State Aviation Journal – Page 649 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

SAS Marks 80 Years with Anniversary Aircraft
SAS marks the start of its 80th year of operations with a specially painted Airbus A330-300, celebrating eight decades of connecting Scandinavia with the world. Throughout 2026, the airline will highlight its heritage and continued role in linking people, businesses and societies. The anniversary comes 80 years after SAS’s first intercontinental flight on September 17, […]
Textron Aviation Names Five 2026 Top Hawk Recipients as Program Enters Its Second Decade of Workforce Impact
Photo – Factory-new Cessna Skyhawks (Model 172) to take flight as Textron Aviation names five 2026 Top Hawk recipients—helping train the next generation of pilots Textron Aviation Inc., announced Brazos Valley Flight Services, Executive Air Taxi Corporation, Fairmont State University, Sterling Flight Training and Victors Aviation as its 2026 Top Hawk program recipients, continuing a […]
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 […]

State News

Kim Brown Announced as New Deer Valley Airport Manager

The City of Phoenix Aviation Department has announced the appointment of Kim Brown as the new Airport Manager for Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT), following the retirement of longtime Airport Manager Ed Faron, who concluded nearly 24 years of distinguished service to the department on Monday, March 30. Kim Brown “Faron’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in supporting DVT’s growth as the busiest general aviation airport in the country,” said Assistant Aviation Director Sarah Demory. “The Aviation Department extends its sincere appreciation for his many years of service and contributions to the Phoenix airport system.” Brown’s selection comes after a nationwide competitive process that highlighted her extensive aviation and airport experience. For the past 18 years, she has held various leadership roles with the Facilities and Services and Operations divisions. Most recently, she served as a Facilities and Services Superintendent for the Support Services section at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. In that role, she oversaw Landside Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance and the Airport Sign Program. Prior to that, she was the Superintendent over Ground Transportation where she provided leadership for the contract management of the Airport’s rental car bus service, operation and maintenance of the PHX Sky Train® and the Airport’s contracted taxi services. Brown has a long history of aviation experience and strong ties to the Phoenix Deer Valley Airport community. Before joining the City of Phoenix Aviation Department, she worked for 10 years in various aviation roles including flight instructor, flight training program manager, and chief ground instructor. “Brown’s passion for Deer Valley and the community are evident,” said Demory. “She is committed to building productive partnerships with tenants, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders to ensure that Deer Valley will continue to grow as a premier hub for corporate aviation and flight training.” Brown holds a bachelor’s degree in professional aeronautics with a minor in aviation safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She holds multiple pilot ratings, including a flight instructor certificate and is a Certified Member (C.M) of the American Association of Airport Executives. Brown also serves on the Board of Directors as an Executive Member with the Arizona Airports Association (AzAA). “Returning to Deer Valley Airport after 18 years feels like coming full circle,” said Brown. “Every step I’ve taken throughout my career has led me back to the place where my passion for aviation truly took root. It is an honor to serve this community again, now as the Airport Manager, and to help guide DVT’s continued growth.”
Nebraska Aviation Council’s Holds 34th Annual Symposium, Recognizes Retired State Aviation Official and Aviation Hall of Fame Inductees

The 34th annual Nebraska Aviation Council held its annual symposium on January 28~31, 2026 at the Crowne Plaza, Kearney, NE. The annual event kicked off with sessions directed at airport officials and management, with the last two days focusing on IA Renewal for aircraft mechanics. Keynote events included the presentations of the 2025 Airport and Project of the Year Award presentation at the Thursday noon luncheon. The 2025 NDOT Aeronautics General Aviation Airport of the Year went to Wayne, NE. The Lincoln Municipal Airport was selected as the Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year. The 2025 Project of the Year went to Valentine, NE Miller Field for their apron expansion. Thursday evening’s banquet included special recognition to recently retired Andre Aman, deputy director of NE Aeronautics for nearly 40 years of dedication. The 2025 Hall of Fame inducted two individuals; Sandi Decker of Fairbury, NE and honored posthumously, Mark ‘Hambone’ Hamilton who spent countless hours restoring B-29’s on display at the Strategic Air Command Museum in Ashland, NE. Hall of Fame Inductees: Sandi Decker For decades, Sandi Decker has devoted her life to aviation, having spoken with thousands of pilots, both in person and via the airport Unicom. Sandi holds a private pilot’s license and was a former aircraft owner. She has spent countless hours promoting aviation, organizing aviation events and supporting legislation. Sandi Decker Sandi has been active with the local airport authority, serving on the Fairbury airport board for 45 plus years. She maintained a watchful eye on the airports’ improvement projects over the years, providing guidance to the consultant firms assigned engineers. As a journalist, Sandi has had opportunities to experience some amazing activities including a ride in an F-4 Phantom jet. Something only a few women in Nebraska have experienced. Nebraska has numerous state aviation organizations known across the entire state. One of the more active, long-time organizations is NAAO [NE Association of Airport Officials]. Sandi is the longest member of NAAO, having been associated with the organization for decades, holding various offices and currently serving as vice president. She has worked tirelessly with the Nebraska Legislature to direct funds to the Aeronautics Division for the purpose of funding state airport projects. This advocacy was directed both toward the Legislature and Executive branches of state government. MSgt. Mark “Hambone” Hamilton (USAF Ret.) As one of the original employees of the Strategic Air Command Museum in Ashland, Nebraska, MSgt. Mark “Hambone” Hamilton (USAF Ret.) served as Manager of the museum’s Restoration Facility, in a nearly 30-year effort to restore and care for a collection of over 40 historic military aircraft, including many that were moved from Offutt AFB in 1996 to the museum’s new facility in Ashland. Hamilton was born in Monterrey, California, but called Nebraska his home after moving to the state and graduating from Fremont High School in 1973. He joined the US Air Force after high school and served as an aircraft maintainer specializing in structural repairs. His twenty years of service took him to numerous bases in the US and abroad. He retired with the rank of Master Sergeant in 1994 before joining the SAC Museum. Hambone expertly leveraged his skills and experience on the restoration of the museum’s B-29, which was completely overhauled and then painstakingly restored down to the smallest detail. He tapped into a legion of volunteers who brought their own skills and strongly held opinions about how the work should be done. Hambone guided the project with humor, wisdom, practicality, and an unwavering eye on the prize. While the entire collection is a tribute to Hambone and the museum’s many talented and generous volunteers, the B-29 is perhaps the best symbol of his legacy. Sadly, Hambone passed away on February 10, 2025, but his numerous contributions to Nebraska aviation are on display every day at the museum. His technical skills, his passion for preserving aviation history, and his spirited leadership of a committed corps of volunteers brought the museum’s fleet of aircraft from decades of neglect to a collection that is among the best of its kind in the world.

National News

Textron Aviation Names Five 2026 Top Hawk Recipients as Program Enters Its Second Decade of Workforce Impact

Photo – Factory-new Cessna Skyhawks (Model 172) to take flight as Textron Aviation names five 2026 Top Hawk recipients—helping train the next generation of pilots Textron Aviation Inc., announced Brazos Valley Flight Services, Executive Air Taxi Corporation, Fairmont State University, Sterling Flight Training and Victors Aviation as its 2026 Top Hawk program recipients, continuing a legacy that has placed 55 factory-new Cessna Skyhawks in training environments since the program launched in 2015. C-172 Panel Now entering its second decade, Top Hawk is one of the industry’s longest‑running manufacturer‑school partnerships. Designed to support aviation workforce development, the program loans custom‑branded, factory‑new Skyhawks to selected organizations for one year, giving students access to the world’s most popular training aircraft and helping schools modernize their fleets with advanced avionics and safety features. “Top Hawk has grown into a powerful engine for pilot development,” said Chris Crow, vice president, Piston & Utility Sales. “These organizations demonstrate strong student engagement, high training utilization and a commitment to growing the next generation of aviators. More than 1,000 students have already trained in Top Hawk aircraft over the past decade, and this year’s class will build on that impact.” Program fuels national pilot pipeline Top Hawk was created to help aviation schools meet rising pilot demand and to expand access to modern training aircraft. Industry forecasts have projected a need for more than 200,000 new pilots over the coming decade, strengthening demand for high‑quality training equipment and advanced cockpit technology. Each Top Hawk aircraft is typically the most utilized plane in a school’s fleet during its year of service. Early program recipients logged more than 1,300 flight hours in less than a year, demonstrating how heavily the aircraft are used in collegiate and commercial training missions. Beyond training, schools often use their Top Hawk aircraft for community outreach, including discovery flights, airshow appearances and youth aviation days that expose thousands of young people to flight each year. A decade of results Since 2015, the Top Hawk program has delivered measurable benefits to participating universities, flight schools and training centers across the United States and abroad: 55 new Skyhawks placed with training organizations 1,000+ student pilots trained, with many advancing to roles as flight instructors, airline pilots and military aviators Recipients across nearly 30 states and the program’s first international partner added in 2025 Modernized fleets that introduce students to Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, ADSB and angle-of-attack safety technology Increased school visibility and enrollment through local media coverage, campus events and participation in national competitions
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.”

International News

SAS Marks 80 Years with Anniversary Aircraft

SAS marks the start of its 80th year of operations with a specially painted Airbus A330-300, celebrating eight decades of connecting Scandinavia with the world. Throughout 2026, the airline will highlight its heritage and continued role in linking people, businesses and societies. The anniversary comes 80 years after SAS’s first intercontinental flight on September 17, 1946, when a route from Stockholm to New York brought Scandinavia closer to the world. Today, SAS links Scandinavia with destinations across Europe, North America and Asia, using Copenhagen as its primary international gateway. To mark the milestone, SAS has introduced a dedicated livery on one of its Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The aircraft is part of the airline’s long-haul fleet, which includes eight Airbus A330-300s, each with 266 seats, complemented by the state-of-the-art Airbus A350, serving SAS’s intercontinental network. The livery features SAS blue across the entire aircraft for the first time, building on one of the airline’s most recognizable design elements. The Scandinavian flag has been reinterpreted as a reference to the classic 1980s livery, alongside a new anniversary symbol inspired by the aircraft’s engines and fuselage. “For 80 years, Scandinavian Airlines has driven innovation and brought Scandinavia closer to the world through safe and reliable operations,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS. “From our first transatlantic flight to today’s global network, that purpose remains unchanged. This aircraft is a symbol of our heritage, and of the role we play every day for our customers and the societies we serve.” Its first flight is scheduled between Copenhagen and New York, echoing the historic route that defined SAS’s early international expansion.
Chapman Freeborn appoints Latha Narayan as President APAC

Chapman Freeborn has appointed Latha Narayan as President APAC, effective 1 April. In this role, Narayan will lead the company’s strategic and commercial development across the Asia Pacific region, focusing on scaling operations, enhancing performance, and strengthening alignment across cargo, passenger and business aviation services. Latha Narayan Narayan brings more than 20 years of global aviation experience, spanning commercial strategy, revenue management and transformation programs. She has held senior leadership roles at British Airways and Etihad Airways, driving commercial performance and managing complex, multi-market operations. Most recently, she worked as an independent aviation and cargo consultant, advising on strategic development, network optimization and digital transformation. She is recognized for her strong commercial acumen and ability to deliver measurable business outcomes. “Strengthening our leadership in Asia Pacific is a key priority as we continue to scale our global operations. Latha brings a unique combination of strategic insight and commercial expertise, along with a proven ability to lead transformation and deliver results across international markets. Her appointment positions us strongly for the next phase of growth in the region,” said Saska Gerasimova, Group CEO at Chapman Freeborn. Latha Narayan, President APAC at Chapman Freeborn, adds: “I am honored to step into this role and bring my experience to an organization recognized for its excellence, integrity, and leadership in aviation. In an industry evolving at an extraordinary pace, Chapman Freeborn’s legacy is built on the strength of its people, and I am truly excited to work alongside such a talented team. My focus will be on accelerating growth, deepening collaboration, and delivering best-in-class solutions across cargo, passenger, and business aviation in this next phase. I look forward to leading with purpose and impact, redefining what’s possible in this space.” Her appointment reflects Chapman Freeborn’s continued investment in Asia Pacific as a key strategic region and its commitment to strengthening leadership capabilities across its global network.

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

Vaisala Signs Agreement to Divest U.S. Transportation Field Services and U.S. AWOS

June 26, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

On June 21, 2016, Vaisala signed an Asset Purchase Agreement with DBT Transportation Services L.L.C. (DBT). The agreement includes the following products and services being purchased by DBT from Vaisala: • U.S. Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) products • AWOS Field Service and Technical Support • AWOS NADIN Data Services • NavAids Field Service • […]

Duncan Aviation to Host Free NextGen Seminar on July 13 in Bloomington, Minnesota

June 26, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

When the rest of the country is sweltering in summer’s heat, aircraft owner/operators may want to head north to Bloomington, Minnesota, for Duncan Aviation’s free NextGen seminar. Join Regional Avionics Sales Manager Mark Francetic and Duncan Aviation’s channel partners and beat the heat in the cool confines of the Hilton Mall of America (3800 American […]

Is That a Boat in Your Hangar?

June 26, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

By Bill Dunn If so, you might want to consider moving it. That is, unless it doesn’t impede access to or movement of your airplane. That wouldn’t have been the case last year, but it may be today. On June 15th, the FAA published the agency’s long-awaited Policy on the Non-Aeronautical Use of Airport Hangars […]

Flight-Sharing Start Up Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Case

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

The Goldwater Institute recently asked the United States Supreme Court to hear its case against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for shutting down Flytenow Inc., an innovative start-up business that uses the Internet to connect private pilots with passengers wishing to share flight expenses. Flytenow expands on “sharing economy” services that companies like Uber and […]

Pylon Racing Seminar Attracts Record Number of Participants and Planes in Reno

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

The 19th annual National Championship Air Races Pylon Racing Seminar (PRS) was held last week, June 15-18, at the Reno Stead Airport. PRS is a qualifying and safety seminar for pilots new to the National Championship Air Races. This year’s event, which was not open to the public, hosted a record 79 airplanes and 130 […]

WSDOT Aviation Division Hires New Aviation Planner

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

Elizabeth Slabaugh recently joined the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Aviation Division’s team as its newest aviation planner. Slabaugh’s primary duties at WSDOT will include providing leadership in aviation disaster response exercises; developing a Best Management Practice Guide for Airport Managers – a solution that resulted from the Airport Investment study; providing technical assistance […]

Kansas Aviation and CKUSS Host UAS Open Forum

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

Collaboration continues across Kansas to support UAS. Kansas Division of Aviation Director, Merrill Atwater reports that more than 30 representatives from Kansas aviation sectors including academia, military, and public and private aviation companies came together recently for active UAS discussions. The Coalition for Kansas Unmanned Systems Society (CKUSS), along with the Kansas Department of Transportation […]

NextGen Data Comm Benefits LAX

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

NextGen is bringing new benefits to Los Angeles International Airport through a technology called Data Comm. Data Comm revolutionizes communications between air traffic controllers and pilots by replacing some traditional voice communications with digital information exchanges – like texting versus talking over the phone. Voice communication is labor intensive, time consuming and can lead to […]

AOPA Receives Top Award for Workplace Wellness

June 25, 2016February 11, 2017 Jenine Johnson

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) received the Gold Level Wellness at Work Award from Van Mitchell, secretary of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, at aceremony held at the BWI Marriott in Linthicum Heights on June 10. Forty-two Maryland businesses received awards and only nine received Gold level awards. There are […]

GAMA/Build a Plane Aviation Design Challenge Winners Start Building Glasair Sportsman

June 25, 2016February 10, 2017 Jenine Johnson

Students Derrick Cleaves, Logan Feltz, Austin Krause, and Natasha Stemwedel, teacher Mike Hansen, and chaperone Jerry Graf—the winners of the GAMA/Build A Plane 2016 Aviation Design Challenge—will spend the next two weeks building a Glasair Sportsman airplane at Glasair Aviation in Arlington, Washington, as their prize. The team from Weyauwega-Fremont High School in Weyauwega, Wisconsin […]

SAS Marks 80 Years with Anniversary Aircraft

Textron Aviation Names Five 2026 Top Hawk Recipients as Program Enters Its Second Decade of Workforce Impact

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

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X