The Wichita Aero Club has named Ashley Bowen Cook as its new executive director. A longtime advocate for the aviation community and the organization’s first female board chair, Cook will lead the club into its next chapter.
Briefings
Georgia Teens Win Aviation Design Challenge
This year’s mission was to modify a Cessna 208 Caravan to complete a test flight, carrying as much weight as possible, as fast as possible, in the French Alps. The teams needed to design their aircraft to maximize speed and cargo weight to successfully navigate between two remote locations in high altitudes.
New Helicopter Scholarship Takes Off
Mark Robinson, an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, has launched a new scholarship for helicopter flight training. Valued at a minimum of $7,100, the scholarship is intended to grow the number of helicopter pilots in the U.S.
Strike Fighter Air Combat League Takes Off
The Strike Fighter League will hold its second online tournament, showing how this immersive digital sport tests real-world pilot precision, tactical strategy, and extreme mental fortitude during high-stakes virtual dogfights.
Aviation Education & Career Expo Returns to Rider Jet Center
The Nov. 6, 2026, event will welcome more than 65 vendors and 1,300 students, according to organizers.
Allegations of Employee Misconduct Force FSS Closures in Alaska
Sudden FAA flight service station closures across Alaska due to employee misconduct investigations impact local aviation and commercial flights.
Electric Aircraft Flight Tests Take Off in Hawaii
Surf Air Mobility and BETA Technologies have launched an electric aircraft demonstration program in Hawaii. In partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, the flight test program is designed to evaluate the operational and infrastructure requirements for integrating electric aviation into the National Airspace System.
Wanted: A High School Ready To Build A Plane
“We’re looking for a school ready to embrace this innovative partnership, with its potential to change students’ lives,” said Jeff Rapsis, executive director of the Aviation Museum of N.H.
Good Neighbor Day Returns to KPDK in 2026
Following a one-year hiatus, the Good Neighbor Day Air Show returns to DeKalb-Peachtree Airport in September 2026. This expanded full-day celebration will feature an air show, including a night air show, and a new STEM Expo.