Electra has submitted a Federal Aviation Administration type certificate application for its hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short aircraft, aiming for certification under Part 23 rules. The nine-passenger EL9, built for ultra-short takeoff and landing, can operate on runways as short as 150 feet, making it suitable for small airports and unconventional sites. Electra plans to bring the aircraft, which has a range of up to 1,100 nautical miles, to market in 2029.

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West Virginia International Yeager Airport has partnered with Beta Technologies to install charging stations for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft and electric vehicles at Marshall University's Bill Noe Flight School. The move aims to position the airport at the forefront of aviation trends, with the potential for eVTOL aircraft to be used for delivery services and passenger transport.

Falcon Field in Mesa, Ariz., is considering a landing fee proposal to address potential budget deficits, prompting concerns from pilots and aviation groups. The fee, set for a city council vote in February, would affect all aircraft, although based aircraft under 6,000 pounds would be entitled to five free landings per month. Critics, including the Arizona Pilots Association and flight schools, argue the fees could drive away training operations, affecting the regional aviation training pipeline.

Pilot Myron Yoder, the founder of Wright Base Flight Training in Tullahoma, Tenn., has a diverse background in aviation and entrepreneurship. Raised in Belize and Mississippi, Yoder earned multiple aviation certifications at LeTourneau University's Mission Aviation program. After years as a flight instructor and charter pilot, he ventured into business before returning to aviation and establishing Wright Base to fill a local gap in flight training at Tullahoma Regional Airport. Yoder's leadership is marked by a strong commitment to student success and the growth of his school.

The National Business Aviation Association has formed a coalition to oppose a Washington state law that imposes a 10% tax on noncommercial aircraft valued at more than $500,000. The coalition, which includes local businesses and national associations, argues that the tax would harm the state's economy, public safety and health care.

The education programs at Seattle's Museum of Flight have been instrumental in inspiring students to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. New NASA astronaut candidate Lauren Edgar credits the museum for turning her passion for space into a realistic career path. Other notable alumni include Katrina Morgan, a former US Air Force captain; Shawna Ryan, a mission manager at Blue Origin; and Dane Anders, a senior production leader at Boeing. The museum has also awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships since 2018.

The Federal Aviation Administration made expediting approval of deferred medical certificates a priority, and pilots can help by making sure all required information is submitted.

New regulations enabled sport pilots to fly a wider range of aircraft. AOPA Finance can help with the purchase process.