State Aviation Journal – Page 453 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X
In a dramatic unveiling before more than 400 customers, partners and aviation leaders gathered in a new production hall in Bordeaux-Mérignac, Dassault Aviation rolled out the Falcon 10X—its most ambitious business jet ever. As the drape lifted at 8:00 p.m. CET, the aircraft emerged as a bold new benchmark for the future of long-range business […]
Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow
Signature Aviation announced the debut of its newest terminal at Glasgow Airport (GLA) in Scotland. The cutting-edge facility was officially introduced during a grand opening celebration this week, showcasing the enhanced guest experience and spotlighting the terminal’s expansive, thoughtfully designed amenities. The new Signature GLA terminal was designed to enhance the guest experience as a […]
Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide
Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 […]
New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]

State News

David Smith, PE, Joins McFarland Johnson as Regional Director

McFarland-Johnson, Inc. (MJ) has announced the appointment of David P. Smith, P.E., as Regional Director for New York, further strengthening MJ’s expertise and expanding its leadership presence in the region. David P. Smith Smith will lead the growth of MJ’s transportation practice in New York, with a specific focus on Central New York. With an impressive 33-year career at the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), Smith has served the last decade as Regional Director for Central New York. In this role, he led a team of over 500 professionals across a six-county region, overseeing vital projects such as the I-81 Project—NYSDOT’s largest undertaking—and key initiatives, including transportation improvements to accommodate the Micron Technology development. Smith’s leadership ensured the delivery of annual and multi-year capital improvement plans for state and local highways, while fostering collaboration among government officials, developers, and community stakeholders. His legacy includes a pivotal role in advancing major infrastructure projects and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the safety, efficiency, and modernization of Central New York’s transportation system. “We are thrilled to welcome Dave Smith to MJ as our new Regional Director in our Syracuse office. His extensive experience and leadership will be instrumental as he drives MJ’s growth across service lines in the region, with a particular emphasis on transportation. Bringing Dave on board is a key part of our strategic initiative to expand in Central New York and further enhance the value and service we provide to our clients throughout New York,” said Erik Atkins, McFarland Johnson’s Director of Transportation. “I am excited to join MJ and help drive the firm’s growth across all service lines, with particular focus on advancing our Transportation practice. MJ’s commitment to strategic expansion in Central New York aligns perfectly with my experience and passion for serving clients in this area. By leveraging MJ’s expertise and resources, I look forward to enhancing our ability to deliver innovative solutions and superior service to our clients. Together, we will strengthen MJ’s presence in the region and continue to support the evolving infrastructure and transportation needs of our communities,” said Smith. “We are excited for what lies ahead with Dave leading the team. His vision and experience will enable us to continue growing, innovating, and serving our clients at the highest level,” said Chad Nixon, President and Chairman of McFarland Johnson.
ODAA, OSIDA Celebrate Historic Artemis II Launch, Highlights Contributions from Oklahoma-Based Frontier Electronic Systems

Photo – NASA’s Space Launch System rocket successfully launched Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from Operations and Support Building II at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Oklahoma-based Frontier Electronic Systems supported the mission by manufacturing more than 20 components for the Orion spacecraft. Image Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls As NASA’s Artemis II mission journeys toward the Moon—the first crewed journey beyond Earth’s orbit in more than 50 years—the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) are proud to spotlight the contributions of Oklahoma-based Frontier Electronic Systems (FES). The Stillwater company is an important part of the mission’s supply chain, providing more than 20 flight-critical components for the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. Following a successful launch on April 1, 2026, Artemis II’s mission will carry four astronauts aboard Orion (the crewed capsule) on a 10-day mission around the Moon to prove safety, navigation, and human capability for future lunar landings. Much of the hardware produced by FES in Stillwater serves as the primary interface between the crew and their spacecraft. “Oklahoma has always been a pioneer in flight and space exploration,” said Grayson Ardies, OSIDA CEO. “Today, FES proves our state’s aerospace industry is more than just a heritage; it is a critical engine for NASA’s return to the Moon. From critical flight controls to life-supporting electronics, Oklahoma’s contributions are integral to this mission.” Frontier Electronic Systems’ Impact on the Artemis II Mission Precision Flight Controls: FES manufactured the rotational and translational hand controllers that the crew will use to pilot Orion during the mission. Cockpit Interface Tools: The cursor control devices and switch interface panels produced by FES allow the crew to navigate flight data and command the ship’s systems. Safety and Propulsion Electronics: FES provided electronic control boards and systems for the Launch Abort System (LAS) at the rocket’s tip, and thruster electronics at the base of the SLS core stage. The Future of Space in Oklahoma The Artemis II mission coincides with a period of unprecedented growth for Oklahoma’s space sector. The recent merger of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Agency into ODAA has enhanced efforts to make space industry growth a priority as well as highlighting the Oklahoma Air and Space Port in western Oklahoma a national hub for horizontal launches and microgravity research. Partnerships with companies like Dawn Aerospace, which plans to operate its Mk-II Aurora spaceplane from Oklahoma by 2027, further solidify the state’s position as a leader in the “New Space” economy.

National News

AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Launches New Video Series: “Expert Insights”

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Air Safety Institute (ASI) has launched a new signature video series called Expert Insights. Expert Insights features interviews with specialists in their fields, who give pilots information on a wide range of topics relevant to general aviation safety, and useful practical tips they can use right away. So far, ASI has released three sets of videos, with more to come later this year. “We have put a lot of thought into this series, and we hope it will be informative and instructional to aviators across general aviation,” Mike Ginter, senior vice president of ASI, said. “Our first release, Crash Considerations, launched in late January and features Melanie A. Folcik-Barillaro, an experienced flight instructor and accident investigator, who gives insights on how to best survive a crash landing.” In the second series, Risk Management, US Coast Guard pilot Justin Moore explains how pilots can reframe the risk management equation by asking themselves four simple questions ahead of every flight. Our third series, Survival Equipment, features survival specialist Doug Ritter, who gives pilots tips on essential gear to have on board when flying over sparsely populated areas, and how to effectively use it in the case of an off-airport landing and while awaiting rescue. Pilots can also earn FAA WINGS credit after viewing each set of videos by completing a 15-question multiple-choice quiz for each course. In the coming months, ASI plans to tackle other relevant themes like pilot mental performance, mental health, NTSB investigations, and more. Expert Insights joins ASI’s other engaging and insightful educational materials which include the signature video series, “Early Analysis,” “Real Pilot Stories,” and “Accident Case Studies.” These videos, along with ASI’s other safety content, are viewed about 10 million times every year. “With Expert Insights, we hope that aviators will learn new tips and tricks to make their flying safer, and also that they will share these with their peers,” Ginter said. “At ASI, our mission remains to help all pilots make better decisions. Our featured speakers’ real-world expertise in this new video series builds upon ASI’s long tradition of pragmatic and effective pilot education.” ASI’s videos are available on YouTube here.
Coalition Promotes Burke Lakefront Opportunities, Pushes Back Against Mayor’s ‘Hypothetical Concepts’ for Redevelopment

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), along with the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), laid out their vision for the future of Burke Lakefront Airport during an open house with media, local officials, and other stakeholders, while pushing back against “hypothetical concepts” for possible redevelopment of the airport site released today by the mayor. “From delaying critical, life-saving care, to ending opportunities for local students to learn about aviation—today’s event made it clearer than ever that the impact of closing Burke Lakefront Airport would be felt far and wide,” said AOPA Great Lakes Regional Manager Kyle Lewis. The event, hosted by Aitheras Aviation—a medical evacuation and transport company—comes after weeks of planning and coordination with airport officials and organizations that would be impacted. At the same time, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb—who is attempting to circumvent federal law to close the airport—and the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation released a report showing concepts to possibly redevelop the site. “By releasing what they call ‘hypothetical concepts,’ it’s clear that the mayor wants to distract from the good being done at the airport—and all without a comprehensive plan,” said Lewis. “And just hours after its release, it’s clear that Cleveland residents aren’t buying it. They know it’s a waste of money, while taking away this unique public resource.” These concepts, which include two options for redevelopment, feature a campground, walking trails, parkland, golf course, a sledding hill, and a “great lawn,” and each plan would cost taxpayers more than $21 million per year to operate. “As it stands today, Burke Lakefront Airport costs taxpayers nothing. It is funded through Cleveland’s airport system and operates like reliever airports in every other major city—to serve general aviation while not impacting commercial operations at larger airports,” said Lewis. “This report also does nothing to explain how the city plans to accommodate the more than 50,000 takeoffs and landings from Burke Lakefront at nearby airports. The nearest reliever airports in Cuyahoga County and Lake County are full. And nobody—from Mayor Bibb to air traffic controllers to the traveling public—should want to add traffic to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which does not have the infrastructure to handle this influx.” “Everything the mayor and the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation want to accomplish can be done through compatible use,” added Lewis. “Now that the mayor has commissioned a report on alternative uses of the property, we continue to urge the mayor to work with the FAA on an Airport Master Plan and compare the two. This would not only take into account possible uses for the site, but also account for the extensive remediation that would be required, which today’s report did not touch on at all.” (A report from the Center for Cleveland in November found that remediation of just over half of the airport property could cost $800 million.) The full list of organizations that participated in the open house is below: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Aitheras Aviation Argonaut Davis Aerospace & Maritime High School Cleveland National Air Show National Air Transportation Association (NATA) National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) North East Ohio Pilots Association (NEOPA) Signature Aviation

International News

CAPA Announces Complimentary Content ~ Aviation in 2026 – A CAPA Perspective

CAPA has announced the launch of the official CAPA Outlook for 2026, an exclusive report titled, “Aviation in 2026 – The CAPA Perspective”. This comprehensive report provides expert insights, key trends, and bold predictions that will shape the global aviation industry in the year ahead. Compiled by CAPA’s esteemed global analysis team, with over 150 years of combined industry experience, the report draws on their extensive and diverse data sets, world-renowned news aggregator platform and informative analysis articles—available exclusively through CAPA membership. Whether you are navigating challenges or seizing opportunities in aviation, this report is an essential resource for industry professionals looking to stay ahead in 2026. Don’t miss out on this invaluable perspective as the aviation sector continues to evolve. What’s Inside the Report? Global Industry Trends Deep-dive into aviation’s economic growth, sustainability efforts, and strategic shifts in operations for 2026. Key trends include business travel recovery, decentralized connectivity, and advancements in technology and infrastructure. The section also covers the balance between passenger convenience and security. Regional Focus Discover the key regional trends shaping aviation in 2026. From emerging growth markets to sustainability initiatives and evolving travel patterns, gain insights into how regions like Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East are transforming the industry. Airports Spotlight Explore the pivotal role of airports in shaping aviation’s future. Learn how major hubs and emerging mid-tier airports are driving connectivity, innovation, and sustainability, while adapting to evolving passenger needs and global industry demands. The CAPA Perspective Discover our esteemed experts analysis on industry trends, regional dynamics, and strategic shifts shaping the future of global aviation, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. How You Will Benefit 👉 Airline Executives: Gain strategic insights on sustainability, market trends, and regional dynamics. 👉 Airport Operators: Uncover trends in connectivity, innovation, and passenger needs to drive growth. 👉 Investors: Identify emerging opportunities and understand key drivers shaping aviation’s future. 👉 Tourism Professionals: Uncover insights into evolving travel patterns and industry growth drivers. 👉 Aviation Enthusiasts: Discover exciting developments, technological advancements, and trends shaping the industry’s future. Download Your Free Report Now
National Airlines’ First Boeing 777-200 Freighter Commences Test Flights

National Airlines has reached a significant milestone in its fleet modernization journey as the first of its four Boeing 777-200 Freighters (N791CA) has commenced test flights last week. Registered as N791CA, the aircraft is planned to enter revenue service in May 2026, following the completion of a series of mandatory flight tests, performance evaluations, and regulatory procedures. The remaining three B777-200 freighters are scheduled to undergo their respective test flight programs in the coming months. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 1. The introduction of the B777-200F represents a transformative advancement in National Airlines’ long-haul cargo capabilities. Recognized as one of the most advanced and efficient freighters in global aviation today, the aircraft offers a payload capacity exceeding 102 tons, a range of over 9,000 kilometers, and fuel-efficient twin-engine performance. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and advanced flight systems, the B777F ensures enhanced operational precision, fuel efficiency, and reliability across intercontinental routes. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 3. National Airlines Chairman Mr. Christopher Alf commented, “we are excitedly waiting to see the Boeing 777-200 Freighter enter commercial operations, offering our customers an enhanced fleet option to support their evolving charter requirements. The induction of the B777-200 freighters marks a significant step in strengthening our global cargo network, enabling greater efficiency, reach, and operational flexibility. This milestone further reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class transportation solutions and consistently exceeding the expectations of our partners and customers worldwide.” The addition of the B777-200 freighter signals the beginning of a new chapter in the airline’s fleet modernization program and complements the existing fleet of nine Boeing 747-400 freighters, and passenger fleet of Airbus A330-300 and A330-200 aircraft. In today’s rapidly evolving air cargo landscape, driven by e-commerce growth, global supply chain demands, and the need for faster, more reliable air freight movement, the Boeing 777-200 freighter plays a critical role owing to its performance capability and sustainability technologies.

Unmanned Systems

Commercial Drone Alliance Promotes Whole-of Government Approach to Secure U.S. Drone Dominance

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has urged the Administration to adopt vital reforms needed to bolster U.S. manufacturing, create high-skilled American jobs, and reduce reliance on foreign critical components. The CDA called for a whole-of-government approach to support the collective ambition of the Administration to ensure the economic and societal benefits of commercial drone innovation READ MORE
Everdrone raises SEK 36 million – Enters Commercial Phase for Drone Services in Emergency Healthcare

Everdrone currently operates the world’s first operational drone service integrated into the emergency response chain for cardiac arrest in the Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. The company has now raised SEK 36 million in a funding round to validate methodology and system integration for drone support in emergency healthcare, as well as to further develop its READ MORE

Aviation Education

Innovation Soars at State Capitol as Leaders Celebrate Oklahoma’s $44 Billion Aerospace Economy

Photo – The crowd of aerospace industry stakeholders, military members, educators and students filled the second-floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol for the 2026 AERO Oklahoma Day. The event brought together more than 1,000 attendees to advocate for the state’s $44 billion aerospace and defense industry. The second floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State READ MORE
North Carolina Students Earn National Recognition in Aviation Art Contest

Photo – First place winner in Junior Category Aaron Chen Multiple North Carolina students received national honors for their artwork depicting how aviation helps save lives. The annual competition, hosted by the National Association of State Aviation Officials and the National Aeronautic Association, encourages students ages 6 to 17 to explore aviation through art. This READ MORE

Jeff Nagel Announces Retirement from Michigan’s MBS International Airport

March 9, 2020March 9, 2020 Kim Stevens

By Kenn Potts Jeff Nagel, the Airport Manager at MBS International Airport in Freeland, Michigan has announced he is retiring on June 24, 2020. Nagel started his airport career in 1984 in Columbus, Ohio cleaning airplanes for the FBO. Every night he had to wax a 727 and a 737 for Peoples Express. He also […]

Pilots Complete “Fly North Dakota Airports” Passport Program

March 9, 2020March 9, 2020 Kim Stevens

On Sunday March 1st, nineteen pilots were presented with awards for participating in the “Fly North Dakota Airports” Passport Program. The passport program presents awards to pilots for flying to airports in the state as well as attending FAA Safety Seminars and visiting the two North Dakota Air Museums. Two pilots were presented with bronze […]

FAA Expands Weather Camera Program to Colorado

March 7, 2020March 7, 2020 Kim Stevens

Photo by Shahn Sederberg, Colorado Division of Aeronautics. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is expanding its highly successful weather camera safety program to Colorado. The FAA has entered into a cost-reimbursement agreement with the State of Colorado Division of Aeronautics to install weather cameras on 13 Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) in mountainous areas, beginning […]

WWII Heroes Announced to Speak at Arsenal of Democracy Victory Gala

March 6, 2020March 6, 2020 Kim Stevens

the full lineup of World War II heroes participating in a historic panel discussion during the Arsenal of Democracy Victory Gala, which is the kickoff event of the National 75th WWII Commemoration program, has been announced. The gala will provide a unique opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of WWII experiences from the heroes themselves. This […]

North Carolina DOT to Host Drone Workshop in Monroe

March 6, 2020March 6, 2020 Kim Stevens

Drones are an increasingly popular tool for various state and local public safety agencies, as well as many private businesses. The N.C. Department of Transportation wants to help those organizations learn how to safely and effectively leverage this technology into their operations. To achieve this, NCDOT is bringing back a series of drone workshops for […]

Tioga Municipal Airport Awarded “2019 General Aviation Airport of the Year”

March 4, 2020March 4, 2020 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Left to right are, North Dakota Aeronautics Commission Executive Director – Kyle Wanner, Tioga Municipal Airport Authority Manager and Chairperson – Chris Norgaard, and Airport Association of North Dakota President – Matthew Remynse. The Tioga Municipal Airport has received the North Dakota “2019 General Aviation Airport of the Year” award. The award […]

Williston Basin International Airport Awarded “2019 Commercial Service Airport of the Year”

March 4, 2020March 4, 2020 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Left to right are, North Dakota Aeronautics Commission Executive Director – Kyle Wanner, Williston Basin International Airport Assistant Director – Ryan O’Rear, Williston Basin International Airport Director – Anthony Dudas, and Airport Association of North Dakota President – Matthew Remynse. The Williston Basin International Airport has received the North Dakota “2019 Commercial […]

New Mexico’s Sandia Labs Funded to Work on Three-Year Project to Address UAS Threats

March 3, 2020March 3, 2020 Kim Stevens

Sandia National Laboratories robotics experts are working on a way to intercept enemy unmanned aircraft systems midflight. They successfully tested their concept indoors with a swarm of four unmanned aircraft systems that flew in unison, each carrying one corner of a net. Acting as a team, they intercepted the flying target, trapped it in air […]

Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre Expands SIM Fleet

March 3, 2020March 3, 2020 Kim Stevens

After many years of owning an Alsim ALX simulator, Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC) in Ontario, Canada is adding an Alsim AL250 to its fleet. WWFC, operating out of the Region of Waterloo International Airport, currently has a record number of students. Their 30 aircraft is one of the largest fleets in Canada including 172s, […]

New Aerobatics Course from Airshow Legend Patty Wagstaff and Sporty’s Pilot Shop

March 3, 2020March 3, 2020 Kim Stevens

Sporty’s has partnered with airshow legend Patty Wagstaff to introduce an all-new course that focuses on the art and sport of high-performance flying. Perfect for any pilot who has ever wondered what it’s like to fly a loop or considered taking an upset recovery course, Intro to Aerobatics with Patty Wagstaff puts viewers in the […]

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X

Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity