Aviation eBrief
Pilot hopes to increase representation of Black aviators
Created for np3kckdy@niepodam.pl | Web Version
 
September 16, 2025
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News of the day
 
1st Citation Ascend rolls off assembly line
Textron Aviation has rolled out the first production model Cessna Citation Ascend. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration is expected later this year. "By infusing new technology and bringing new features to the market, we continue to drive the future for us to build these legendary aircraft," says Todd McKee, senior vice president of integrated supply chain.
Full Story: AeroTime (9/16)
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Aviation Update
 
A hybrid-electric partnership
GE Aerospace announced an equity investment in Beta Technologies aimed at advancing hybrid-electric powered aircraft.
Full Story: AOPA Online (9/10)
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Airport Focus
 
$12.3M improvement project underway at Okla. airport
South Grand Lake Regional Airport in Ketchum, Okla., has begun a $12.3 million improvement project that includes a new terminal, parallel taxiway and hangar. The state's Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and the Federal Aviation Administration are funding the project, which is expected to boost regional economic growth.
Full Story: The Journal Record (Oklahoma City) (9/10)
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Learn to Forecast the Weather – Online
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Pilot Spotlight
 
Pilot hopes to increase representation of Black aviators
Student pilot Joshmond Cook of Baton Rouge, La., is gaining popularity on social media for breaking stereotypes in aviation, wearing a diamond grill and locs. Cook, who grew up in foster care, hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams and increase the representation of Black pilots, who make up less than 5% of the profession.
Full Story: WBRZ-TV (Baton Rouge, La.) (9/14)
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An AOPA membership opens more doors to the sky.
Whether you are looking to accelerate training and education or be a part of a community just as passionate about general aviation as you, AOPA benefits pilots in many ways. AOPA membership provides access to our Pilot Information Center, crucial safety information, and much more! Learn more about what membership can do for you here.
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Policy Watch
 
FAA pilot program aims to accelerate air taxi deployment
The FAA has introduced a pilot program aimed at accelerating the deployment of electric vertical takeoff and landing taxis. Announced by the Trump administration, this initiative will involve at least five projects designed to address regulatory and safety challenges as air taxi manufacturers seek to commercialize their aircraft.
Full Story: Reuters (9/12)
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Careers & Education
 
Van's founder supports student aviation programs
Richard VanGrunsven, founder of Van's Aircraft and designer of the RV-12iS, will visit high school workshops across New Hampshire next month. His visit will give students in Manchester, Lebanon and Farmington the unique opportunity to meet the aircraft's creator and ask questions about the Van's airplanes they are building. VanGrunsven's engagement highlights the significance of the student airplane-building programs and his ongoing involvement in aviation education.
Full Story: General Aviation News (9/11)
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AOPA News
 
5x5 Aviation Insurance launches
A new direct-to-consumer underwriter offers coverage on the high end of the general aviation market with no arbitrary age limits.
Full Story: AOPA Online (9/11)
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ICYMI: The most popular stories from our last issue