State Aviation Journal – Page 529 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

When Wireless Networks Falter, Drones Can Provide Backup Connectivity, According to Stevens Researchers
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a drone-based system designed to provide temporary wireless coverage during network outages or periods of high demand. The system, named AURA-GreeN, deploys a coordinated swarm of aerial vehicles that function as mobile cell towers, intelligently managing spectrum allocation, data routing and energy use in real time. As […]
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 […]

State News

NBAA Cheers Grassroots Success in Repealing Onerous Washington State Aircraft Tax

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today welcomed the repeal of an unduly burdensome tax on most general aviation (GA) aircraft in Washington state, which was enacted last year and set to take effect on April 1. Specifically, the repealed measure (SB 5801) would have established an onerous 10% tax on the purchase of new and existing aircraft valued at more than $500,000. A new bill (House Bill 2711), signed today by Gov. Bob Ferguson, replaces and supersedes SB 5801 with a 7-cent per gallon increase to the state’s aviation fuel tax and a moderate increase to aircraft registration fees. “The success in halting the original aircraft tax is a win for job creation, local investment and economic opportunity,” said NBAA Regional Director Phil Derner. “The measure signed today represents the views of a wide range of stakeholders and, importantly, ensures our seat at the table as an active, contributing neighbor in the state of Washington.” General aviation plays a critical role in serving citizens, companies and communities in the Evergreen State. Of the 140 airports in Washington, only a handful have regular airline service; the remainder are primarily used by general aviation aircraft for business transportation, civic services, humanitarian missions and other essential flight operations. Those and other activities directly benefit the state’s economy – according to a 2020 Washington Aviation Economic Impact Study, aviation supports more than 407,000 jobs and a payroll exceeding $26.8 billion, generating more than $107 billion in annual business revenue. The Pacific Northwest Business Aviation Association and NBAA galvanized a broad coalition of stakeholders – including other allied associations, local business owners and representatives from across the business aviation community – to make their united voice heard about how the originally planned tax would harm businesses and communities in the state. “The original tax would have punished the ownership and use of a valuable asset,” said Dr. Ed Schweitzer, founder of Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) headquartered in Pullman, WA. “Many aircraft owners, operators, airports and businesses met with legislators to explain the impact, and we are relieved that legislators fully considered the impact of the tax and repealed it.” While the repeal of SB 5801 was the coalition’s initial goal, Derner emphasized the group will continue to monitor other legislative proposals in Washington that could have implications for general aviation. Finally, Derner stressed that NBAA’s regional director team, along with local and regional groups will be vigilant, keeping the aviation community informed and engaged to ensure an essential American industry can thrive in every state across the country.
CAP’s New Jersey Wing Assists U.S. Air Force with Critical Blood Processing Mission

Members of Civil Air Patrol’s New Jersey Wing recently mobilized to assist the U.S. Air Force in processing blood products destined for deployed service members. This effort expands the reach of Operation Pulse Lift, CAP’s ongoing humanitarian blood collection mission, and supports the need for blood for U.S. forces overseas. Civil Air Patrol’s Maj Megan Kingston, the NJ Wing’s health services officer, supported the mission by verifying temperatures of incoming blood products, ensuring they meet required standards, documenting and labeling shipments, and preparing them for cold storage and transport. Responding to a request from the Armed Services Blood Program, wing members provided urgently needed manpower to the Armed Services Whole Blood Processing Lab — East, a blood processing and transshipment center, at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, responsible for preparing blood shipments for overseas transport. “My team and I were proud to respond immediately when called. Within hours, our members were on-site helping process critical blood shipments destined to support our troops,” said Col. Amy Myzie, New Jersey Wing commander. The request came during a period of limited personnel availability and increased operational demand. The lab, which typically processes about 30 cases of blood products per week, has recently experienced a surge to more than 40 cases per day. The initial CAP team consisted of Myzie; Maj. Megan Kingston, the wing’s health services officer; Maj. Britton Williams, director of emergency services; and Cadet Maj. Luke Patterson. The CAP team arrived shortly after a large incoming shipment and began processing more than 40 cases of blood products. From left are: Civil Air Patrol’s team of NJ Wing Commander Col. Amy Myzie, Cadet/Maj. Luke Patterson, and Maj. Britton Williams, Director of Emergency Services, processed more than 40 cases of blood products. According to Kingston, wing members assist by verifying the temperature of incoming blood products to ensure they meet required standards, documenting and labeling shipments, and preparing them for cold storage and transport. “The increase in volume has significantly stretched available personnel. Our support helps ensure these lifesaving supplies are processed quickly and safely for delivery to deployed forces,” Kingston said. Since the start of the mission, CAP volunteers have contributed thousands of personnel hours from dozens of locations across the nation, with additional support planned in the coming weeks. During the initial surge in March 2026, the New Jersey Wing personnel supported the Whole Blood Processing Lab for 16 days, processing an unprecedented 7,500 units of blood. The wing expects to continue assisting the lab as needed, helping ensure U.S. service members overseas receive critical blood supplies.

National News

NBAA Marks Passing of GA Industry Standard-Bearer John Sheehan

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has paid tribute to the legacy of John J. Sheehan, III, decorated U.S. Navy aviator, general aviation advocate, safety expert and author, who recently passed away after devoting decades of his life to the general aviation industry. John Sheehan Sheehan, a frequent presenter at NBAA events, was the author of the book Business and Corporate Aviation Management, published by McGraw-Hill, which serves today as an authoritative reference guide for professional flight departments worldwide. The volume is included as part of the curriculum for those preparing to obtain NBAA’s Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) designation, a credential accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies for excellence in setting the standard for business aviation leadership. NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen noted Sheehan’s exemplary service to the industry, stating: “John was a true advocate for the general aviation community, promoting its value and protecting its access for nearly 40 years. He quite literally wrote the book on business aviation. His life’s work has made us better, safer and more professional. His mark on our industry will long endure.” In the years following the publication of his book, Sheehan also authored a host of highly acclaimed feature articles on safety, leadership and other requirements for industry professionals published in two authoritative, quarterly NBAA publications – the NBAA Journal of Business Aviation Safety, and the NBAA Journal of Business Aviation Management. Sheehan’s other contributions to the industry included his service as audit manager with the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC). He also held a position as an aviation consultant with Phaneuf Associates in Washington, DC, before founding his own firm, Professional Aviation Inc., which advised flight departments on matters of safety, training and management. Sheehan served over 20 years in the United States Navy, flying from aircraft carriers conducting anti-submarine warfare missions around the world. He was also named an Advisor to the Royal Thai Navy, earning a Joint Service Commendation Medal for meritorious service. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School and a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University. Following his military service, Sheehan joined the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) as executive vice president and later led the International Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association as its secretary general. Sheehan retired in 2018 to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren. His official obituary highlights Sheehan’s lifelong passion for aviation, noting: “Those who knew John recalled that he could not let an airplane pass overhead without looking up. It was, perhaps, the most fitting tribute to a life spent in devotion to flight – always watching the skies.”
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.

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

When Wireless Networks Falter, Drones Can Provide Backup Connectivity, According to Stevens Researchers

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a drone-based system designed to provide temporary wireless coverage during network outages or periods of high demand. The system, named AURA-GreeN, deploys a coordinated swarm of aerial vehicles that function as mobile cell towers, intelligently managing spectrum allocation, data routing and energy use in real time. As READ MORE
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

Aviation Education

CAP’s New Jersey Wing Assists U.S. Air Force with Critical Blood Processing Mission

Members of Civil Air Patrol’s New Jersey Wing recently mobilized to assist the U.S. Air Force in processing blood products destined for deployed service members. This effort expands the reach of Operation Pulse Lift, CAP’s ongoing humanitarian blood collection mission, and supports the need for blood for U.S. forces overseas. Civil Air Patrol’s Maj Megan READ MORE
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

Brad Schwandt Announced as Kentucky Department of Aviation Deputy Commissioner

February 18, 2019February 18, 2019 Kim Stevens

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Greg Thomas has announced the appointment of Brad Schwandt, as Department of Aviation Deputy Commissioner effective February 1. In January of this year Schwandt retired from UPS after 35 years of service, most recently as Aircraft Maintenance Operations Manager, and is looking forward to continuing his aviation career in the public […]

FAA Establishes Restrictions on Drone Operations over DOJ and DOD Facilities

February 18, 2019February 18, 2019 Kim Stevens

At the request of its federal security partners, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is using its existing authority under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Â§ 99.7 – “Special Security Instructions” – to address concerns about drone operations over national security sensitive facilities by establishing temporary unmanned aircraft system (UAS) specific […]

WEX Foundation Anticipates Exciting Line Up for 2019

February 17, 2019February 17, 2019 Kim Stevens

The WEX Foundation, located in San Antonio, was established to advance middle and high school education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects by integrating space exploration technology with project-based learning, with the ultimate goal of creating a robust space technology workforce that will enable people to live on other planets. “We have a […]

NAA Announces 11 Aviation and Space Achievements to Compete for 2018 Collier Trophy

February 17, 2019February 17, 2019 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association has announced that 11 aviation and space achievements will compete for the 2018 Robert J. Collier Trophy. The Collier Trophy has been the benchmark of aerospace achievement for 107 years and is awarded annually for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America and has been bestowed upon some of […]

FAA Announces Aviation Safety Rating for Vietnam

February 16, 2019February 16, 2019 Kim Stevens

Photo above – A Vietnam Airlines 767 made a promotional tour stop at DCA in July of 2015. Photo by Kim Stevens. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that Vietnam complies with international safety standards and has been granted a Category 1 rating under the agency’s International Aviation Safety Assessment […]

AeroJones Presents Full-Motion CTLS Simulator at Zhuhai Airshow

February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 Kim Stevens

AeroJones Aviation Technology Co., Ltd. is the manufacturer of a modern and sophisticated light aircraft named CTLS. The AeroJones aircraft factory began production and is located in Xiamen, China. However, that location will be changing. “At the Zhuhai Airshow, our AeroJones 6-axis of motion CTLS simulator was shown for the first time to the public,” […]

JSSI Business Aviation Index Reports Flight Activity Surges in 2018

February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 Kim Stevens

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) has released the JSSI Business Aviation Index for the fourth quarter of 2018 and reports year-to-date growth of 4.9 percent and an increase of 4.7 percent over the same period in 2017. The index tracks utilization of approximately 2,000 business aircraft worldwide and reports average flight hours flown on a […]

Gogo AVANCE L5 Flying on 500th Business Jet

February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 Kim Stevens

Gogo Business Aviation has announced that its most robust and highest-performing system – Gogo AVANCETM L5 – has been installed and is now flying on 500 business jets. It took just 16 months to achieve the milestone from the date of the first installation – one of the fastest adoption rates of any inflight connectivity […]

City of Longmont Hires Aviation Safety Consultant to Inspect and Analyze Public Use Areas at Airport

February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 Kim Stevens

The City of Longmont has hired an aviation safety consultant to inspect and analyze the safety and configuration of public use areas at Vance Brand Municipal Airport, including the parachute landing area or drop zone designated for use by skydivers, ultralight aircraft, balloons, and other hobbyists. Quadrex Aviation, LLC, owned and operated by Florida-based aviation […]

EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH 2019 CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BOEING 747 JUMBO JET

February 13, 2019February 13, 2019 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Cathay Pacific 747-8 photo by Jim Koepnick The 50th anniversary of the Boeing 747, the iconic wide-body jetliner that has carried everything from heads of state to the space shuttle, will be celebrated at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019. The 67th annual Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention is July 22-28 at Wittman Regional […]

When Wireless Networks Falter, Drones Can Provide Backup Connectivity, According to Stevens Researchers

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