State Aviation Journal – Your Best Source of State Aviation News

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 […]
Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide
Tango Flight has announced a new partnership with Sling Aircraft North America to provide Sling 2 kit aircraft to high schools across the United States, expanding hands-on aviation education opportunities for students and advancing Tango Flight’s mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. Through this collaboration, participating schools will build the Sling 2 […]
New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity
Travelers moving through Terminal 4 now have a new way to experience Phoenix’s story of growth and problem-solving through a large-scale photo mural. Desert Innovation is a captivating installation of historic and contemporary images along the post-security passenger bridge between the A and D gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4. Presented by […]

State News

Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

The Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame has announced the Inductees to its Class of 2026. The Honorees are: Stanley Adkins, MD, Air Force veteran, FAA Medical Examiner Michael S. Doades, decorated Army veteran, ATA Airlines L-1011 Fleet Manager William Eyster, Angola Airport manager, aviation entrepreneur, FAA Examiner E. B. Newill, Executive and engineer, Allison Engines. Led company through pistons, jets and rockets James Paulson, retired Navy Captain, decorated Naval Aviator, FAA Examiner Jeff Wood, Air Force veteran, pilot with the Thunderbird Flight Team, aviation entrepreneur Oren Moore Welch, aviation pioneer, test pilot, aircraft designer and inventor, and airport manager These distinguished individuals made significant and enduring contributions to the history of aviation and aerospace in Indiana, the nation, and the world through achievement, leadership, exceptional service, innovation, or entrepreneurial spirit. The Honorees will be inducted at the Honors Banquet on September 19th, 2026. The Inductees will receive a permanent Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame plaque, a medallion and crystal award, and have their names included in the INAHOF exhibit at Indianapolis International Airport. For Information on the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame, the 2026 Honors Banquet, current INAHOF Members, or to support the Hall, go to https://inahof.org. Video presentations honoring Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame Members are available at https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=indiana+aviation+hall+of+fame
Springfield Airport Makes Donation to Be Part of History Museum on the Square Permanent Collection

What started as simply flooring became so much more at Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF). After 16 years, the iconic SGF water, grass and rock carpet is being removed – but the airport carpet will always be remembered, thanks to a special effort. On March 26, the Springfield Airport donated three original, unused airport carpet squares to the History Museum on the Square’s permanent collection. History Museum executive director Sean FitzGibbons accepted three carpet squares at a special ceremony at the airport, celebrating the cultural significance of the airport carpet. While it may seem a bit unusual to place carpet squares in a museum, the airport’s carpet and the community’s overwhelming affection for it tells a much larger story. That story is worthy of historic preservation, says FitzGibbons. “The History Museum on the Square preserves more than documents and artifacts of national significance; we preserve and share the texture of everyday life,” said FitzGibbons. “For over a decade, the SGF carpet was part of the shared experience of leaving home, returning home, and welcoming visitors to Springfield. When something as ordinary as flooring inspires nostalgia and pride, that’s cultural history in real time. By preserving these carpet squares, we’re documenting not just the airport’s evolution, but the joy, humor and SGF spirit that makes Springfield uniquely Springfield.” SGF and the History Museum partnered in 2025 to honor the history of aviation in the Ozarks with three history display panels in the terminal lobby, celebrating the almost 100 years of aviation in the region. This latest collaboration is just another way the airport is partnering with local historians to ensure aviation’s history is preserved. “The History Museum is committed to celebrating Springfield’s culture and community, and so are we,” said Brian Weiler, director of aviation at SGF. “The community has shown its overwhelming love for the carpet since we announced its removal, and this is just another way we’re honoring our passengers, their experiences and our shared, collective history.” Now halfway completed, the flooring replacement project at SGF is removing 110,000-square-feet of carpet with terrazzo, a durable, hard surface throughout much of the terminal. The airport team led terminal visioning workshops in 2024 to thoughtfully consider the new floor’s design, which pays homage to the previous carpet. The waves in the terminal lobby are reminiscent of water, grass terrazzo lines the car rental counters and new midnight blue carpet near the gates has a rock-like texture. All these design details matter, and so does the choice to preserve the legacy of beloved but inefficient carpet, says assistant director of aviation Dave Schaumburg, who serves as project manager on the flooring project. “The carpet is loved, and we want its legacy to be honored in a way that’s as meaningful as the memories it helped create for our passengers,” said Schaumburg. “The carpet is a part of not just the airport’s history, but Springfield’s. We’re grateful it can have a permanent, protected home for generations to come, while today’s passengers and those to come enjoy the improvements from more efficient, durable flooring at the terminal.”

National News

NASAO and NAA Announce U.S. Winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest

Artwork above – 1st Place: Hayun Kim – Tennessee The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) and National Aeronautic Association (NAA) have announced the national winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest. This year’s theme, “Fly to Save Lives,” inspired hundreds of students across the country to illustrate the heroic role of aviation in emergency response, medical relief, and community safety. Contest judging was conducted by aviation and education professionals with special guest, retired NASA astronaut Frank Lee Culbertson. 1st Place: Kiersten Hans – Nebraska Managed by NASAO in partnership with the NAA, the contest challenges youth aged 6 to 17 to explore the intersection of air sports, aeronautics, and social impact. The 2026 theme specifically highlighted how aircraft, from helicopters and drones to fixed-wing planes, serve as lifelines during natural disasters, wildfires, and medical emergencies. “It’s exciting for those of us in the aviation industry to see the talent and effort these young people put into their entries,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO president and CEO. “This year’s theme ‘Fly to Save Lives’ captured the imagination of young people, spotlighting an often underappreciated sector of aviation. From fighting fires to transporting organs for donation, their artwork creatively demonstrates the ways aviation is utilized by first-responders, medical professionals, and more to deliver life-saving aid. Congratulations to our winners and everyone who entered the contest! We hope their passion for art and aeronautics inspires these artists to always be aware of the role aviation plays in our lives.” “The creativity and technical skill displayed by this year’s participants were truly remarkable,” said Amy Spowart, NAA president and CEO. “These young artists didn’t just draw aircraft; they captured the spirit of hope and service that defines the aviation community. By imagining how flight saves lives, they are already contributing to the future of our industry.” 2026 U.S. National Winners The winning entries were selected from a highly competitive pool of finalists submitted by participating states. The first, second, and third-place winners in each category will now advance to the international judging round at the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, to compete against artists from around the world. Click here to view U.S. winning entries. Junior Category (Ages 6–9) 1st Place: Aaron Chen – North Carolina 2nd Place: Leia Scarborough – North Carolina 3rd Place: Nandita Yaddanapudi – Tennessee Intermediate Category (Ages 10–13) 1st Place: Hayun Kim – Tennessee 2nd Place: Lottie Schmutz – Wyoming 3rd Place: Carolynn Kim – North Carolina Senior Category (Ages 14–17) 1st Place: Kiersten Hans – Nebraska 2nd Place: Rumy Lee – Nevada 3rd Place: Kyra Reuber – Kansas NASAO News Release
Skyfarer and True Course Simulations Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Aviation Training Through Immersive Simulation

Skyfarer has announced a strategic partnership with True Course Simulations (TCS), a provider of immersive virtual and mixed reality flight training systems. The collaboration aims to expand access to structured, technology-driven flight training solutions for flight schools, high schools, and aviation education programs across the United States. Through this partnership, Skyfarer will introduce True Course Simulations’ advanced training systems to its growing network of student pilots, instructors, flight schools, and STEM educators across all 50 states. TCS’s solutions combine immersive simulation hardware, standardized FAA-aligned courseware, and integrated learning management systems (LMS) to enhance training efficiency and student outcomes. “Flight training today is evolving rapidly, and simulation plays a critical role in improving accessibility and efficiency,” said Nick Tsang, Founder & CEO of Skyfarer. “True Course Simulations has built a structured training ecosystem that helps students arrive at the aircraft better prepared, and we’re excited to help more schools and educators discover these solutions through Skyfarer.” True Course Simulations has demonstrated measurable positive impact across professional flight training organizations, military, university, and high school aviation programs. Its immersive training systems allow students to practice procedures and develop foundational skills before entering the aircraft, helping reduce time to key milestones and overall training costs. “We’re excited to collaborate with Skyfarer to reach a broader audience of aviation educators and training organizations,” said Glen Ross, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Brett Watts, CEO at True Course Simulations. “Skyfarer’s platform connects directly with the next generation of pilots and the institutions that support them, making it a natural partner as we continue expanding into flight schools, STEM, and CTE programs across the country.” As part of the partnership, schools and aviation education organizations introduced through Skyfarer will receive an exclusive partner discount on True Course Simulations systems, supporting broader adoption of immersive training technologies. The collaboration will also include: Educational content highlighting the role of simulation in reducing training time and cost Dedicated content and resources for aviation programs exploring simulator integration Direct introductions between qualified schools and the TCS team, along with access to an exclusive partner discount for Skyfarer-referred organizations This partnership reflects a shared vision to modernize pilot training and strengthen the aviation talent pipeline through scalable, technology-enabled solutions.

International News

Lufthansa Celebrates 25 Years at Denver International Airport

Last week Lufthansa celebrated twenty-five years of flying to Denver International Airport. Since 2001, Lufthansa has proudly connected the Mile High City with its Frankfurt hub, marking a quarter century of continuous operations between Colorado and Germany. In honor of this milestone, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston issued a proclamation to honor Lufthansa’s 25 years of service to the city. The proclamation recognizes the airline’s long-standing partnership with Denver International Airport and its contribution to positioning Denver as a leading international gateway. Phil Washington, DEN CEO and Don Bunkenburg, Lufthansa Group Senior Director Sales Western USA, CENAM and Global Accounts, with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s official proclamation. “We are thrilled to have reached this milestone year in the Denver market and remain an active and committed partner to Denver International Airport and the surrounding community. For 25 years, Lufthansa’s service between Denver and Germany has done more than connect two regions—it has connected businesses, strengthened investment ties, and opened Colorado to global opportunity. These flights are a vital bridge between the Rocky Mountain region and the world.” said Dirk Janzen, Lufthansa Group Vice President for Passenger Sales of the Americas. “Furthermore, the proclamation that Mayor Mike Johnston bestowed upon Lufthansa is a meaningful distinction that signifies the solid partnership that the two cities – Denver and Frankfurt – continue to have with each other.” In addition to the Denver – Frankfurt service, Lufthansa also directly connects Denver with Munich, its other main hub in Germany. Marking its tenth year of service, the Denver – Munich flight further underscores the importance of the destination in that just last year, in 2025, the airline brought its beloved Airbus A380 from Munich, for the very first time, to Denver International Airport. With its debut at DIA, Lufthansa’s Airbus A380 sharply increased the summer season capacity to this western US region with one of the world’s most technologically advanced and largest aircraft. Lufthansa’s A380 will once again return to Denver during the summer flight season, on July 1st. “The day Lufthansa launched service at DEN in 2001 was a pivotal moment in the airport’s history,” said DEN CEO Phil Washington. “It marked the beginning of a new era that expanded both DEN’s international reach and connectivity while further solidifying Colorado’s position on the global stage.” As the gateway to the west coast, especially due to Lufthansa’s close cooperation with United, its Star Alliance and joint venture partner, Denver has experienced exceptional growth, and travelers have convenient access all across North America. Additionally, Coloradoans have worldwide access and seamless connectivity to Germany, Europe and beyond with Lufthansa Group’s extensive global network, thus strengthening business tourism and cultural exchanges between the regions. As Lufthansa celebrates this 25-year milestone, as well as the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Lufthansa, the airline reaffirms its long-term commitment to the Denver community in addition to its mission of connecting people, cultures, and economies in a sustainable way. Lufthansa Group in Denver In the upcoming summer schedule, beginning March 28, the Lufthansa Group will offer numerous flights to Denver from its various hubs throughout continental Europe. Lufthansa will operate daily flights to and from Denver to Frankfurt with an Airbus A350-900. Lufthansa will also operate daily Denver – Munich flights with an Airbus A350-900 through June 30, and then again from September 28 until the end of the summer schedule. From July 1 – September 27, Lufthansa will bring back its popular Airbus A380 to the Denver – Munich route. Edelweiss, which is part of the Lufthansa Group, will also operate seasonal flights from Denver to Zurich on an Airbus A340-300 from May 27 through August 21. Depending on the time period, the Edelweiss flight will operate 3-4 times per week.
Everdrone raises SEK 36 million – Enters Commercial Phase for Drone Services in Emergency Healthcare

Everdrone currently operates the world’s first operational drone service integrated into the emergency response chain for cardiac arrest in the Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. The company has now raised SEK 36 million in a funding round to validate methodology and system integration for drone support in emergency healthcare, as well as to further develop its technology platform for additional service offerings. Mats Sällström, Everdrone CEO. “This funding gives us stronger conditions to continue building the company and expanding our services into more markets across Europe”, says Mats Sällström, CEO of Everdrone. Everdrone develops autonomous drone services for time-critical medical interventions, enabling rapid delivery of defibrillators and other essential emergency medical equipment while waiting for the ambulance to arrive. “Our autonomous drones are integrated into the emergency response chain and dispatched in parallel with ambulances. We are seeing growing interest in these types of solutions within emergency healthcare and other rescue services”, says Mats Sällström. Since its founding, Everdrone has developed its technology in close collaboration with healthcare providers and has conducted operational flights within emergency healthcare since 2020. The service is currently operational in the Västra Götaland Region and has also been procured by Region Stockholm and the Normandy Region in France. “Interest in drone-based solutions in emergency healthcare is increasing as regions look for new ways to reduce response times and improve coverage in both urban and rural areas”, says Mats Sällström. The recently completed funding round was led by the investment firm Sciety, which selected Everdrone based on its advanced technology and clear application within emergency healthcare. “Everdrone addresses a clear and well-documented need in emergency healthcare and has already established partnerships with several regions in Sweden and France. As a long-term capital partner, we look forward to supporting Everdrone in its continued commercialization”, says Andreas Lindblom, Managing Partner at Sciety. “Sciety contributes not only capital but also industry expertise, the right network, and increased visibility, making them a valuable partner in the company’s continued development”, says Mats Sällström, CEO of Everdrone.

Unmanned Systems

Everdrone raises SEK 36 million – Enters Commercial Phase for Drone Services in Emergency Healthcare

Everdrone currently operates the world’s first operational drone service integrated into the emergency response chain for cardiac arrest in the Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. The company has now raised SEK 36 million in a funding round to validate methodology and system integration for drone support in emergency healthcare, as well as to further develop its READ MORE
Oregon Department of Aviation Signs MOU with Cellen H2 to Explore Hydrogen-Powered Uncrewed Aircraft Systems

Photograph provided by Cellen H2 The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Cellen H2, Inc. (Cellen) to explore the use of hydrogen fuel cellpowered Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace System for commercial and civil operations across Oregon. The READ MORE

Aviation Education

NASAO and NAA Announce U.S. Winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest

Artwork above – 1st Place: Hayun Kim – Tennessee The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) and National Aeronautic Association (NAA) have announced the national winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest. This year’s theme, “Fly to Save Lives,” inspired hundreds of students across the country to illustrate the heroic role of aviation READ MORE
Applications Open Earlier for IADA Foundation Business Aviation Scholarships

The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) Foundation has opened the application process for its annual Business Aviation Scholarships earlier than in previous years, giving students more time to apply while they are still actively engaged in their academic programs. The scholarships, administered through the IADA Foundation, are designed to help cultivate the next generation of READ MORE

Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

The Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame has announced the Inductees to its Class of 2026. The Honorees are: These distinguished individuals made significant and enduring contributions to the history of aviation and aerospace in Indiana, the nation, and the world through achievement, leadership, exceptional service, innovation, or entrepreneurial spirit. The Honorees will be inducted at […]

NASAO and NAA Announce U.S. Winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

Artwork above – 1st Place: Hayun Kim – Tennessee The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) and National Aeronautic Association (NAA) have announced the national winners of the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest. This year’s theme, “Fly to Save Lives,” inspired hundreds of students across the country to illustrate the heroic role of aviation […]

Skyfarer and True Course Simulations Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Aviation Training Through Immersive Simulation

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

Skyfarer has announced a strategic partnership with True Course Simulations (TCS), a provider of immersive virtual and mixed reality flight training systems. The collaboration aims to expand access to structured, technology-driven flight training solutions for flight schools, high schools, and aviation education programs across the United States. Through this partnership, Skyfarer will introduce True Course […]

Springfield Airport Makes Donation to Be Part of History Museum on the Square Permanent Collection

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

What started as simply flooring became so much more at Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF). After 16 years, the iconic SGF water, grass and rock carpet is being removed – but the airport carpet will always be remembered, thanks to a special effort. On March 26, the Springfield Airport donated three original, unused airport carpet squares […]

Lufthansa Celebrates 25 Years at Denver International Airport

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

Last week Lufthansa celebrated twenty-five years of flying to Denver International Airport. Since 2001, Lufthansa has proudly connected the Mile High City with its Frankfurt hub, marking a quarter century of continuous operations between Colorado and Germany. In honor of this milestone, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston issued a proclamation to honor Lufthansa’s 25 years of […]

ATAC Awarded 13th Consecutive FAA William “Bill” O’Brien Diamond Award of Excellence

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 Kim Stevens

Airborne Tactical Advantage Company, LLC (ATAC) announced that it has been awarded the 2025 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) William “Bill” O’Brien Diamond Award of Excellence. This achievement marks the company’s 13th consecutive year receiving this honor. The award recognizes ATAC’s exemplary dedication to advancing aviation safety and unwavering commitment to continuous technician training. “Our technicians […]

Connico Announces New Director of Technology Role Amid National Growth

March 28, 2026March 28, 2026 Kim Stevens

Connico has promoted Mihail Risteski to Director of Digital Transformation, a newly created leadership role designed to advance the firm’s integration of technology across projects and operations. As infrastructure projects become increasingly complex and data-driven, Connico is expanding its focus on digital tools and systems that improve collaboration, strengthen decision-making and drive greater efficiency throughout […]

Soaring Higher: Aviation Industry Leader Shelly deZevallos Continues to Pursue Life and Career Goals for the Greater Good

March 26, 2026March 27, 2026 Kim Stevens

Story by Laura Pennino for State Aviation Journal State Aviation Journal published a story about Shelly deZevallos by Penny Rafferty Hamilton, Ph.D. on Nov. 10, 2023. Editor Kim Stevens asked what Shelly has been up to since then and what she is planning to do next. Here’s what we learned. _________________________________________________________________________________ Shelly Lesikar deZevallos is […]

Everdrone raises SEK 36 million – Enters Commercial Phase for Drone Services in Emergency Healthcare

March 23, 2026March 23, 2026 Kim Stevens

Everdrone currently operates the world’s first operational drone service integrated into the emergency response chain for cardiac arrest in the Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. The company has now raised SEK 36 million in a funding round to validate methodology and system integration for drone support in emergency healthcare, as well as to further develop its […]

ODAV Announces State Airports 2026 Construction Outlook

March 23, 2026March 23, 2026 Kim Stevens

ODAV is hard at work preparing for yet another busy construction season in 2026. This year they are looking forward to the following projects: ODAV says that while several of these projects are going out to bid now, they won’t have details on operational impacts such as start dates and project durations until they award […]

Dassault Aviation Unveils New Top of the Line Falcon 10X

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

Sling Aircraft North America Partners with Tango Flight to Deliver Sling 2 Aircraft Kits to High Schools Nationwide

New Phoenix Airport Museum Installation Showcases the Region’s Legacy of Ingenuity