The proposed Aviation Innovation Center will serve as a hub for the assessment of novel aviation and advanced air mobility technologies, such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, providing startups and established companies with the resources and infrastructure needed to develop, test, and deploy clean and quiet aviation solutions, according to city officials.
Briefings
New certification for avionics technicians unveiled
The CAET is a knowledge-based certification for entry-level technicians and requires passing a written exam that must be taken online through the AEA’s new partner, the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI).
Montana legislators pass bill limiting use of ADS-B
The bill, introduced by Rep. Shane Klakken (R-Grass Range), who is a pilot, would prohibit the use of ADS-B data to assess landing fees on general aviation (Part 91) flights in aircraft that weigh no more than 9,000 pounds.
Aircraft Spruce opens new Texas distribution center
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co. and its sister company Aero Performance have opened a new 38,000-square-foot distribution center at AllianceTexas, a 27,000-acre master planned development at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport (KAFW) in Texas.
Airline CEO nominated to head FAA
“As the former president and CEO of Republic Airways, Mesaba Airlines, and Business Express Airlines, Brian brings over three decades of experience in aviation and executive leadership to this critical position,” Trump said in a March 17, 2025, Truth Social post.
Kevin Lacey flies west
Perhaps best known from Discovery Channel’s series “Airplane Repo,” Lacey died from cancer Feb. 14, 2025.
EAA Ford Tri-Motor prepares for national tour
Aviation and history enthusiasts can experience firsthand what luxury air travel was like in the 1920s as EAA’s Ford Tri-Motor begins the 2025 tour season later this month. EAA’s B-25 “Berlin Express” will also make joint appearances at select stops to offer rides.
HKS Engines moves operations to U.S.
HKS Co., manufacturer of the HKS 700E light sport engine, has inked a deal with its worldwide aviation engine distributor, Quicksilver Aircraft Northeast, to relocated the company’s parts supply and distribution to the United States from Japan.
Tickets on sale now for first air races in Roswell
The races, slated for Sept. 10-14, will feature seven classes of racing, as well as several hands-on displays and experiences including the STEM Education Discovery Zone, heritage displays, military demonstrations, static displays, and more, according to race officials. The event will also mark the fourth year of competition for STOL Drag, officials added.