State Aviation Journal – Page 3 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

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 […]
B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026
The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc will be back this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026, supporting the America 250 theme and more than a century of American aviation innovation. The 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. “As AirVenture is the world’s largest […]

State News

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 a Plane. 1st place in the 13-15 age group. Art by Jimmy C. The first-place artist in each category will get an airplane ride, a copy of their artwork signed by Governor Brad Little, and a congratulatory letter. The second-place artist in each category will receive $25 in art supplies and a congratulatory letter. Idaho Division of Aeronautics maintains over 30 backcountry airstrips, manages aircraft registrations and renewals, and promotes aviation safety in Idaho.
Electric Vehicle Fast Chargers Dedicated at Kapalua Airport

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) dedicated a new electric vehicle (EV) fast charging station at Kapalua Airport last week. The $3.2 million charging station at the Kapalua Airport parking lot is now open for public use and has four 150-kilowatt direct current chargers. Two chargers have a Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors and the other two chargers have CCS and CHArge de MOve or (CHAdeMO) connectors. The chargers are operating 24 hours a day. Charging rates are $0.44 per kWh from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and $0.57 per kWh from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. The rates are lower during the day as cost of electricity goes down when more solar power is generated. The installation was made possible through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, which seeks to accelerate the adoption of EVs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, help the U.S. lead global transportation electrification efforts and build out alternative fuel corridors through construction of a national network of electric vehicle chargers. See https://driveelectric.gov/ “We are keeping the momentum going to achieve Hawai‘i’s clean energy goals as we are on our way in developing 11 NEVI charging stations across the state. Working with our federal, state and private-sector partners we are building the infrastructure needed to create a more sustainable and resilient transportation future,” said HDOT Director Ed Sniffen. “Hawai‘i has seen steady growth in electric vehicle adoption and the expansion of our EV charging network is critical to supporting that growth.” The West Maui station at the Kapalua Airport parking lot is the third public EV charging station HDOT has installed in the state as part of the federal NEVI program. The first NEVI station in Hawaiʻi opened at the Kahului Park and Ride in February 2024. The second station at the Aloha Tower Marketplace on O‘ahu opened in November 2024. A fourth station on Kaua‘i is scheduled to open in December 2026 at the Princeville Library parking lot. To date, there have been 21,614 charge sessions (individual use of the chargers) at the Kahului Park and Ride and 31,486 charging sessions at the Aloha Tower station, for a total of 53,100 charge sessions yielding nearly 1.9 million kWh. This translates to a reduction of around 1.2 million kilograms of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere, which is equivalent to saving an estimated 34,144 trees. HDOT plans to build 11 NEVI charging stations statewide. The list of planned locations and status follows: HDOT acknowledges its contractors, associates along with county, state and federal leaders including Sustainability Partners LLC, Hensel Phelps, Wasa Electrical Services Inc., Hawaiian Electric along with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Hawai‘i Congressional Delegation for their partnership in delivering the NEVI program.

National News

Secretary Duffy Announces $835.8 Million for Air Traffic Control Facility Upgrades Across U.S.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced the Department’s investment of over $750 million to replace eight air traffic control towers and Terminal Radar Approach Controls (TRACONs) with brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is providing $85.8 million to upgrade Federal Contract Towers (FCTs) at 41 airports across 24 states. “This administration is laser focused on ushering in the Golden Age of Transportation and investing in our aging air traffic control towers is critical to that mission,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Under the last administration’s watch, these facilities were neglected and left to deteriorate rapidly. We need a system and supporting infrastructure that is built for the future to attract top talent for our air traffic control workforce.” The FAA chose the replacement locations based on the safety and efficiency needs of the nation’s airspace system. Many air traffic facilities are decades old. Failing infrastructure such as HVAC systems, pest issues, and leaking roofs have led to interruptions in providing air traffic services. The FAA is replacing facilities in the following locations: Charleston, South Carolina Grand Forks, North Dakota Greer, South Carolina Lawton, Oklahoma Pocatello, Idaho Sacramento, California San Jose, California Tamiami, Florida “Our controllers are the best in the world and they deserve to work in the best, most modern facilities,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “These investments will replace aging infrastructure with modern, state-of-the-art towers and equipment that strengthens safety, improves reliability, and supports the future of the National Airspace System.” The FCT Grant Program provides $20 million annually over five years to modernize towers, improve infrastructure, and install critical air traffic control and communications equipment at FCTs, which are staffed by contract personnel rather than FAA employees. Projects include: Acadiana Regional Airport receiving $915,000 for facility improvements Marana Regional Airport receiving $800,000 to support the design of a new sponsor-owned FCT Missoula County Airport Authority receiving $1 million to modernize key infrastructure Wiley Post Airport receiving $10 million to construct a new sponsor-owned FCT Additional information: The new towers will also have modern equipment as part of the Brand-New Air Traffic Control System that the Trump Administration is building. The separate facility-upgrade projects will include new windows, heating and cooling systems, elevators, and roof replacement. The funding will also replace obsolete tower equipment, including radios, automated voice recorders, and airport lighting controls. The replacement and modernization projects will create high-paying jobs for Americans and ensure America has the envy-of-the-world aviation infrastructure. The FAA continually evaluates air traffic facility conditions and traffic levels to prioritize modernization and replacement projects.
AOPA Holds Annual Member Meeting, Elects New Trustees

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) recently held its annual member meeting at the National Aviation Community Center in Frederick, Maryland, where it elected two new members to the Board of Trustees and heard feedback from 17 members. “This is a game of inches, I want to be clear,” said AOPA Board of Trustees Chairman Luke Wippler as the meeting began. “We need all of our stakeholders pulling in the right direction. I recognize that we need to rebuild your trust.” Acting Co-President Katie Pribyl then discussed the state of AOPA’s advocacy efforts, while Acting Co-President Jill Baker presented about the state of AOPA’s finances. General Counsel Fernando Campoamor then provided details about the seven potential bylaw changes announced in April, noting that the bylaws have not changed in decades. “There are seven potential changes that have been outlined, and those are the things that were perhaps most essential for all of us to focus on,” said Campoamor. “We did this fairly quickly in the past eight weeks. But there is more that can clearly be done, and so when you’re thinking about commenting on what we should be doing or thinking about, not only think about the things that we have proposed, but also think about what else you think needs to happen so that it can be considered by the Board.” The Board continues to solicit feedback from members on any potential changes until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, June 5, ahead of a vote to implement them this fall. Chairman Luke Wippler then opened the floor to invite members to speak. Prior to the meeting, Wippler announced a change to previously announced rules that limited speaking slots to 20 AOPA members and said any member who wanted would be allowed to speak. A total of 17 members spoke, highlighting both the successes and challenges that AOPA faces, and issues they want AOPA to work on. Members then voted to elect all 11 board members on the slate of candidates to a one-year term, including Peter Burwell and Ryan Samples, who are joining the board for the first time. Burwell has been an AOPA member for more than 15 years, and flies both fixed-wing and rotor, pistons and turbines. His aircraft of choice are a Cessna Skywagon for weekend flying and a Beechcraft Baron when he flies for business. He leads Burwell Enterprises, a family-owned diversified holding company, alongside his two brothers. Samples has been a member of AOPA for nearly 30 years and earned his private pilot certificate while in high school. He currently flies a Beechcraft V35 Bonanza, a Carbon Cub, an Icon A5, and a Cessna Citation CJ4. He founded BankOnIT in 2003, building it into one of the country’s leading providers of private cloud and IT infrastructure for community banks, and is a passionate advocate for bringing young people into flying. “My commitment to you is I value transparency,” said Wippler. “We won’t always agree, but we’ll know where each other stands, and I value optimism. I believe that this group gathered here today in Frederick because you care about GA and the need for a strong and vibrant AOPA. I ask that you lean in, that you be solution-oriented, and be additive to the organization.”

International News

USTDA Backs New Airport Development in the Philippines

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the development of a new international airport in Metro Manila, Philippines, that will strengthen secure transportation links with the United States. USTDA announced funding today for a feasibility study on the proposed Sangley Point International Airport, which would ease congestion at Manila’s existing airport and serve as a key international aviation gateway for the Philippines. The study will further high-quality infrastructure to serve the Philippines’ projected aviation needs and define strong security measures to protect direct flights to several major U.S. aviation hubs. Front (L-R) Seated: Cavitex President and CEO Leonides J.M. Virata and USTDA Indo-Pacific Regional Director Verinda Fike. Standing (L-R): U.S. Ambassador Heather Variava, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. to the Philippines Robert Ewing, and S-A-P Group President Bill Matz. “The high volume of direct international travel between the United States and the Philippines reflects the steadfast friendship of our two countries, and we share a desire to see passenger traffic flourish safely and efficiently,” said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA’s Deputy Director. “This project is one of many shared priorities with the Philippines government to achieve our collective goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific.” USTDA awarded the funding to Philippine project developer Cavitex Holdings Inc. (Cavitex), which selected California-based The S-A-P Group, LLC (SAP) to conduct the study. SAP will provide U.S. technical expertise to guide the airport’s development, including air traffic forecasts, financial analyses, and recommendations for advanced security screening at an airport expected to have direct flights to the United States. The study will also promote the adoption of trusted U.S. solutions, including screening technologies, airport construction components, safety and security equipment, telecommunications networks, and consulting services. The project aligns with the Luzon Economic Corridor effort aimed at strengthening connectivity and economic resilience across a key region of the Philippines. Sangley’s construction will address Manila’s rising travel demand and air traffic congestion by expanding the city’s capacity for both cargo and passenger traffic. Metro Manila is currently served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which served approximately 52 million travelers in 2025. Leonides J.M. Virata, President and CEO of Cavitex said: “Cavitex Holdings Inc welcomes the grant from the USTDA, highlighting its importance in accelerating the development of the SPIA, a key infrastructure project under the SPIA Devt Consortium. USTDA’s technical assistance will help advance project planning and implementation by enabling access to advanced U.S. expertise, innovative technologies, and global best practices. The SPIA initiative will deliver transformative benefits for the country – creating tens of thousands of jobs, enhancing mobility, and unlocking billions in long-term economic activity.”
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, evaluating, and returning assets to service, as well as generating material through teardowns, helping operators reduce downtime and bypass lengthy repair cycles. Understanding EAMS Adriana Wheeler and Modestas Valiusevicius. Within FL Technics, Engines, Airframes & Materials Services (EAMS) functions as a one-stop shop that handles all aspects of spare parts trading, repairs, and engine management. The team focuses on supplying materials at a lower cost and shorter lead times compared to new OEM parts. This is achieved through a structured process: acquiring airframes and engines, disassembling them, recertifying the components, and returning them to the market as serviceable material, helping airlines lower overall aircraft ownership costs. In parallel, inventory is continuously replenished through the sourcing of additional parts and material packages, ensuring consistent availability. According to SNS Insider, the global used serviceable material market is projected to reach $10.86 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.51%. This growth is driven by increasing aircraft retirements and the adoption of USM as part of airlines’ cost-reduction and sustainability strategies. What is asset trading? The definition of an “asset” varies across the industry. At FL Technics, the term is used broadly and includes airframes, engines (and major engine modules), landing gear, and auxiliary power units (APUs). Once an airframe is acquired and disassembled, these high-value assemblies become individual assets in their own right. Assets deemed unserviceable can hold significant value. When FL Technics purchases unserviceable engines, for example, it develops tailored solutions to repair and return them to service at lower cost, significantly extending their lifecycle. “We receive a constant flow of opportunities, which are then assessed by our evaluation team. They review each case in detail to determine the asset’s condition, potential value, and the work required to return it to service. This also includes assessing any additional equipment that may need repair or replacement,” notes Mr. Valiusevicius. The asset lifecycle: acquisition to market EAMS projects are inherently complex and long-term in nature. Success depends not only on technical expertise but also on strong relationships across the industry. At FL Technics, this involves close collaboration with lessors, airlines, and engine and asset management companies, supported by ongoing engagement through trade shows and direct client interaction. “We have developed relationships with all major leasing companies, airlines, and asset management companies and regularly receive RFPs (Requests for Proposal) for whole aircraft, engine, or airframe acquisitions. We conduct a detailed assessment of each opportunity, evaluating the asset’s current condition, required work scope, and investment needed before submitting a bid,” explains Ms. Wheeler. Once an asset is awarded, the process transitions into execution. FL Technics’ in-house legal team supports transaction efficiency, while technical teams conduct comprehensive reviews of records, certifications, and traceability. All repair work is performed at FAA-and-EASA certified shops, with strict requirements for serviceability, certification, and full traceability of all components. “One of the key problems that this model solves is time. Sending an engine for repair can be both lengthy and costly. For mid-life engines, we can often provide a serviceable solution that meets requirements at reduced cost and within a shorter timeframe,” says Ms. Wheeler. This value proposition is becoming increasingly relevant. According to the latest forecast by Aviation Week, engine spending is projected to account for 53% of total commercial aftermarket revenue in 2026 (up from 46% just two years prior), as rising parts costs and supply chain pressure push maintenance expenditure steadily higher. EAMS risk management Material availability can be unpredictable. In some cases, it takes longer to find the right module with the required configuration and remaining cycles, without over-building. To manage these challenges, FL Technics relies on clear internal standards, experienced personnel and vertically integrated capabilities, including ownership of its own engine shop, FL Technics Engine Services. This integration enables better cost control, reduced lead times, and greater operational flexibility. “We can secure maintenance slots in advance for assets arriving within weeks. This would be much harder if we had to rely on third-party service providers. There would simply be too many uncertainties. This gives us precious time and flexibility when we are searching materials,” says Mr. Valiusevicius.

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

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, […]

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

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration has published new Airport Procedure Boards on its public involvement website, Community Engagement – Phoenix | Federal Aviation Administration. The proposed procedure boards provide a graphic representation of proposed departures and arrivals at the region’s airports, waypoints that represent specific latitude/longitude points along those flight paths, and representations of the flight […]

AAAE Elects Leaders for 2026-2027 at 98th Annual Conference & Exposition in Los Angeles

May 10, 2026May 10, 2026 Kim Stevens

AAAE Photo – The 2026-2027 AAAE Executive Committee (from left to right): Secretary/Treasurer Cathryn Stephens, A.A.E.; Second Past Chair Rick Crider, A.A.E.; First Past Chair Rebecca Hupp, A.A.E.; Chair Marshall Stevens, A.A.E.; First Vice Chair Patrick Wilson A.A.E., ACE; Second Vice Chair Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E. Marshall Stevens, A.A.E., Vice President, Operations, & Chief Operating […]

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

May 9, 2026May 9, 2026 Andrew Stevens

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 […]

Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day Brings Together a Wide Coalition to Promote The Commonwealth’s Industry

May 5, 2026May 5, 2026 Kim Stevens

By Eric Blinderman Industry leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and students came together to connect, collaborate and share at the 3rd annual Pennsylvania Aerospace & Aviation Day at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg. The event emphasizes the high-wage jobs and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s aerospace sector. Lt. Governor Austin Davis, who also serves as chair […]

Commercial Drone Alliance Welcomes Long-Awaited Proposal to Protect Critical Infrastructure Facilities from Rogue Drones

May 5, 2026May 11, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) commends the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Department of Transportation, and the broader Administration for today’s announcement of the long-anticipated Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to protect certain fixed site facilities from unauthorized drone operations. This is an important step in creating a low altitude airspace ecosystem that enables authorized […]

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

B-29 ‘Doc” Returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2026