State Aviation Journal – Page 399 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

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 […]
Elegance Takes Flight – Lufthansa Unveils New Uniform
In its 100th anniversary year, Lufthansa is introducing a new uniform for its employees that combines tradition and innovation. The new outfits for cockpit, cabin, and ground staff were unveiled at a fashion show at the Lufthansa Group’s “Hangar One” visitor and conference center. The design was created in collaboration with employees from all uniformed […]
First Lufthansa A380 with New Business Class Takes Off for Los Angeles
Premium XXL: Lufthansa is retrofitting its eight A380s and installing an entirely new Business Class in its largest aircraft. In the future, Business Class on the A380 will offer even more comfort and privacy at a new premium level. The new Thompson seats feature a width of 58 cm, a bed length of at least […]
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: […]

State News

Southwest Florida International Airport Reports Historic March Traffic

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 International Airport,” said Steven Hennigan, C.M., A.C.E., executive director and CEO of the Lee County Port Authority. “We appreciate all our employees, airlines and airport business partners who support the traveling public every day and thank our passengers for their patience during what was an incredibly busy month. I also want to recognize the many TSA officers who came to work every day, despite personal hardships, to make sure travelers had a safe and secure experience at RSW.” The traffic leader in March was Delta with 289,910 passengers. Rounding out the top five airlines were Southwest (282.966), United (225,833), American (214,941) and JetBlue (121,213). Southwest Florida International Airport had 12,577 aircraft operations, an increase of 4.7 percent compared to March 2025. Page Field saw 17,350 operations, which was a 30 percent increase compared to March 2025. Southwest Florida International Airport served more than 11.1 million passengers in 2025 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.
Texas A&M-RELLIS and Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) Announce Partnership to Expand Drone Training Across Texas

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. Brad Hall, Director of Operations at Texas A&M-RELLIS (left), shakes hands with Nick Langolf, Director of Academic Partnerships at USI. Across Texas, sectors such as package-delivery, energy, agriculture, construction, public safety, infrastructure, and defense are rapidly adopting drones and UAS technology as tools to improve safety, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. As adoption accelerates, employers are seeking skilled individuals with regulatory knowledge, practical experience, and industry-recognized credentials. This partnership is designed to help meet that demand by developing training pathways aligned with real-world employer needs. “Texas has been leading the nation in UAS testing and advanced air mobility research, positioning the state for the future of aviation,” said Josh Olds, President and CEO at USI. “This partnership with Texas A&M–RELLIS advances USI’s mission to develop a globally relevant, safety-first workforce for the evolving aviation ecosystem.” Texas A&M–RELLIS is a thriving network of public and private entities guided by core values of respect, excellence, loyalty, leadership, integrity, and selfless service, fostering and enabling innovation, excellence, and collaboration. The campus is a catalyst for transformation, advancing knowledge and building skill sets to lead Texas and serve the nation. Texas A&M-RELLIS, as a home to emerging technologies, aligns closely with USI’s commitment to industry standards, operational safety, and workforce credentialing. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to workforce development and economic growth in Texas and beyond,” said John Barton, Executive Director at Texas A&M-RELLIS. “By connecting education with industry-aligned training and certifications, we are helping ensure our learners are prepared for the jobs of today and the emerging technologies of tomorrow.” The drone instruction programs currently in development are designed to serve a broad range of participants, particularly the vast student population seeking skills to enhance their hiring ability. Additional details, including program structure, schedules, enrollment options, and potential funding opportunities, will be announced later this spring. Individuals, employers, and workforce partners interested in the drone instruction programs at Texas A&M–RELLIS are encouraged to apply early. Seating is limited and is offered on a first come, first serve basis. Programs Coming to Texas A&M-RELLIS This Year Beginning in June 2026, the following programs will be offered at Texas A&M-RELLIS, delivered by USI: In-person FAA Part 107 exam preparation workshops Professional Remote Operator certification program Professional Maintenance Technician certification program Advanced skills development for complex remote operations, including Beyond-Visual-Line-of-Sight (BVLOS)

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

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

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 mountain terrain in just 37 minutes, a significant improvement over road transportation in the region, where winding mountain routes make timely delivery a persistent challenge. Following the eVTOL air transfer, the fresh tea was transported by a logistics company via high-speed rail for long‑haul delivery from Guiyang to Shanghai, covering a distance of nearly 2,000 kilometers. The integrated “eVTOL + high-speed rail” model enabled same-day delivery, bringing freshly picked tea from remote western mountain plantations to consumers in major eastern cities within 24 hours, preserving optimal freshness and flavor. Core Advantages of the Autonomous eVTOL Solution Autonomous Flight Capability: No onboard pilot needed, enhancing safety and operational efficiency for cargo transport High-Speed Performance: 37 minutes for the 120km mountain crossing, cutting transit time by hours compared to traditional ground transport Freshness Preservation: Shortened in-transit time preserves the unique, crisp taste and aromatic notes of premium spring tea Eco-Friendly: All-electric powered, zero operational emissions and low noise, aligning with sustainable development goals High Flexibility: Vertical take-off and landing capability, no runway required for point-to-point direct delivery The CarryAll (V2000CG) is the world’s first 2-ton-class eVTOL aircraft to obtain Type Certificate (TC), Production Certificate (PC) and Airworthiness Certificate (AC) from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). As a fully autonomous unmanned cargo aircraft, it boasts exceptional performance for a wide range of logistics scenarios: Maximum payload: 400kg Maximum range: up to 200km Cruise speed: approximately 180km/h Ideal for urban logistics, emergency material delivery, agricultural cold chain transport and remote area cargo services Li Yun, CCO of AutoFlight: “This innovative ‘autonomous eVTOL air transfer + high-speed rail trunk line’ model breaks logistics bottlenecks in high-altitude mountainous areas. AutoFlight will join hands with more partners to extend this efficient, green autonomous cargo model to more specialty agricultural producing areas. This will help more high-quality local agricultural products reach national markets quickly, driving regional industrial upgrading and rural revitalization.” AutoFlight’s cargo eVTOL models have conducted flight operations in real-world scenarios, including offshore oil platforms, intercity agricultural product transportation, and emergency fire-fighting, collaborating with global customers to advance the commercialization process of eVTOL. In addition, its 6-seat passenger eVTOL model V2000EM Prosperity is currently undergoing civil aviation airworthiness certification by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and has entered the Phase IV compliance verification stage.
BGS Expands Cooperation with LOT Across Central and Eastern Europe

Baltic Ground Services (BGS), an international provider of ground handling and aircraft fueling services, has extended its cooperation with LOT Polish Airlines across multiple stations in Central and Eastern Europe. Under the renewed agreements, BGS will continue providing aircraft fueling services at Riga (RIX) and Ostrava (OSR), where cooperation with LOT has been ongoing since 2021. The extended partnership also marks the start of operations in Tallinn (TLL), where BGS will begin supporting the airline as a new customer. In Vilnius (VNO), BGS has been providing ground handling services to LOT Polish Airlines since the company’s establishment in 2005. The airline currently operates between five and six daily flights to Warsaw, highlighting the long-standing and consistent cooperation between the two partners. The cooperation covers a combined annual fuel volume of approximately 6,500 tons across the three stations, reflecting the scale of LOT’s operations supported by BGS in the region. The expansion into Tallinn also represents a continuation of BGS’s strategy to grow its fueling network across key airports in Central and Eastern Europe. “Extending our cooperation with LOT reflects the consistency and reliability of our fueling services across different stations,” said Vitalis Dudys, BGS Group Head of Commerce. “We value long-term partnerships and are pleased to continue supporting LOT’s operations, while also expanding our cooperation into new locations such as Tallinn.” “We welcome the opportunity to continue and further expand our cooperation with BGS,” said Mateusz Dziudziel, Director of the Fuel Office at LOT Polish Airlines. “Ensuring high-quality fuel services is critical to maintaining safe and uninterrupted aircraft operations. We value BGS as a trusted partner and hope that further strengthening our cooperation will contribute to LOT’s operational stability and growth across the region.” “Our long-standing cooperation with BGS plays a key role in maintaining operational excellence across our network,” said Sebastian Jadczak, Director of Ground Operations Office at LOT Polish Airlines. “Reliable ground handling services are fundamental to ensuring a seamless travel experience for our passengers. We value the continuation of this strong partnership as we support our future growth.”

Unmanned Systems

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

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. Brad Hall, Director READ MORE

Aviation Education

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

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. Brad Hall, Director READ MORE

GrandView Fills Niche; Uses Luxury Jets to Save Lives

February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 Kim Stevens

While business aviation sometimes conjures images of an industry reserved solely for the elite, there remains a segment that trades the champagne glasses and Instagram worthy catering for life-saving machines and organs. Time stands relentlessly as a critical factor in the successful transition from a failing human heart to a vibrant, long life. The transport […]

Top Aces Welcomes First F-16s to Mesa, AZ

February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 Kim Stevens

Top Aces Corp. has announced the arrival of its first batch of F-16 fighters to the company’s F-16 Center of Excellence in Mesa, Arizona. Under the U.S. Air Force IDIQ contract, Top Aces will begin providing its unmatched adversary training for the USAF, U.S. Navy and DoD in 2021. Top Aces is the first commercial […]

AOPA Announces Two Aviator Showcase Events for 2021

February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 Kim Stevens

As part of its new 2021 events programming, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has released plans for two 2021 Aviator Showcase events. Each showcase will be a single-day event designed to provide new product and aircraft information to pilots, aircraft owners, and prospective buyers. The Aviator Showcases will be held in Manassas, Virginia (Aug. […]

Van Nuys Airport Invites Children to Explore the World of Aviation Through Free Virtual Tour Program

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 Kim Stevens

Van Nuys Airport (VNY), one of the world’s busiest general aviation airports, announces the launch of a free virtual airport tour that invites children to experience the adventure of flight, learn how airplanes fly and explore exciting careers in aviation. Adapted from the airport’s popular on-site tour program, which has been temporarily suspended due to […]

Israeli Air Force Pilots Share Thrill of Flying, Lessons Learned at New Online Flight Simulator Center of Excellence

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Squadron, the only air force simulator program with Israeli fighter pilots as instructors, announced the launch of their live, online center of excellence program. The program, which is designed for both organizations and individuals, creates a realistic aviation experience that incorporates lessons from the Israel Air Force to promote the ideals and principles it […]

Volare Aviation Completes First Hawker Blended Winglet Retrofit

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 Kim Stevens

Aviation Partners, Inc. (API) announced that Oxford, UK based Volare Aviation has completed their first installation of the Blended Winglets retrofit on a Hawker 800XPi and is appointed an authorized installation partner for Hawker 800 series Blended Winglet retrofits in Europe. API’s Performance Enhancing Blended Winglets for the Hawker 800 series airplanes reduce drag by […]

Most Wanted List Subject of March NTSB Meeting

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 Kim Stevens

The National Transportation Safety Board announced Monday its intent to hold a public board meeting March 9, 2021, 9:30 a.m. (EST) to finalize its 2021 – 2022 Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements. The NTSB’s Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements is a communication strategy through which the agency identifies its top safety […]

NBAA, NATA Urge IRS to Provide Guidance on FET Collection and Liability

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 Kim Stevens

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) asked the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to continue the reform of Federal Excise Tax (FET) regulations by addressing unclear and confusing rules covering the collection responsibilities for air charter operators and brokers. After a years-long advocacy effort led by NBAA and NATA, […]

Aeroplex/Aerolease Group Launches New Solar Energy Project at Long Beach Airport

January 31, 2021January 31, 2021 Kim Stevens

Long Beach Airport (LGB) officials celebrated the completion of the largest solar energy project on the Airport campus, marking a milestone in LGB’s growing sustainability program. Aeroplex/Aerolease Group, an aviation property development, consulting and management firm that holds an LGB master lease, installed the new system on their building, which is also host to Signature […]

Sweetwater Union Adult Education Drone Program Flies in the Face of the Pandemic

January 29, 2021January 29, 2021 Kim Stevens

The Sweetwater Union High School Adult Education program, located in San Diego County, is always looking for new and exciting curriculum offerings for their students that will provide them with valuable career opportunities. Such was the case when Sweetwater District Adult Education Director, Dr. Ryan Burke, sought to bring in the Unmanned Safety Institute’s award-winning […]

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

Elegance Takes Flight – Lufthansa Unveils New Uniform

First Lufthansa A380 with New Business Class Takes Off for Los Angeles

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