State Aviation Journal – Page 738 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center
Lufthansa Group recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Lufthansa with a major ceremony. As part of the event, Hangar One, the new conference and visitor center of Lufthansa Group at Frankfurt Airport, was officially opened. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered the official keynote speech. Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa Group: […]
FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project
The Federal Aviation Administration will host four virtual public workshops in May as part of the Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project. The project is led by the FAA and proposes new and updated satellite‑based flight procedures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of airspace serving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and surrounding airports. The […]
Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin
It was a special date for Lufthansa and a special day for all the employees who have shaped the airline with the crane logo: Exactly 100 years ago on April 6, 1926 – Lufthansa (at that time: “Luft Hansa”) took to the skies on its first flights. On that day, two aircraft took off from […]
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform
Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s […]

State News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

National News

EAA Aviation Foundation Awards More Than 120 Scholarships to Students in 2026

The 2025-26 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships gave 127 students a financial boost toward pursuing their aviation goals. With the support of the foundation’s donors, the scholarships total more than $800,000 in value. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing flight training or post-secondary education. For flight training, this can cover costs associated with a glider license, Private Pilot’s License (PPL), sport pilot license, flight ratings, and endorsements. Post-secondary scholarships can be applied to tuition costs at colleges, universities, or trade schools, for majors such as aviation management, aerospace engineering, airframe and powerplant (A&P) maintenance, and more. “Over the past three years, the EAA Aviation Foundation has tripled the number of scholarships we are able to award to students,” said Rebecca Greskoviak, Scholarship and Fund Stewardship Coordinator. “We are grateful for our donors who contribute to our goal of helping more students achieve their aviation dreams.” In addition to these scholarships, EAA will also be awarding more than 50 camperships to students attending EAA’s Air Academy Camp this summer. These scholarships offset the tuition cost for the multi-day camps in Oshkosh that feature hands-on activities and unique aviation experiences.
A Century of Possibility: American Airlines Celebrates 100 Years Moving Forever Forward

On April 15, 1926, a DH-4 biplane took off from Chicago bound for St. Louis. This flight, carrying only mail, operated under Robertson Aircraft Corporation. Driven by the possibilities aviation could unlock for the country and the world, this flight set into motion the creation of one of the world’s most iconic airlines: American Airlines. Watch video One hundred years later, American is commemorating this milestone anniversary in the skies with a similar excitement and passion for all that lies ahead. Hear from Robert Isom, American’s CEO, about what this milestone means for American. Celebrating our customers and team members American’s story is a result of the dedication of our customers and team members. From the first passenger flights on the Douglas DC-3 between Chicago and New York, to the dawn of the Jet Age with the introduction of the Boeing 707, the establishment of major hub-and-spoke carriers, and more, customers have had choices when they fly. Taken together, the moments where travelers chose American were instrumental in crafting the airline’s century of progress, innovation and global reach. This century of achievement is also the result of the team members who drove our progress and success through every era of change. The past 100 years have included every kind of experience — spanning from immense challenges to great successes — and at every moment, American’s team members rose to the occasion and cared for people on life’s journey. American will be celebrating this milestone with both customers and team members across the country. In Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (LGA), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), customers traveling on the 100th scheduled departure of the day will enjoy a celebration of our history with a glimpse into our future. Together with various partners, travelers will enjoy an elevated celebration with keepsakes to show our appreciation before being welcomed on board to the future of travel. Throughout the month, customers at all of our Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges can enjoy themed cocktails and hand-passed light bites to celebrate a taste of the culinary trends that have shaped the last century. At John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), customers will enjoy a similar celebration with a surprise and delight with a special twist. Flight 100 to London (LHR) will operate with N735AT bearing the “Flagship DFW” special livery, while American’s centennial-themed livery will aptly operate Flight 1926 from ORD to STL and back. Throughout the year, American is sharing stories and celebrations about its rich history at aa.com/american100. With details about special liveries, team member stories and a timeline of key events in the airline’s history, American’s story is one of triumph, progress and continued connections with customers.

International News

U.S. Pacific Air Forces to Highlight Aircraft, Personnel at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

U.S. Pacific Air Forces will take center stage as the featured service component at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, coming July 20-26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. “As we aim to highlight a specific Air Force command every year at Oshkosh, the incredible work of Pacific Air Forces’ mission is more critical than ever, and its strategic location makes it the center of gravity for security in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This command will add a distinct highlight to the activities at AirVenture 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.” Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, PACAF and its Commander, Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, lead the charge in strengthening alliances and deterring aggression across half the globe. The command’s mission includes everything from large-scale joint exercises with partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and bomber task force missions, to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “It’s an honor to share the story of Pacific Air Forces with the Oshkosh community. In the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global stability, PACAF stands as a steadfast and lethal force, ready to defend the United States and our allies,” Gen. Schneider said. “Our strength lies not only in our advanced aircraft and skilled Airmen but also in our deep and abiding partnerships. We are committed to our Homeland Defense and deterrence,’ working seamlessly with our joint force and international partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. “We are focused on readiness, innovation, and the lethality of our force to deter aggression, and are excited to share that legacy and commitment with Oshkosh. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the advanced capabilities and professionalism that our Airmen bring. It is this readiness and cutting-edge airpower that allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.” Pacific Air Forces is a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s primary mission is to provide ready air power to promote U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Honoring more than 80 years of history and spanning 36 nations, PACAF’s area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles. Its airmen are on the front lines of defending American interests. Immediate news is available on the official PACAF website and social media channels. “The display of airpower scheduled for this summer will be a powerful showcase of the professionalism, lethality, and readiness of the aviators, maintainers and support staff who secure our nation at home and abroad,” Schneider said. To commemorate 20 years of “Global Reach in the Pacific,” the command will also showcase a C-17 Globemaster III static display from the Hawaii Air National Guard. A symbol of Total Force Integration and readiness between the 15th Airlift Wing and the 154th Wing, 2026 marks 20 years since the C-17’s arrival in Hawaii, transforming air mobility for the state and the Indo-Pacific. Two decades later, the C-17 continues to deliver global mobility, humanitarian support and joint operational excellence across 14 time zones — a lasting legacy of service, partnership and aloha. The C-17 and additional aircraft will be based on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. Additional details on aircraft and programming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be announced as it is finalized.
Public Benefit Flying Returns as Feature at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026

Organizations that provide humanitarian relief and more through aviation will return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 as the popular Public Benefit Flying area will be part of the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in. July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The aircraft, crews, and organizations that supply aid to victims of natural disasters, war, famine, and other emergencies around the globe will be part of the presentations, along with aircraft on and near Boeing Plaza at the center of the AirVenture grounds. The display will also feature a pavilion that allows current pilots to explore volunteer possibilities and register to help any one of the many organizations represented. “In 2025, more than 1,500 pilots registered at Oshkosh to become part of public benefit flying, whether that is bringing relief supplies to disaster-stricken areas, flying cancer patients to their appointments, or even moving rescue animals across the country,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This groundswell showed the great spirit of the general aviation community to be there when needed in any possible way benefit those in need.” The Air Care Alliance will again coordinate the participating organizations at Oshkosh, as it represents more than 50 groups dedicated to delivering impactful and inspiring service through aviation. It will again welcome all pilots to learn more about the nationwide opportunities available to serve others by using their aviation skills. Non-pilots are also welcome to visit during AirVenture to discover more about the multitude of ways that aviation uses local airports and benefits local communities. More details on participating aircraft and organizations will be announced as they are finalized.

Unmanned Systems

DSLR Pros Joins GeoCue Distribution Network

GeoCue has welcomed DSLR Pros to its growing distribution network, expanding nationwide access to TrueView 3D Imaging Sensors and LP360 point cloud processing software for geospatial professionals across the United States. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, DSLR Pros has spent more than a decade pioneering commercial drone technology and tailored solutions for customers in geospatial, READ MORE
Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform

Lucid Bots has announced it has raised an oversubscribed $20 million Series B round co-led by Cubit Capital and Idea Fund Partners, with participation from Taylor Rhodes, WaterStone Impact Fund, and Front Porch Ventures, in addition to existing investors. The raise brings total funding to $34 million and will be used to scale the company’s READ MORE

Aviation Education

EAA Aviation Foundation Awards More Than 120 Scholarships to Students in 2026

The 2025-26 cycle of EAA Aviation Foundation scholarships gave 127 students a financial boost toward pursuing their aviation goals. With the support of the foundation’s donors, the scholarships total more than $800,000 in value. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing flight training or post-secondary education. For flight training, this can cover costs associated with a READ MORE
K-State Salina Launches Aviation Summer Camp for High School Students

Kansas State University Salina is reintroducing an aviation summer camp experience that will allow high school students to become immersed in the world of flying that provides real piloting opportunities, with the launch of the new K-State Aviation Academy, June 21-27. The weeklong camp is for high school students between 15-17 years of age, and READ MORE

FAA Clears Path for Installation of Angle of Attack Indicators in Small Aircraft

February 8, 2014 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today took an important step to help improve safety in small aircraft by simplifying design approval requirements for a cockpit instrument called an angle of attack (AOA) indicator. AOA devices, common on military and large civil aircraft, can be added to small planes to supplement airspeed indicators and stall warning […]

“The Aviators” Takes Reality Television into New Heights In Season 5

February 1, 2014 Kim Stevens

The Aviators television docuseries is closing out season 4 with an all-time high. Since the reality show made its debut in the fall of 2010, it has aired in the United States nearly 40,000 times to an average audience of 10 million PBS viewers each week. Today, the show airs in more than 100 countries, […]

NASAO Mourns Passing of President & CEO Henry M. Ogrodzinski

January 27, 2014 Kim Stevens

The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced last week the passing of Henry M. Ogrodzinski, the Association’s long time President and CEO. For 18 years, Henry O, as he was known to friends and associates, was a strong and consistent advocate for state aviation and was respected throughout the industry. Henry’s two year […]

Bell Helicopter and Air Medical Group Holdings Reach Agreement for 20 Helicopters

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company announced a signed agreement for the sale of 20 Bell 206L-4s to Air Medical Group Holdings, one of the largest independent providers of helicopter air ambulance services (HAA) in the world. Deliveries are scheduled to begin this year and continue through 2017. “These new aircraft will serve as replacements […]

PROGRESSIVE AERODYNE RECEIVES FAA CERTIFICATION FOR NEW SEAREY

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

Progressive Aerodyne, Inc., is pleased to announce the FAA certification of the Searey Light Sport Amphibious Airplane, Elite Version. The Searey Elite, designed and manufactured by Progressive Aerodyne, is equipped with a Rotax 914 turbocharged engine and is equally at home on the ground, in the air, or on the water. This stylish aircraft offers […]

DOT Issues Favorable Opinion on Skydiving Taxes

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

Following a two-year effort by the U.S. Parachute Association, the U.S. Department of Transportation formally responded to a USPA question regarding the efforts of states to tax revenues from skydiving. On December 30, 2013, USPA received an opinion letter from the Office of the DOT General Counsel asserting that the federal Anti-Head Tax Act (AHTA) […]

Secretary Foxx Announces 10 New Members to FAA Management Advisory Council

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx appointed 10 new members to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Management Advisory Council (MAC). The council advises the FAA on management, policy, spending and regulatory matters. The 10 new members are: Steve Alterman, president, Cargo Airline Association; Bill Ayer, former chairman, Alaska Air Group; Montie Brewer, former president and […]

Lightspeed Serves Up Two More $500 Burgers

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

Brad Colbert (shown at right) of Encinitas, California and Kevin Bishop of Stuart, Florida are the most recent winners of Lightspeed Aviation’s $500 Burger Getaway sweepstakes. Each will receive a $500 package that includes gift cards for av gas, rental car, dining, and lodging. Brad became hooked on flying when, at the age of thirteen, […]

Aeromarine-LSA Introduces Zigolo Motor-Glider

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

Aeromarine-LSA has announced the first USA flight of the new Zigolo SSDR concept motor-glider. The Zigolo is a FAR Part 103-compliant Single Seat De-Regulated (SSDR) aircraft which means it does not require any license, medical, registration, or certification to fly it. The Zigolo is powered by a 25-hp gasoline engine; an electric-powered option is close […]

Modesto Airport Launches “DestinationLAX” Campaign

January 19, 2014 Kim Stevens

The City of Modesto and Modesto City-County Airport have launched a million-dollar pledge drive designed to bring nonstop air service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Modesto Airport (MOD). A major airline is interested in providing air service between the two cities, but wants assurances that the route will be successful. The nonbinding pledges […]

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years with Opening of New Conference and Visitor Center

FAA to Host Virtual Public Workshops for Phoenix Area FAA Modernization Project

Lufthansa Celebrates 100 Years Since its First Flights in Berlin

Lucid Bots Raises $20 Million to Accelerate the Buildout of America’s Leading Exterior Cleaning Platform