, 2021March 15, 2021 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced the addition of Airbus Corporate Jets, Hartzell Engine Technologies and Incora as Members, Beta Technologies as an Associate Member, and Toyota Motor North America as an Associate Member EPIC. GAMA also announced the addition of three board members to serve on its Executive Committee leadership team. The Executive […]

Falcon 6X Completes Maiden Flight

March 15, 2021March 15, 2021 Kim Stevens

Dassault Aviation announced that the company’s widebody Falcon 6X has successfully completed its first flight as planned in the first quarter of 2021, demonstrating the maturity of the program and opening the test campaign for certification. “Today’s flight is another milestone in Dassault history, made all the more satisfying by the remarkable efforts of the […]

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X

Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity