State Aviation Journal – Page 258 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

RAF Red Arrows Demo Team to Make EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Debut in 2026
The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, best known as the Red Arrows, will for the first time bring its world-renowned formation flying excellence to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The team will participate during the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s 2026 fly-in convention July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Red Arrows […]
Inside EAMS: How FL Technics Turns Aging Aviation Assets into Market Opportunities
As airlines continue to face engine shortages and extended repair timelines, demand for serviceable material is rising, pushing the market to increasingly rely on dismantled aircraft as a faster and more cost-effective source of components. At FL Technics, Adriana Wheeler, SVP of Business Development, and Modestas Valiusevicius, SVP of Strategic Asset Purchasing, focus on sourcing, […]
Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year
The skies over Kitsap County will come alive once again as the Bremerton Air Show takes flight for its fourth consecutive year at the Bremerton National Airport July 11th & 12th. This show promises a thrilling weekend of high-flying excitement, historic aircraft, and family-friendly entertainment. More than just an air show, this event is a […]
Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird
Photo Credit floridapanthers.com By Andrew Stevens I always love it when different worlds we appreciate come together for an experience. I’m a big hockey fan and obviously this is the best time of the year with the Stanley Cup Playoffs ongoing (Go Ducks!). My hockey journey is a bit wild, but that’s not the story […]

State News

New Cessna Caravans to Boost USDA’s Fight Against Crop-Damaging Insects

Textron Aviation Inc. has announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support its sterile insect release program protecting citrus crops along the Rio Grande River in southern Texas. The new aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2027. APHIS will use the Caravans to carry and release sterile insects that help prevent the spread of destructive pests, including fruit flies. The environmentally friendly technique helps safeguard fruit-bearing trees, reduce crop damage and protect agricultural industries that rely on healthy harvests. “These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “We’re proud to support their work with the dependable and versatile Caravan.” Known for its payload capacity, reliability and ability to operate in remote environments, the Cessna Caravan is well-suited for aerial application missions that require long flight durations, steady low-altitude operations and access to rugged airstrips. APHIS will equip the aircraft with custom release systems that safely distribute sterile insects across wide areas — an approach that reduces pest populations without the use of chemicals. APHIS currently operates Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar missions. The addition of the Caravan expands its fleet capacity, enhancing the agency’s ability to conduct aerial pest management programs that protect crops, support growers and strengthen environmental stewardship.
Landline, Massport Partner to Launch North America’s First Off-Airport Security Checkpoint for Boston Logan

Landline has announced a partnership with Massport to power and operate the Logan Airport Remote Terminal at Framingham, North America’s first off-airport security checkpoint, marking a new chapter in how major hub airports can grow capacity without pouring more concrete. The Logan Airport Remote Terminal at Framingham, a Massport facility powered by Landline, where Delta and JetBlue passengers check in, drop bags, and clear TSA security before traveling directly to their gate at Boston Logan. The new Logan Airport Remote Terminal in Framingham, Massachusetts — introduced by Massport as part of its long-term strategy to expand access to Boston Logan Airport — allows passengers flying on Delta Air Lines or JetBlue Airways to check in for their flight, drop their bags, and clear TSA security closer to home before traveling directly to the airside gate area at Logan. The facility effectively becomes another secure front door to Logan, shifting traffic away from roadways, terminals, and security lines while making travel more seamless for passengers across the region. As top airports across the country manage growing passenger demand — U.S. airports welcomed one billion passengers in 2025, with annual throughput expected to reach 1.5 billion by 2040 — Landline offers a new model: more front doors to the airport, not just a bigger one. By integrating passenger check-in, baggage handling, and TSA-screened transport into a seamless extension of the airport, Landline’s operating model makes it possible to expand airport capacity in ways that are faster, more cost-effective, and directly connected to the communities airports serve. Every passenger who starts their journey in Framingham is one less car at the Logan curb, one less person in the terminal security line, and one less pressure point inside the airport. For travelers, the experience is closer to private air travel, democratized. Park closer to home, check your bags, clear TSA security, and let someone else handle the traffic. Passengers travel directly to the secure side of Logan and arrive ready to board. Security meets the same standard as Logan’s main checkpoints — passengers are screened by TSA using federally approved procedures; the only difference is where that screening occurs. Travelers can book the Framingham service at massport.com/remoteterminal. Passengers flying Delta will be dropped off airside at Terminal A Gate A18 and passengers flying JetBlue will be dropped off at Terminal C Gate C8. “People love traveling — they just hate everything it takes to get there,” said David Sunde, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Landline. “The traffic, the parking, the lines, the chaos — all of those little uncertainties add up to a real headache before you ever reach your seat. We built Landline to fix that. With the Framingham facility, we’re not just building a bigger front door to Logan — we’re building a new one, closer to where people actually live. Massport had the vision to see that the airport experience doesn’t need to be confined to a single footprint anymore, and together we’re taking the first step toward a future where the airport is directly connected to the communities it serves.” The program is being advanced in coordination with the Transportation Security Administration, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue Airways to ensure full compliance with federal security requirements.

National News

New Cessna Caravans to Boost USDA’s Fight Against Crop-Damaging Insects

Textron Aviation Inc. has announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support its sterile insect release program protecting citrus crops along the Rio Grande River in southern Texas. The new aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2027. APHIS will use the Caravans to carry and release sterile insects that help prevent the spread of destructive pests, including fruit flies. The environmentally friendly technique helps safeguard fruit-bearing trees, reduce crop damage and protect agricultural industries that rely on healthy harvests. “These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “We’re proud to support their work with the dependable and versatile Caravan.” Known for its payload capacity, reliability and ability to operate in remote environments, the Cessna Caravan is well-suited for aerial application missions that require long flight durations, steady low-altitude operations and access to rugged airstrips. APHIS will equip the aircraft with custom release systems that safely distribute sterile insects across wide areas — an approach that reduces pest populations without the use of chemicals. APHIS currently operates Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar missions. The addition of the Caravan expands its fleet capacity, enhancing the agency’s ability to conduct aerial pest management programs that protect crops, support growers and strengthen environmental stewardship.
JetBlue Airways Selects ADB SAFEGATE’s Safedock FleX Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System for Multi-Airport Technology Program

ADB SAFEGATE has announced that JetBlue Airways has selected Safedock FleX — the company’s latest generation Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System (A-VDGS) — for a multi-airport technology refresh across four of its major U.S. stations. The program spans Boston Logan (BOS), New York John F. Kennedy (JFK), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL), and San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín (SJU), and reflects JetBlue’s continued confidence in ADB SAFEGATE as its long-term gate technology partner. “We are delighted to deepen our partnership with JetBlue on this important program,” said Doug Woehler, ADB SAFEGATE Business Development Director. “By deploying Safedock FleX across their network, we are helping JetBlue achieve their goal of continuous innovation — delivering a scalable, integrated apron platform that will support safe and efficient operations well into the future.” The engagement builds on a relationship that began in 2009, when ADB SAFEGATE and JetBlue implemented gate management technology to support the airline’s operations. The hardware refresh now underway, and continuing through 2028, upgrades legacy ADB SAFEGATE equipment to Safedock FleX across more than seventy gates, further integrating JetBlue’s apron hardware and software into a unified, future-ready system. “Our relationship with ADB SAFEGATE goes beyond a technology refresh,” stated Mohammed Nabi, IT Manager Airport Operations Products, for JetBlue. “They work closely with our team, understand our operational goals, and bring solutions that are built for the long term. The Safedock FleX program across our network is a reflection of that trust, and we look forward to continuing to build on it together.”

International News

RAF Red Arrows Demo Team to Make EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Debut in 2026

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, best known as the Red Arrows, will for the first time bring its world-renowned formation flying excellence to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The team will participate during the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s 2026 fly-in convention July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Red Arrows will perform as part of the afternoon air shows on July 24-26. It is part of the team’s extended U.S. tour in 2026 to honor America’s 250th anniversary. “The Red Arrows have long been on the list of teams that aviation enthusiasts have wanted to see at Oshkosh,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “The team’s extended U.S. tour schedule fortunately allowed them to include AirVenture on their itinerary so they can be added to the legendary flight teams that have flown at Oshkosh. We welcome them to our event and eagerly anticipate their extraordinary aerial performances.” Now in their 62nd season, the Red Arrows represent the speed, agility, and precision of the Royal Air Force. They assist in recruiting, act as ambassadors for the United Kingdom at home and overseas, and promote the best of British military aviation. “The whole Red Arrows team are greatly looking forward to visiting the United States – the tour is a fantastic opportunity to display the best of British, at significant events and occasions marking the 250th anniversary, alongside friends, allies and international counterparts. The tour will celebrate and underline the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and our closest security partner” said Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team. “The power to inspire through aviation is something felt by airshow crowds on both sides of the Atlantic and we’re hoping to meet countless individuals and families at these locations, as well as during a busy programme of ground engagement that forms an important element of the tour. “An enormous amount of work continues to go into the planning for the visit, by teams in the UK and US, and we’re excited and honoured to bring our signature display of red, white and blue to some of the biggest, most well-known airshows and events this summer.” With a spectacular combination of close formations and precision flying, the Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965. The team – which uses the British-built Hawk T1 fast-jet – has flown nearly 5,000 displays in 57 countries, with pilots who have flown operationally in frontline aircraft such as the advanced Typhoon. The team’s home base is at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire and the pilots are augmented by engineers and essential support staff with frontline, operational experience. The Red Arrows team members will also participate in numerous public appearances and events on the grounds during AirVenture week. That exact schedule will be announced as it is finalized.
New AfBAA Executive Doubles Membership and Fulfills Key Goals in First 12 Months of Leadership

Photo – The AfCAC Secretariat & AfBAA discussions at Aviation Africa 2025 result in an MOU. One year after electing a new Chairperson and Vice Chair, the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has made huge strides in its mission to support and promote the business aviation community across the continent. Highlights include more than doubling the membership, with the current listing rising to 55 members with many former members returning. A new UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems or Uncrewed Aircraft Systems) committee has been formed in recognition of the growing numbers and vast potential for the unmanned aerial vehicle sector across Africa. The Association has also established an Operators Committee to attract more operators and bolstered the Safety and Training Committee in support of its mission to raise standards across the continent. L to R – Kevin Storie, CEO CAASA, Dawit Lemma, AfBAA Chair, & Craig Middleton, AfBAA Vice Chair, sign MoU at Aviation Africa 2025. Close ties with both regional and international bodies have also been established. A milestone meeting with the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) focused on creating and sharing valuable aviation data, enabling the prominent agency to advocate on AfBAA’s behalf. Initiatives were agreed that will see AFCAC represent business aviation interests at national CAAs and external agencies such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). “This was a breakthrough discussion, and we are delighted that the AFCAC can better support us in conversations with government and regulatory bodies. This cooperation will benefit all African aviation stakeholders, not just the individual organizations,” said Dawit Lemma, Chairperson AfBAA. AfBAA has also signed MOUs with the Commercial Aviation Association of South Africa (CAASA) and the Airlines Association of South Africa (AASA). Recognizing the influence of each entity, the discussions will help each organization support the other on regional and national issues. Lemma said: “Communication between the associations is essential for us all to build knowledge, intelligence, and understanding. As well as the agreements with African bodies, we are working with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), and the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) to encourage members to adopt the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) and the International Standard for Business Aviation Handlers (IS-BAH).” With a key focus on raising the profile, the executive also worked closely with organizers of the influential Aviation Africa event to host a dedicated AfBAA pavilion, where members could exhibit on a shared single AfBAA booth to increase exposure and maximize budget. “Following the success of the Africa Pavilion at Aviation Africa in Kigali, at the 2026 Nairobi event in September, we are repeating the concept with more booths and are delighted that all 12 are now booked.” A keynote speech delivered by Lemma inspired discussion and debate, showcasing the new approach to AfBAA. Lemma adds: “Our board strategy is based on five key pillars and aims to generate momentum, raise visibility, and support credibility by acting as a single voice with regulators, industry, and international organizations. We are streamlining governance and operations; expanding the aircraft segments that can join; and increasing the Association’s visibility outside of Africa. We have also improved our internal and external communications, with regular press coverage and a flow of feedback from our members that helps us to understand and support their needs.” Craig Middleton, AfBAA Vice Chairperson, added: “AfBAA acts as a bridge, adapting global frameworks to local conditions for effective implementation, which will boost the sector’s safety, efficiency, and growth across the continent. “We are proud to have fulfilled the promises we made when we took up responsibilities in May 2025. We have made great progress on all our set priorities and, thanks to feedback from our growing membership, have highlighted areas of concern and improvement for the next 12 months. It has been a privilege and a joy to have been an active part of the growth of the Association, both in size and stature, over this year, and we have plans to continue this dynamic development in the coming months.”

Unmanned Systems

FlyGuys Returns as Partner for Second Annual Elevate Scholarship Program, Connecting Certified Drone Pilots to Nationwide Career Network

FlyGuys has announced its continued support of the Elevate Scholarship Program for the second consecutive year, joining the National Center for Autonomous Technologies in offering 300 scholarships covering the $175 FAA Part 107 remote pilot certification test fee. The program targets students ages 16-24 enrolled in aviation or uncrewed systems programs across the United States. READ MORE
Embry-Riddle, FDOT Host Inaugural Summit to Shape Future of Advanced Air Mobility in State

More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic READ MORE

Aviation Education

Idaho Announces 2026 Aviation Art Contest Winners

Photo – 1st place in the 16-18 age group. Art by Mattie A. The Idaho Division of Aeronautics announced the winners of the 2026 Aviation Art Contest in Idaho. The annual contest is an opportunity for Idaho students from ages 5-18 to exhibit their Artist’s View of Aviation. The theme was Around the World in READ MORE
FlyGuys Returns as Partner for Second Annual Elevate Scholarship Program, Connecting Certified Drone Pilots to Nationwide Career Network

FlyGuys has announced its continued support of the Elevate Scholarship Program for the second consecutive year, joining the National Center for Autonomous Technologies in offering 300 scholarships covering the $175 FAA Part 107 remote pilot certification test fee. The program targets students ages 16-24 enrolled in aviation or uncrewed systems programs across the United States. READ MORE

Recipients of Arizona Airports Association Awards of Excellence Announced

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Arizona Airports Association (AzAA) recognized outstanding individuals and achievements within the aviation industry at its Annual Spring Conference in March. Held in Prescott, Arizona, the event honored key leaders who have made significant contributions to the state’s airports, aviation operations, and overall industry excellence. Matthew Munden Awarded AzAA President’s Award Matthew Munden, Aeronautics Group […]

Four New Hangars Coming to Tampa Executive Airport

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

Tampa Executive Airport (VDF) is experiencing a major growth spurt, adding four hangar facilities that are all scheduled to be available later this year. These hangar projects by various private developers mark one of the largest General Aviation infrastructure expansions to date for Hillsborough County Aviation Authority facilities at VDF. The four hangars will add […]

Prime Minister Carney Welcomes Largest Order of Commercial Aircraft in Canadian History

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The world is changing rapidly and in response, Canada’s new government is focused on what they can control. The country is building a stronger economy with an ambitious plan to catalyze $1 trillion in total investment in Canada over the next five years. In the past year, they have signed 20 new economic and defense […]

New Jersey Governor Recognizes History and Service to State and Nation of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, as New Jersey “Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Day.” The proclamation, the Governor stated, commemorates the Wing’s 85th Anniversary of service to the State and Nation, “as a fitting occasion to recognize its enduring contributions and honor the commitment of all […]

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The skies over Kitsap County will come alive once again as the Bremerton Air Show takes flight for its fourth consecutive year at the Bremerton National Airport July 11th & 12th. This show promises a thrilling weekend of high-flying excitement, historic aircraft, and family-friendly entertainment. More than just an air show, this event is a […]

San Antonio Aviation & Aerospace Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Honorees

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The San Antonio Aviation and Aerospace Hall of Fame invite you to join them on September 15 at The Boeing Center at Tech Port as they honor the visionary leaders who continue to shape San Antonio’s aerospace industry and inspire the next generation. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, innovation, and commitment have […]

Another Step Across the Atlantic: LOT Polish Airlines Inaugurates Direct Flights to San Francisco

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

Last week LOT Polish Airlines launched its first-ever flight from Warsaw to San Francisco. The new transatlantic route will run during the 2026 summer season, with up to four flights per week. San Francisco becomes LOT’s sixth regular U.S. destination, joining Chicago, New York, Newark, Miami and Los Angeles. LOT Polish Airlines continues to expand […]

Lufthansa Launches New Premium Onboard Experience in Every Travel Class on All Long-Haul Flights

May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

One airline, two years of development, three guiding principles, and four cabin classes – FOX (short for Future Onboard Experience), Lufthansa’s new long-haul service, launched on Wednesday, May 6th. The new service concept represents one of the most significant investments in the airline’s premium onboard customer experience to date. With a strong focus on the […]

AOPA Highlights Mental Health in May, Delivers Resources for Pilots

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has launched a monthlong initiative to highlight pilot mental health, bringing together educational content, expert guidance, and advocacy updates throughout May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month. The initiative, sponsored by Jeppesen ForeFlight, is designed to address common concerns among pilots, including the fear of losing their medical […]

VIRTOWER Enhances Airspace Safety With Remote ID Drone Detection Upgrade

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

Photo – Virtower Government Support Vehicles with Drone Detection Virtower LLC has announced the successful upgrade of its sensor systems to support Remote ID drone detection—marking a major advancement in airspace safety for general aviation and commercial airport environments. With this upgrade, Virtower’s platform can now detect and display Remote ID-equipped drones in real time, […]

RAF Red Arrows Demo Team to Make EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Debut in 2026

Inside EAMS: How FL Technics Turns Aging Aviation Assets into Market Opportunities

Bremerton Air Show Returns to Bremerton National Airport for Fourth Year

Two Stanley Cups, a Gold Medal, and a Ride in an Air Force Thunderbird