State Aviation Journal

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy
Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director […]
ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction
Photo – Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Executive Director Grayson Ardies led the Bartlesville Municipal Airport’s ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the airport’s taxiway on Monday, Sept. 8. The airport also broke ground on the future 20,000-square-foot hangar project anticipated to be completed by summer 2026. Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace […]
“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial
The “Yellow Rose”, the christened name of the vintage B-25J Mitchell WWII bomber, is once again touring the American skies. The bomber is completely restored to its wartime capabilities and is operated by the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. Photographer Griffey Bostock took advantage of the aircraft’s recent stop at Centennial Airport in Englewood, […]
First Dreamliner with Lufthansa Allegris Lands in Frankfurt
Lufthansa welcomes the first Dreamliner with the Allegris cabin in Frankfurt: The Boeing 787-9 with the new interior in all classes landed recently at Frankfurt Airport from Seattle, WA. Initially, the newest member of the Lufthansa fleet will be used on flights from Frankfurt to Toronto, Canada, starting in mid-October. This year alone, Lufthansa expects […]

State News

Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the start, Legacy Flight Training has focused on one mission: delivering professional, technology-specific instruction that sets the bar for PA-46 safety and proficiency. Unlike other training providers, Legacy Flight Training offers: Standardized, professional training programs across all PA-46 models, ensuring consistency and excellence for every pilot. The only complete fleet of PA-46 flight simulators in the world, giving customers an unmatched opportunity to practice scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. Flexible training options that include classroom instruction, in-flight training in the owner’s aircraft, advanced flight simulators, and convenient online learning modules. “Our mission has always been clear—to deliver world-class, professional training that gives PA-46 owners and pilots confidence and peace of mind in every flight,” said Bill Inglis, Founder and Owner of Legacy Flight Training. “Marking 15 years in Vero Beach and 10 years in Scottsdale is a proud moment for our team. These milestones reflect the trust of our customers and the importance they place in the added safety provided by the addition of training in our simulators.” With a strong focus on safety, innovation, and customer service, Legacy Flight Training remains committed to providing Piper pilots and maintenance professionals with the highest-quality training experience available.
FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director of Flight Operations, is pleased with the increased flexibility, saying, “Epic can now set checkride dates and times internally, avoiding delays caused by limited Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) availability. This reduces bottlenecks when many students are ready at the same time. Also, instructors and check airmen align training and testing closely, which promotes a uniform safety and evaluation culture.” L-R: Flight instructor Tyler Hencken, student Lincoln Ulman, and Shane Williams, Director of Flight Operations celebrate Lincoln’s in-house pass at Epic Flight Academy, which now has FAA Self-Examining Authority. Lincoln passed his private pilot checkride in September 2025. Ray Altmann, Chief Flight Instructor, emphasized benefits to students, adding, “Students can now avoid long wait times for a DPE and can schedule their checkrides soon after they’re ready. There is also a cost savings to for students.” Several members of Epic’s senior flight instructing staff are designated to conduct the examinations, and more are expected to train and qualify as Epic continues to seek ways to enhance its Part 141 flight training operations. Epic Flight Academy has been training pilots since 1999. It is the largest FAA Part 141 flight school in the U.S. with multiple locations. Epic also trains aircraft mechanics at other sites under FAA Part 147.

National News

NBAA Supports Administration’s Plan to Fast-Track AAM Aircraft Into NAS

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has welcomed the announcement of a pilot program aimed at accelerating the adoption of advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft. The program, known as the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), will form public-private partnerships with state and local government agencies and private sector companies to develop new frameworks and regulations for enabling safe operations. “NBAA strongly supports this new initiative, which will advance the adoption of AAM, and bring enormous benefits to the United States, changing the way goods and people move within rural and urban areas,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We look forward to the integration of AAM into the National Airspace System (NAS) and commend the administration and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for their commitment to this mode of transportation.” In June, President Trump signed an executive order, “Unleashing American Drone Dominance,” which called for accelerating the safe integration of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) into the NAS. This pilot program was initiated by the president’s order. The eIPP will include at least five pilot projects and will run for three years after the first project becomes operational. Envisioned eIPP operations include piloted and unmanned approaches to: Short-range air taxis Longer-range, fixed-wing flights Cargo Logistics and supply serving emergency management, medical transport or offshore energy facilities Increasing automation safety NBAA has long supported the development of a safe and robust operational infrastructure for AAM, including through NBAA’s Emerging Technologies Committee comprised of experts with backgrounds in technology, aviation regulation, operations, business, law and more Additionally, the NBAA AAM Roundtable provides a forum for original equipment manufacturers of AAM aircraft and other systems to engage in high-level planning discussions on the integration of AAM technologies. Read more about the NBAA AAM Roundtable. At the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), the FAA released a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to establish requirements for the safe, efficient integration of AAM aircraft into the nation’s aviation system. The SFAR establishes rules for AAM aircraft specific to a variety of business aviation operations in Parts 91, 135 and 136, including intracity and regional transportation, medevac and disaster relief operations and air tours. Read more about the SFAR.
Paradies Lagardère Announces New Leadership Structure and Appoints John Jamison as President

Paradies Lagardère announced a new structure for its leadership and has promoted John Jamison to President of the organization as a result. Acting as Chief Financial Officer since 2021, Jamison will continue to report to CEO Gregg Paradies and will now oversee Retail and Dining Operations, Merchandising, Human Resources, Finance and Accounting, Information Technology, and Legal. John Jamison David Bisset, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer, will also continue reporting to Gregg Paradies and will maintain his oversight of Business Development, Design, Construction, Marketing, and PR and Communications. “Since joining Paradies Lagardère, John has demonstrated superior leadership which has impacted the company well beyond the CFO role,” says Gregg Paradies. “His ability to understand complex challenges and opportunities has helped us navigate external market challenges in recent years with excellent business acumen and actionable solutions. John is exceptionally well-equipped for this new executive role, and I’m confident he will lead with vision and impact.” Prior to joining Paradies Lagardère, Jamison spent 18 years in a variety of finance roles at The Home Depot, reaching the position of Vice President of Finance. Jamison earned both his master’s and bachelor’s degrees in accounting from the University of Tennessee.

International News

WAI Celebrates 11th Annual International Girls in Aviation Day

Thousands of girls, ages 8-18, around the world on September 20 will be able to experience the 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day in their local communities through unique events hosted by Women in Aviation International (WAI) chapters and corporate members. WAI also offers additional virtual resources, activities, information, and instructional videos via the free Aviation for Girls (AFG) app, available year-round. Already over 190 events are planned at airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars across 40 U.S. States, two U.S. territories, and 30 countries across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Some 40,000 youth attendees will be introduced to the career and lifestyle possibilities in aviation and aerospace through meeting positive role models, career panels, exploring airplanes and airports, and a host of hands-on, fun, and educational activities ranging from sectional chart scavenger hunts, to making a tailwheel airplane, to learning about aircraft engines and avionics with maintenance technicians. To enjoy the full Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) educational experience, WAI event hosts provide activity kits to participants featuring a GIAD backpack filled with Aviation for Girls 2025, a propeller activity to teach aviation concepts, an aviation sectional chart for early navigation practice, a WAI sticker, an empowering glitter tattoo, the WAI Career Guide titled The Sky is Unlimited (www.WAI.org/aviation-careers) and a bandana to honor our pioneers. Additionally, caps, keychains, and special edition GIAD T-shirts for adults and children are available for a small cost. Kids who don’t have access to an in-person event can download the Aviation for Girls app for free to participate in a virtual Girls in Aviation Day. “In 2025, Women in Aviation International proudly celebrates the 11th anniversary of Girls in Aviation Day,” said WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “Thanks to the generous support of our partners, we’ve been able to grow this event far beyond a single day—reaching girls throughout the year through our Aviation for Girls program. Girls in Aviation Day has played a vital role in opening doors to aviation and STEM careers for thousands of girls worldwide.” To find a GIAD event near you, click here: https://www.wai.org/giad2025-events. You can also use the interactive map on the Aviation for Girls app to explore all events across the globe. Additional information and updates about Girls in Aviation Day are available at www.WAI.org/giad.
Gerard Salernitano Named Aviation Sector Leader, North America at TYLin

TYLin has announced the promotion of Gerard Salernitano to Aviation Sector Leader, North America, where he will lead the strategic direction of TYLin’s Aviation Sector in North America. In his role, Gerard will expand the firm’s global reputation as a trusted partner to the aviation community by fostering innovation, driving growth and providing solutions that connect communities. Gerald Salernitano With more than 30 years of experience in civil engineering, program management, and construction, Gerard has led complex airport programs from conceptual planning through final delivery. Since joining TYLin in 2020, he has accelerated the growth of the Aviation Sector with a client-centric approach that combines cutting-edge solutions with innovation and quality. His collaborative, future-ready approach and unique blend of technical aptitude and management proficiency has made a measurable impact on airport modernization and expansion projects. “We are delighted Gerard will be leading our Aviation Sector,” said Kimberly Slaughter, Transportation Leader, North America. “He brings a deep understanding of the interlocking issues facing airports, from safely moving goods and people to promoting sustainable operations and an exceptional passenger experience. Under his leadership, the Aviation Sector will continue to deliver bold, holistic solutions that meet the challenges of today while providing flexibility and scalability to address tomorrow’s evolving needs.”  “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Aviation Sector Leader, North America,” said Gerard Salernitano. “I am honored to lead such an outstanding group of talented aviation professionals, who all share a passion for delivering the airport programs that make aviation safe, sustainable, and efficient while enhancing the customer experience.”  Key Highlights of the Appointment As Aviation Sector Leader, North America, Gerard will drive alignment, innovation, and growth across all aviation-related operations and initiatives. Gerard is a seasoned aviation professional and currently serves as Aviation Sector Leader, North America and provides group leadership with a history of successful project execution. Gerard’s design and project management background include all aspects of design, strategic planning, project administration, scheduling, budgeting, and stakeholder relations. With over thirty years of construction management experience, Gerard’s technical experience ranges from on-site management, including inspection and field engineering, to change order processing, claims mitigation, document management, and quality assurance/control.

Unmanned Systems

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s K1000ULE Becomes Longest-Endurance UAS on DoD’s Blue UAS Cleared and Blue UAS Select Lists

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace announced that its fully electric K1000ULE UAS has been added to both the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit Blue UAS Cleared List and the Blue UAS Select List, the government’s trusted rosters of drones validated as secure, NDAA-compliant, ready for immediate procurement. The K1000ULE is the longest-endurance, longest-range aircraft in READ MORE
AgEagle Aerial Systems MicaSense Series RedEdge-P Multispectral Camera Available Now on Ascent’s SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ UAV Platforms

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. announced the successful integration and availability of its MicaSense RedEdge-P™ multispectral camera on Ascent AeroSystems’ rugged SPIRIT™ and SPARTAN™ coaxial UAV platforms. This fully integrated solution, now available for order, delivers unparalleled agricultural and environmental intelligence in a seamless, quick-connect package. The MicaSense RedEdge-P is an industry-leading multispectral and panchromatic sensor, READ MORE

Aviation Education

Legacy Flight Training Celebrates 15 Years in Vero Beach and 10 Years in Scottsdale

Legacy Flight Training marks two major milestones in 2025: 15 years of operations at its headquarters at Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida (KVRB), and 10 years at its Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) training center. The anniversaries highlight the company’s role as the trusted provider of professional, standardized training for Piper PA-46 pilots worldwide. From the READ MORE
FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

Photo – Logan Dochtermann (left) became Epic’s first in-house pass when he earned his instrument rating in August 2025. He is pictured with his instructor, Breyton Jackson. The FAA has granted Epic Flight Academy self-examining authority to conduct in-house checkrides, a privilege that provides benefits to both the school and the students. Shane Williams, Director READ MORE

Austin Peay to Buy Airport Hangar, Fueling Future Growth of Aviation Science Program

June 16, 2024June 16, 2024 Kim Stevens

Austin Peay State University is collaborating with the Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Airport to purchase a hangar for the University’s growing aviation science program. The airport authority board recently approved the sale of the over 13,700-square-foot facility, Hangar 5, to Austin Peay for $780,000. The purchase will provide much-needed space for the aviation science program that […]

Adacel and EANS Second Digital Tower Operational at Kuressaare Airport

June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

Adacel Technologies Limited and Estonian Air Navigation Services (EANS) are pleased to announce that the Reval air traffic virtual tower system at Kuressaare Airport (EEKE) has transitioned into operational service. The system at Kuressaare received its air traffic service approval from the Estonian Transport Administration (ETA) on 8 May 2024. Kuressaare is the second operational […]

Star Alliance Commemorates 10 Years at Heathrow Terminal 2

June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

Photo above – 23 Star Alliance member airlines operate at Heathrow T2 – popularly referred to as Star Alliance terminal by passengers – facilitating over 120 departures every day. Together with its member airlines, Star Alliance is delighted to complete a decade of excellence at Terminal 2 – its home at Heathrow. The Queen’s Terminal […]

Oklahoma Aerospace Teachers Rocket to #1 In the Nation for Third Year

June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) celebrated a significant milestone in aerospace and aviation education recently with the announcement that Oklahoma has maintained its top spot in the Country with an impressive 116 schools scheduled to begin teaching the AOPA “You Can Fly” high school […]

CubCrafters Announces New Dealer for the Midwest

June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

Photo above – Brian Bronson and Joel Rourke of Omaha Aircraft Sales Join the CubCrafters team! – Photo courtesy of CubCrafters. CubCrafters, has announced that the company has signed on Omaha Aircraft Sales as its Certified Sales Center (CSC) for the Midwest region. CubCrafters builds the largest variety and highest volume of two place tandem […]

FAA to Receive Launch and Reentry Flight Data from Two More Companies

June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) added two new companies to its Space Data Integrator (SDI) tool, which provides improved situational awareness and helps the FAA safely and efficiently manage air traffic during space operations. The agency can now track Virgin Galactic and Sierra Space vehicles in near-real time during their launch and reentry operations. The […]

“Challenge Accepted” – North Carolina Airports Association (NCAA) 44th Annual Conference

June 8, 2024June 18, 2024 Kim Stevens

Photo above – From left are, Bobby Walston, Eddie Madden, Michael Landguth (President & CEO of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and the recipient of the Willard G. Plentl Award) and John Coon. Photo by Daniel Carr / RDU . By Scotty Malta Beautiful inside and out is an apt description of the conference venue and accommodations at the […]

Runway Safety Modifications Planned at Lihu’e

June 3, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) is preparing to conduct construction activities at Runway 3-21 at the Līhu‘e Airport (LIH). Starting Monday, June 10, 2024, until Friday, June 14, 2024, the section of unimproved road from Ahukini Road to Ninini Point (Beach Road) closest to the start of the runway will be closed to pedestrians […]

Nearly $187 Million in Grants from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Modernize Airports

June 3, 2024June 15, 2024 Kim Stevens

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding another round of funding for 90 airport-related infrastructure grants across 34 states. The projects are funded under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program, part of the $25 billion total included in the law for airport improvements such as terminal expansions […]

Mount Anthony Union HS Senior Is First to Be Promoted to Cadet Major Rank in Bennington Composite Squadron of Vermont Wing, Civil Air Patrol

June 3, 2024June 3, 2024 Kim Stevens

Photo above – CAP Cadet/Major Kale Bushee is formally promoted to his new rank by CAP Capt Jonathan Mercer, VT-076 squadron commander (left). C/Maj Bushee is a senior at Mt. Anthony Union High School here. Photo courtesy of CAP Major Hal Friday (VT-076) The Bennington Composite Squadron (VT-076) of the Vermont Wing, Civil Air Patrol […]

FAA Grants Self-Examining Authority to Epic Flight Academy

ODAA and Bartlesville Municipal Airport Celebrate Taxiway Project Completion, Break Ground on New Hangar Construction

“Yellow Rose” Stops at Centennial

First Dreamliner with Lufthansa Allegris Lands in Frankfurt