Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association News

NBAA Joins DOT to Unveil Agency's ATC-Modernization Plan

Wed, 14 May 2025 17:01:22 GMT

I am writing to share information about yesterday's landmark announcement by DOT Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Acting Administrator, Chris Rocheleau, of a bold plan to modernize our nation's air traffic control system.

To meet critical safety needs the plan will replace core air traffic control infrastructure including radar, software, hardware and telecommunications networks, rebuild aging facilities, and increase the hiring and retention of air traffic controllers and technicians.

NBAA President and CEO, Ed Bolen is playing a leadership role on the steering committee of a newly-formed Modern Skies Coalition, a group of more than 50 aviation stakeholder organizations, which will help the Administration and Congress advance this plan into action.

Please share this email which includes 1) the press release below, which has more information about the announcement and the Modern Skies Coalition; 2) the attached fact sheets from the DOT about the Brand New ATC System Plan, and 3) the link to Ed's remarks at yesterday's event.

It will take an immense amount of collaboration and work to fund and deploy this modernization plan, but as Ed said yesterday, our industry has never been more galvanized and motivated to meet the urgent needs of our national airspace system.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Regards,

Kristie

Kristie Greco Johnson
Senior Vice President for Government Affairs

NBAA Joins Modern Skies Coalition in Support of DOT’s ATC-Modernization Plan

Washington, DC, May 8, 2025 – Today, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) joined more than 50 other industry groups to express strong support for Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy’s proposal for a comprehensive upgrade of the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system, which serves approximately 45,000 flights and 2.9 million passengers every day.

“Secretary Duffy’s plan cements America as a global leader in aviation, investing in both technology and the air traffic control workforce to enhance U.S. aviation safety and reliability,” NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said in remarks delivered at an event held in Washington, DC, to unveil the DOT plan. “The swift implementation of these updates is not just important, it’s imperative. We commend the Secretary for his focus on speed, efficiency, and safety and we fully support his call for Congress to provide the necessary funding.”

Importantly, a central focus of Secretary Duffy’s plan to modernize the ATC system focuses on implementing needed technological upgrades, enhancing connectivity and ensuring U.S. infrastructure can adapt to evolving technologies and increasing air traffic. Additionally, Secretary Duffy’s focus on accelerating the recruitment and training of air traffic controllers, which is part of his supercharge program announced in February, is a crucial step in addressing a longstanding workforce shortage.

In supporting Secretary Duffy’s plan, NBAA has joined the Modern Skies Coalition, (modernskies.com), a new group comprised of more than 50 industry organizations supporting the Administration’s plans to upgrade aviation safety and maintain America’s position as the global leader.

“We are deeply appreciative that Secretary Duffy has made our nation’s air traffic control system a priority and look forward to working with the Administration and Congress to bring this vision to fruition,” the coalition said.

The coalition applauded the Administration’s budget request of $4 billion for FAA’s technology and Facilities and Equipment (F&E), which is higher than ever before. The coalition also expressed appreciation for the Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Sam Graves (R-6-MO), for taking a first step and moving $12.5 billion of ATC modernization funding through his committee.

At the same time, the group called for continued sufficient budget requests and an immediate robust infusion of resources to address soaring operational demands and enhance safety measures. “We believe a minimum of $18.5 billion in additional emergency funding should be appropriated over the next three years above the FAA’s annual F&E budget,” the coalition said in its statement.

Read the full Modern Skies Coalition statement here.

“The future of air travel in the U.S. depends on a robust and resilient air traffic control system,” Bolen concluded. “NBAA recognizes that maintaining safety and improving efficiency requires collaboration and investment from all stakeholders involved, and we stand ready to assist Secretary Duffy and the Administration in driving these essential changes.”

View a video of Ed Bolen's remarks from the event introducing the DOT's plan.

Review the full version of Ed Bolen’s prepared remarks for the event introducing the DOT’s plan.

Preview YouTube video NBAA Joins DOT to Unveil Agency's ATC-Modernization Plan

St. Louis Post-Dispatch:Letter: Privatizing air traffic control systems would disrupt rural Missouri

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 21:09:18 GMT

St. Louis Post-Dispatch:Letter: Privatizing air traffic control systems would disrupt rural Missouri

March 21, 2025

Chip Gentry

The recent tragic mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., and other recent aircraft accidents have rightfully drawn attention to air traffic control (ATC) staffing and technology issues. While constructive reform to enhance safety and efficiency is essential, some policymakers are once again suggesting privatizing the ATC system — a proposal that could create unnecessary disruption, especially for rural communities.

Local airports across Missouri are essential infrastructure, connecting communities and supporting businesses. Since becoming a pilot in 2008, I’ve personally experienced how general aviation significantly improves efficiency for my legal work, enabling faster travel and allowing me more quality time with clients and family. It also directly helps local businesses to remain competitive in national and global markets.

General aviation in Missouri supports more than 15,000 jobs and $2.6 billion annually in economic activity. Beyond these numbers, the true impact is felt during crises. Small airports serve as vital resources for medical flights, disaster relief and emergency response, often bridging lifesaving gaps in service that other transportation options cannot.

Privatization of air traffic control, however well-intentioned, risks inadvertently consolidating aviation resources toward larger metropolitan areas, potentially reducing essential support for smaller communities.

We must ensure any reforms to our aviation system reflect the interests of every region — especially rural towns that depend heavily on local airports. With over 5,000 general aviation airports across the country, maintaining our valuable connections is critical to our safety, growth and competitive edge.

Congressional oversight of air traffic control helps protect access for all communities. As lawmakers consider improvements following the latest incidents, let’s urge them to maintain public accountability, preserving general aviation’s vital role in connecting and protecting Missouri’s communities.

Chip Gentry

Jefferson City

https://www.stltoday.com/opinion/letters/article_a676b9a9-27e1-42f3-9015-5953170bb24c.html

Passing of James Stamm

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 20:17:52 GMT

James Stamm
November 30, 1957 - June 15, 2024
Obituary

State Aviation Day - April 2, 2024

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 18:02:59 GMT

State Aviation Day Scheduled for April 2

The Missouri aviation community will be meeting in the Capitol on April 2 to participate in State Aviation Day. This year’s event marks thirteen years in which all segments of the aviation industry have converged on Jefferson City in order to meet with their legislators.

From 9 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon airport managers, pilots, technicians, consultants, and business owners will be circulating in the capitol in the third floor Rotunda area. ALL GSLBAA MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.

Gatherings of this type provide opportunities for constituents to have conversations with freshmen legislators who perhaps are just learning about the various facets of the aviation industry and to re-establish relationships previously developed. In addition, this event provides a venue where stakeholders from across the state can meet and discuss issues they may be facing in their own communities.

Aviation plays a critical role in the lives of Missouri citizens, as well as in the operation of farms and businesses resulting in an economic impact of $857 million. General Aviation supports just under 7500 jobs statewide and overall Missouri’s airport system supports over 100,600 with an annual payroll of $3.1 billion. There are just a few states across the nation that celebrate the economic impact of their aviation industry in a similar fashion.

The driving force behind the development of this event have been 3 associations; the Missouri Pilots Association (MPA), the Missouri Airport Managers Association (MAMA), and the Missouri State Aviation Council (MOSAC). More information is available at mama-mosac.com.

Passing of Rodney McCoy

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:27:37 GMT

Obituary

Rodney McCoy, 76, formerly of East St. Louis, Illinois, was born Saturday, February 23rd, 1946, and died while surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 20th, 2023, at his home in Ormond Beach, Florida.

Rod retired after 32 years with Emerson Electric (Corporate Pilot) in St. Louis, Missouri. He flew all over the world and made numerous long lasting friendships with his coworkers. He enjoyed bass fishing, even competitively fishing in BASS tournaments throughout the United States. Rod also enjoyed playing golf, archery and had a passion for his many corvettes. Coaching his children’s sports was also a beloved activity. He joined the Route 66 Corvette club in 2005, served as club president for a term, loved racing autocross, and joined in road runs. He moved to Florida from Lake St Louis, Missouri in 2015.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frances McCoy and the family that raised him, Michael and Lillian Kokotovich, and his sisters Cheryl, Marsha, and brother Brian.

He is survived by his wife, Victoria; son, Ken and Debbie McCoy; daughters, Staci and Matt Lockey; Jennifer and Dustin Waldrop; twelve beloved grandchildren and one much loved great-grandchild; brothers Terry and John; sisters, Colleen and Robin, and stepson, John Dennis.

Rod’s wishes were to donate his body to science in hopes of furthering cancer research, and there would be no formal memorial service. His wife, children and friends celebrated his life in a private gathering at his home.

Rod loved his pets dearly, in lieu of flowers a donation to your local Humane Society or Cancer research in his name is suggested.

Passing of Dave Thompson

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 17:14:30 GMT

It is with heavy heart that we share this sad news. Dave Thompson, former SUS based aircraft maintenance technician died suddenly at his Franktown CO, home during the night of January 7, 2024.

When as a young man, Dave came to St. Louis, he worked for Surdex Corp, then Executive Beechcraft Stl Inc, where he was a highly regarded team member. He was then hired by Charter Communication where he worked for many years as their Director of Maintenance.

Dave’s most recent position was that of Director of Maintenance for a Gulfstream based at Centennial.

Dave is survived by his dear wife Karen and their two children. Dave will be greatly missed. He was a very smart, passionate and energetic gentleman.

There is currently no actual obit. Services will be this Thursday, January 18, 2024, 3:00 - 4:00 in Parker Colorado at the Parker Funeral Home and Crematory.

NBAA Welcomes Stopgap Government Funding and FAA Authorization

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:13:05 GMT

NBAA Welcomes Stopgap Government Funding and FAA Authorization.pdf

Passing of Jeremy Cox

Sat, 27 May 2023 16:38:30 GMT

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of GSLBAA President Jeremy Cox. Jeremy was a leader in our community and has furthered business aviation for all in St. Louis. From flight departments to students, Jeremy has championed our needs and promoted our industry without waiver. Jeremy passed earlier this week. We will continue to keep everyone posted on the funeral arrangements.

Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts.

Tom Buffington
GSLBAA Vice President

John Speckin Obituary

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 17:43:36 GMT

John Joseph Speckin, 57, of Olathe, KS, passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Visitation will be Thursday, April 20th at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 13615 W. 92nd Lenexa, KS 66215. A Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 PM with visitation until 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 AM with Eulogies at 10:00 AM Friday, April 21, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS.

John was born October 14, 1965, in Kansas City, KS to Paul and Dorothy (Otten) Speckin. He attended Saint Joseph Grade School and Aquinas High School in Shawnee, KS. He loved all sports and excelled in basketball and football. Many of his friendships formed during those years remained strong and intact. John attended the University of Kansas and received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in May of 1989.

John was introduced to his future wife, Kim, by his close friend and roommate just before the KU ’88 National Championship run. They were married on July 7, 1990 and have four children. Family and faith were cornerstones of their relationship. John was kind, caring, and selfless in every aspect of his life. While leading quietly by example, John was a perfect role model to his children and others on how to emulate Christ through being an amazing spouse, father, son, sibling, friend and colleague.

Upon graduating KU, John began his 34-year career with the FAA as an engineer. One of his personal favorite claims to fame was both designing and building the still strong standing MCI Air Traffic Control Tower. In 2007, John was selected as the Deputy Regional Administrator for the Central Region encompassing the states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. Serving as a subject matter expert in a variety of areas, John was also selected for numerous details that included Acting Regional Administrator, Manager Technical Operations and Acting Director of the Aviation Logistics Organization where he provided executive oversight of the FAA’s real and personal property assets. In 2022, John was selected as Executive Director, Service Centers where he provided executive oversight of shared services delivery to air traffic controllers and technicians, which is accomplished by over 1,200 employees located in the three Service Centers in Atlanta, Fort Worth and Seattle. John honorably served the federal government in a variety of technical and leadership roles, including his thorough research and work on the national COVID Response Team. John won numerous awards for his government service including peer awards for Employee of the Year, Central Regional Manager of the Year, COVID Team Award, recognition by the Federal Executive Board Team on Environmental Processes, among other awards. John was a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute in Charlottesville, Virginia and was a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Kansas.

John will be remembered for his love of family, loyalty to friends and eagerness to always help others. He had a passion for all things sports, but none more important than the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) where he coached all four of his children and their many friends. He was a proud Board Member for five years that included presiding as President for the last three years. John was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society.

John was preceded in death by his father Paul; maternal grandparents Carl and Anna Otten; paternal grandparents Paul and Sadie Speckin; and brother-in-law Greg Hill. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Kim, and their children: Andrew (wife Abbey), Alex (wife Rachel), Anna and Abby. Siblings: Alisa Ford (husband Bill), Mark Speckin, Kathy Hill, Mary Mathew (husband Todd), David Speckin (wife Mary) and numerous nieces and nephews whom he cherished. As well as Myron and Marge Lang (In-Laws), Lisa Storms (husband Andy) and Jarrod Lang (wife Karen). He will forever be known as the glue to our family foundation.

Though John’s sudden passing has left us with much sorrow, we find comfort in knowing he will continue to be a hero as an organ donor. We have many people to thank that starts with First Responders who were called to our home, the ER staff of Overland Park Regional Medical Center, the HCA Life Flight crew, the Neuro ICU staff at Research Medical Center, the Midwest Transplant Network team and the legions of prayer warriors that includes family, our community of friends, co-workers and the many others we have yet to meet who were praying for our family.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude's Hospital or CYO (Catholic Youth Organization). As it was so very important to John that those in need be able to participate with sports in their Catholic communities, CYO has established The John Speckin Scholarship Fund. You can visit the following link https://cyojwa.org/donations and view Featured Items to locate the Scholarship Fund.

John Speckin Obituary, Death – John Speckin, the Deputy Regional Administrator for the Central Region of the FAA, which includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska has died. Mr. Speckin oversees FAA projects such as airport obstruction standards, succession planning for regions and center operations, and optimization, and he collaborates closely with aviation stakeholders, airport authorities, local and state governments, and Members of Congress.

Mr. Speckin was also the Acting Director of the Aviation Logistics Organization (ALO), where he was in charge of the FAA’s real and personal property assets. He was in charge of approximately 267,000 assets, a motor fleet of over 4,400 GSA and 218 FAA-owned vehicles, 3,500 leases, and the DOT’s real property asset management, which included 62,000 assets, in that role. ALO also manages 1.5 million square feet of administrative space and designs and constructs offices.

Mr. Speckin began his career with the FAA as an engineer in 1989 and was named Regional St. Louis Program Manager in 1996, where he oversaw the $2.6 billion expansion of Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, integrating both FAA and airport activities required to commission the new runway and other airfield improvements. In 2001, he was employed as the Air Traffic Organization’s Terminal Planning Account Manager, where he was responsible for all Central Region Terminal facilities’ tactical and strategic planning.

As an Account Manager, Mr. Speckin was responsible for national planning initiatives, the development of sustainment models for ATCTs and TRACONs, and the design of NextGen control facilities, including the larger East coast facilities. In 2007, he was assigned to his current position as Deputy Regional Manager, Central Region. Mr. Speckin earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Federal Executive Institute in Charlottesville, Virginia, and is a Kansas-licensed Professional Engineer.

New Director at St. Louis Downtown Airport

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:00:26 GMT

Bi-State Development Names New Director for
St. Louis Downtown Airport

Bi-State Development is excited to announce Sandra Shore as the new director to lead St. Louis Downtown Airport operations starting February 28. The airport is the busiest general aviation airport in Illinois and the third busiest airport overall in the state after O’Hare and Midway. St. Louis Downtown Airport contributes more than $422 million in annual economic benefits to the local economy and is located on 1,000 acres in St. Clair County in Cahokia Heights and Sauget, just across the Mississippi River from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.

Shore is currently the airport director at Quincy Regional Airport in Quincy, Illinois where she has held the position since 2018. Prior to that, Shore was the airport manager at Floyd W. Jones Lebanon Airport in Lebanon, Missouri. Her experience ranges from general aviation and fixed based operation to Part 139 certified air service airports. During her time at Quincy Regional Airport, she managed more than $7 million in federal Airport Improvement Funding, secured an additional $18 million in funding, and has programmed another $17 million in airport funding over the next two years. Shore replaces Erick Dahl who served as director of St. Louis Downtown Airport for nearly 8 years before leaving last fall to pursue another opportunity.

“We are pleased that Sandra will join our team to lead our airport operations into the future. With St. Louis Downtown Airport being located on 1,000 acres of prime real estate practically in the shadow of the Gateway Arch, we welcome her fresh view on generating new business and new tenants which will benefit St. Clair County and our region,” said Taulby Roach, President and CEO of Bi-State Development, the organization that owns and operates the airport.

“My passion is capital and business development. I welcome the opportunity to join the Bi-State Development team and look forward to exploring new capital and business development opportunities that could bring new aviation related jobs and new partnerships to St. Louis Downtown Airport and St. Clair County,” Shore said.

New General Manager at TACAir SUS

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 20:52:06 GMT

DALLAS, TEXAS (January 25, 2022) -- TAC Air is moving Christina Lang to lead its St Louis fixed base operation (FBO) as General Manager (GM) at Spirit of St Louis Airport in Chesterfield, Missouri after serving as GM at the Fort Smith, Arkansas FBO for the past two years. An eight-year veteran of TAC Air, Lang joins the team at TAC Air - SUS as a hands-on manager of the business utilizing experience from her time as GM at TAC Air - FSM. Lang, excited to take on her new role, expressed “Fort Smith was an amazing location to hone my General Manager skills. FSM does a bit of everything including airline support, military support services, general aviation ground services and air charter ground support. I know I will be able to take what I learned at FSM and apply it to SUS, one of the largest GA-only airports in the Midwest.”

Lang relocated to Fort Smith from Dallas, where she served three years in a system-wide role for TAC Air as Manager of Administrative Services. Prior to that, Lang worked as Customer Service Manager (CSM) at TAC Air - RDU in Raleigh-Durham, NC and Customer Service Representative at TAC Air - PVU in Provo, UT. She charted her course in aviation at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ, where she studied Aeronautical Science. Lang completed her commercial pilot certificate and worked as a corporate pilot flying mining executives in Arizona and New Mexico.

Christina Lang Press Release.pdf

Passing of Carol Becker

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:05:57 GMT

We are saddened by the loss of Carol Becker. She was Monsanto's scheduler from 1996 until she retired in 2010. Per her request there are no services scheduled. Carol was loved by many and will be missed by all.
Obituary

New scholarship created in memory of Ed Shafer

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 14:03:47 GMT

NEW AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS IN THE MIDWEST

A longtime flight instructor and avid supporter of general aviation is being remembered through a scholarship, keeping his name and legacy alive for future generations of aviation students.

Ed Shafer (left) with Paul Guse (right) and Guse’s former aircraft co-owner, Cindy Heilig. Photo courtesy of Paul Guse.

The Edward B. Shafer Future of Flight Scholarship Endowment Fund was established through a generous gift to the AOPA Foundation by member Paul Guse. The endowment will provide a $5,000 annual scholarship to be awarded to an individual pursuing a career in aviation, including aerospace engineering; flying professionally as an airline pilot, corporate pilot, etc.; flight instruction; aircraft maintenance; and airport management.

Shafer was renowned in the St. Louis-area GA community, serving as a flight instructor for more than six decades. A U.S. Air Force veteran, his enduring commitment to aviation safety was recognized in 2019 with the FAA’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. As owner and operator of St. Louis Metro-East Airport/Shafer Field, he positively influenced hundreds of new and experienced aviators, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with kindness, patience, and humor.

Shafer died in September 2020 at the age of 89.

“Ed was a rock of aviation in the St. Louis region,” said Guse. “He was my dad’s CFI, I grew up around him and he helped foster my passion for flying. His legacy is more than worthy of this scholarship program.

“Every hour I spent with Ed, whether in the cockpit or just sitting in the hangar, was an amazing hour. While he was passionate about safety, he knew flying had to be fun—he had an amazing gift to combine the two.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, each applicant must be:

A current AOPA member at the time of application and award.
A U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident.
Currently enrolled at an accredited university or college and pursuing a career in aviation.

Applications for the 2022 cycle will be accepted until February 11. Learn more about the AOPA Foundation Flight Training Scholarship program and how to apply.

Article:
https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2021/december/20/new-aviation-scholarship-available-to-students-in-the-midwest

Compliance date for the FAA’s new Pilot Records Database (PRD) regulations quickly approaching on September 8th

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 19:19:53 GMT

The first compliance deadline to sign your operation up (2 or more aircraft) is September 8th — less than a week from today. This includes Part 91 operators that operate two or more aircraft.

They define corporate operators that need to sign up as:

From NBAA:

"Please note that under the PRD rule the following conditions must be satisfied to meet the definition of a `corporate flight department':

(i) the operator operates two or more aircraft;

(ii) the aircraft are standard airworthiness airplanes that require a type

rating under 14 CFR part 61, § 61.31(a) and/or turbine-powered rotorcraft;

(iii) the aircraft is operated in furtherance of or incidental to a business; and

(iv) the operation is solely pursuant to the general operating and flight rules in 14 CFR part 91, or pursuant to a Letter of Deviation Authority (LODA) issued under 14 CFR part 125, § 125.3."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New Pilot Records Database Resource Guide Now Available

With the first compliance date for the FAA’s new Pilot Records Database (PRD) regulations quickly approaching on September 8th, NBAA has created the Pilot Records Database Resource Guide to help Association members understand and comply with the new PRD regulations.

Access the NBAA members-only Pilot Records Database Resource Guide.

In May, the FAA published the final rule establishing Part 111, Pilot Records Database including new mandates for certain aircraft operators with the intent to improve safety by improving the pilot hiring process. Operators required to submit and review information in the PRD include:

	•	Part 119 certificate holders
	•	Operators who perform operations under the fractional ownership rules
	•	Air tour operators holding a letter of authorization

Entities required to report information to the PRD include operators listed above, plus:

	•	Entities conducting public aircraft operations
	•	Corporate flight departments (as defined in the PRD rule) and specific entities operating under Part 125
	•	A trustee appointed by a bankruptcy court for an operator or entity subject to the reporting requirements

The first PRD compliance deadline is quickly approaching on Sept. 8th - now is the time to familiarize yourself with the new PRD regulations and NBAA is here to help!

View the NBAA members-only PRD Resource Guide

Taste of Hope presented by Wings of Hope - Sept 25th 2021

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 22:12:34 GMT

Plane Wash - 7/17/21 @ Wings of Hope

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 22:10:49 GMT

Remembering Darryl D-Man Johnson

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:59:36 GMT

By now most of you have heard that we lost our friend, mentor and First Shift Supervisor - Darryl Johnson. Darryl, in his almost 25 years at TACAir, came to work every day striving to do his best, leading by example, and motivating you whether you felt like you needed it or not. He lived his life to selflessly help others which he passionately did until his passing. His loss is a profound one, and the void he leaves will never be filled.

Be glad you got to know so such a great soul. You will continue to experience the gift of his positivity each day if you choose to listen. You will not meet another like him.

Godspeed, D-Man.

Darryl Johnson
Visitation (pass Through)
Friday, March 19, 2021
0900-1000
Mount Beulah Church
7823 Racine Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63133

Due to COVID restrictions the private funeral service will be live streamed. We will provide details when we receive them.

Darryl, Jeanette and family thank all for the outpouring of love and support.

NBAA, AOPA Express Concerns Over FAA’s Pilot Records Database NPRM

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 14:18:08 GMT

NBAA, AOPA Express Concerns Over FAA’s Pilot Records Database NPRM

Contact: Dan Hubbard, 202-783-9360, dhubbard@nbaa.org

Washington, DC, Aug. 6, 2020 – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) today sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Steve Dickson expressing their “serious concerns” with the agency’s proposed rulemaking regarding the Pilots Records Database (PRD).

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and AOPA President Mark Baker emphasized their support for the PRD’s high-level intent to improve aviation safety by allowing commercial air carriers to access a pilot’s records and other pertinent FAA information prior to making a hiring decision.

However, the agency’s notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) would also place “burdensome and costly requirements on general aviation, with little to no safety benefit,” the leaders wrote. “Our industry continuously demonstrates its commitment to proactive and performance-based safety innovations, but in our opinion, the proposed PRD requirements for general aviation will not improve safety.”

Read the full letter to the FAA.

A recent survey of NBAA members meeting the NPRM’s definition of a “corporate flight department” found those operators received less than one Pilot Record Improvement Act (PRIA) request every two and a half years. However, to comply with the proposal’s mandates would require many Part 91 non-commercial operators to invest in new systems and hire more staff to record their pilots’ flight information in the PRD after every flight.

For example, NBAA calculated a small business aviation flight department would spend approximately $9,100 annually per aircraft in administrative costs to populate the database under the current NPRM, when that money could be better invested in technologies like performance-based safety innovations.

“All of this would impose significant additional costs for many small general aviation businesses without providing useful insights for air carrier hiring decisions, as carriers already review a pilot’s logbook to verify currency prior to employment,” the letter read.

Bolen and Baker further noted the proposed rulemaking incorporates few of the many recommendations provided by GA stakeholders who participated in the PRD Aviation Rulemaking Committee to inform the agency’s rulemaking process. Their letter also pointed to the hundreds of AOPA and NBAA members who have detailed their concerns about the NPRM.

“In reviewing the legislative intent behind the PRD and the feedback provided by the general aviation community, we believe our recommendations can improve the NPRM without compromising safety,” they wrote. “[W]e look forward to staying in communication with you and your team as we receive additional information on potential impacts to our members.”

During an Aug. 4 NBAA Virtual Business Aviation Town Hall discussion, Dickson expressed his willingness to work with industry stakeholders to address concerns about the NPRM and its seeming overreach.

“I certainly understand that it’s not a one size fits all here,” he said. “We have to take a look at the burden on different operators … I will certainly commit to you that we will take all [comments] into consideration as we work toward having a final rule out there.”

# # #

Founded in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful. The association represents more than 11,000 company and professional members and provides more than 100 products and services to the business aviation community, including the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), the world’s largest civil aviation trade show. Learn more about NBAA at nbaa.org.

Members of the media may receive NBAA Press Releases immediately via email. To subscribe to the NBAA Press Release email list, submit the online form.

Sabre One Rescue

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:40:23 GMT

Sabre One Rescue

The Missouri Aviation Historical Society has established a project to rescue the very first Sabreliner ever built, which is currently sitting at the Perryville MO airport. This jet was truly the first successful business jet, as it predated the Learjet into service by one year. The Sabreliner also has huge ties to Missouri as North American Aviation who had originally developed the airplane to a USAF request for a utility/trainer jet designated the T-39 had no experience in marketing civilian aircraft and went to Remmert-Werner at Lambert and gave them full distribution rights. So they were built in LA and then flown to St. Louis for customer completion. In later years operations moved to Perryville, MO. Our goal is to bring Sabre One to SUS and place on static display behind the F-101 along the boulevard. I figured some of your members might like to assist with our fund raising goal of $25,000.00 which we are about 2/3 of the way complete. The attached photo shows 282-001 along with serial # 2 in front of the hangar at LAX in 1963. Sabre One is nearest the hangar, 002 was Pet Milk's airplane. Please see attached flyer and if you have any questions please contact me.

Very Respectfully,

Dan O'Hara
President, Missouri Aviation Historical Society
doharav8@gmail.com

8th Annual Aviation Trivia Night Dedication Booklet 2020

Sat, 29 Aug 2020 18:47:21 GMT

Click here for a pdf of the Dedication Booklet

Taste of Hope presented by Wings of Hope - Sept 26th 2020

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 19:31:41 GMT

NBAA Challenges FAA’s Dismissal of Additional Comment Time for New Pilot-Reporting Proposal, Sounds Call to Action

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 20:01:06 GMT

NBAA Challenges FAA’s Dismissal of Additional Comment Time for New Pilot-Reporting Proposal, Sounds Call to Action

Contact: Dan Hubbard, 202-783-9360, dhubbard@nbaa.org

Washington, DC, June 19, 2020 – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today called upon the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to rethink its questionable decision to deny requests from NBAA and others in the industry for additional time to comment on new, onerous pilot-reporting requirements.

The FAA’s new data-gathering criteria, outlined in a 200-page Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), introduce sweeping new mandates for certain Part 91 operators and others to submit a raft of additional pilot data to the agency, through the use of an electronic Pilot Records Database (PRD). Although the FAA’s new rule was issued March 30, the agency has elected to disallow additional time for pilots and other affected parties to offer first-hand perspectives on the proposal’s most-troubling elements.

“Make no mistake: this plan raises serious privacy, administrative and other concerns in an era of big-data gathering, sharing and use,” said Brian Koester, NBAA’s director of flight operations and regulations. “Certainly, the proposal has the potential to create efficiencies for air carriers under current data-reporting laws. That said, the rules would not enhance safety for everyone, they propose substantial new regulatory burdens for a large segment of the Part 91 community, and for many NBAA members, the plan could create more problems than it solves.”

Koester noted that the new FAA rules would expand the data-collection requirement provisions outlined in the Pilot Records Improvement Act (PRIA). That legislation, enacted in 1997, was intended simply to establish requirements for airlines to conduct pilot-background checks – including aviation experience and history, drug and alcohol testing results and driver-registration records – as part of the hiring process.

As a result of congressional updates to PRIA in 2010, the FAA’s newly proposed rule would widely broaden this mandate, in the process layering on a new administrative burden for Part 91 operators, which often count only a handful of employees in their ranks.

The flaws in the FAA’s new mandates are all the more troubling, given the nearly decade-long effort on pilot-reporting requirements, in which NBAA has been a supportive partner to government. In 2011, the FAA chartered a government-industry Aviation Rulemaking Committee to explore reporting criteria, partly in response to the fatal 2009 Colgan Air accident in Buffalo, NY.

Over the ensuing nine years, a concerted effort was undertaken to examine options for increasing the efficacy of the information in the database, while mitigating concerns raised by NBAA and others. Nevertheless, the resulting rule from the FAA looked past many of those concerns, and only 90 days have been provided for stakeholders to comment on the plan, including its exhaustive list of more than 20 additional technical questions for affected stakeholders.

“It is exasperating that the FAA has given industry just 90 days to unpack a complicated plan amassed over nine years, and released as the aviation community fights for its survival during COVID-19,” said Koester. “It would not seem unreasonable to allow another 30 days for discussion, so we are pursuing other means to encourage the FAA to provide for this minimal, reasonable accommodation.

“Further, given the FAA’s request for industry input on over 20 technical questions, it seems this rulemaking process would have benefitted from an Advanced NPRM to allow the FAA to receive preliminary industry feedback, and include those perspectives in a more thorough and polished proposal.”

With that in mind, Koester pointed to a new NBAA resource association members can use to digest the massive proposal and develop their individual responses for the FAA to help ensure industry’s voice is heard.

The NBAA Regulatory Alert provides operating members with an overview of the proposed rule, highlights concerning provisions, and includes instructions for submitting comments to the FAA. Link to NBAA’s Regulatory Alert and make your voice heard.

“The public comment period for the NPRM ends June 29, 2020, so we need everyone to make their voices heard today,” Koester concluded.

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FAA: Relief for Certain Persons and Operations During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19) Outbreak

Mon, 04 May 2020 14:41:13 GMT

This Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) provides regulatory relief to persons who have been unable to comply with certain training, recent experience, testing, and checking requirements due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19) outbreak. This relief allows operators to continue to use pilots and other crew members in support of essential operations during this period. Additionally, this SFAR provides regulatory relief to certain persons and pilot schools unable to meet duration and renewal requirements due to the outbreak. This rule also allows certain air carriers and operators to fly temporary overflow aircraft, a need resulting from the outbreak, to a point of storage pursuant to a special flight permit with a continuing authorization.

You can find more information at this NBAA website:

https://nbaa.org/press-releases/nbaa-applauds-faas-covid-19-relief-on-ga-pilot-medicals-proficiency-other-regulations/

BAAMO 2020 Postponed due to COVID-19

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 19:53:05 GMT

Happy Spring. As I sit here on my porch overlooking the beautiful green grass and flowers starting to bloom, we should be busily planning our 44th Annual Business Aviation Association Memorial Open golf tournament. This is the longest running aviation tournament and a major source of funds for the two charities that benefit from the funds we raise.

I was looking forward to this year's event. I don't know if everyone is aware, but BAAMO is what led me to my current job at Wings of Hope. My older brother John Henke was a past chair of BAAMO and used to make our mom, an avid golfer play in the tournament. That is how our family heard of Wings of Hope, and subsequently led to us selecting Wings to be the recipient of the memorials when our dad, August Henke, passed away. My chairing of the event this year, really felt like I had come full circle and I am proud to following in John's footsteps.

However, at this time we have no choice but to postpone this tournament. Even if things are starting to get back to some amount of normalcy by the original date of May 18, the committee feels that travel may still be somewhat limited and we will all be very busy playing catch up.

We have secured Wednesday, September 23 as our new date at the same location, Old Hickory golf course. The BAAMO committee will restart the planning later this summer as things start to reopen and recover.

Stay safe, well and 6 feet over there. We will see everyone when this is over.

Thank you,

Beth Henke-Campbell
BAAMO Chair 2020
golf@gslbaa.org

Remembering "Butch" Giessman

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 17:56:58 GMT

Arthur C. "Butch" Giessman
August 30, 1949 - March 29, 2020

It is with a heavy heart that we wish to inform you that A.C. “Butch” Giessman passed away March 29, 2020. The St. Louis Aviation community and industry as a whole, lost a true pioneer, visionary and friend.

A graduate of Parks College – St. Louis University, he held a degree in Aeronautical Maintenance Engineering and held several positions within his lengthy aviation career. Most notably as the founder of AVMATS, where he was currently the Chairman of the Board. He worked hard to develop the company as a world-wide resource, first for the Sabreliner aircraft and other airframes later. He was active in GSLBAA, having served on the Board as well as in other capacities. He was also an early member and past president of PAMA.

Most recently, Butch was a strong advocate and an active Board Member for Wings of Hope. His knowledge of aviation and his love of humanity made him a particularly good fit for this position. His personality was larger than life and always found a way to put others first.

He was a friend to all who knew him and will be sorely missed.

– Blue skies and tailwinds, Butch.

Obituary

Remembering Barry Oxenhandler

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 17:01:36 GMT

Barry Oxenhandler passed on November 1, 2019. Barry started Enterprise’s flight department in 1976 and retired in 2004. He was the Chief Pilot.

Graveside service at:

Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery
7500 Olive Boulevard
November 5, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm

Obituary, Memories and Service Info

Remembering Paul Haglin - Spirit of St. Louis Airport Founder

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 23:11:55 GMT

Rev. Paul D. Haglin, 90, of Chesterfield, passed away on October 17, 2019 at Delmar Gardens-Chesterfield. He was born on March 23, 1929 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Preston and Mildred (Daunt) Haglin and brother of Preston Haglin II. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with an aeronautical engineering degree, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served his country and was honorably discharged. Paul and Gretel (Staver) were united in marriage in 1953. They had four children together, Christopher, Alexis, Edward and Philip. Paul was an aerospace engineer for McDonnell-Douglas and an avid private pilot. After tiring of long wait times for private take-offs at Lambert Airport, he dreamed of opening up a general aviation airport. He used his inheritance to buy the land and develop the airport in the area of Chesterfield known as Gumbo. The Spirit of St. Louis Airport opened in 1965, and quickly became the largest privately owned airport in the country. Then St. Louis County purchased the airport in 1980. In honor of his achievements, St. Louis County declared May 4th as Paul Haglin day. There is a street named Paul Haglin drive in Chesterfield Valley. In 2017, he received a lifetime achievement award from Progress 64 West. After founding the airport, Paul served as a Pastor for 44 years, authoring three Christian books. Paul had a radio show called "Letters of Faith" that ran for fifteen minutes everyday for fifteen years in the 70's-80's. He was an All American rifle shooter and an accomplished sailboat racer.

He is survived by his loving family; Alexis and husband Mark Richert of Chesterfield, Edward (Ted) Haglin of Colorado, Philip (Keeler) Haglin of St. Louis and three grandchildren; Tali and husband Jared Shaw of Trabuco Canyon, CA, Paul Haglin of Denver, Co and Paige Haglin of Florida.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his son: Christopher, his wife and brother.

He will be sadly missed and long remembered by all those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 1p.m- 4 p.m. at The Crossing at Chesterfield 114 N Eatherton Road Chesterfield, MO 63005 1-636-532-1212

Memorial Service will also be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at 2 p.m. at The Crossing at Chesterfield 114 N Eatherton Road Chesterfield, MO 63005 1-636-532-1212

Memorial Gifts- Gateway 61 Church 17550 Wild Horse Creek Rd. Chesterfield, MO 63005

Obituary and Guest Book

Steve Hadley: Our new NBAA Regional Representative

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 03:05:31 GMT

Steve Hadley will be the new NBAA Regional Representative for the Southwest Central Region since Bob Quinn announced his retirement last month. Steve is well known to us through his support of the regional groups and we look forward to working with him in his new role.

Please see Steve’s introduction:

I have been a NBAA regional representative for more than 13 years representing the Southwestern states and we are now adding the states of Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri to my area. I also serve as the Senior Director of the Regional Program and the NBAA staff liaison to the NBAA Local and Regional Group Committee.

As just a brief review of my operational background prior to NBAA, I have been flying since 1981 and have served as a chief pilot and director of operations for both part 91 and part 135 operators as well as having been vice president of a FBO in Texas where I now live with my family.

Having been raised in Missouri with my undergraduate work at Drury College and graduate work at Southwest Missouri State College, both in Springfield. So I am not a new comer to Missouri and am very familiar with the Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association.

As you know, having worked with Bob Quinn, the NBAA regional representatives all work with pretty much anyone and everyone that has an impact on business aviation, its partners and our communities while striving to make our NBAA members' businesses more effective.

In any event, I look forward to meeting you all in St. Louis at the earliest chance, but in the meantime, please feel free to call on me for any of your industry questions or operational issues and I will be happy to help in any way possible.

Thank you so much and have a great week!

Best regards!

Steve

Bob Quinn, NBAA Central Region Representative, Retires

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 01:01:30 GMT

Bob Quinn, GSLBAA Board Member

Washington, DC, June 30, 2019 – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced that Bob Quinn, the association’s Central regional representative, will retire on June 30, after 13 years of service on behalf of NBAA members in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Since joining NBAA in 2006, Quinn has been a tireless advocate for the interests of business aviation in the Midwest. His significant communication talents and extensive knowledge of the business aviation industry have made him a highly credible and knowledgeable advocate for aviation at state legislatures, regulatory agencies, airport organizations and more.

“Bob’s unmatched networking skills have been highly effective in bringing a variety of interests together and in facilitating successful programs and partnerships,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “His strong operational background and understanding of airspace and airport issues have greatly benefited business aviation operators in the Central region.”

Bolen noted that Quinn’s input for airspace redesign efforts--including RNAV arrivals and departures--in the St. Louis, Chicago and Detroit metropolitan areas was instrumental to their successful implementation.

“Bob has ably represented a large region of the country, and his knowledge and advocacy for business aviation will be missed,” said Steve Hadley, NBAA regional programs senior director and Southwest regional representative. “We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.”

Quinn is a past president and 30-year member of the Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association (GSLBAA), considered to be the second oldest regional business aviation group in the nation.

After graduating from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in industrial administration, Quinn started his aviation career as a design engineer with McDonnell Douglas, later working for the Trane Company and Emerson Electric in engineering and marketing positions. Over his more than 50-year aviation career, he has accumulated almost 17,000 hours with eight type ratings on his ATP plus an A&P and Inspection Authorization, and has more than 25 years of experience as a corporate charter pilot.

Prior to joining NBAA, Quinn was a Gulfstream captain with TAG Aviation, and has flown an array of Gulfstreams from the G-2 thru the G-550 and operated them in every continent except Antarctica. He is still flying his Christen Eagle II biplane, which is based at Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS).

According to NBAA’s Hadley, the association will soon be announcing a realignment of the U.S. regions covered by the regional representatives.

At the recent NBAA Regional Group Leadership Round Table, Bob Quinn was presented with the "Order of the Silk Scarf Award" by NBAA for diligence, industry, and persistence in nurturing, improving and enjoying aviation!

Edward Bolen, President and CEO of NBAA, wrote a personal note for Bob's retirement:

Congratulations to Bob on his years of service to NBAA and contributions to business aviation in general. Bob has been a cooperate pilot in the St Louis area for many years as well as a contributor and leader in the local business aviation community. He has served as a GSLBAA Board member, officer and BAAMO committee chairman, providing foundational leadership that has helped stimulate the growth of GSLBAA over the years.

Bob continues to serve on the GSLBAA Board and will be an integral part going forward.

GSLBAA Member, Keith Mueller, Inducted into Illinois Aviation Hall of Fame

Tue, 14 May 2019 03:58:14 GMT

2019 Illinois Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee:
Keith Mueller, GSLBAA Member
Illinois Aviation Hall of Fame

Keith Mueller is a flight instructor, mechanic and aviation educator. He has flown as a corporate pilot and served many hours as a flight instructor. Mueller began as a mechanic for Ozark Airline, which was later merged into Trans World Airlines and then finally became part of American Airlines. Mueller retired from American as Central Regional Manager for Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering in 2015.

Mueller was a flight instructor and Assistant Chief Flight Instructor with the Belleville Area College Aviation Program in the 1980s. He later became the part-time coordinator for that program until it was discontinued. Belleville Area College became Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) and Mueller, while still working at the airlines, became the part-time Aviation Program Coordinator for SWIC. He developed the Aviation Pilot Training Program, the Aviation Management Program and then the Aircraft Dispatcher Program.

In addition to Mueller’s significant accomplishments with the airlines and SWIC, he has a long history of volunteer service in the aviation community. He has promoted aviation to local school districts teachers and students in St. Clair, Madison, Randolph and Monroe counties. In 2017, he was a planner and participant for a STEM Aviation Day at MidAmerica Airport that was attended by over 200 local teachers. He is a member of EAA Chapter 64 and participates consistently in their Young Eagles program. He provides leadership in the Greater St. Louis Flight Instructor Association, and volunteers at the Greater St. Louis Air and Space Museum. He is always a willing mentor to young adults interested in aviation. We salute you for your contributions to the aviation program at SWIC, your mentorship efforts and your devotion to the aviation community.

GSLBAA Recipient of GSLFIA Spirit of St. Louis Award

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 00:30:00 GMT

The Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association is honored to receive the 2018 "Spirit of St. Louis Award" from the Greater St. Louis Flight Instructors Association.

Remembering Dorothy White

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 00:29:28 GMT

Dorothy “Dar” Jane White
November 8, 1955 – April 15, 2019

Dorothy White, 63, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2019. Beloved wife of Greg Kruse; loving mother of Jennifer (Christopher) Caldwell, Carrie Seeler, and Katie (Ross) Lindemann; treasured grandmother of Kyle (Kayla) Dyer, Courtney Caldwell, and Paige Lindemann; cherished great-grandmother of Kimberly and Kollyn; dear sister of Bill White and Robert (Wanda) White; dear sister-in-law of Daniel Libby, Mary Lou Omick, and Rich Kruse; dear aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Theodora White and her sister, Margie Libby.

Dorothy worked in private aviation for 30 years. She sat on the board for the Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association Educational Foundation, even serving as president for one year. In her spare time she enjoyed working in her garden and traveling back to her home state of New Jersey to see her “Jersey Girls”. Dorothy’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren and entertaining with all of them attending. She was a very caring person, with family stretching beyond blood; Many of her friends became family. Dorothy will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

SERVICES: A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2019, from 2 PM – 6 pm at Hutchens-Stygar Funeral & Cremation Center, 5987 Mid Rivers Mall Dr., (St. Charles) with a memorial service immediately following at 6 PM at Hutchens-Stygar. In lieu of flowers memorial donations appreciated to Wings of Hope.

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