Highlights from recent WAYPOINTS.
For the full version of the June 23, 2025 edition, click here.
State Provides $5 Million in Additional CARB Funding
Governor Ferguson signed the state budget on May 20, appropriating $5 million in additional funds for the Community Aviation Revitalization Board (CARB) loan program. The CARB loan program provides low-interest loans for capital projects at public use airports that generate revenue or reduce costs to make airports more self-sustainable.
CARB offers loans up to $1.2 million at a fixed 2% interest rate. Loans can be up to 20 years with an optional 3-year loan repayment deferral period. To date, CARB has funded 23 projects for $14.5 million. Projects have included hangars, fueling facilities, airport utility infrastructure, a multipurpose building that included a restaurant, an aviation workforce training facility, acquisition of an existing terminal building, and airport equipment. Over 78% of the projects have been successfully completed.
The Community Aviation Revitalization Board (CARB) is meeting in October to award funds and is accepting applications. The initial deadline for applications is Friday, October 19, 2025. For an application or more information, contact Dave Chenaur, Aviation Loan Program Manager at chenaud@wsdot.wa.gov or 360-628-1767 (cell). The loan application and other loan program information is also posted on WSDOT Aviation’s website, https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/aviation/ community-aviation-revitalization-board-carb-loan-program
Walla Walla Celebrates New Improvements
On Monday, June 16, the Port of Walla Walla hosted a well-attended Dedication and Open House. Visitors were allowed to explore the newly improved security screening and gate area and the new Port Administrative Offices on the second floor of the Terminal Building. Each office was planned to take advantage of a wide view of the hills and the airport.
Longtime aviator and Walla Walla Airport Manager Larry Adams was honored with lavish praise for his past work in the field of aviation, with the new conference room being named The Larry Adams Conference Room. Current Airport Manager Jennifer Skoglund praised Mr. Adams for his guidance and mentorship.
Representatives from Horizon/Alaska Airlines received recognition and praise for their 40 years of service at the Walla Walla Regional Airport.
Air Race Classic Comes to Spokane
After many years, the Air Race Classic is coming to Spokane. This historical all-women's air race began in 1929 and has continued every year since, only pausing during WWII. The 2025 race begins in Fairhope, AL continuing through 11 states, with the terminus at Felts Field Airport in Spokane. Typically, 50 or more general aviation planes from all over the United States compete, each with a pilot and copilot.
The ARC begins on June 17 and ends in Spokane on June 20. If you would like to help volunteer at the Terminus or if you know women who would like to enter the race, go to www.airraceclassic.org.
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
I am sincerely honored to have been elected President of WAMA for 2025. It is my privilege to serve in this capacity, as I am committed to exploring innovative ways to enhance our organization and effectively address the needs of our members.
In alignment with WAMA’s Mission Statement, which emphasizes our commitment to strengthening airport management and fostering professionalism among airport operators in Washington State, I look forward to continuing our alliance.
As we prepare for 2025, I am excited about our board and committee members' ongoing commitment to advancing our organization's goals. During my presidency, I plan to focus on enhancing our processes, continuing outreach to small and rural airports, and increasing student engagement in WAMA.
I look forward to working collaboratively with all of you to further our mission and make a meaningful impact in our industry. Thank you for your trust and support.
Lorene Robinson, C.M., ACE
President, Washington Airport Management Association
Thank you to all of our sponsors, JUB, DOWL, Paine Field Snohomish County, CivilAir Engineers PLLC, Precision Approach Engineering, Applied Pavement Technology, Walla Walla Regional Airport, Arlington Municipal Airport and the City of Arlington, Century West Engineering, The Port of Skagit, and Morrison-Maierle for sponsoring the biweekly Waypoints news bulletin. Your support means so much to us.
