State Aviation Journal – Page 388 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center
Lufthansa Group recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Lufthansa with a major ceremony. As part of the event, Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center of Lufthansa Group at Frankfurt Airport, was officially opened. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered the official keynote speech. Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa Group: […]
FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project
The Federal Aviation Administration will host four virtual public workshops in May as part of the Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project. The project is led by the FAA and proposes new and updated satellite‑based flight procedures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of airspace serving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and surrounding airports. The […]
Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin
It was a special date for Lufthansa and a special day for all the employees who have shaped the airline with the crane logo: Exactly 100 years ago on April 6, 1926 – Lufthansa (at that time: “Luft Hansa”) took to the skies on its first flights. On that day, two aircraft took off from […]
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform
Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s […]

State News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

National News

A Century of Possibility: American Airlines Celebrates 100 Years Moving Forever Forward

On April 15, 1926, a DH-4 biplane took off from Chicago bound for St. Louis. This flight, carrying only mail, operated under Robertson Aircraft Corporation. Driven by the possibilities aviation could unlock for the country and the world, this flight set into motion the creation of one of the world’s most iconic airlines: American Airlines. Watch video One hundred years later, American is commemorating this milestone anniversary in the skies with a similar excitement and passion for all that lies ahead. Hear from Robert Isom, American’s CEO, about what this milestone means for American. Celebrating our customers and team members American’s story is a result of the dedication of our customers and team members. From the first passenger flights on the Douglas DC-3 between Chicago and New York, to the dawn of the Jet Age with the introduction of the Boeing 707, the establishment of major hub-and-spoke carriers, and more, customers have had choices when they fly. Taken together, the moments where travelers chose American were instrumental in crafting the airline’s century of progress, innovation and global reach. This century of achievement is also the result of the team members who drove our progress and success through every era of change. The past 100 years have included every kind of experience — spanning from immense challenges to great successes — and at every moment, American’s team members rose to the occasion and cared for people on life’s journey. American will be celebrating this milestone with both customers and team members across the country. In Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (LGA), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), customers traveling on the 100th scheduled departure of the day will enjoy a celebration of our history with a glimpse into our future. Together with various partners, travelers will enjoy an elevated celebration with keepsakes to show our appreciation before being welcomed on board to the future of travel. Throughout the month, customers at all of our Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges can enjoy themed cocktails and hand-passed light bites to celebrate a taste of the culinary trends that have shaped the last century. At John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), customers will enjoy a similar celebration with a surprise and delight with a special twist. Flight 100 to London (LHR) will operate with N735AT bearing the “Flagship DFW” special livery, while American’s centennial-themed livery will aptly operate Flight 1926 from ORD to STL and back. Throughout the year, American is sharing stories and celebrations about its rich history at aa.com/american100. With details about special liveries, team member stories and a timeline of key events in the airline’s history, American’s story is one of triumph, progress and continued connections with customers.
VPAR Kickoff Meeting at MMAC Signals Strong Momentum for Advanced Air Mobility Collaboration

On March 26, 2026, stakeholders from across the aviation ecosystem gathered at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) in Oklahoma City for the VPAR (Vertical Procedures/Performance and Analysis Range) Kickoff Planning and Collaboration Meeting—an event marked by high energy, strong participation, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The meeting brought together representatives from FAA divisions, industry partners, state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) organizations, academia, and other key stakeholders. The robust attendance and dynamic discussions reflected a growing alignment across sectors and underscored the collective momentum driving VPAR forward. Participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue around the critical role VPAR plays as a collaborative integrator within the AAM ecosystem. By uniting regulatory expertise, operational experience, research innovation, and community perspectives, VPAR is helping to establish a strong foundation for the safe and scalable integration of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into the National Airspace System. Throughout the session, a clear theme emerged: meaningful progress in AAM depends on strong public-private partnerships and clearly aligned objectives. Discussions emphasized how coordinated efforts can accelerate operational readiness, workforce development, infrastructure planning, and equitable access to AAM benefits across rural, tribal, and urban communities. The enthusiasm and forward-looking dialogue demonstrated that stakeholders are not only addressing today’s technical and regulatory challenges but are also building a framework for long-term scalability. By fostering shared data environments, validating performance benchmarks, and promoting cross-sector collaboration, VPAR is positioning itself as a proving ground for innovation that serves the broader public interest. “We are committed to building on this momentum through strong relationships and the strategic leveraging of each partner’s unique capabilities,” said Michael Coffman (AAM-510). As VPAR moves forward, the outcomes of this kickoff meeting signal a promising path ahead—one defined by collaboration, innovation, and a shared dedication to advancing safe, efficient, and accessible air mobility for all.

International News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

Unmanned Systems

DSLR Pros Joins GeoCue Distribution Network

GeoCue has welcomed DSLR Pros to its growing distribution network, expanding nationwide access to TrueView 3D Imaging Sensors and LP360 point cloud processing software for geospatial professionals across the United States. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, DSLR Pros has spent more than a decade pioneering commercial drone technology and tailored solutions for customers in geospatial, READ MORE
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform

Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s READ MORE

Aviation Education

K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

Kansas State University Salina is reintroducing an aviation summer camp experience that will allow high school students to become immersed in the world of flying that provides real piloting opportunities, with the launch of the new K-State Aviation Academy, June 21-27. The weeklong camp is for high school students between 15-17 years of age, and READ MORE
NAHF Selects Tennessee Educator Dan Mills for 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has announced that Dan Mills, aviation educator at Elizabethton High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee, has been selected as the 2026 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year. Dan Mills With more than five decades of aviation experience, Mills has built one of the nation’s most impactful high READ MORE

FAA Releases LaGuardia AirTrain Final Environmental Impact Statement

March 15, 2021March 15, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the LaGuardia Airport Access Improvement Project (AirTrain). The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is proposing to construct a rail system to provide a reliable transit option for air travelers and employees at LaGuardia Airport (LGA). The FAA prepared the […]

FAA Announces Effective Dates for Final Drone Rules

March 14, 2021March 14, 2021 Kim Stevens

The final rules requiring remote identification of drones and allowing some flights over people, over moving vehicles and at night under certain conditions will go into effect on April 21, 2021. Remote identification (Remote ID) requires identification of drones in flight as well as the location of their control stations or takeoff point. It provides […]

Raleigh-Durham International Airport to Welcome Sun Country Airlines

March 13, 2021March 13, 2021 Kim Stevens

Sun Country Airlines announced today that it will launch nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) on Friday, May 14. Sun Country Airlines will be the eleventh commercial service airline operating at RDU. “Sun Country is an established airline known for providing excellent customer service and a comfortable travel […]

ALTO Aviation Introduces New Cabin Audio Upgrade Solution for Retrofit Challenger Aircraft

March 12, 2021March 12, 2021 Kim Stevens

ALTO Aviation has introduced a new cabin audio upgrade program specifically designed to offer a cost efficient, fast, and seamless audio upgrade solution for retrofit Challenger aircraft 601, 604, and 605. Former Audio International (AI) digital Cabin Management Systems implemented serially controlled amps and integrated A/V components. To effectively bypass this system limitation, an RS-485 […]

North America Business Aviation Demand Recovers While Europe Slumps

March 10, 2021 Kim Stevens

WINGX’s weekly Global Market Tracker reveals ‘solid trends’ in US with the charter market setting records Challenger 300/350 is the busiest business jet globally last month and Nextant flew 8% more sectors North America is seeing a much stronger recovery with business aviation activity back within 10% of pre-pandemic levels while Europe continues to suffer, […]

Blue Line Aviation Places Order for 100 Diamond Aircraft

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 Kim Stevens

Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. and Blue Line Aviation recently inked a firm order for 50 Diamond Aircraft, including single engine DA40 NG’s, twin engine DA42-VI’s and a Diamond Simulator, with an option for up to 50 additional aircraft. The order comes less than a year after Blue Line Aviation’s 8 year anniversary, which was celebrated […]

City of Phoenix Aviation Department Recognized for Its Commitment to Clean

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 Kim Stevens

The City of Phoenix Aviation Department has announced that it has been recognized in the GBAC STAR™ Facility Accreditation Program. Phoenix Sky Harbor, Phoenix Deer Valley and Phoenix Goodyear airports have all received this accreditation. “Since the pandemic started, the world has come to realize the significance and importance of proper cleaning and disinfection to […]

Laser Strikes Increase Even with Fewer Planes Flying

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 Kim Stevens

Laser strikes against pilots increased in 2020 even with the overall decrease in air traffic operations. In 2020, pilots reported 6,852 laser strikes to the FAA. This is an increase from 6,136 laser strikes reported in 2019 and is the highest number reported to the agency since 2016. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) remains vigilant […]

Launched! The 2021 Women to Watch in UAS Global Awards 5th Year Anniversary Program is Here

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 Kim Stevens

Women and Drones is pleased to announce that the milestone 5th Anniversary Women To Watch (WTW) in UAS Global Awards 2021 initiative has officially kicked off! The WTW program elevates the entire UAS/UAM/AAM industry by recognizing those who are making a positive difference in it. The nomination portal is open now and nominations are free! […]

FAA, Choctaw Nation Team Up to Advance UAS

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is partnering with the Choctaw Nation to study how Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) can best transport cargo, including parcels, at lower altitudes. The FAA’s Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC), signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The agreement will enable the MMAC to work […]

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin

Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform