State Aviation Journal

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 […]
ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction
Photo – Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Executive Director Grayson Ardies led the Bartlesville Municipal Airport’s ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the airport’s taxiway on Monday, Sept. 8. The airport also broke ground on the future 20,000-square-foot hangar project anticipated to be completed by summer 2026. Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace […]
“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial
The “Yellow Rose”, the christened name of the vintage B-25J Mitchell WWII bomber, is once again touring the American skies. The bomber is completely restored to its wartime capabilities and is operated by the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. Photographer Griffey Bostock took advantage of the aircraft’s recent stop at Centennial Airport in Englewood, […]
First Dreamliner with Lufthansa Allegris Lands in Frankfurt
Lufthansa welcomes the first Dreamliner with the Allegris cabin in Frankfurt: The Boeing 787-9 with the new interior in all classes landed recently at Frankfurt Airport from Seattle, WA. Initially, the newest member of the Lufthansa fleet will be used on flights from Frankfurt to Toronto, Canada, starting in mid-October. This year alone, Lufthansa expects […]

State News

Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the start, Legacy Flight Training has focused on one mission: delivering professional, technology-specific instruction that sets the bar for PA-46 safety and proficiency. Unlike other training providers, Legacy Flight Training offers: Standardized, professional training programs across all PA-46 models, ensuring consistency and excellence for every pilot. The only complete fleet of PA-46 flight simulators in the world, giving customers an unmatched opportunity to practice scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. Flexible training options that include classroom instruction, in-flight training in the owner’s aircraft, advanced flight simulators, and convenient online learning modules. “Our mission has always been clear—to deliver world-class, professional training that gives PA-46 owners and pilots confidence and peace of mind in every flight,” said Bill Inglis, Founder and Owner of Legacy Flight Training. “Marking 15 years in Vero Beach and 10 years in Scottsdale is a proud moment for our team. These milestones reflect the trust of our customers and the importance they place in the added safety provided by the addition of training in our simulators.” With a strong focus on safety, innovation, and customer service, Legacy Flight Training remains committed to providing Piper pilots and maintenance professionals with the highest-quality training experience available.
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 of Flight Operations, is pleased with the increased flexibility, saying, “Epic can now set checkride dates and times internally, avoiding delays caused by limited Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) availability. This reduces bottlenecks when many students are ready at the same time. Also, instructors and check airmen align training and testing closely, which promotes a uniform safety and evaluation culture.” L-R: Flight instructor Tyler Hencken, student Lincoln Ulman, and Shane Williams, Director of Flight Operations celebrate Lincoln’s in-house pass at Epic Flight Academy, which now has FAA Self-Examining Authority. Lincoln passed his private pilot checkride in September 2025. Ray Altmann, Chief Flight Instructor, emphasized benefits to students, adding, “Students can now avoid long wait times for a DPE and can schedule their checkrides soon after they’re ready. There is also a cost savings to for students.” Several members of Epic’s senior flight instructing staff are designated to conduct the examinations, and more are expected to train and qualify as Epic continues to seek ways to enhance its Part 141 flight training operations. Epic Flight Academy has been training pilots since 1999. It is the largest FAA Part 141 flight school in the U.S. with multiple locations. Epic also trains aircraft mechanics at other sites under FAA Part 147.

National News

NBAA Supports Administration’s Plan to Fast-Track AAM Aircraft Into NAS

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has welcomed the announcement of a pilot program aimed at accelerating the adoption of advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft. The program, known as the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), will form public-private partnerships with state and local government agencies and private sector companies to develop new frameworks and regulations for enabling safe operations. “NBAA strongly supports this new initiative, which will advance the adoption of AAM, and bring enormous benefits to the United States, changing the way goods and people move within rural and urban areas,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We look forward to the integration of AAM into the National Airspace System (NAS) and commend the administration and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for their commitment to this mode of transportation.” In June, President Trump signed an executive order, “Unleashing American Drone Dominance,” which called for accelerating the safe integration of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) into the NAS. This pilot program was initiated by the president’s order. The eIPP will include at least five pilot projects and will run for three years after the first project becomes operational. Envisioned eIPP operations include piloted and unmanned approaches to: Short-range air taxis Longer-range, fixed-wing flights Cargo Logistics and supply serving emergency management, medical transport or offshore energy facilities Increasing automation safety NBAA has long supported the development of a safe and robust operational infrastructure for AAM, including through NBAA’s Emerging Technologies Committee comprised of experts with backgrounds in technology, aviation regulation, operations, business, law and more Additionally, the NBAA AAM Roundtable provides a forum for original equipment manufacturers of AAM aircraft and other systems to engage in high-level planning discussions on the integration of AAM technologies. Read more about the NBAA AAM Roundtable. At the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), the FAA released a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to establish requirements for the safe, efficient integration of AAM aircraft into the nation’s aviation system. The SFAR establishes rules for AAM aircraft specific to a variety of business aviation operations in Parts 91, 135 and 136, including intracity and regional transportation, medevac and disaster relief operations and air tours. Read more about the SFAR.
Paradies Lagardère Announces New Leadership Structure and Appoints John Jamison as President

Paradies Lagardère announced a new structure for its leadership and has promoted John Jamison to President of the organization as a result. Acting as Chief Financial Officer since 2021, Jamison will continue to report to CEO Gregg Paradies and will now oversee Retail and Dining Operations, Merchandising, Human Resources, Finance and Accounting, Information Technology, and Legal. John Jamison David Bisset, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer, will also continue reporting to Gregg Paradies and will maintain his oversight of Business Development, Design, Construction, Marketing, and PR and Communications. “Since joining Paradies Lagardère, John has demonstrated superior leadership which has impacted the company well beyond the CFO role,” says Gregg Paradies. “His ability to understand complex challenges and opportunities has helped us navigate external market challenges in recent years with excellent business acumen and actionable solutions. John is exceptionally well-equipped for this new executive role, and I’m confident he will lead with vision and impact.” Prior to joining Paradies Lagardère, Jamison spent 18 years in a variety of finance roles at The Home Depot, reaching the position of Vice President of Finance. Jamison earned both his master’s and bachelor’s degrees in accounting from the University of Tennessee.

International News

WAI Celebrates 11th Annual International Girls in Aviation Day

Thousands of girls, ages 8-18, around the world on September 20 will be able to experience the 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day in their local communities through unique events hosted by Women in Aviation International (WAI) chapters and corporate members. WAI also offers additional virtual resources, activities, information, and instructional videos via the free Aviation for Girls (AFG) app, available year-round. Already over 190 events are planned at airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars across 40 U.S. States, two U.S. territories, and 30 countries across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Some 40,000 youth attendees will be introduced to the career and lifestyle possibilities in aviation and aerospace through meeting positive role models, career panels, exploring airplanes and airports, and a host of hands-on, fun, and educational activities ranging from sectional chart scavenger hunts, to making a tailwheel airplane, to learning about aircraft engines and avionics with maintenance technicians. To enjoy the full Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) educational experience, WAI event hosts provide activity kits to participants featuring a GIAD backpack filled with Aviation for Girls 2025, a propeller activity to teach aviation concepts, an aviation sectional chart for early navigation practice, a WAI sticker, an empowering glitter tattoo, the WAI Career Guide titled The Sky is Unlimited (www.WAI.org/aviation-careers) and a bandana to honor our pioneers. Additionally, caps, keychains, and special edition GIAD T-shirts for adults and children are available for a small cost. Kids who don’t have access to an in-person event can download the Aviation for Girls app for free to participate in a virtual Girls in Aviation Day. “In 2025, Women in Aviation International proudly celebrates the 11th anniversary of Girls in Aviation Day,” said WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “Thanks to the generous support of our partners, we’ve been able to grow this event far beyond a single day—reaching girls throughout the year through our Aviation for Girls program. Girls in Aviation Day has played a vital role in opening doors to aviation and STEM careers for thousands of girls worldwide.” To find a GIAD event near you, click here: https://www.wai.org/giad2025-events. You can also use the interactive map on the Aviation for Girls app to explore all events across the globe. Additional information and updates about Girls in Aviation Day are available at www.WAI.org/giad.
Gerard Salernitano Named Aviation Sector Leader, North America at TYLin

TYLin has announced the promotion of Gerard Salernitano to Aviation Sector Leader, North America, where he will lead the strategic direction of TYLin’s Aviation Sector in North America. In his role, Gerard will expand the firm’s global reputation as a trusted partner to the aviation community by fostering innovation, driving growth and providing solutions that connect communities. Gerald Salernitano With more than 30 years of experience in civil engineering, program management, and construction, Gerard has led complex airport programs from conceptual planning through final delivery. Since joining TYLin in 2020, he has accelerated the growth of the Aviation Sector with a client-centric approach that combines cutting-edge solutions with innovation and quality. His collaborative, future-ready approach and unique blend of technical aptitude and management proficiency has made a measurable impact on airport modernization and expansion projects. “We are delighted Gerard will be leading our Aviation Sector,” said Kimberly Slaughter, Transportation Leader, North America. “He brings a deep understanding of the interlocking issues facing airports, from safely moving goods and people to promoting sustainable operations and an exceptional passenger experience. Under his leadership, the Aviation Sector will continue to deliver bold, holistic solutions that meet the challenges of today while providing flexibility and scalability to address tomorrow’s evolving needs.”  “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Aviation Sector Leader, North America,” said Gerard Salernitano. “I am honored to lead such an outstanding group of talented aviation professionals, who all share a passion for delivering the airport programs that make aviation safe, sustainable, and efficient while enhancing the customer experience.”  Key Highlights of the Appointment As Aviation Sector Leader, North America, Gerard will drive alignment, innovation, and growth across all aviation-related operations and initiatives. Gerard is a seasoned aviation professional and currently serves as Aviation Sector Leader, North America and provides group leadership with a history of successful project execution. Gerard’s design and project management background include all aspects of design, strategic planning, project administration, scheduling, budgeting, and stakeholder relations. With over thirty years of construction management experience, Gerard’s technical experience ranges from on-site management, including inspection and field engineering, to change order processing, claims mitigation, document management, and quality assurance/control.

Unmanned Systems

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s K1000ULE Becomes Longest-Endurance UAS on DoD’s Blue UAS Cleared and Blue UAS Select Lists

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace announced that its fully electric K1000ULE UAS has been added to both the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit Blue UAS Cleared List and the Blue UAS Select List, the government’s trusted rosters of drones validated as secure, NDAA-compliant, ready for immediate procurement. The K1000ULE is the longest-endurance, longest-range aircraft in READ MORE
AgEagle Aerial Systems MicaSense Series RedEdge-P Multispectral Camera Available Now on Ascent’s SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ UAV Platforms

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. announced the successful integration and availability of its MicaSense RedEdge-P™ multispectral camera on Ascent AeroSystems’ rugged SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ coaxial UAV platforms. This fully integrated solution, now available for order, delivers unparalleled agricultural and environmental intelligence in a seamless, quick-connect package. The MicaSense RedEdge-P is an industry-leading multispectral and panchromatic sensor, READ MORE

Aviation Education

Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the READ MORE
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 READ MORE

Ben Munson Named President of Contour Aviation

December 29, 2024December 29, 2024 Kim Stevens

Contour Aviation has announced the appointment of Ben Munson as President, effective January 6, 2025. He will report to Matt Chaifetz, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. At Contour, Munson will have oversight of the company’s day-to-day operations, including dispatch and related flight activity, maintenance, commercial planning, finance, and human resources. “Ben and I have worked […]

Air France to Increase Paris Service from PHX to Five Times a Week

December 29, 2024December 29, 2024 Kim Stevens

With a successful first year, Air France has announced they will increase Phoenix service to Paris five times weekly beginning May 2025. The new nonstop service between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris, France was launched May 23, 2024, and has been served three times a week. This […]

Air Charter Safety Foundation Welcomes Ron Brewer of RBAvLaw as New Legal Counsel

December 29, 2024December 29, 2024 Kim Stevens

The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) has announced that Ron Brower, an attorney with over 28 years of experience in the aviation sector, has been appointed as ACSF’s new legal counsel. Mr. Brower, founder of RBAvLaw, brings extensive expertise in aviation business startups, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory compliance, risk management, and safety, gained from serving […]

Scandinavian Airlines Presents Breaking Glass, A Film Celebrating Aviation History, Breaking Barriers and Making Dreams Come True

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

Scandinavian Airlines has presented the world debut of Breaking Glass, a short film inspired by Turi Widerøe and other female pioneers, directed by filmmaker Nicolas Bori. Set in a small town in the 1950s – a time when gender roles were strictly defined – the film follows the journey of a young girl whose passion […]

National Aeronautic Association Announces New Members of its Board of Directors

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) announced its 2025 Board of Directors, which comprises a diverse mix of global industry leaders with deep experience in the aviation ecosystem. The new Board members will leverage their expertise to help the NAA enhance its value to members and find new ways of helping to chart the future flight […]

GAMA Welcomes Four New Members

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced the additions of Parker Aerospace as a Member and CycloTech, SkyDrive and VÆRIDION as Associate Members EPIC. Parker Aerospace is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio and was founded in 1917. They develop technologies and innovative solutions that enable reliable, efficient and increasingly sustainable flight for the lifecycle of the […]

Aviation Industry Coalition Encourages President-Elect Trump to Find Common Ground to Keep America’s ATC System the World’s Safest

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

A unified coalition representing virtually every sector of our Nation’s aviation and aerospace industry and workforce wrote a letter to President of the United States-elect Donald J. Trump urging his incoming Administration to work with industry to find a unified path forward to create efficiencies within the FAA that will ensure our nation’s aviation system […]

North Dakota’s Strong Holiday Air Travel Drives Record-Breaking November

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its monthly report detailing airline passenger traffic at the state’s eight commercial service airports. In November 2024, 103,279 passengers boarded flights in North Dakota, making it the busiest November on record and surpassing the previous high of 102,517 passengers set in November of 2014. The latest figures […]

Drone Delivery Set to Launch at Brookfield Properties’ Dallas-Fort Worth Malls in Partnership with DoorDash

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

Santa won’t be the only one flying through the skies with boxes full of goodies this holiday season. Wing is excited to announce that it’s partnering with DoorDash and Brookfield Properties in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, offering ultra-fast drone delivery from local malls just in time for the holidays. Launching at Brookfield Properties’ Stonebriar Centre […]

North Dakota Aeronautics Director, Kyle Wanner Honored by Airport Business Top 40 Under 40

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 Kim Stevens

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) announced that Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the NDAC, has been selected as a 2024 recipient of Airport Business’s Top 40 Under 40 award. This honor recognizes the most innovative and promising emerging leaders who are shaping the future of aviation in North America. Recipients were chosen based on […]

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction

“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial

First Dreamliner with Lufthansa Allegris Lands in Frankfurt