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

FAA Administrator Meets with General Aviation Leaders to Address Safety

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

Last week, FAA Administrator Michael Huerta met with leaders from the general aviation community to agree on actions to enhance safety and reduce accidents. The general aviation fatal accident rate, according to an FAA release, has remained flat over the past five years and 149 fatal accidents have occurred so far this fiscal year, killing […]

New Alaska Video Describes Challenges of Building Rural Airports

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) Division of Statewide Aviation released the second video, in a twoâpart series, illustrating the vital lifeline aviation provides for 82% of Alaskan communities. Filmed at airport locations across the state, Alaska’s Aviation Lifeline Counting the Costs features interviews with airport construction and management staff who describe […]

AAAE Questions Airline Opposition to Local PFCs as Bag Fee Collections Skyrocket

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

With airline fee collections reaching historic highs – and now far surpassing the amount of annual federal investment in airport infrastructure improvements – according to data released by the Department of Transportation, the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) is questioning the continued opposition of U.S. carriers to an increase in local passenger facility charges […]

CAF Looks for New HQ Location to Increase National Profile

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has announced its plans to establish the CAF National Airbase at a major metropolitan area and intends to launch a nationwide search immediately. The new facility, described by CAF officials as an "Airbase," will contain a year-round aviation attraction, house CAF Staff and support volunteer CAF members who will organize […]

Amendment to law protects Oklahoma private airstrip owners

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) has announced that Oklahoma’s Governor Mary Fallin (R) signed HB 1009 on May 13, adding aviation and fly-ins to the state’s recreational use statute covering non-public lands. The legislation, sponsored by Representative Mike Brown (D) sailed through both houses with no opposing votes. The new legislation essentially protects private airstrip […]

Illinois Division of Aeronautics Recognizes Outstanding Airports

May 18, 2013 Kim Stevens

Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider today congratulated the "2013 Airport of the Year" award recipients. Eight Illinois airports were recognized at the Illinois Aviation Conference, held in Moline earlier this week, for their accomplishments throughout the year, including an outstanding partnership with the state of Illinois and their commitment to customer satisfaction. "We are very […]

Honolulu International Sees Construction Begin with Modernization Program

May 12, 2013 Kim Stevens

With the groundbreaking for a new Aloha Air Cargo facility, the state Department of Transportation today celebrated the start of approximately $750 million in improvement projects for the Honolulu International Airport, as part of the statewide Hawaii Airports Modernization Program. The privately funded $12 million Aloha Air Cargo facility is a key component in upgrades […]

Senior Staff Retirements Announced at AAAE

May 11, 2013 Kim Stevens

Four veteran senior staff members of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) announced their retirements in the coming months under an "early opportunity plan" created by the association to reward selected senior staff members with long term service tenures at the association. All four will serve as consultants to the association after retirement so […]

States, Aviation Associations, Pleased with DOT Decision to Keep Contract Towers Open

May 11, 2013 Kim Stevens

State aviation offices along with numerous aviation trade associations raised their collective voices in support of a memo released on Friday, by U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who announced that USDOT did determine that the recently enacted Reducing Flight Delays Act of 2013 allows the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to transfer sufficient funds to […]

Contract Towers to Remain Open Through September

May 10, 2013 Kim Stevens

In a memo released today, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that USDOT has determined that the recently enacted Reducing Flight Delays Act of 2013 will allow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to transfer sufficient funds to end employee furloughs and keep the 149 low activity contract towers originally slated for closure in June open […]

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