State Aviation Journal

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 […]
Aims Celebrates New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center
Aims Community College in Colorado celebrated National Aviation Day, August 19, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new, state-of-the-art Aircraft Maintenance Training Center (AMTC). This is a soft opening for the nearly 60,000 square foot facility. Renovations are still underway and classes are set to begin for the new Aircraft Maintenance Technician program in January […]
Skyborne Partners with Stratus Financial to Break Down Barriers to Pilot Training in the US
Skyborne Airline Academy has announced a partnership with Stratus Financial to provide funding solutions and tailored support to aspiring pilots in the US. Students based at Skyborne’s facility in Vero Beach, Florida can apply for loans of up to $140,000 to cover the full cost or a portion of their chosen course, helping to make […]
John T. Hart Named DOAV Deputy Director for Airport Services
John T. Hart has been chosen as the Virginia Department of Aviation’s (DOAV) new deputy director for Airport Services following a nationally competitive search process. He replaces Vernon Carter who retired earlier this year after 38 years of service to the Commonwealth. As deputy director, Hart will oversee 10 professionals in engineering, environmental, planning, and […]

State News

Blackwell-Tonkawa Municipal Airport Completes Significant Improvements to Runway

The Blackwell-Tonkawa Municipal Airport’s Runway 17/35 has been widened and rehabilitated with a pavement overlay. The upgrades were necessary to improve safety, upgrade pavement conditions and meet federal standards. The new runway width is required to accommodate the number of larger aircraft with wider wingspans that utilize the airport located in north central Oklahoma, particularly larger agriculture spraying aircraft. In order to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards, the dimensions of the runway were widened by 15 feet, growing from 60 to 75 feet. The Blackwell-Tonkawa Municipal Airport’s runway was recently widened and rehabilitated with a pavement overlay to accommodate larger aircrafts and meet FAA standards. The improvements were made as part of the ODAA’s Airport Construction Program. The Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is a standardized method for assessing the condition of airport pavements. In 2020, Blackwell-Tonkawa’s runway was inspected by engineers with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and given a low rating which indicated major work would be needed in the upcoming 5-year window. These inspections, along with the required wider runway, helped to determine the project’s inclusion in the ODAA’s five-year Airport Construction Plan (ACP). The full cost of the improvements was $1.65 million. The lion’s share of the cost was provided by the FAA with grants totaling a little more than $1.5 million. The local airport sponsor contributed $88,000 while ODAA provided $76,000. The ACP is a five-year revolving plan the ODAA provides in cooperation with the FAA and airport sponsors to support the combined goal of having a system of airports that serve the business, transportation, and commerce needs of communities across the state. “This is a tremendous development for the Blackwell-Tonkawa Municipal Airport,” said Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City. “This runway upgrade improves access for larger aircraft while also ensuring the airport meets modern safety standards. It’s great to see state and federal resources coming together to support regional air travel that drives growth in rural communities.” Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, celebrated the improvements, highlighting the airport’s importance to the community and future growth. “This airport means opportunity for Blackwell, Tonkawa and the surrounding communities. I’ve used the runway myself during flight training,” said Luttrell. “I know how valuable it is to have a resource like this close to home. These upgrades open the door for growth and new possibilities for our area.” Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Executive Director Grayson Ardies emphasized improvements were essential in attracting commerce to the area. “The Blackwell-Tonkawa Regional Airport has been a great asset of the small general aviation airport community for decades,” said Ardies. “As traffic continues to grow and larger aircraft utilize the Oklahoma airport system, we’ll continue to invest state and federal funds to support improvements that bolster safety, improve pavement conditions, and meet FAA standards. Access to air transportation is fundamental to community growth and bringing business to the state.”
Iowa State Funds Give Local Airport Projects a Lift

Both municipal airports located in the Iowa Great Lakes area received state funding in the upcoming budget year. Spirit Lake Municipal Airport will receive $48,800 toward a $61,000 obstruction mitigation project. FFA records note trees, brush, a tall water tank and the angle of clearance slopes as potential obstructions. Milford Municipal Airport will receive $44,528 toward the $55,600 cost of tree trimming and removal. Altogether, the Iowa Transportation Commission approved $9.6 million for the 2026 State Aviation Program at its Tuesday, Aug. 12 meeting. The Milford and Spirit Lake improvements were included in the $6.7 million Airport Improvement Program fund. The AIP money helps finance airport development projects at 25 airports in Iowa for aviation safety initiatives, system planning, and air service development activities. Eligible AIP projects include runway, taxiway, and apron development; fuel systems, navigational aids, maintenance of aviation weather systems, runway marking, windsocks, emergency operational repairs, land-use planning, air service initiatives and the mitigation of obstruction and wildlife hazards at airports. Estherville Municipal Airport received $399,000 as part of a $570,000 project for parallel taxiway improvements. Northwest Iowa Regional Airport in Spencer received $165,928 toward a $207,410 project to construct hangar approaches. Sibley Municipal Airport received $48,000 of a $60,000 runway repair project. Airports in Sioux City, Le Mars, Sheldon and Sioux County also received funds. The AIP program is funded through the State Aviation Fund using aircraft registration fees and aviation fuel taxes. Iowa DOT Aviation Director Tim McClung said FY 2026 program prioritizes airport safety initiatives and development supporting Iowa’s economy. “It’s essential that airports have clear runway approaches and that other facilities are maintained with a forward-looking vision,” he said. “This program builds a strong aviation system while leveraging federal, local, and private investment.”

National News

Taking Off: Students Get Exclusive Bizav Career Insights at NBAA-BACE Collegiate Connect

As the industry seeks to grow the ranks of future leaders, the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA’s) 2025 Collegiate Connect program will provide college students with a firsthand look at the many opportunities business aviation has to offer. Collegiate Connect takes place Thursday, Oct. 16, on the final day of the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), Oct. 14-16 in Las Vegas. Free to college students, faculty and chaperones with a school/university ID, the program will present student-focused programming and opportunities, including the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and meet with hundreds of exhibitors at the Las Vegas Convention Center. “Collegiate Connect is an essential event for any student exploring a career in business aviation,” said NBAA Senior Vice President Events and Professional Engagement Jo Damato, CAM. “This program provides an unmatched chance to engage directly with industry leaders and connect with the companies shaping the future of the field. It gives students the opportunity to stand out and become more than just a name on an internship, or job application.” After a welcome from NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, the first panel discussion will be “Navigating Your Career in Business Aviation: Insights from Industry Professionals.” Attendees will get perspectives from industry pros representing a range of career stages – from up-and-comer, to seasoned veteran – and learn tips about breaking into the industry and developing a career in areas such as management, maintenance, dispatch, piloting and flight operations. The idea for the panel came from former NBAA team member Noah Yarborough, who today is regional vice president, North America for Signum Aviation. Yarborough attended the program in the late 2010s as a college student, which first led to an NBAA internship, and later, full-time employment at the association. “NBAA’s Collegiate Connect is an ideal networking opportunity, because everyone is so welcoming, and wants to involve students as much as possible, because they’re the future,” he said. “It can be scary as a college student, you might think, ‘Oh, I’m just a student, that people don’t want to talk to me.’ But in fact, it’s not true. People want that interaction. They want to help you develop your career.” Following that session will be a networking tour, where students will choose from nine career categories. The breakout groups will include like-minded students, along with young professionals who work in each of the nine fields, and will offer an opportunity to network, ask questions and visit exhibitors relevant to their career interests. The career categories include: Airport business Business management Broker/sales Flight/cabin attendant Innovation and technology Maintenance Marketing Pilot Scheduler/dispatcher Collegiate Connect ends with an afternoon Career Fair, where students can connect with NBAA, speak with recruiters and get their headshot taken. They can also enter a giveaway for a $200 Amazon gift card. “When you’re in a collegiate program, and the airlines are dominating the conversation and other kids are just focused on military service, you don’t realize the large portion of the industry that business aviation makes up,” Yarborough said. “Collegiate Connect attendees come out of NBAA-BACE with something tangible.” Learn more about Collegiate Connect. Taking place this year Oct. 14-16, NBAA-BACE is the world’s most powerful business aviation event of the year, showcasing the industry’s latest innovations and services, and hosting the leaders who are shaping its future. Learn more about NBAA-BACE.
GAMA Opens Registration for 2026 Aviation Design Challenge

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has officially opened registration for the 2026 Aviation Design Challenge. This annual competition, now in its fourteenth year, promotes careers in aviation in U.S. high schools through aviation-focused STEM education curriculum which incorporates flight simulation and aircraft design. “GAMA’s annual Aviation Design Challenge provides a great avenue for students to learn about the science of flight and principles of aircraft design. We are excited to open the registration for the 2026 Challenge and look forward to cultivating aviation learning experiences and expanding interest into our great industry,” said James Viola, president and CEO of GAMA. The Aviation Design Challenge is open to the first 150 U.S. high school teams that register to participate. Registered teams will receive free “Fly to Learn” curriculum, which is aligned with national STEM standards, to facilitate the learning of flight and airplane design principles. Teachers can guide their students through the curricula in approximately four to six weeks. The teams will then apply their knowledge to design modifications for an aircraft to meet the needs of a simulated mission using X-Plane software. Completed challenge submissions will be scored by GAMA judges based on completing the mission and other entry requirements. The winning team will receive an all-expenses-paid general aviation experience, which includes a CubCrafters Manufacturing Experience. The second-place team will receive a Redbird Flight STEM Lab and the third-place team will receive one-year ForeFlight Premium subscriptions. Since its inception in 2013, the Aviation Design Challenge has had over 950 teams participate, representing over 485 high schools from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The Aviation Design Challenge has inspired many students to get involved in general aviation and/or pursue a college degree or career path related to general aviation. To register and to learn more about the challenge, please visit the GAMA Aviation Design Challenge webpage. Registration closes on December 19, 2025, or once all available slots are filled.

International News

Airships Collect Geospatial Data in Helsinki

Above photo: Janne Hirvonen, Kelluu The City of Helsinki and its innovation company Forum Virium Helsinki are testing new aerial imaging methods in a pilot program. Kelluu airships are operating in an approximately 100-hectare area in the Ruskeasuo district of Helsinki. The Finnish technology and airship company Kelluu used its self-developed unmanned, remotely controlled airship to conduct aerial surveys in a pilot which took place in Helsinki’s Ruskeasuo in August. City Geodesist Tiina Talvitie from the City of Helsinki’s Urban Environment Division states that the ongoing development aims to investigate new aerial imaging methods to streamline production processes and enhance the visual quality of the 3D city model. The new data produced is intended for diverse testing across various official processes. These include: Examining the urban landscape of future building and zoning projects Analysing nature-themed data Managing city’s infrastructure assets Traditionally, aerial photography is done from manned aircraft or by a single person operating a drone. The Kelluu airship is programmed to fly its mission autonomously. It can be controlled remotely if needed and is monitored from the ground during surveying. Autonomous drone based aerial imaging provides a new alternative to traditional methods because it offers more flexible ways to collect data. Further information on Helsinki 3D City Models: https://www.hel.fi/en/decision-making/information-on-helsinki/maps-and-geospatial-data/helsinki-3d
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 up to nine more Boeing 787-9s at its largest hub in Frankfurt — equivalent to one new delivery every two weeks. “I am particularly pleased that we can now offer our guests the premium Allegris experience in Frankfurt,” said Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines. “With the arrival of the Boeing 787-9 today, the modernization of our long-haul fleet at our largest hub is now also receiving a major boost. This will enable us to use significantly quieter and fuel-efficient aircraft types featuring the latest technology for our guests in Frankfurt as well.” The state-of-the-art ‘Dreamliner’ long-haul aircraft consumes on average only around 2.5 liters of kerosene per passenger and 100 kilometers of flight distance. That is approximately 25 percent less than its predecessor model. Lufthansa Airlines has ordered 29 Boeing 787-9s. In total, the airline expects to have 78 modern long-haul aircraft with Allegris on board in the next few years – the largest fleet modernization in its history. The Boeing 787-9 offers travelers with Lufthansa Allegris in Frankfurt a new, improved travel experience. Guests in Lufthansa Business Class can enjoy their own suite, which offers even more comfort and privacy due to chest-high walls, a 27 inch-monitor, and ample storage space. Each suite also has its own wardrobe and personal minibar. Business Class Suites, Premium Economy, and Economy Class are already available for booking. As soon as the certification process for Allegris Business Class for Boeing Dreamliners is complete, these seats will also be available for booking. Lufthansa Allegris has been in use on long-haul flights from Munich since summer 2024, with more than half a million passengers enjoying this travel experience in all classes since this time.

Unmanned Systems

Airships Collect Geospatial Data in Helsinki

Above photo: Janne Hirvonen, Kelluu The City of Helsinki and its innovation company Forum Virium Helsinki are testing new aerial imaging methods in a pilot program. Kelluu airships are operating in an approximately 100-hectare area in the Ruskeasuo district of Helsinki. The Finnish technology and airship company Kelluu used its self-developed unmanned, remotely controlled airship READ MORE
AgEagle Aerial Systems Announces New RedEdge-P Green Camera to Advance Precision Agriculture

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc., has announced the launch of the RedEdge-P™ Green, a groundbreaking multispectral camera designed to revolutionize precision agriculture from planting to harvest. The new RedEdge-P Green camera delivers high-quality data and modularity, enabling advanced deep learning capabilities in data-rich, cost-effective imaging. The RedEdge-P Green will provide agronomists and researchers with actionable, high-resolution READ MORE

Aviation Education

Taking Off: Students Get Exclusive Bizav Career Insights at NBAA-BACE Collegiate Connect

As the industry seeks to grow the ranks of future leaders, the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA’s) 2025 Collegiate Connect program will provide college students with a firsthand look at the many opportunities business aviation has to offer. Collegiate Connect takes place Thursday, Oct. 16, on the final day of the NBAA Business Aviation Convention READ MORE
GAMA Opens Registration for 2026 Aviation Design Challenge

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has officially opened registration for the 2026 Aviation Design Challenge. This annual competition, now in its fourteenth year, promotes careers in aviation in U.S. high schools through aviation-focused STEM education curriculum which incorporates flight simulation and aircraft design. “GAMA’s annual Aviation Design Challenge provides a great avenue for students READ MORE

Virginia Meets Goal of 100 Percent Participation in AOPA’s Airport Support Network

June 2, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Commonwealth of Virginia has become the first state in the nation to have 100 percent participation in the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Airport Support Network (ASN), a program that encourages volunteers to act as liaisons between local communities, area pilots and management at public use airports. The program now enjoys record participation, […]

North Dakota Governor Signs Executive Order Creating Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft Systems Authority

June 2, 2013 Kim Stevens

North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple recently signed an executive order to establish the Northern Plains Unmanned Systems Authority. Dalrymple also announced the appointment of former 119th North Dakota Air National Guard Commander Col. Robert Becklund to serve as director of the Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Site. "Bob’s extensive experience in Unmanned Systems […]

AAAE Elects Leaders for 2013-14 at 85th Annual Conference and Exposition

June 2, 2013 Kim Stevens

Mark Brewer, A.A.E., Airport Director of the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, took office May 22 as Chair of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) for 2013-2014. Brewer was one of six Executive Committee Members elected by the AAAE membership during the 85th Annual AAAE Conference and Exposition, held May 19-22 in Reno, Nevada and hosted […]

WISCONSIN LEADERS CELEBRATE GENERAL AVIATION MANUFACTURING AT JOBS RALLY

June 1, 2013 Kim Stevens

Governor Scott Walker, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson, U.S. Representatives Tom Petri and Reid Ribble, and Outagamie County Executive Thomas Nelson joined the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and hundreds of manufacturing workers, local officials, business leaders and aviation enthusiasts today at Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. for a general aviation (GA) jobs rally. The event was held […]

Piper Appoints Veteran Industry Executive Drew McEwen to Vice President of Sales & Marketing

May 26, 2013 Kim Stevens

Piper Aircraft Inc. has appointed General Aviation industry veteran, Drew McEwen, to Vice President of Sales and Marketing, where he will lead global sales and marketing for the Company. He will continue to report to President and CEO Simon Caldecott and serve on the Company’s Executive Leadership Team. "Drew’s leadership of Piper’s global […]

Elliott Aviation Receives Astronics Max-Viz Sales Excellence Award

May 25, 2013 Kim Stevens

Astronics Corporation bestowed Elliott Aviation with the Max-Viz Sales Excellence Award. Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO) is a leader in advanced, high-performance lighting, electrical power, avionics and automated test systems for the global aerospace and defense industries. (Pictured L-R) Astronics Max-Viz Sales Manager Grant Sumpter, Elliott Aviation Avionics Sales Manager Conrad Theisen, Astronics Executive Vice President Elliott Troutman […]

Reno-Tahoe Selects Mora as President

May 25, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Board recently announced the selection of Marily Mora, A.A.E. as the corporation’s new President/CEO. Mora has over 25 years of experience at three different medium hub airports and replaces Krys Bart, who is retiring. She will begin her new position on July 1, 2013. Mora served as second in command at […]

State Aviation Journal Writer Named Columbia College 2013 Distinguished Alum

May 25, 2013 Kim Stevens

Columbia College recently presented its Distinguished Alumni Award for 2013 to State Aviation Journal (SAJ) writer, Penny Rafferty Hamilton, Ph.D.(shown at right). Dr. Hamilton was selected for this honor based on her regional and national recognition in the field of aviation education — with particular emphasis on teaching women to fly — and for her […]

NASAO Elects Secretary to Executive Board

May 19, 2013 Kim Stevens

Carol Comer, Director of the Intermodal Division for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has been elected Secretary of the National Association of State Aviation Officials’ Board of Directors. A licensed pilot and flight instructor, the Concord, North Carolina native has served with the Georgia Department of Transportation for more than 14 years. Comer […]

New Mexico Governor Announces New Spaceport America Tenant

May 19, 2013 Kim Stevens

Governor Susana Martinez today announced that Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, or SpaceX, has signed a three-year agreement to lease land and facilities at Spaceport America to conduct the next phase of flight testing for its reusable rocket program. The company will be a new tenant at Spaceport America, the state-owned commercial launch site located in southern New Mexico. “I […]

First Dreamliner with Lufthansa Allegris Lands in Frankfurt

Aims Celebrates New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center

Skyborne Partners with Stratus Financial to Break Down Barriers to Pilot Training in the US

John T. Hart Named DOAV Deputy Director for Airport Services