The renewal of an agreement between the Recreational Aviation Foundation and the Bureau of Land Management has been “years in the making,” according to RAF Chairman John McKenna, who noted the original agreement was signed more than 10 years ago.
Briefings
Seaplane Photo Contest Takes Off
Photos must be submitted by Aug. 15, 2026, for a chance to win Sporty’s gift cards and to be featured on the cover of the Sporty’s catalog and in the Seaplane Pilots Association annual calendar.
Flight Training From Coast To Coast
California Aeronautical University (CAU) has expanded its flight training network, naming Aviation Adventures, which has five locations in Virginia, as its newest Reach Flight Center.
Four Corners Cubs Takes Over Southwest Sales for CubCrafters
CubCrafters has appointed Ladd Klinglesmith of Four Corners Cubs as its Certified Sales Center (CSC) in the Southwest region, following the retirement of longtime CubCrafters dealer Rick Bosshardt.
Call for Nominations for the First Flight Shrine
The shrine was established in 1966 to honor individuals and groups for achieving significant “firsts” in aviation since 1903. Recipients include Charles Lindbergh, Mary Feik, John Glenn, NASA’s Katherine Johnson, Gail Halvorsen, Sally K. Ride, Walter and Olive Ann Beech, and William Lear.
1940 Air Terminal Museum Closes
In a March 5, 2026, post on the museum’s website, officials say the closure of the museum “is the result of mounting financial pressures that accumulated over time, ultimately reaching a breaking point. The problem is straightforward: The museum’s revenues simply do not match its expenses.”
New Airpark Launches in Central Florida
A new residential airpark, Glide Path Fly-In Homes, has opened in east central Florida offering 15 private estate lots across 70 acres, which includes a 3,300-foot grass airstrip.
Flight School Opens New Location at KFWS
Dallas-based Thrust Flight, which offers pilot and mechanic training, has opened its Fort Worth campus at Spinks Airport (KFWS). This is the company’s fifth location.
From Classroom to Cockpit: High School Students to Build Sling 2 Kit Aircraft
Tango Flight has entered into 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.