State Aviation Journal

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification
BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs […]
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, […]

State News

South Grand Lake Regional Airport Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Terminal, Hangar, and Taxiway

Photo – Grayson Ardies, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, led the groundbreaking ceremony for upgrades at the South Grand Lake Regional Airport in northeastern Oklahoma. The improvements include a new terminal, a hangar, and a parallel taxiway. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and South Grand Lake Regional Airport (SGLRA) celebrated the next steps for several much-anticipated improvement projects with a recent groundbreaking ceremony. On the slate for upgrades at the northeastern Oklahoma airport are a new terminal, a hangar, and a parallel taxiway. South Grand Lake Regional Airport Board Members (left to right): Bob Sullivan, Board Secretary; Jimmy Kuykendall, Vice Chair; Preston Kelley; Mike Vaughn; Derrick Schimdt; Brent Howard, Chairman Emeritus; Dave Wolfard, Treasurer; Jim Brown, Chairman. Members not pictured are John Nail and Gary Wilkins. SGLRA’s improvements are part of a multi-phase effort over the next five years to upgrade the Craig County-based airport. The projects are programmed and funded by the ODAA Airport Construction Program (ACP), a five-year revolving program plan that has been a long-standing practice of the agency, but was codified in state law during the 2025 legislative session. The purpose of the evolving ACP is to enhance air transportation project planning for the state, the FAA, and airport sponsors. This programming process aims to anticipate airport funding needs and schedules through multi-year planning. This is the process by which the department fulfills its mandate to create a system of airports that meets the business, transportation, and commercial needs of communities across the state. The cost for all three projects totals about $12.3 million. The construction of the terminal and hangar will cost just over $6 million and will be primarily funded by legislatively directed funds through ODAA. The taxiway project is planned to cost about $6.3 million, with the majority being funded with $6 million from the FAA, and about $314,000 in matching funds being split between ODAA and the local airport sponsor.
ATP Flight School Begins Training First Class of American Airlines Cadet Academy Students

ATP Flight School began training its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at its Charlotte-Concord training center. This milestone marks the first group of cadets to enroll in the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway through ATP, following ATP’s selection as an official partner school earlier this year. ATP Flight School welcomed its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at the Charlotte-Concord training center, marking the first group to begin training through the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway with ATP. “There’s a real sense of momentum as we welcome our first cadets to ATP’s Charlotte training center. This moment reflects both their ambition and our commitment to investing in future aviators,” said George Stahle, Managing Director of Regional Planning at American. “Launching this partnership in Charlotte is especially meaningful, and we’re excited to see how it opens doors for aspiring pilots in a region that’s so important to our company.” The cadets join 30 fellow students training in ATP’s industry-leading Airline Career Pilot Program in Charlotte, alongside more than 2,700 ATP pilots nationwide, to train in pursuit of their commercial pilot and flight instructor certificates. Through the Cadet Academy, cadets benefit from a clear and streamlined pathway to a career as an American pilot, while gaining the ATP advantage with a proven airline-oriented curriculum, a state-of-the-art fleet and a nationwide network of training resources. After graduating, the cadets will gain additional experience flying as flight instructors, then advance to one of American’s wholly owned regional carriers before transitioning to its mainline operations. Along the way, they receive support from ATP’s training and career services teams, as well as mentorship and professional development from American. “ATP’s official launch as an American Airlines Cadet Academy partner school is the next evolution of ATP’s proven track record of placing more than 1,500 graduates with American’s regional carriers,” said Michael Arnold, Vice President of Marketing, ATP Flight School. “We are proud to work with American Airlines to develop and foster their next generation of professional pilots, while continuing to provide our students with pathways and partnerships that lead to successful and rewarding airline pilot careers.” ATP’s collaboration with the Cadet Academy offers aspiring pilots in the Charlotte metro area a direct, accessible path to the flight deck and a career at American—the state’s largest carrier. To celebrate the launch of the partnership, ATP and American are hosting an open house and information session at ATP’s Charlotte training center Sept. 24, at Concord Regional Airport (JQF). Starting at 10 a.m., aspiring airline pilots in the area are invited to join, learn more about the Cadet Academy pathway at ATP and speak with pilot recruiters from American and its wholly owned regional carriers: Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines and PSA Airlines. For more details, visit atpflightschool.com/aaca-event.

National News

Justin Wortman Joins RS&H to Support Firm’s National Aviation Architecture Services

Employee-owned, national architecture, engineering and consulting firm RS&H welcomes Justin Wortman as an Associate Vice President, Senior Project Director, Aviation. With two decades of experience leading large-scale airport programs, Wortman will help further strengthen RS&H’s ability to deliver transformative solutions for aviation clients nationwide. His expertise spans planning, design management and program leadership for major projects at airports across the country, including Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, O’Hare International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Wortman’s knowledge and skills have supported clients on large-scale efforts such as the LAX Delta Sky Way program and program design for the development of LAX Terminal 9. Justin Wortman Known for his data-driven approach and collaborative leadership, Wortman has worked closely with airport authorities and airline stakeholders to enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and deliver high-value programs. His ability to synthesize complex problems and distill the options into a series of well-defined scenarios empowers clients to make quick decisions with confidence. “Justin is a great addition to our growing team,” said Dennis Iskra, CM, AIA, LEED AP, Vice President and Senior Principal Architect at RS&H. “His incredible passion and experience in the aviation industry are a great addition to the RS&H team and will be instrumental in delivering integrated solutions to our clients. We are incredibly excited to have him join during such a pivotal time in our company’s growth.” “I am excited to join such a dynamic team capable of supporting the full spectrum of planning, design, and construction management services at airports across the country,” said Wortman. Wortman received his Bachelor’s of Environmental Design in architecture from North Carolina State University and his Master’s of architecture from the University of Southern California.
GAMA Welcomes Two New Members

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has announced the additions of Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems and NLign Analytics as Members. Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems is headquartered in Bonita Springs, Florida, and was founded in 1981. They are a leading designer and manufacturer of aviation oxygen systems and accessories. Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems product lines include complete oxygen systems for OEMs, TSO certified oxygen masks, PMA cylinders, and MRO and aftermarket services. NLign Analytics, developing software since 2005 as a division of Etegent Technologies and officially established as its own entity in 2021, develops advanced software solutions for digital inspection, maintenance, and manufacturing data management. By unifying traditionally siloed inspection, performance, and design data into a single 3D environment, NLign maps results onto digital models with patented accuracy. In doing so, it transforms fragmented information into actionable intelligence that improves readiness, reduces risk, and strengthens decision-making across the product lifecycle. Trusted by leading aerospace and defense organizations for nearly two decades, NLign has delivered proven time and cost reductions while enhancing efficiency and fleet support.

International News

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

BRM AERO, manufacturer of Bristell Aircraft, has announced that the two-seat Bristell B23 has received Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 23 regulations, marking the first certified variant in the company’s B23 series and opening new opportunities in the rapidly expanding U.S. pilot training market. The certification addresses critical industry needs as flight schools struggle with aging fleets and rising costs amid unprecedented pilot demand. The B23 platform already holds EASA CS-23 certification in Europe, where over 1,100 Bristell aircraft have been delivered since 2009, establishing proven performance in commercial training operations. Nearly 100 Bristell aircraft are already operating in the United States today, popular among both flight schools and private pilots for cross-country flying, providing a foundation of real-world experience for the company’s certified aircraft expansion. Strategic Market Entry “This first FAA certification enables us to address the pilot shortage crisis with modern training solutions,” said Martin Bříštěla, CEO and Co-founder of Bristell Aircraft. “Flight schools need alternatives to aging fleets with 40-year-old designs. Additional B23 variants will follow this initial certification as we expand our certified portfolio.” B23 Interior The company plans to grow its North American dealer network by 50% within 18 months while pursuing certification for the complete B23 lineup, including Rotax 912iS, 915iS, 916iS, and IFR variants, providing comprehensive solutions for diverse aviation needs from basic training to advanced cross-country flying. Modern Training Economics The certified B23 delivers compelling economics with its 100 HP Rotax 912S3 engine featuring 2,000-hour TBO intervals and 4.5 gallons per hour fuel consumption, certified for both 100LL AVGAS and unleaded automotive fuel. “Training organizations save up to 35% on operational costs compared to traditional alternatives,” said David Copeland, Vice President of Sales. “For private pilots, the 700-nautical-mile range and spacious cockpit make it ideal for comfortable cross-country adventures, while the BRS parachute system provides an additional layer of safety that gives both pilots and passengers peace of mind.” Bristell Manufacturing Facility Czech Republic Advanced safety features include all-metal construction with rigid cockpit design. Key specifications: 1,654 lbs MTOW, 662 lbs useful load, and the widest cockpit in class at 51 inches for enhanced pilot comfort during extended flights. Market Availability Deliveries of the FAA-certified B23-912 begin Q4 2025 through Bristell’s North American dealer network. Sales inquiries and customer support available 24/7 worldwide through Bristell Direct at +1-316-215-8651.
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.

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

ATP Flight School Begins Training First Class of American Airlines Cadet Academy Students

ATP Flight School began training its inaugural class of four American Airlines cadets at its Charlotte-Concord training center. This milestone marks the first group of cadets to enroll in the American Airlines Cadet Academy pathway through ATP, following ATP’s selection as an official partner school earlier this year. ATP Flight School welcomed its inaugural class READ MORE
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

EAA Founder Paul Poberezny Passes at Age 91

August 22, 2013 Kim Stevens

EAA Founder Paul Poberezny passed away this morning (August 22) at Evergreen Retirement Village in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, after a battle with cancer. He was 91. The Poberezny family said that they deeply appreciate all the support shown to Paul and his wife Audrey over the past five months. Paul often said, he considers himself […]

Baker Named President and CEO of AOPA

August 21, 2013 Kim Stevens

Mark R. Baker, a longtime general aviation (GA) pilot, has been named president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Baker is only the fifth AOPA president since the association’s founding nearly 75 years ago and will take office on September 6, 2013, following formal appointment by the Board of […]

AOPA Foundation’s Air Safety Institute Receives “Champion of Public Benefit Flying” Award

August 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation’s Air Safety Institute has been named a joint recipient of the 2013 Champion of Public Benefit Flying Award presented by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) in partnership with the Air Care Alliance, a nationwide league of humanitarian flying organizations. The new online course, “Public Benefit Flying: Balancing […]

Aviation Week Proclaimed by South Carolina Governor

August 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley proclaimed August 19 – August 23, 2013 as South Carolina Aviation Week. The South Carolina Aeronautics Commission (SCAC) has partnered with the South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) to develop a week that promotes, educates and celebrates the aviation industry in South Carolina. “South Carolina’s airport system plays a vital role in the […]

CAV Ice Protection Intensifies Focus on UAS

August 13, 2013 Kim Stevens

CAV Ice Protection’s engineering staff, recently relocated to New Century Airport, are increasing focus on the company’s expertise in developing ice protection for unmanned flight. “CAV Ice Protection recently completed a consulting and manufacturing program for a manufacturer of a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), which wishes to remain unidentified,” said […]

Aeronautics Commission Approves $800,000 in Grants for Oklahoma Airports

August 13, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission (OAC) recently approved Capital Improvement Program grants totaling nearly $800,000 for pavement projects at airports in Poteau, Tulsa and Claremore. “These airports are critical to their local communities insofar as commerce, medical care, law enforcement and flight training. These grants will ensure that the airports are safe and meeting the needs of these communities,” said […]

CONKLIN & DE DECKER RELEASE LATEST AIRCRAFT BUDGETING TOOL – LIFE CYCLE COST 2013 – VOLUME II

August 11, 2013 Kim Stevens

Conklin & de Decker has released the latest version of LIFE CYCLE COST 2013 Volume II. The most powerful aircraft budgeting and financial analysis tool available, LIFE CYCLE COST from Conklin & de Decker, provides aircraft owners, operators, flight department managers, and aircraft consultants with independently researched ownership and operating cost data for more than […]

Pam Keidel-Adams Joins Kimley Horm

August 7, 2013 Kim Stevens

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Backcountry Pilots Applaud Monument Court Decision

August 5, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) is pleased to announce today’s decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals that largely upholds the backcountry airstrip designations on Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. The RAF and Montana Pilots’ Association mobilized early on in the Bureau of Land Management planning process to retain the airstrips. "This is the vital […]

Aeronautics Commission Selects New Officers for 2013-2014

July 27, 2013 Kim Stevens

Blackwell Oklahoma’s Joe Harris (shown at right) has been selected chairman of the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission for fiscal year 2014. He succeeds Dr. David Conway of Durant whose term as chairman recently ended. Harris, who previously served as chairman in 2008-09, will lead the seven-member board that is responsible for encouraging, fostering and assisting in the development of aviation […]

Bristell B23 Receives FAA Type Certification

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