State Aviation Journal – Page 788 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Textron Aviation Names Five 2026 Top Hawk Recipients as Program Enters Its Second Decade of Workforce Impact
Photo – Factory-new Cessna Skyhawks (Model 172) to take flight as Textron Aviation names five 2026 Top Hawk recipients—helping train the next generation of pilots Textron Aviation Inc., announced Brazos Valley Flight Services, Executive Air Taxi Corporation, Fairmont State University, Sterling Flight Training and Victors Aviation as its 2026 Top Hawk program recipients, continuing a […]
When Wireless Networks Falter, Drones Can Provide Backup Connectivity, According to Stevens Researchers
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a drone-based system designed to provide temporary wireless coverage during network outages or periods of high demand. The system, named AURA-GreeN, deploys a coordinated swarm of aerial vehicles that function as mobile cell towers, intelligently managing spectrum allocation, data routing and energy use in real time. As […]
Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X
In a dramatic unveiling before more than 400 customers, partners and aviation leaders gathered in a new production hall in Bordeaux-Mérignac, Dassault Aviation rolled out the Falcon 10X—its most ambitious business jet ever. As the drape lifted at 8:00 p.m. CET, the aircraft emerged as a bold new benchmark for the future of long-range business […]
Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow
Signature Aviation announced the debut of its newest terminal at Glasgow Airport (GLA) in Scotland. The cutting-edge facility was officially introduced during a grand opening celebration this week, showcasing the enhanced guest experience and spotlighting the terminal’s expansive, thoughtfully designed amenities. The new Signature GLA terminal was designed to enhance the guest experience as a […]

State News

Kim Brown Announced as New Deer Valley Airport Manager

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

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

National News

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

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

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has paid tribute to the legacy of John J. Sheehan, III, decorated U.S. Navy aviator, general aviation advocate, safety expert and author, who recently passed away after devoting decades of his life to the general aviation industry. John Sheehan Sheehan, a frequent presenter at NBAA events, was the author of the book Business and Corporate Aviation Management, published by McGraw-Hill, which serves today as an authoritative reference guide for professional flight departments worldwide. The volume is included as part of the curriculum for those preparing to obtain NBAA’s Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) designation, a credential accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies for excellence in setting the standard for business aviation leadership. NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen noted Sheehan’s exemplary service to the industry, stating: “John was a true advocate for the general aviation community, promoting its value and protecting its access for nearly 40 years. He quite literally wrote the book on business aviation. His life’s work has made us better, safer and more professional. His mark on our industry will long endure.” In the years following the publication of his book, Sheehan also authored a host of highly acclaimed feature articles on safety, leadership and other requirements for industry professionals published in two authoritative, quarterly NBAA publications – the NBAA Journal of Business Aviation Safety, and the NBAA Journal of Business Aviation Management. Sheehan’s other contributions to the industry included his service as audit manager with the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC). He also held a position as an aviation consultant with Phaneuf Associates in Washington, DC, before founding his own firm, Professional Aviation Inc., which advised flight departments on matters of safety, training and management. Sheehan served over 20 years in the United States Navy, flying from aircraft carriers conducting anti-submarine warfare missions around the world. He was also named an Advisor to the Royal Thai Navy, earning a Joint Service Commendation Medal for meritorious service. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School and a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University. Following his military service, Sheehan joined the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) as executive vice president and later led the International Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association as its secretary general. Sheehan retired in 2018 to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren. His official obituary highlights Sheehan’s lifelong passion for aviation, noting: “Those who knew John recalled that he could not let an airplane pass overhead without looking up. It was, perhaps, the most fitting tribute to a life spent in devotion to flight – always watching the skies.”

International News

CAPA Announces Complimentary Content ~ Aviation in 2026 – A CAPA Perspective

CAPA has announced the launch of the official CAPA Outlook for 2026, an exclusive report titled, “Aviation in 2026 – The CAPA Perspective”. This comprehensive report provides expert insights, key trends, and bold predictions that will shape the global aviation industry in the year ahead. Compiled by CAPA’s esteemed global analysis team, with over 150 years of combined industry experience, the report draws on their extensive and diverse data sets, world-renowned news aggregator platform and informative analysis articles—available exclusively through CAPA membership. Whether you are navigating challenges or seizing opportunities in aviation, this report is an essential resource for industry professionals looking to stay ahead in 2026. Don’t miss out on this invaluable perspective as the aviation sector continues to evolve. What’s Inside the Report? Global Industry Trends Deep-dive into aviation’s economic growth, sustainability efforts, and strategic shifts in operations for 2026. Key trends include business travel recovery, decentralized connectivity, and advancements in technology and infrastructure. The section also covers the balance between passenger convenience and security. Regional Focus Discover the key regional trends shaping aviation in 2026. From emerging growth markets to sustainability initiatives and evolving travel patterns, gain insights into how regions like Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East are transforming the industry. Airports Spotlight Explore the pivotal role of airports in shaping aviation’s future. Learn how major hubs and emerging mid-tier airports are driving connectivity, innovation, and sustainability, while adapting to evolving passenger needs and global industry demands. The CAPA Perspective Discover our esteemed experts analysis on industry trends, regional dynamics, and strategic shifts shaping the future of global aviation, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. How You Will Benefit 👉 Airline Executives: Gain strategic insights on sustainability, market trends, and regional dynamics. 👉 Airport Operators: Uncover trends in connectivity, innovation, and passenger needs to drive growth. 👉 Investors: Identify emerging opportunities and understand key drivers shaping aviation’s future. 👉 Tourism Professionals: Uncover insights into evolving travel patterns and industry growth drivers. 👉 Aviation Enthusiasts: Discover exciting developments, technological advancements, and trends shaping the industry’s future. Download Your Free Report Now
National Airlines’ First Boeing 777-200 Freighter Commences Test Flights

National Airlines has reached a significant milestone in its fleet modernization journey as the first of its four Boeing 777-200 Freighters (N791CA) has commenced test flights last week. Registered as N791CA, the aircraft is planned to enter revenue service in May 2026, following the completion of a series of mandatory flight tests, performance evaluations, and regulatory procedures. The remaining three B777-200 freighters are scheduled to undergo their respective test flight programs in the coming months. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 1. The introduction of the B777-200F represents a transformative advancement in National Airlines’ long-haul cargo capabilities. Recognized as one of the most advanced and efficient freighters in global aviation today, the aircraft offers a payload capacity exceeding 102 tons, a range of over 9,000 kilometers, and fuel-efficient twin-engine performance. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and advanced flight systems, the B777F ensures enhanced operational precision, fuel efficiency, and reliability across intercontinental routes. National Airlines Boeing 777-200F Aircraft (N791CA) during test flights 3. National Airlines Chairman Mr. Christopher Alf commented, “we are excitedly waiting to see the Boeing 777-200 Freighter enter commercial operations, offering our customers an enhanced fleet option to support their evolving charter requirements. The induction of the B777-200 freighters marks a significant step in strengthening our global cargo network, enabling greater efficiency, reach, and operational flexibility. This milestone further reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class transportation solutions and consistently exceeding the expectations of our partners and customers worldwide.” The addition of the B777-200 freighter signals the beginning of a new chapter in the airline’s fleet modernization program and complements the existing fleet of nine Boeing 747-400 freighters, and passenger fleet of Airbus A330-300 and A330-200 aircraft. In today’s rapidly evolving air cargo landscape, driven by e-commerce growth, global supply chain demands, and the need for faster, more reliable air freight movement, the Boeing 777-200 freighter plays a critical role owing to its performance capability and sustainability technologies.

Unmanned Systems

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

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a drone-based system designed to provide temporary wireless coverage during network outages or periods of high demand. The system, named AURA-GreeN, deploys a coordinated swarm of aerial vehicles that function as mobile cell towers, intelligently managing spectrum allocation, data routing and energy use in real time. As READ MORE
Commercial Drone Alliance Promotes Whole-of Government Approach to Secure U.S. Drone Dominance

The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has urged the Administration to adopt vital reforms needed to bolster U.S. manufacturing, create high-skilled American jobs, and reduce reliance on foreign critical components. The CDA called for a whole-of-government approach to support the collective ambition of the Administration to ensure the economic and societal benefits of commercial drone innovation READ MORE

Aviation Education

CAP’s New Jersey Wing Assists U.S. Air Force with Critical Blood Processing Mission

Members of Civil Air Patrol’s New Jersey Wing recently mobilized to assist the U.S. Air Force in processing blood products destined for deployed service members. This effort expands the reach of Operation Pulse Lift, CAP’s ongoing humanitarian blood collection mission, and supports the need for blood for U.S. forces overseas. Civil Air Patrol’s Maj Megan READ MORE
Innovation Soars at State Capitol as Leaders Celebrate Oklahoma’s $44 Billion Aerospace Economy

Photo – The crowd of aerospace industry stakeholders, military members, educators and students filled the second-floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol for the 2026 AERO Oklahoma Day. The event brought together more than 1,000 attendees to advocate for the state’s $44 billion aerospace and defense industry. The second floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State READ MORE

Piper Aircraft Begins Deliveries of Indonesian Fleet

November 17, 2011 Kim Stevens

Vero Beach, Fla., Nov. 17, 2011 – Piper Aircraft Inc. recently delivered the first six of an 18-unit fleet order for Piper Warrior (stock photo shown) training aircraft to Sekolah Tinggi Penerbang Indonesia, the government flight school at Budiarto Airport in Curug, Indonesia. Sekolah Tinggi Penerbang Indonesia (STPI) educates pilots under the auspices of the […]

Airline service from Western Kansas to Dallas approved

November 17, 2011 Kim Stevens

Flights between Garden City and Dallas are expected to begin next spring, after federal authorities chose American Eagle to provide commercial air service between the cities. The city was told by the U.S. Department of Transportation last week that it had selected American Eagle to provide 14 round-trip flights per week to and from Dallas on […]

Benet Wilson Named to AOPA Media Relations Post

November 15, 2011June 18, 2016 Kim Stevens

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has announced the appointment of Benet Wilson to serve as director of media relations. Wilson has extensive experience in media relations and public affairs for the aviation industry. She joins AOPA from Aviation Week, where she served as online managing editor for business aviation, wrote for The Weekly of […]

Lindbergh Foundation Announces New Board Members

November 14, 2011 Kim Stevens

The Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh Foundation is pleased to announce the elections of Embraer’s Vice President of Corporate Communications Robert Stangarone (shown right) and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s Director of Communications Katie Pribyl to the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Lindbergh Foundation Chairman and CEO Larry Williams said they couldn’t be more pleased […]

Duncan Aviation Receives In-Flight Wi-Fi STC for Thrane and Thrane-Equipped Falcon 2000s and 2000EXs

November 13, 2011 Kim Stevens

LINCOLN, NEB — Duncan Aviation recently received a Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for in-flight Wi-Fi operations in Falcon 2000 and 2000EX aircraft equipped with Thrane and Thrane. The certification allows SwiftBroadband aircraft Wi-Fi service in the cabin by upgrading the Thrane and Thrane Swift 64 Aero HSD+ Satellite Communication System to the SwiftBroadband Aviation […]

Arizona Aviation Journal Posts November Issue

November 12, 2011 Kim Stevens

The latest issue of the Arizona Aviation Journal has been posted. Articles in this issue include the return of the Scottsdale Air Fair, absent since 2000, AAAE’s National Airports Conference in Tucson, Wright Flight, ASAG’s Annual Aviation Safety Awards Banquet, Copperstate Fly-In and the Arizona Airports Association’s annual Fall Conference. This is the largest issue to […]

Air Force One Pilot Gives Keynote at AZ Aviation Safety Awards Banquet

November 7, 2011 Kim Stevens

Colonel (ret.) Mark W. Tillman, the Nation’s 12th pilot and commander of Air Force One, was the keynote speaker at the 39th Annual Arizona Aviation Safety Awards Banquet, held Saturday, November 5th in Phoenix. Tillman, (shown at right) was at the controls during numerous prominent national events, most notably, on September 11, 2001 as well […]

Duncan Aviation Satellite Avionics Shops in Teterboro, St. Louis, Change Locations

November 6, 2011 Kim Stevens

Duncan Aviation’s satellite avionics shops in Teterboro, N.J. (KTEB), and St. Louis, Mo. (KSUS), have moved into new locations. Duncan Aviation-Teterboro has relocated into First Aviation’s newly constructed fixed base operation. The new address is 101 Charles A. Lindbergh Drive, Suite 307 in Teterboro. Customers can contact Teterboro Satellite Manager Jeff Glanville, Avionics Tech Luke […]

Cutter Aviation to Accept and Deliver First KODIAK in December

November 3, 2011 Kim Stevens

Cutter Aviation will be accepting and delivering the first Quest KODIAK for the Southwestern U.S. dealer territory from Quest Aircraft Company in December 2011. Cutter Aviation Aircraft Sales was announced as the Authorized New Aircraft Dealer for Quest KODIAK for the Southwest U.S. in August 2011 at EAA AirVenture by Quest Aircraft Company. Cutter Aviation […]

Skydive Arizona Hosts USPA Nationals in Eloy

November 2, 2011 Kim Stevens

The 2011 U.S. National Skydiving Championships are taking place now at Skydive Arizona in Eloy. America’s top skydivers are competing for medals and the chance to represent the U.S. at prestigious international competitions around the world. Nationals isn’t just for hard-core competitors—everyday jumpers have come together to share their unique camaraderie, rub elbows with the […]

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

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

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X

Signature Aviation Debuts State-of-the-Art Private Aviation Terminal in Glasgow