State Aviation Journal

Inaugural Memphis International Airport Runway 5K Draws 900 Participants
More than 900 people participated in the inaugural Memphis International Airport (MEM) MEM Runway 5K on Saturday, September 20. The event allowed runners to experience a race on one of MEM’s runways, providing rare inside views of an airport that serves nearly 5 million passengers annually and ranks among one of the busiest cargo airports […]
Bombardier Defense Delivers Ninth Global Aircraft to the U.S. Air Force for Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Program
Photo – BACN 9 Delivery Ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass. on September 10th, 2025. Photo by Mark Herlihy, U.S. Air Force. Bombardier Defense is proud to announce the delivery of a ninth Bombardier Global aircraft to the United States Air Force. The delivery, which was celebrated at Hanscom Air Force Base earlier this […]
Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification
BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs […]
FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy
Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director […]

State News

Jackson County Airport Completes Critical Runway 4/22 Reconstruction Project

Jackson County Airport (33V) in Walden, Colorado, announced the completion of the full reconstruction of the airport’s runway 4/22. The project ensures long-term safety and efficiency for aviation users across Colorado’s North Park region and enhances critical emergency access to the area. Located one mile north of Walden, Jackson County Airport serves as a vital gateway to rural northwestern Colorado, supporting recreational flying, business travel, aerial firefighting, air ambulance services, and tourism. The runway reconstruction project rebuilt the 5,900-foot runway from the ground up, providing a stronger pavement base, improved surface, and upgraded safety markings. Walden-Jackson County Airport (33C) Flyover “The Walden-Jackson County Airport is an essential lifeline for our community, not only for business and tourism but also for emergency services like aerial firefighting and medical flights,” said Kent Holsinger, Chair of the Colorado Aeronautical Board. “We’re extremely grateful and proud of the new runway and the dividends are sure to last for decades.” “DOLA is proud to come together with our partners at the Colorado Department of Transportation for a total of $5.3M in grant funding so the Jackson County airport has the infrastructure necessary to effectively serve the broader community,” said DOLA Executive Director, Maria De Cambra. “Investments like this demonstrate the state’s commitment to rural Colorado, and making strides so that the same safe, modern infrastructure is available everywhere.” CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew said, “CDOT and our Aeronautics Division are proud to have joined our partners at DOLA and Jackson County to collaborate on funding this impactful project at the Walden/Jackson County Airiport,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “As the primary airport for rural north-central Colorado, this new runway will allow the airport to continue to provide safe and efficient access for aerial firefighting operations, emergency air ambulance and other critical aviation services.” The $5.7 million runway reconstruction project was made possible through a unique combination of funds provided by the Colorado Division of Aeronautics, the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and Jackson County. Unlike most major runway projects that receive partial funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Jackson County Airport is not eligible for FAA support. Thanks to this collaborative effort, the community was able to secure a vital infrastructure improvement that otherwise would not have been possible. According the 2025 Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study, the Walden-Jackson County Airport contributed $184,000 in total business revenues, supported four jobs, and generated $113,000 in value added to Colorado’s economy.
Colorado Division of Aeronautics Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Aviation Education Grant Program

The Colorado Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics has announced the launch of the 2026 Colorado Aviation Education Grant Program. The application window is now open to eligible candidates with a deadline of December 15th, 2025 for submission. The purpose and intent of this aviation education program is to support education programs, projects, and initiatives in Colorado that have direct application to the state’s aviation and aerospace industry and to promote careers in aviation and aerospace among Colorado students. This program is geared specifically towards STEAM education efforts related to aviation and aerospace, aimed at supporting Science, Technology, Engineering, Aviation/Aerospace, and Math education opportunities. To be eligible to apply for a grant under this program, the applicant must be an established and accredited public school, college, or university with an existing or proposed aviation or aerospace education program that meets the purpose and intent outlined in the paragraph above. Private entities are also eligible but must have been in operation for at least five years and carry a demonstrated track record of success in administering and providing education programs that meet the purpose and intent of the grant program. For more detailed information, please review the Aviation Education & Workforce Development Grant Program Manual. GRANT SUBMITTAL DEADLINE is December 15th, 2025 Click here to apply

National News

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford Inducted into Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford was inducted into the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame on Sept. 27 in Carmel, Indiana. Honorees have made significant and enduring contributions to the history of aviation and aerospace in Indiana, the nation, or the world through achievement, leadership, exceptional service, innovation, or entrepreneurial spirit. Bryan Bedford “I am honored to be recognized along with aviation pioneers and innovators associated with the great state of Indiana,” said FAA Administrator Bedford. “Aviation has been a lifelong passion of mine. This moment is a tribute to the many mentors, colleagues, family and communities that have supported me throughout my aviation journey – and a reminder of the responsibility we all share to inspire and mentor the next generation of aviators.” Bedford is an aviation industry veteran with more than 35 years of experience and a proven track record of safe operations, executive leadership and innovation. After the tragic midair collision at DCA, he answered the call from President Trump and Secretary Duffy to assist the FAA in building a new Air Traffic Control system to better serve the American people. Before his appointment as head of the FAA, Bedford served as president and chief executive officer of Republic Airways. There, Bedford led Republic in launching the visionary LIFT Academy in Carmel, Indiana, the first airline-owned training academy that aims to make pilot training more attainable and affordable to potential aviators. As the cutting-edge program began to equip pilots with the skills they need to succeed, LIFT added an aviation maintenance training program to address the growing workforce challenges for skilled aviation technicians. During his 26 years at the helm of Republic the airline grew from $85 million in revenues and 36 turboprop aircraft to more than $3 billion in revenues and an operating fleet of more than 250 jets, while maintaining a perfect passenger safety record. He continues to fly as a private, instrument and multi-engine rated pilot. His induction will be commemorated with a permanent Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame display plaque displayed at Indianapolis International Airport.
AOPA Welcomes Charles Lynch to Board of Trustees

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has announced that Charles Lynch has joined the Board of Trustees. Charles Lynch Lynch, an AOPA member since 1993, recently retired as Senior Vice President after a distinguished 30-year career with NetJets. He is also an accomplished pilot and holds a fixed-wing commercial certificate with single-engine land, multi-engine land, and instrument ratings, as well as a private pilot certificate with a helicopter rating. He recently earned his single-engine sea rating and has flown Piper J-3 Cubs, a Cessna 170, and an Aviat Husky on floats. An aerobatic pilot for more than 15 years, Lynch performed at airshows in Canada and the Northeast. He also has extensive experience flying World War II-era aircraft, and is type rated in the Vought F4U Corsair, North American P-51 Mustang, Mitsubishi A6M Zero, and Supermarine Spitfire. In addition, he has flown the B-24 Liberator, B-25 Mitchell, and B-17 Flying Fortress. Lynch and his family owned a 1945 Grumman TBM Avenger torpedo bomber, affectionately named She’s The Boss after his wife, Elizabeth, who insisted on the purchase as their family aircraft. “We are honored to welcome Mr. Lynch to our Board of Trustees,” said AOPA Board Chairman Jim Hauslein. “Between being an active general aviation pilot, his decades of sales and marketing leadership in business aviation, and his passion for inspiring the next generation through aerobatics and historic aircraft, he brings valuable experience that will help guide AOPA into the future.”

International News

ACI Achieves Major Advancements for Airports at ICAO 42nd Assembly

Airports Council International (ACI) achieved a series of landmark outcomes at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 42nd Assembly that will help transform the future of global aviation. By elevating coordinated, risk-based aviation security, safeguarding recognition of airports’ role in decarbonization and their contribution to socio-economic benefits, and promoting connectivity, ACI put airports at the center of global aviation policy. These key accomplishments were complemented by securing important progress on liberalization of air transport, digital identity for seamless travel, and aerodrome certification. “This Assembly provided significant support for and resulted in major advancements on important priorities for airports. This is the first step towards turning strategies into measurable actions that will deliver real benefits for travelers, communities, and the global aviation ecosystem. These outcomes confirm airports’ role as engines of sustainable growth for the future. We congratulate ICAO for its leadership and collaboration,” said ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci. What ACI achieved at the ICAO 42nd Assembly Driving efficiency and risk-based, harmonized aviation security Changes to the Assembly Resolution on Security, driven by ACI and broadly supported by States, reinforced the need for a coordinated, efficient, and harmonized approach to testing and certification to accelerate the deployment of new security equipment, supporting stronger security, greater operational efficiency, and an improved passenger experience. Secured recognition of airports as critical to aviation decarbonization ACI welcomed the formal recognition of airports’ critical role in aviation decarbonization, with States called to establish enabling frameworks for airport projects such as renewable energy and energy storage. This recognition, driven by ACI, was the single biggest change to the ICAO Assembly Resolution on Climate Change agreed during this Assembly. Advocated for modernized airport slot policy ACI’s positions gained support across different regions to ensure that public interest is served through equitable, nationally tailored slot policies; the Assembly called for strategic discussions on slot policy modernization that considers local infrastructure. Championed airports as businesses in their own right and defended their economic interests ACI’s promotion of greater air connectivity won States’ support and led to recognition by the Assembly of the need to tackle policy and fiscal barriers affecting consumers and impeding socio-economic development. ACI also defended airports’ and passengers’ interests in matters of consumer protection, secured favorable outcomes on charges and non-aeronautical revenues, called for progress on air service liberalization, and opposed excessive and double taxation of air transport. Underscored the critical importance of seamless travel With air travel demand expected to reach 18.9 billion by 2047, ACI urged States to enable seamless travel by improving inter-agency coordination nationally, accelerating digital travel credentials globally, and supporting industry in implementing digital identity management and biometric solutions—with a focus on seamless borders. Strengthened aerodrome certification worldwide ACI’s advocacy on aerodrome certification, supported by States across four ICAO regions, called for stronger, coordinated support for governments and airport operators to overcome the challenges in improving safety and getting airports certified.
Oklahoma’s Skydweller Aero Achieves Historic Solar-Powered Flight with U.S. Navy

Photo – Skydweller Aero is headquartered in Oklahoma City. The aerospace company recently completed a three-day solar-powered unmanned flight with the U.S. Navy. The flight was intended to demonstrate the potential of long-duration, solar-powered operations to support defense as well as humanitarian efforts. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has congratulated Skydweller Aero, an Oklahoma-based aerospace company, on completing a groundbreaking three-day solar-powered unmanned flight in partnership with the U.S. Navy. The 74-hour flight, conducted over the Gulf of America, marks a major advancement in unmanned aircraft technology. The solar-electric plane’s flight demonstrates the potential of long-duration, solar-powered operations to support extended ocean patrols, track vessel movements, and gather critical information without fuel. This achievement builds on Oklahoma’s proud aviation heritage — from pioneers like Wiley Post, the first pilot to fly solo around the world — to today’s innovators pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. The flight was made possible after years of engineering and testing led by Skydweller’s global headquarters in Oklahoma City. “This accomplishment by Skydweller Aero shows how Oklahoma’s aerospace sector is delivering innovative solutions with global impact,” said Grayson Ardies, executive director of ODAA. “We’re excited to support companies like Skydweller that are advancing unmanned flight and strengthening America’s leadership in aerospace technology.” During the mission, the Skydweller aircraft stayed airborne using only solar energy, operated autonomously under human supervision, and securely transmitted imagery and data from above the open ocean. Designed to remain aloft for up to 90 days, it opens new opportunities for defense and humanitarian missions — from stopping illegal fishing to enhancing search-and-rescue operations. RuthAnne Darling, director of the Department of Defense’s Operational Energy Innovation Office, said, “This is the first time Skydweller’s solar-electric aircraft has flown continuously through a full diurnal cycle of sunshine and darkness, showing their energy budget closes under real-world conditions. This was an important step to show that month-long operational flights in places like INDOPACOM are possible in reality — not just in modeling. Our office sponsors purposeful demonstrations like this to accelerate and transition innovative capabilities that project power with increased time on station and larger payloads, fostering sustained operational reach. We are excited by Skydweller’s success.” “I am proud of Skydweller’s historic solar-powered flight, a groundbreaking milestone in aerospace innovation,” said Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-5). “Their partnership with the U.S. Navy shows how Oklahoma continues to lead the way in developing technology that supports our military and strengthens national defense.” Since 2020, Skydweller Aero has partnered with the U.S. military to address pressing security challenges including drug trafficking, illegal fishing, maritime security, and border awareness. More flights are planned in the U.S. Southern Command’s operating region and along the U.S. southern border. From its base in Oklahoma, Skydweller Aero continues to advance groundbreaking technology.

Unmanned Systems

ZenaTech Signs Offer to Acquire Colorado Land Surveying Firm Expanding DaaS Business

ZenaTech, Inc. announced that it has signed an offer to acquire a long-established Colorado-based land surveying firm with a portfolio developers, municipalities, and utilities customers. When closed, this will mark ZenaTech’s first DaaS location in its Central West US region, expanding the company’s rapidly growing national presence. The firm to be acquired has a well-respected READ MORE
New Pilot Program Supports Drones for First Responders

Ohio’s most recent operating budget, which took effect July 1, 2025, created a Drones for First Responders Pilot Program to support the use of drones by law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services. Drones as First Responders programs utilize pre-positioned or immediately dispatchable drones to reach emergency scenes before ground units, providing real-time situational READ MORE

Aviation Education

Colorado Division of Aeronautics Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Aviation Education Grant Program

The Colorado Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics has announced the launch of the 2026 Colorado Aviation Education Grant Program. The application window is now open to eligible candidates with a deadline of December 15th, 2025 for submission. The purpose and intent of this aviation education program is to support education programs, projects, and initiatives READ MORE
North Dakota Honored with National Aviation Education Award for Fly-ND Aviation Career Expo

The ND Aeronautics Commission received the NASAO Center Aviation Education Program Award on September 23rd at the 2025 NASAO Conference. President & CEO, Greg Pecoraro presented the award to ND Aeronautics Commissioners and Staff. The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) is proud to announce that North Dakota has been selected as the recipient of the READ MORE

Aviation Roadmap Takes Kansas Transportation to the Next Level

September 28, 2025September 28, 2025 Kim Stevens

After unveiling the Kansas Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Roadmap on Sept. 18 in Wichita, the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, Kansas Department of Commerce and other aviation industry stakeholders are ready to create new ways to enhance mobility, drive economic growth, expand access to multimodal transportation and more across the state. The roadmap […]

Falcon Field Awarded Federal Grants to Invest in Airport’s Future

September 28, 2025September 28, 2025 Kim Stevens

The City of Mesa’s Falcon Field Airport has been awarded a series of grants through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program. The funding will support design work for key projects that strengthen safety, efficiency and connectivity. Grants include a $363,485 award to design a new Taxiway I and Runway 22L holding […]

NASAO Concludes Successful 94th Annual Convention, Announces Newly Elected Board of Directors

September 28, 2025September 28, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – NASAO/Shahn Sederberg The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) concluded its 2025 Annual Convention and Trade Show in Anchorage, Alaska held Sept. 21-24, 2025, drawing more than 400 attendees and representatives from 36 states, NASAO leadership called the event a resounding success. “NASAO’s 94th annual meeting again provided a valuable opportunity for […]

Heven Unveils New Facility in Downtown Bingen

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

Zepher Flight Labs (ZFL), now a key part of Heven’s expanding U.S. operations, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week to celebrate the opening of its new facility in downtown Bingen. The event drew community leaders, state officials, and industry partners to honor both ZFL’s legacy and its future at the forefront of hydrogen-powered unmanned aerial […]

NUAIR and NIMAC Highlight Ready-to-Deploy Surveillance-as-a-Service Powering Drone Operations Across New York

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

NUAIR and the Niagara Military Affairs Council (NIMAC) showcased NUAIR’s fully operational Surveillance-as-a-Service (SaaS) network in Western New York, demonstrating how agencies and departments can start flying safer and more economically right now—without lengthy buildouts or custom integrations. During the event, state and local public-safety teams, infrastructure inspectors, and federal partners watched real-time low-altitude airspace […]

Million Air CEO Roger Woolsey Receives NATA’s Top Honor

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has announced that Roger Woolsey, owner and CEO of Million Air Interlink (Million Air) and REW Investments, Inc., has been named the 2025 recipient of the Association’s prestigious William A. “Bill” Ong Memorial Award—NATA’s highest honor for extraordinary achievement and extended service to the general aviation industry. Woolsey’s career […]

U.S. High School Students Invited to Apply for Epic Flight Academy Scholarships

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

Epic Flight Academy will award 17 aviation scholarships totaling $145,000 in its 10th Annual Aviation Scholarship Awards. U.S. high school juniors and seniors are invited to apply. The deadline is October 1, 2025. Epic founder and CEO Danny Perna said, “This is the largest amount we have ever allocated for the annual scholarship awards. To […]

Summer Air Travel Demand in North Dakota Stays Strong in August

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its monthly airline passenger report for the state’s eight commercial service airports. In August 2025, North Dakota airports recorded 112,982 passenger boardings, setting a new all-time high for the month of August. This surpasses the previous record of 108,035 set in 2024—a 5% year-over-year increase, representing nearly […]

Aims Aviation Professor William Standerfer Inducted into Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

Aims Community College Aviation Professor William Standerfer will be inducted into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame next month, recognizing his decades of contributions to flight safety, education and community service. The Colorado Aviation Historical Society created the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in 1969. Since its establishment, over 150 pioneers in aviation have been […]

Inaugural Memphis International Airport Runway 5K Draws 900 Participants

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 Kim Stevens

More than 900 people participated in the inaugural Memphis International Airport (MEM) MEM Runway 5K on Saturday, September 20. The event allowed runners to experience a race on one of MEM’s runways, providing rare inside views of an airport that serves nearly 5 million passengers annually and ranks among one of the busiest cargo airports […]

Inaugural Memphis International Airport Runway 5K Draws 900 Participants

Bombardier Defense Delivers Ninth Global Aircraft to the U.S. Air Force for Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Program

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy