State Aviation Journal

Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8
International Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse ceremonially retired its Douglas DC-8 cargo aircraft and dedicate its new Boeing 767 at its Airlift Response Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. This event marks a new era for the ministry’s global aviation operations and advances its ability to help suffering families around the world in Jesus’ Name. For […]
CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region
CubCrafters has announced that Ray and Melisa Fowler of Adventure Flying LLC have joined the company’s elite team of Certified Sales Centers (CSC) as representatives for the MidAtlantic region. Ray and Melisa will manage new, used, and kit aircraft sales across six Mid-Atlantic states: Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Ray […]
Oklahoma State University’s Flying Aggies Defend Regional Title
The Oklahoma State University Flying Aggies flight team flew back into town as regional champions for the second year in a row after competing in the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Region 4 SAFECON championship. The OSU flight team came out on top — earning 631 points during the four-day competition, which took place Oct. 13-17 […]
KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump
Aleksej Zelenkov, a duty manager at KlasJet, has broken three Lithuanian skydiving records in a single jump from 7,620 meters during a specialized high-altitude event in Herning, Denmark this August. The achievement included setting new Lithuanian records for the highest skydive, longest canopy flight duration at approximately 13 minutes, and the highest altitude display of […]

State News

Civil Air Patrol in New Jersey Offers Fun and Challenging Opportunities on the Ground and in the Air

By Col. Amy Myzie, Commander, New Jersey Wing, Civil Air Patrol Col. Amy Myzie In a time when meaningful extracurricular opportunities for youth seem harder to find, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) offers something truly special: a program that is educational, challenging, and fun—and that can open doors to careers in aviation, leadership, science, and service. As the commander of the New Jersey Wing of Civil Air Patrol, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how our cadet program has changed hundreds of young lives.. What I’m most proud of is how we help shape future leaders, and how they are positioned to give back to their communities here in New Jersey, and our nation. . Through structured training, mentorship and unique experiences, our cadets—ages 12 to 18 years—develop confidence, resilience and direction that stays with them for life. Interests in aviation and aerospace are valuable, but not as much as a sense of patriotism, ambition, and service. The Civil Air Patrol, the all-volunteer auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force Total Force New Jersey Wing, has approximately 1000 cadet members and almost 700 senior members statewide. The Wing uses seven fuel efficient Cessna aircraft varied support vehicles, and an expanding inventory of high-technology communications and computer hardware to accomplish our missions. These include search and rescue and disaster relief missions, and other support, for many local and Federal agencies — e.g., the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the United States Air Force, New Jersey State Police, the New Jersey Air National Guard—and others. CAP’s service to New Jersey communities, as well as the nation at large, this past year reflects our capabilities and training both in the air and on the ground. In 2024, the Wing flew 494 CAP, Air Force ROTC, and Junior ROTC cadet orientation flights. Cadet orientation flights are a novel – and popular– benefit for our young volunteers, where they are introduced to piloting both powered aircraft and gliders under close supervision of certified flight instructors and CAP mentors. Three New Jersey Wing cadets recently traveled to the southern tip of Texas to participate in Civil Air Patrol’s inaugural, and selective, Space & Rocketry National Cadet Special Activity, an intensive five-day aerospace and rocketry immersion program held in Brownsville. The program combined CAP’s aerospace education curriculum with hands-on rocketry engineering, STEM instruction, and military-style leadership training. The cadets built and launched model rockets, took part in flight dynamics exercises and mission simulations, and toured advanced aerospace facilities including an air traffic control tower and National Weather Station. Cadets learned principles of aerodynamics, propulsion, and orbital mechanics—all while sharpening decision-making and teamwork under real-world pressure scenarios Also in 2024, the Wing’s hours of volunteer services to the State and nation were estimated at $6,770,769. Previously, the Wing had been recognized with the Governor’s Jefferson Award – “the Pulitzer Prize of volunteerism” – for community service in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Civil Air Patrol offers numerous programs in fulfillment of its Aerospace Education mission. This includes STEM kits, the K-6th grade Aerospace Connections in Education program, Aerospace Education Excellence curriculum, teacher orientation flights (in CAP aircraft), and more. Nationwide, CAP attracts more than 32,000 youth ages 12-20 years and provides intensive activities in leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character development. Thousands of cadets to are introduced to cyber defense careers through CyberPatriot, the Air and Space Forces Association’s National Youth Cyber Security Competition. CAP cadets can also be inspired to enroll in the nation’s service academies. There are also numerous opportunities to compete for scholarships in f light and academic institutions, furthering professional STEM careers and enhancing the nation’s future workforce. Our cadets don’t just learn to lead—they live it. Whether it’s launching rockets and unmanned aerial systems, flying simulators, or navigating search-and-rescue missions, cadets discover how thrilling learning can be when it’s hands-on and connected to real-world missions. CAP cadets receive orientation flights in powered aircraft as part of their core aerospace curriculum. New Jersey Wing, in partnership with Ocean County Municipal Airport (MJIX) in Bayville, NJ, recently hosted the Falcon Flight Academy which offered cadets from New Jersey and across the nation immersive flight training under the instruction of FAA-certified flight instructors and experienced CAP support staff. Falcon Flight Academy is part of Civil Air Patrol’s mission to provide cadets with aerospace education, leadership training, and opportunities to pursue careers in aviation. The Civil Air Patrol is not a newcomer. In fact, CAP will celebrate its 85th birthday in 2026—and it all started right here in New Jersey. In the early days of World War II, the military was short on manpower. Civilian pilots stepped up, answering the call to protect the Atlantic and Gulf coastlines from enemy submarines. It was at Bader Field in Atlantic City that the first CAP coastal patrol mission was launched. From 1942 to 1943, these volunteers flew a staggering 244,600 hours in privately owned aircraft, protecting our shores and supporting our military efforts. CAP was formally founded on December 1, 1941—just one week before the attack on Pearl Harbor—and has served as the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force ever since. More than ever, CAP is a vital resource for our nation and New Jersey. With more than 1,700 members across 24 squadrons in New Jersey, we are proud to say there’s at least one squadron in every county—and probably one within a short drive of your home. Our missions are diverse, but all share a focus on service. Nationally, CAP performs 90 percent of inland search-and-rescue operations as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center. We conduct aerial reconnaissance for homeland security, disaster relief photography, and emergency services in support of federal, state and local agencies. Our trained members transport life-saving medical supplies and time-sensitive materials when commercial transport is not an option. And our teams are often among the first to respond after hurricanes, floods and wildfires. One of the most exciting opportunities we offer youth is an actual flight in a Civil Air Patrol READ MORE
MAMA Donates $1,500 to Cape Cod Hunger Network Following Successful Conference Raffle

The Massachusetts Airport Management Association (MAMA) presented a $1,500 donation last week to the Cape Cod Hunger Network, a regional non-profit that provides essential food resources across the Cape and Islands. The funds were generated through a successful fundraising raffle held during MAMA’s recent three-day annual conference at the Margaritaville Resort and Conference Center in Hyannis, MA. The MAMA Conference hosted more than 200 airport managers, engineers, and state and federal officials for high-level talks on aviation safety, infrastructure, and development. The fundraising raffle, which served as a way for the association and its attendees to give back directly to the local community, was coordinated by the staff of Atlantic Aviation at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport. “It’s our honor to support such a worthy local cause and a delight to be associated with MAMA,” said Helyne Medeiros, General Manager of Atlantic Aviation at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport. “Our annual conference in Hyannis was a tremendous success, not only in advancing critical discussions about aviation infrastructure and planning but also in reinforcing our commitment to the communities where we operate,” added Conference Co-Chairman Dave Dinneen. “We are proud that the enthusiasm and generosity of our attendees translated directly into this $1,500 gift for the Cape Cod Hunger Network. Supporting local initiatives is a key part of MAMA’s mission.” The Cape Cod Hunger Network will utilize the donation to support its expansive mission, which involves coordinating efforts for more than 60 volunteer food pantries across Cape Cod and the Islands. A core focus of the Network is the distribution of food sourced directly from local fishermen and farmers, bolstering the regional economy while providing fresh, nutritious products to those in need. “We are deeply grateful for this substantial donation from MAMA,” said Andrea Scarpellini of the Cape Cod Hunger Network and Cape Cod Cooperative Extension. “This $1,500 arrives at a crucial time and will allow us to immediately purchase locally sourced ingredients, helping us keep the shelves stocked for the 60+ pantries we serve. This partnership exemplifies how statewide organizations like MAMA can make a concrete impact at the grassroots level.”

National News

Former Idaho State Aviation Director Remains Active in Aviation

Photo – Mike teaching his son Sam to fly. Mike Pape, former Aviation Director for the State of Idaho, continues to stay engaged in the aviation industry. Since leaving state service Mike has stayed busy in the private sector, mostly in Part 135 management. “I’m currently working as the Director of Operations with Jetstream Aviation in Boise,” said Pape. “I also stay active as a flight instructor, an officer with our local Commemorative Air Force Wing, and building my consulting business coaching young professional pilots.” Mike Pape When asked about attracting and maintaining a talented workforce, Pape responded, “That’s an interesting question and an honest challenge. My last 15 years of aviation management have been full of hiring, training, mentoring young professionals and if there is one comment my colleagues and I repeat it’s – hard to get and keep good people.” Pape says we can make excuses that aviation is expensive to get into or there are always better opportunities elsewhere, or turnover is just a price to pay, etc., “but I believe attracting and retaining talent comes down to genuine, well-trained leadership.” Simon Sinek preaches that successful leaders focus not on being in a position of authority, but on the well-being of those in one’s charge. The most effective leaders are empethetic, courageous and focused on creating a culture of trust and safety. Those we seek to hire and retain are human beings, not robots. Aviation leaders (often left-brain pilots and mechanics) need to develop proper EQ (emotional quotient) so as to lead, coach and motivate. Employees don’t quit jobs, they quit bosses. For Pape, who also teaches skiing and fly casting, the most enjoyable and gratifying thing he does in aviation is building a new generation of professional pilots. “If you asked me that 30 years ago my answer would be flying some specific airplane or time in some exotic destination. Now, after 40+ years in the business, there is nothing like inheriting a young, ambitious flight instructor and coaching them into becoming a mature, effective crewmember so they have the chance to build their own exciting career. That gets me going every day!” Mike and his Safety Mentor, Robert Sumwalt. Pape, in the last year has received his 6th type rating, crossed the Atlantic, attained his Safety Manager’s certificate, got three of his copilots good jobs, and barrel rolled a T-6! What’s missing? Alaska. “I have a dream to be a pilot/fly fishing guide in Southeast Alaska. When the question of retirement comes up, don’t look for Pape to slow down. “There were just too many people who went out on a limb for me so I could enjoy a fun, challenging, and exciting aviation career, so as long as I’m breathing, I’m at the airport.” Pape served as Administrator for the Idaho Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics from 2007 until 2019.
AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Celebrates 75 Years of Making Aviation Safer

Seventy-five years ago on November 10, 1950, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Air Safety Institute (ASI) began life as the AOPA Foundation. Over the decades, it has gone through several incarnations, but its mission has remained the same: to help pilots make better decisions and to bring down the general aviation accident rate. ASI is now the largest provider of free general aviation safety content in the world and is supported by the AOPA Foundation and individual donors. Its data analysis and research reports are among the most comprehensive and widely used in the industry, and its engaging and insightful educational materials—including the signature video series “Early Analysis,” “Real Pilot Stories,” and “Accident Case Studies”—attract millions of views each year. In addition, ASI’s Flight Instructor Refresher Course helps thousands of flight instructors renew their certificates each year, and provides innovative, safety-critical course modules that promote a strong safety culture among the flight instruction industry. “Since 1950, ASI has made a name for itself as a leading source of aviation safety information and analysis,” AOPA President and CEO Darren Pleasance said. “Since then, the general aviation accident rate has dropped to its lowest level ever.” The general aviation fatal accident rate has declined more than 80 percent—from 4 per 100,000 hours flown in 1950 to 0.77 per 100,000 hours flown in 2022, the last year for which full data is available. “This is a remarkable achievement that reflects better technology—both inside and outside the cockpit—improved training, and a stronger safety culture built by organizations like ASI,” Pleasance said. “I’m proud of the ASI team for continuing to produce high-quality content from which pilots can learn. Aviation is currently under a microscope, and ASI has a long tradition and legacy of offering pilots opportunities to improve their knowledge and sharpen their skills. That ongoing work is more important than ever.” Pilots can explore ASI’s full library of safety courses, videos, and reports at airsafetyinstitute.org.

International News

Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8

International Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse ceremonially retired its Douglas DC-8 cargo aircraft and dedicate its new Boeing 767 at its Airlift Response Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. This event marks a new era for the ministry’s global aviation operations and advances its ability to help suffering families around the world in Jesus’ Name. Photos courtesy of Samaritan’s Purse For more than a decade, the Samaritan’s Purse DC-8 served as the organization’s primary heavy-lift aircraft—airlifting more than 9.2 million pounds of life-saving cargo on 217 missions worldwide. First acquired in 2015, the aircraft became an indispensable tool for delivering emergency supplies to people suffering after natural disasters, conflicts, and humanitarian crises. It is now the last U.S. registered DC-8 still flying. Now, that legacy continues with the newly commissioned Boeing 767—a modern cargo aircraft that expands the ministry’s capacity to respond rapidly and efficiently wherever disaster strikes. “Aviation is an incredible tool for Samaritan’s Purse. Every one of our cargo planes says ‘Helping in Jesus’ Name’ right across the nose of the aircraft. After a disaster strikes, we want people to know why we are bringing life-saving supplies. We want them to know that God loves them and they’re not forgotten,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “God has used this DC-8 cargo plane to impact hundreds of thousands of lives—and He is using it right up to the very end of its service life. As we retire the DC-8, we are grateful to God for the 767 taking its place. It will allow us to transport far more supplies—faster and more effectively—and will continue the work of bringing the hope of the Gospel to people around the world.” The 767 completed its inaugural mission on Oct. 24, carrying more than 290,000 packets of supplementary food for suffering women and children in Gaza, along with blankets, solar lights, and other critical relief items. Just weeks later, the aircraft was deployed again—this time to Jamaica, following Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm ever to strike the island. To date, Samaritan’s Purse has completed seven airlifts to Jamaica, utilizing its DC-8, 767 and 757. One of the 767 airlifts carried the organization’s Emergency Field Hospital equipped with an operating room, intensive care unit, emergency room, obstetric ward, laboratory, pharmacy, and blood bank. This flight to Jamaica marked the first time, Samaritan’s Purse transported a large Emergency Field Hospital on a single flight. Previously, such a deployment required multiple airlifts, but the 767’s size and range made it possible. Samaritan’s Purse Douglas DC-8 cargo aircraft was ceremonially retired. Photo courtesy of Samaritan’s Purse.
Girls in Aviation Day Continues to Expand Reaching Over 42,000 Participants

Photo – Phoenix Chapter Girls around the world participated in the 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) organized by Women in Aviation International (WAI) on September 20. Through unique local events hosted by WAI chapters and corporate members, the number of GIAD participants grew to over 42,000 youth attendees this year with 200 events held across the globe. Of these events, 64 were in international locations representing 34 countries, and 136 were in the U.S. and U.S. Territories. Watch GIAD2025 Wrap-Up Video! Nigerian Chapter Girls in Aviation Day is part of a multi-faceted international youth program designed by Women in Aviation International to inspire girls to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. GIAD events took place at airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars across the U.S., Canada, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Girls were introduced to the career and lifestyle possibilities in aviation and aerospace by meeting female role models, listening to career panels, and exploring airplanes and airports. In addition, girls participated in a wide array of hands-on, educational activities ranging from sectional chart treasure hunts, first flights on simulators, learning about aircraft engines, avionics, and exploring weather systems and space. “Our Girls in Aviation Day events continue to inspire and spark curiosity among young participants as they discover the world of aviation,” says WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “We sincerely thank our chapter members, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for their dedication and generosity that made this international event possible. Together, we are not only nurturing dreams but also creating a more inclusive and stronger future for aviation.”

Unmanned Systems

Drones Transport Medical Supplies to Healthcare Station in Helsinki

Helsinki is currently exploring how drones could assist with transport during exceptional circumstances. The flights in November will cover a distance of around seven kilometers and will be flown several times per weekday. In early November, the City of Helsinki is piloting drone transports for healthcare supplies on an approximately seven-kilometer route from Kyläsaari to READ MORE
Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education READ MORE

Aviation Education

Civil Air Patrol in New Jersey Offers Fun and Challenging Opportunities on the Ground and in the Air

By Col. Amy Myzie, Commander, New Jersey Wing, Civil Air Patrol Col. Amy Myzie In a time when meaningful extracurricular opportunities for youth seem harder to find, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) offers something truly special: a program that is educational, challenging, and fun—and that can open doors to careers in aviation, leadership, science, and READ MORE
Oklahoma State University’s Flying Aggies Defend Regional Title

The Oklahoma State University Flying Aggies flight team flew back into town as regional champions for the second year in a row after competing in the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Region 4 SAFECON championship. The OSU flight team came out on top — earning 631 points during the four-day competition, which took place Oct. 13-17 READ MORE

Deer Valley and Goodyear Airports Reach New Sustainability Milestone

November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 Kim Stevens

The City of Phoenix Aviation Department announced that Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT) and Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR) have, for the first time, been awarded Level 3 status in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program for the reporting year 2024. The Level 3 accreditation recognizes DVT and GYR for each of their efforts in gathering […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Ardmore Break Ground on $3.3 Million Terminal Upgrade

November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Ardmore’s Downtown Executive Airport held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025. The airport is set to begin renovations involving the demolition of its 60-year-old terminal and its replacement with a new, larger facility. Ardmore’s Downtown Executive Airport is set to undergo a significant […]

Robust Sessions Mix with Island Serenity as 52nd MAMA Conference Hosts Record Turnout

November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 Kim Stevens

More than two hundred aviation professionals participated in the 52nd Annual Massachusetts Airport Management Association’s (MAMA) Conference at the Margaritaville Resort and Conference Center in Hyannis, MA from October 19-21. Intense by day and laid back by night, delegates participated in a wide range of discussions that included noise mitigation, preparing for the upcoming FIFA […]

Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Stroud Launch Runway Expansion Project

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Photo – The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated airport improvements with a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2025. The airport will widen and extend the runway to meet federal safety standards. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and Stroud Municipal Airport celebrated the widening and extension of their […]

NBAA’s Bolen and Former AOPA President Honored for Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

At the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), a nonprofit group focused on helping victims escape human trafficking honored NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and former president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Mark Baker with its highest award. Flights to Freedom flies human trafficking survivors to their […]

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Aleksej Zelenkov, a duty manager at KlasJet, has broken three Lithuanian skydiving records in a single jump from 7,620 meters during a specialized high-altitude event in Herning, Denmark this August. The achievement included setting new Lithuanian records for the highest skydive, longest canopy flight duration at approximately 13 minutes, and the highest altitude display of […]

Oklahoma High Schoolers Compete in First Annual Drone Search and Rescue Championship

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater. The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education […]

United, Alaska Airlines & World Central Kitchen Partner with Airlink for Alaska Flooding

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Recent floods spurred by remnants of Typhoon Halong over Western Alaska have devastated several remote, coastal Native communities. Airlink, a global humanitarian organization that leverages the capacity of the aviation industry for rapid disaster response, today announced that it is partnering with United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and World Central Kitchen to deliver critical aid to […]

Royal Air Maroc Cargo Celebrates 35 Years of Operations at Brussels Airport

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

Royal Air Maroc Cargo proudly marks 35 years of uninterrupted service at Brussels Airport, underscoring a long-standing partnership that serves as a pillar of the airline’s European operations and a vital connection between Morocco, Africa, and Europe. Since the inaugural cargo flight to Brussels in 1990, the carrier has elevated Brussels to one of its […]

ZenaTech Selects Baton Rouge as Base for Advanced AI-Driven Drone Solutions for US Defense and Homeland Security

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 Kim Stevens

ZenaTech, Inc. has announced that it has selected Baton Rouge, Louisiana as the base for Zena AI, Inc., the company’s specialized AI division that will develop next-generation drone technologies for US defense and homeland security applications. The company has signed a lease for a secure office space in the Downtown Baton Rouge area and will […]

Samaritan’s Purse Dedicates New Boeing 767, Retires Historic DC-8

CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for Mid-Atlantic Region

Oklahoma State University’s Flying Aggies Defend Regional Title

KlasJet Employee Breaks Three National Records in Single High-Altitude Jump