State Aviation Journal – Page 79 – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector
Driven by the strong momentum of the global aeronautics industry, the discreet Toulouse-based Satys Group is consolidating its growth, recovering its pre-Covid profitability ratios, and entering 2026 with solid development ambitions across its six markets: commercial aviation, regional aviation, business aviation, helicopters, defense, and aircraft repainting. “This favorable environment contrasts sharply with the extreme difficulties […]
Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology
Daher unveiled the latest version of its TBM aircraft family – the TBM 980 – which integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics for an unprecedented piloting experience and incorporates cabin enhancements that further increase passenger comfort. The TBM 980 was introduced at Daher Aircraft’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, during an event attended by […]
Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet
Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) introduced the next evolution of its jet product line with the new Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet®. The G3 Vision Jet reveals a reimagined interior with premium materials and an expanded seating option for six adults, as well as ATC Datalink and over 30 refinements designed to create a new era […]
Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition
A new, immersive exhibition at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is casting a light on passengers and inviting them to explore its spiritual and transformative qualities through a wide range of media. Spectral Alchemy, curated by the Phoenix Airport Museum, features works by 15 Arizona artists and transforms the Terminal 4, Level 3 Museum Gallery […]

State News

Rocky Mountain Metro Airport Launches UL94 Unleaded Aviation Fuel

Photo – A Sheltair Aviation line service technician fuels an aircraft with Swift Fuel’s UL94 unleaded avgas at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC), marking a key step in the airport’s transition away from leaded aviation fuel. Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC), located in Broomfield, Colorado, is taking a major step toward cleaner aviation fuel, announcing on February 17, 2026, that Swift Fuels’ unleaded UL94 aviation gasoline is now available on the airfield, marking a major milestone in the industry’s push to eliminate leaded fuel. The fuel, which is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, contains no lead and is compatible with roughly two-thirds of the piston-engine aircraft currently operating at the airport. Airport leaders say the move marks a significant milestone in their broader Unleaded Fuel Transition Plan and aligns with the industry’s national goal of eliminating leaded aviation gasoline by 2030. Airport Director Erick Dahl called the transition both a leadership decision and a responsibility to the surrounding community. “For decades, general aviation relied on leaded fuel to safely power piston-engine aircraft,” Dahl said. “Safety remains the top priority, but the industry has long recognized the need for cleaner alternatives. That transition is beginning, and we’re proud to help lead it.” WATCH VIDEO: Big news for the Colorado aviation community! On February 17, 2026, Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) in Broomfield, Colorado, officially reached a major milestone by launching the availability of UL94 unleaded aviation gasoline. The effort is supported by a combination of federal funding, grants from the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Division of Aeronautics, and local airport resources, reflecting collaboration at multiple levels. Jefferson County Commissioner Rachel Zenzinger said the launch of unleaded fuel demonstrates how policy and partnership can produce tangible results. Zenzinger previously co-sponsored Colorado House Bill 24-1235, legislation aimed at reducing aviation impacts on nearby communities. “Reducing lead exposure matters for public health,” Zenzinger said. “This shows what proactive leadership can look like.” Sheltair Aviation is the fixed-base operator offering Swift UL94 at BJC. While the airport does not directly sell or procure fuel, Sheltair will oversee fuel purchasing, storage, and delivery. Greg Garghill, Sheltair’s general manager at the airport, said the company is proud to support what he described as a cleaner aviation future while maintaining the safety and reliability pilots expect. To encourage adoption, the airport’s transition plan includes a temporary fuel price subsidy funded by the Colorado Division of Aeronautics. The subsidy is designed to offset any price difference between leaded and unleaded fuel, up to $2.00 per gallon, allowing pilots to pay nearly the same price as 100LL aviation fuel. Abel Montoya, Jefferson County’s director of development and transportation, said the approach is intended to support widespread use without disrupting flight operations or increasing costs for aircraft owners. Local flight schools also voiced support for the change. Danny Smith of WAFA Flight School said access to unleaded fuel sends a clear signal to student pilots that aviation is evolving responsibly. Terry DiManna of McAir Aviation added that the phased approach preserves fleet functionality while preparing for a fully unleaded future. Airport officials say the introduction of UL94 is part of a broader, staged transition that will eventually support expanded production and availability of higher octane 100UL fuel, paving the way for a completely unleaded general aviation future. In May of 2023, Centennial Airport (APA) became the first airport in Colorado to offer Swift Fuels’ UL94. Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport is now the second airport in Colorado to move forward with unleaded fuel infrastructure as the aviation industry works toward its 2030 goal to eliminate leaded aviation fuel. For more information about Colorado’s transition to unleaded aviation fuels, visit the Division of Aeronautics website at Colorado-Aeronautics.org. Here, you can explore the latest airport fuel transition plans, along with other important updates and resources related to unleaded aviation fuel.
SCAA Conference Brings Together Aviation Professionals to Focus on The Business of Aviation

More than 300 aviation professionals, airport leaders, and business partners gathered at the Myrtle Beach Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes Feb. 11-13, 2026, for the annual South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) Conference. This year’s theme, The Business of Aviation, highlighted the strategic, operational, and economic impact of airports across the state. A major feature of the conference was Breakout Education, divided into two tracks — Commercial Service and General Aviation — allowing attendees to participate in sessions suited to the type of airport they serve. Breakout Education included participation from the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission (SCAC) and various airports across the state, such as Greenville-Spartanburg International, Columbia Metropolitan, Myrtle Beach International, Hilton Head Island, Charleston International, Florence Regional, McCormick County, Greenville Downtown Airport, Bamberg County, Anderson Regional, Spartanburg Downtown Memorial, and others. Event and education highlights included: Legislative Fireside Chat – Featuring Rep. Heather Crawford, House Transportation Subcommittee Chair, and James Stephens, SCAA President Legislative Reception Preview – Featuring SCAA Lobbyist Ben Homeyer South Carolina Aeronautics Commission annual update – A comprehensive review of statewide aviation initiatives and priorities. General sessions:State of Aerospace – Gary Siegfried, SCAC; Bradley P. Van Dam, AAAEHangar Valuation Panel – Zach DeVeau, Kimley Horn; Ryan Maxfield, Vantage Aviation; Gary Siegfried, SCAC Aviation Education Program Panel – Sebastian A. Van Delden, Winthrop University; Kevin Kyzer, ACES Flight School; Mark Bunch, Marion County School District; Michael Stone, Marion County School District; Charles Taylor, Marion County Airport; moderated by Hunter Boniface, Parrish & Partners Keynote: YOU. In the Pilot’s Seat, presented by Elizabeth McCormick. Keynote: Leading Through Adversity, presented by Anton Gunn. 2025 Airport Project of the Year Awards:McCormick County Airport – Airport Grading Project Columbia Metropolitan Airport – Checkpoint Modernization Golf tournament and silent auction – Events supporting the SCAA Scholarship Program to help develop the next generation of aviation professionals. “This year was a perfect mix of education and inspiration as we focused on what our members needed most from our sessions and speakers. It really drove home our theme and helped prepare attendees for the full year ahead,” said James Stephens, SCAA President. SCAA extends its gratitude to the speakers, sponsors, and attendees who made this event a success. SCAA remains committed to supporting South Carolina’s airports, professionals, and aviation industry through advocacy, education, and collaboration.

National News

AeroDefense Launches No-Cost Drone Detection Access Program for Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement

AeroDefense has announced a new initiative that enables AirWarden® Essentials customers to share system access with public safety partners—including State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial (SLTT) law enforcement, DHS, and the FBI—at no additional cost to any party. As unauthorized and unsafe drone activity continues to increase around critical infrastructure, campuses, public venues, and corporate sites, rapid coordination between site security teams and responding officers has become essential. By providing agencies with real-time and historical visibility into drone and pilot location data, AeroDefense helps accelerate investigations, improve situational awareness, and support safer outcomes for the public. “Law enforcement plays a critical role in protecting communities, and we stand alongside them,” said Linda Ziemba, Founding CEO of AeroDefense. “This program is about removing barriers so agencies—from local police to federal partners like the DHS and FBI—have the visibility and support they need to respond confidently and work in step with the organizations they serve.” Through this initiative, AirWarden Essentials customers can securely share airspace awareness with SLTT and federal jurisdictions, creating a common operating picture for both real-time response and ongoing analysis. Authorized officers can: View real-time drone and pilot locations Access reporting and flight-path history to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies Support incident response, investigations, and evidence collection Coordinate directly with on-site security teams using the same airspace data AirWarden Essentials is AeroDefense’s wide-area drone detection solution designed to provide cost-effective, scalable airspace awareness. Launched in January 2025, the system is deployed across critical infrastructure, correctional facilities, stadiums and event venues, campuses, and other sensitive locations. It supports organizations monitoring single sites as well as large, distributed portfolios, allowing teams to view drone activity across multiple locations from a single interface. This centralized visibility enables faster response, shared reporting, and secure collaboration with authorized stakeholders, including law enforcement. The program reflects AeroDefense’s long-standing commitment to public safety and collaboration, building on its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract with the U.S. Air Force to develop a Collaborative Drone Detection Network (CoDDN) designed to enable shared airspace awareness across organizations and jurisdictions. AirWarden Essentials customers can begin enabling law enforcement access immediately.
AAR Appoints Dylan Wolin as Chief Financial Officer

AAR CORP. announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Dylan Wolin as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, effective February 23, 2026. Wolin’s responsibilities will include finance, accounting, tax, treasury, investor relations, and corporate development. Dylan Wolin Wolin will rejoin AAR from Federal Signal Corporation, where he served as President of Elgin, Trackless, and Vactor, the company’s primarily municipal-focused specialty vehicle businesses, from 2024 to 2026. From 2017 to 2024, Wolin led AAR’s strategic and corporate development, treasury, and investor relations functions. He helped lead the Company’s portfolio repositioning, capital markets activities, and strategic planning, including the acquisitions of Trax and Triumph Product Support. Before joining AAR and Federal Signal, Wolin was a Director in Boeing’s Corporate Development group, where he was responsible for merger, acquisition, and joint venture transactions. Prior to Boeing, he served as a Vice President in Deutsche Bank’s Global Industrials Group within its investment banking division. Earlier in his career, Wolin was an Associate at McManus & Miles, a boutique investment bank specializing in financial advisory and private placements. Wolin earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Tufts University and a Master of Business Administration in finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. “I worked very closely with Dylan during his seven years at AAR. He was instrumental in developing the strategy we are executing today. I am thrilled he is rejoining our senior leadership team, bringing valuable additional operational and strategic experience,” said John M. Holmes, AAR’s Chairman, President and CEO. “I would also like to thank Sarah Flanagan for her service as our Interim CFO. Sarah is a deeply valued member of our team, and I am looking forward to her continued leadership in our finance organization.” “AAR’s strong team, unique customer value proposition, and exciting additional growth opportunities underscore the Company’s compelling future,” said Wolin. “I am eager to partner with John and the rest of the AAR team to drive continued execution of AAR’s growth strategy.” Sarah Flanagan, the Company’s Interim Chief Financial Officer, will return to her previous role as Vice President, Financial Operations, effective February 23, 2026. AAR reaffirms its guidance for the third fiscal quarter and full fiscal year issued on January 6, 2026.

International News

Everdrone Launches Next-Generation Medical Drone for Emergency Medical Transport

The Swedish company Everdrone is launching a new medical transport drone, E3. The drone is fully developed by Everdrone and features increased capacity to carry multiple types of medical equipment, significantly improving its performance compared to previous versions. “The new drone is faster, safer, and can carry heavier payloads. This will save lives,” says Mats Sällström, CEO of Everdrone. Everdrone, headquartered in Gothenburg, develops drone services for emergency medical purposes. The previous generation, E2, was a development platform based on commercial components. Everdrone is now launching the next generation, E3, which has been entirely developed in-house. The drone’s performance has been substantially improved. “Our initial focus was on developing software for drone services, but we realized that there were no commercially available drones that matched the needs of emergency medical care. Therefore, we chose to develop our own,” says Mats Sällström. E3 drone The E3 drone is developed using both OEM products and proprietary components. For example, it includes parts from suppliers such as Ligpower and Aston Harald Composite, giving the drone four rotor pairs with eight blades. The drone measures 90 × 75 × 55 cm, excluding propellers, and weighs 24 kg. Proprietary damping creates a vibration-free cruising speed of over 80 km/h. The battery capacity provides a solid margin for multiple types of deployments, and the choice of battery supplier is continuously evaluated to further improve performance and endurance. The E3 is flown autonomously and monitored by a drone operator. The predecessor, E2, was capable of carrying a 2 kg payload consisting of a defibrillator. The new drone, E3, can carry up to 4.5 kg. The payload module has a flexible design that allows it to transport both defibrillators and other types of medical equipment, such as adrenaline for anaphylactic reactions, antidotes for opioid overdoses, as well as bandages and tourniquets to stop life-threatening bleeding. “Allowing drones to transport emergency medical equipment significantly reduces transport time. On average in Sweden, it takes ten minutes for an ambulance to arrive at an emergency scene. While waiting for an ambulance, Everdrone’s new drone can be on site in under three minutes, making it a complement to emergency medical services that saves lives,” says Mats Sällström.
Canadians Celebrate Canada’s National Aviation Day

On February 23rd, Canadians celebrated Canada’s National Aviation Day commemorating the past, celebrating the present and advancing the future of aviation in Canada. Canada has one of the safest air transportation systems in the world, according to Canadian Government statistics. During the last decade, the accident rate has continually declined. In 2000, this rate was nearly eight accidents per 100,000 hours flown; today, this rate is fewer than four accidents a year per 100,000 hours flown. That’s a 29% drop. In fact, in 2018, Canada saw the total number of accidents decline to the lowest recorded rate over the previous 10-year period. National Aviation Day is a celebration of excellence in aviation; an occasion to recognize Canada’s world-class reputation for aviation safety. “On National Aviation Day, we celebrate Canada’s proud aviation history and the vital role air transportation plays in connecting our vast country and linking Canadians to the world, said the Honorable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons. “From the first powered flight in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, more than a century ago, to the development of world-class aircraft manufacturing and aerospace expertise, Canada has long been a leader in aviation.” The nation celebrates air operators, aerospace engineers, aircraft maintenance engineers, pilots, flight attendants, airport personnel, air traffic controllers, air operations specialists, Transport Canada employees, and all those in the aviation community who share the credit for Canada’s aviation safety, strength and success. “Aviation remains essential to the daily lives of Canadians,” stated MacKinnon. “Our air transportation system enables millions of passengers and vast quantities of goods to move safely and efficiently each year. It connects families, supports tourism, strengthens supply chains, and ensures that communities–particularly in rural, remote, and northern regions–have access to critical services and economic opportunities.” Innovation and technology will play an increasingly important role in shaping the next chapter of Canadian aviation. From cleaner fuels and quieter aircraft to digital systems that improve efficiency and environmental performance, these innovations are helping to reduce environmental impacts, improve efficiency, and position Canada as a leader in the transition to a more sustainable aviation sector. “On National Aviation Day, we recognize the achievements of the past, the strength of the present, and the promise of the future,” said MacKinnon. “Together, we will continue to build an aviation system that serves Canadians, drives innovation, and helps our country thrive.”

Unmanned Systems

Everdrone Launches Next-Generation Medical Drone for Emergency Medical Transport

The Swedish company Everdrone is launching a new medical transport drone, E3. The drone is fully developed by Everdrone and features increased capacity to carry multiple types of medical equipment, significantly improving its performance compared to previous versions. “The new drone is faster, safer, and can carry heavier payloads. This will save lives,” says Mats READ MORE
FAA Radar Data Feed Activated in North Dakota

Senator John Hoeven announced last week the activation of the Vantis Federal Radar Data Enclave, a secure integration of unfiltered radar data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with the Vantis system at the Northern Plains Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Site. Senator Hoeven (center) announces activation. The test site is the first non-federal entity READ MORE

Aviation Education

City of Riverside Partners with Education Institutions to Explore Job and Economic Growth Through the Learning Institute for Flight Technology (LIFT)

The City of Riverside is working with two local school districts and several local colleges to explore ways to create additional jobs and long-term growth in the aviation, aerospace, and related technology sectors through the Learning Institute for Flight Technology (LIFT). “This will ensure Riverside remains proactive, not reactive, about aerospace and advanced manufacturing jobs,” READ MORE
Westmoore High School Wins Inaugural Oklahoma High School Aviation State Championship

In a historic weekend for Oklahoma education and industry, Westmoore High School has been crowned the first-ever Oklahoma High School State Aviation Champions. The Jaguars secured the title at the event hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and FlightSafety International in Tulsa. Westmoore High School placed first among 12 teams at READ MORE

K-State Salina Offering Aviation Maintenance College Courses to High School Students

February 17, 2025February 17, 2025 Kim Stevens

A one-of-a-kind, educational opportunity is now available to high school students looking to study aircraft mechanics through Kansas State University Salina’s pre-college pathways. K-State Salina is offering courses for students who desire to complete college credits while still in high school in the in-demand career pathway of aviation maintenance. These courses will be predominantly offered […]

FlightSafety International Welcomes Teachers to Simulation Expo in Oklahoma

February 17, 2025February 17, 2025 Kim Stevens

Forty Oklahoma high school aviation teachers met at FlightSafety International in Broken Arrow last Monday for a two-day event designed to increase awareness of flight simulation techniques and the engineering practices used in the development of flight simulation. The event, created in collaboration and partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), offered […]

Elfly Welcomes Dr. Susan Ying to Board of Directors

February 17, 2025February 17, 2025 Kim Stevens

At the Future Opportunities for Seaplanes & Amphibious Aviation Conference held last week in Miami, Norwegian aerospace innovator Elfly Group announced the appointment of Dr. Susan Ying to its Board of Directors. Dr. Ying is a globally recognized leader in aerospace innovation and sustainability, with over 40 years of experience including NASA, Boeing, COMAC and […]

Skyryse Welcomes Former FAA Chief Counsel Marc Nichols As a Skyryse Advisor

February 16, 2025 Kim Stevens

Skyryse®, the creator of SkyOS™, has announced that Marc Nichols, former Chief Counsel of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and current Co-Chair of DLA Piper’s Transportation Regulatory Practice, has joined the company as an advisor. Nichols will provide strategic guidance as Skyryse continues its mission to make aviation so simple and safe that anyone can […]

CDOT Announces Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants Totaling $395,879

February 16, 2025February 16, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics announced the allocation of $395,879 in funding through the 2025 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program. This initiative aims to enhance aviation education and support workforce development across Colorado, preparing the next generation of aviation professionals. The program will distribute a total of $502,461.50, with […]

Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves State Aviation Funding Including $13.8 Million in State and Local Discretionary Aviation Grant Awards

February 16, 2025February 16, 2025 Kim Stevens

The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics has announced the allocation of $13.8 million in funding through the 2025 Colorado Discretionary Aviation Grant (CDAG) Program. These awards will support critical infrastructure improvements, enhance safety, and promote environmental sustainability at airports across the state. This year’s grants comprised $13,821,016 in state funding and $4,273,323 […]

Heven Unveils Next-Generation Hydrogen-Powered Raider Drone

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 Kim Stevens

Heven announced the debut of its Raider platform this week. This next-generation platform, which offers flight endurance in excess of 10 hours and supports payloads up to 50 lbs, is engineered to deliver 24/7 usability, enhanced payload capacity and modular adaptability, addressing the evolving needs of modern defense and security forces. Raider’s engineering represents a […]

GoAERO Global Emergency Response Flyer Competition Announces $500,000 of Awards to Innovators Worldwide with Support from Boeing, NASA, RTX, and Honeywell

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 Kim Stevens

The GoAERO Prize, the $2+ million USD international competition to create Emergency Response Flyers, announced 11 Stage 1 Winners and an additional 14 U.S.-based university teams that will receive GoAERO awards with support from NASA to take their prototypes through to the final fly-off, and in partnership with Boeing, RTX and Honeywell. View the winner’s […]

Advexure Partners with MatrixSpace to Enhance Industry-wide, Advanced Drone Solutions

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 Kim Stevens

Advexure has partnered with MatrixSpace to enhance its drone operations and perimeter security solutions. The partnership combines Advexure’s deep expertise in complex solution delivery with MatrixSpace’s advanced AI-sensing radar technology and increases the capabilities Advexure provides to its various public safety, infrastructure and utility customers. “Our clients demand some of the most advanced drone operations […]

ZenaTech’s ZenaDrone Subsidiary Initiates Process for Green UAS Certification for IQ Square Drone for Land Survey, Bridge Inspections

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 Kim Stevens

ZenaTech, Inc. has announced that its subsidiary ZenaDrone has commenced work towards a Green UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) certification for its IQ Square drone for applications including land survey, bridge inspections and other infrastructure inspections for use by US Defense agencies. The ZenaDrone team has commenced a review and assessment of its cybersecurity practices, standards […]

Christophe Cador, Founder of Satys, Announces Completion of Strategic Realignment Fully Refocusing Activities in Aeronautics Sector

Daher Introduces the TBM 980 Featuring Significant Advancements in Avionics Technology

Cirrus Unveils New G3 Vision Jet

Step Into the Phoenix Airport Museum’s New Immersive Art Exhibition