State Aviation Journal – Page 808 – 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

Washington state looks to develop aviation biofuels from wood waste

January 17, 2011 Kim Stevens

Legislation is being proposed in Washington state, by the Commissioner for Public Lands, to use wood waste as a feedstock for renewable jet fuel. Peter Goldmark wants the Department of Natural Resources to launch a pilot project under its forest biomass program to study manufacturing methods, markets and supply sources to convert forest wood waste […]

Transportation Related Internships Available for Women and Girls in Great Lakes Region

January 16, 2011 Kim Stevens

The Great Lakes Small Business Transportation Resource Center (SBTRC) at the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is recruiting college women to participate in the Women and Girls Internship Program for Spring 2011. The Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) was chosen to operate the SBTRC for the Great Lakes Region that covers the states of […]

PIPER TO TERMINATE PIPERSPORT DISTRIBUTOR BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP

January 16, 2011 Kim Stevens

Piper Aircraft Inc. will terminate its business relationship with Czech Republic-based Czech Sport Aircraft to market that company’s Light Sport Aircraft, citing differences in business philosophies. “After a year working with Czech Sport Aircraft, Piper determined that it is in our company’s best long-term interests to discontinue the business relationship which distributed a Light Sport […]

PilotMall.com, Inc. Releases New Flight Planning App

January 16, 2011 Kim Stevens

PilotMall.com, Inc., a leading online aviation retailer today announced the release of its Flight Computer iTunes app. The Flight Computer, designed to make flight planning both easy and convenient for any aviation enthusiast, will sell for $6.99 on Apple’s iTunes store. http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/flight-computer-by-pilotmall/id403509882?mt=8 This proprietary flight planning application, presents pilots with a user-friendly interface and a […]

Western National Bank Signs Up for 5 Years with AIRSHO

January 16, 2011 Kim Stevens

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is proud to announce that Western National Bank will return as the exclusive Presenting Sponsor for the next five years of AIRSHO! The Best Warbird Show in America returns to the skies Oct. 8-9, 2011, above Midland International Airport between Midland and Odessa, Texas. “Western National Bank has again stepped […]

Piper Names Western Aircraft, a Greenwich AeroGroup Company, as New Aircraft Dealer

January 16, 2011 Kim Stevens

Piper Aircraft Inc. selected Western Aircraft, a Greenwich AeroGroup® company, as Piper’s dealer for new aircraft sales in Alaska, northern California, Oregon and Washington. The appointment is effective immediately. “As Piper strengthens its global dealer network, we are delighted to be able to add a Greenwich AeroGroup company and the terrific sales team at Western […]

Ploeger Resigns as New Mexico Aviation Director

January 10, 2011 Kim Stevens

The National Association of State Aviation Officials, (NASAO) has reported that David Ploeger, Aviation Division Director for the New Mexico Department of Transportation, has been asked, along with some 300 other state government employees to submit their resignations by the new governor. Ploeger, who served as director since September 17, 2009, was appointed by Governor […]

Colorado Volunteers Seek to Preserve Airport History

January 10, 2011 Kim Stevens

January 9, 2011, is the Anniversary of Aviation in America. On that date in 1793, Jean-Pierre Francois Blanchard made history in Philadelphia, PA, when he made the first manual free-balloon flight. Recording an event like this is important as we look back at the history of flight in our country. In an effort to make […]

FAA Celebrates 50 Years of Publishing “Safety Briefing”

January 9, 2011 Kim Stevens

The new issue of FAA Safety Briefing celebrates the publication’s 50th anniversary by looking back on the state of general aviation (GA) safety and highlighting a half century of safety focus and progress. The magazine, then called FAA Aviation News, was first published in January 1961, just three years after the creation of the […]

Virginia Soaring Society meets with Dept. of Aviation

January 9, 2011 Kim Stevens

Representatives of the six soaring organizations that formed the Virginia Soaring Association earlier this year met December 11 with Virginia Department of Aviation Director Randy Burdette in Richmond to discuss how the VADOA could be a resource to the organization. The Virginia Soaring Association (VASA), was created in the spring of 2010 to provide a […]

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