The Department of Aviation develops, promotes, and advances aviation in Virginia for the benefit of all. The agency partners with airports and other in Virginia to improve airport facilities, provide safe air transportation, cultivate new technologies, inspire the next generation, and foster economic development in the Commonwealth.

The Department of Aviation will support Virginia in being an economic development leader and a world gateway by embracing new aviation technologies, improving and growing Virginia’s aviation system, and supporting  airports in the Commonwealth..

1. Service – We are proud to serve Virginia’s aviation community and recognize that providing quality service to our customers is our number one priority.


2. Professionalism – We are dedicated professionals working as a team and will treat our customers and each other with courtesy and respect.


3. Accountability – We use best business practices and sound judgment in support of our aviation network and are accountable for our actions to the citizens of the Commonwealth.


4. Diversity, Opportunity and Inclusion – We are dedicated to being a workplace that is reflective of the population we serve and foster an environment in which every individual has the opportunity to prosper and contribute to the mission of the agency. In our outreach and education efforts, we are committed to reaching the underserved.


5. Innovation – We encourage innovative thinking and pursue new technologies and creative solutions that add value for our customers or improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our organization.


6. Balance – We strive for a healthy balance in our organization, providing for community involvement, personal and professional growth, and personal and professional happiness.

The Department of Aviation develops, promotes, and advances aviation in Virginia for the benefit of all. We partner with airports and others in Virginia to improve airport facilities, provide safe air service, cultivate new technologies, inspire the next generation, and foster economic development in the Commonwealth.

Section 5.1-1.5 and 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia establish the powers of the Department of Aviation. The Department is responsible for administering the provisions of Chapters 1, 3, 5, and 8.1 of Title 5.1 of the Code; planning for the development of a state aviation system; promoting aviation in the Commonwealth in the interest of the public; registering aircraft, licensing airports and landing areas; and providing assistance to cities, towns, counties and other governmental subdivisions for the planning, development, construction and operation of airports, landing fields and other aviation facilities.

The agency offers a variety of programs and services to the aviation community. The Airport Services Division provides technical assistance and expertise to assist eligible airport sponsors with a variety of improvement activities that range from planning to construction. The division manages funding programs for improvement projects and supports activities to enhance safe airport environments. The Communications and Education Division supports the department’s organizational mission by helping to build the public’s appreciation and awareness of the importance of aviation in the Commonwealth.  Responsibilities include managing communication activities and outreach efforts for the sharing of relevant aviation information to the current and next generation of aviation professionals, student pilots, educators, aviation enthusiasts, the media, and general public, and aircraft registration compliance. The Flight Operations Division operates, maintains, and schedules state-owned aircraft to provide safe and secure transportation for emergency services, economic development prospects, the Administration and other Commonwealth of Virginia agencies  to conduct their business. The Finance and Administration Division provides essential services to support the agency’s mission by performing the day-to-day business operations. This division is committed to providing efficient and cost-effective business support to the agency’s divisions and the Office of the Director.

DOAV will continue to provide unsurpassed service in its mission to ensure a safe, efficient, and modern aviation system in the Commonwealth.  The Department will leverage its resources and technologies to advance the aviation network through continued efforts to provide financial assistance to the public-use airports in the Commonwealth; and serving the Commonwealth citizens by providing economic opportunities and continually improving access to the national air transportation system.

In collaboration with the Virginia Aviation Board, we will advise on the strategic investment of Commonwealth resources in order to maximize economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for Virginians. The Department  has implemented and will continue modifications and improvements to its Airport Capital Improvement Program and will prioritize investment in a way that leverages maximum federal support.  Partnering with the Virginia Aviation Board (VAB) and the Virginia Airport Operators' Council (VAOC), the modifications are intended to increase transparency, optimize program funding impact, and increase coordination between airport development plans and airline service at commercial airports in Virginia.

DOAV is undertaking specific projects that aim to lead advancements in the implementation of emerging aviation technologies for increased efficiency, safety and integration of new advanced air mobility platforms at General Aviation and Commercial Service airports. These technologies are focused on improving access to communities and economic development opportunities. 

The Department will continue to deploy targeted initiatives to address future aviation workforce issues and general awareness of aviation's impact on the Commonwealth. We will do this through aviation education programs such as its mobile classroom, support for aviation training programs, and opportunities for public engagement.

Major IT Investments (Current):

Aviation Service Manager (ASM):  ASM is a long-serving software program used for grant administration and aircraft registration. The Department utilizes this vendor-based web tool to manage airport facility inspections, grant and project management, based aircraft tracking, aeronautical statistics and aircraft registration as well as perform activity analysis and forecasting. Over the last four years, the agency has undergone several security upgrades in meeting Sec 525 requirements.

Website: The agency completed a revamping of its website, which launched June 2024. The website, which is available 24/7, is the main information gateway to the agency.  Whether you are an agency customer or someone simply seeking information about aviation in the Commonwealth, the DOAV website is the one-stop shop that delivers. It meets Commonwealth security requirements with periodic updates and audits conducted to ensure continued compliance.  

Virginia Flight Information Exchange (VA-FIX):  In 2021, the department, in conjunction with the Virginia Innovative Partnership Corporation (VIPC, formerly Center for Innovative Technology), Virginia Department of Transportation, and ATA, launched VA-FIX. This innovative program provides a platform for state and local public safety and other government agencies to publish and share safety and community advisory information with each other, with unmanned systems, unmanned system operators, and the public to promote transparency and safety. The publicly available interface provides state and local public safety and government information, while a secure government operations platform gives government agencies the ability to publish advisory, operational, and emergency notifications. VA- FIX is part of Virginia's approach to address key policy and safety concerns at the state and local level while also maintaining a UAS airspace that is one of the most free and open in the nation.

Business Aircraft Records and Tracking (BART):  BART is a web-based aircraft-scheduling tool used by our Flight Operations Division as a one-stop turn key management system. Its uses include flight scheduling, detail tracking, historical information, crew management and expense information.

DocuSign: In August 2024, the department implemented DocuSign for its airport grant agreement and amendments. The implementation of this software program has substantially reduced the time and cost for airports and the agency. Previously, 28% of grants and amendments were fully executed in 10 days. Now, 75% of grants and amendments are fully-executed within 10 business days; with 40% fully executed in two days. As this program is VITA and ECOS-approved, the security requirements have been fulfilled.

IT Projects (Future):

Electronic Request for Reimbursement: Work is underway to implement the opportunity for request for reimbursements to be submitted electronically. This process will allow airports to submit requests through a secure system, with project managers having electronic access to review and approve. This will expedite the process to move grant funding to airport sponsors. Full implementation of this process is expected to be completed December 31, 2024.

Online Aircraft Registration and Payment Portal: The agency had originally contracted with a Commonwealth-approved vendor for the development and implementation of an online aircraft registration and payment portal system. Due to several issues and delays, the contract was terminated. The agency has consulted with another Commonwealth-approved vendor to move forward with this portal. Work is expected to begin by October 1, with portal launch by September 30, 2025. The agency is working with VITA to ensure that all security requirements are fulfilled.

The Department must deal with the effects of an aging work force: While 20% of the Department's employees are retirement eligible today, an additional 24% will be retirement eligible within five years. The average age of the agency workforce is 48 and the average number of years of service is 15. Because the department has fewer than 40 employees and the majority of its jobs are highly specialized, there is a high risk for single points of failure. The agency has undertaken some cross-training and process documentation efforts but also needs to focus on succession planning. To attract and retain a skilled workforce, DOAV has reviewed and updated its compensation plan. Additionally, every employee has an Individual Development Plan (IDP) incorporated in their Employee Work Profile to encourage professional development.

Current workforce initiatives include:

• The department is in the beginng stages of implementing a tracking program to not only record professional development but also to encourage employees to take advantage of programs and training for advancement opportunities.


• The department implemented a supervisor training program in 2024 to establish consistency in the enforcement of human resource policies and procedures.In addition, the agency director has continued his one-on-one meetings with staff, reinforcing his open-door policy. All-staff meetings are also conducted twice per year for information sharing.

DOAV maintains a single plant at Richmond International Airport, consisting of an administrative office building and an aircraft hangar.  Current major projects include hangar ramp rehabilitation and parking log resealing as well as insulation recovery in the hangar. Long-term needs necessitated by condition include repairs and improvements to the administration building.  Continued preventative maintenance and needed repairs improve functionality and the customer experience. 

Several factors may have a significant impact on the agency. While some factors are not within our control, DOAV’s focus is on managing and improving performance in order to mitigate the factors we can control.

Commonwealth Aviation Fund: Although the Department has no control over the funding amounts received from the Transportation Trust Fund, we make every effort to leverage available state funds to maximize federal funding of airport development/improvement projects throughout the Commonwealth. DOAV works closely with its partners, the FAA and local airport sponsors, to ensure that funds are available to support the highest priority airport improvement projects.  Infrastructure support involves expansion, enhancement and rehabilitation of our state aviation system. Aviation contributed $23 billion to Virginia's economy in 2016 and 246,660 jobs. In FY24, more than $23M in discretionary funding for airport projects was awarded, in addition to $16M in entitlements - more than any previous year. It is important for communities and local leaders to know the value that airports bring to their community.

Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Airports in the Commonwealth are slated to receive in excess of $380 million in federal funding to be spread over a five-year period. As a result, a state match in the amount of eight percent, or $6.1 million annually, may be needed to support the federally funded projects. The eligible IIJA projects will compete with other projects funded through the Commonwealth Aviation Fund. 

Aviation Special Fund Revenue (Operational): As a non-General Fund (NGF) agency, DOAV relies heavily on the collection of the highly variable aircraft sales and use taxes (70%) and aviation fuel sales tax (26%). These collections are unstable and are greatly influenced by external factors, such as the economy. The department depends on these revenues for agency operational costs; airport aid programs for maintenance, facilities and equipment, security, rural runway rehabilitation, and promotion; educational programs; and state aircraft operations.  

Work Force: The Department must address multiple workforce issues and the challenges of an ever-changing aviation industry.  

• Aging: Continued crosstraining and knowledge sharing are essential in continuing to provide services without interruption.


• Small and Specialized: Many of DOAV's positions are highly specialized. With such a small staff, single-point failures are a risk.  Crosstraining for such positions is necessary to maintain operations. Additionally, recruitment for individuals with varied skillsets can be a challenge and require greater demand on resources.


• Industry Growth: As the aviation industry changes and grows, review and analysis of vacant positions is conducted to identify areas of greater need/value in providing services. As a result, vacant positions may be reassigned and filled by individuals with new and varied skillsets and experience to meet changing needs and demands.


• Pilots and Mechanics: Competition is fierce; offering competitive compensation is very challenging.

Supply Chain Issues: The availability of aircraft parts and increased fuel prices impact flight operations. Grant projects are impacted by supply chain issues and worker shortages. 

The Department of Aviation's funding is derived from nongeneral fund (NGF) sources to the Commonwealth Aviation Fund (CAF) and the Aviation Special Fund (ASF).

The CAF is funded through transfers (1.5% share) from the Commonwealth's Transportation Trust Fund. The CAF provides grant funding to the 65 public-use airports in the Commonwealth. One of the agency's major objectives is to leverage state funds in order to maximize the federal fund investment for airport improvement projects. Beginning in FY2023 and spanning five years, there will be substantial demand on the CAF not only from standard airport development and improvement projects but also from projects eligible for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act federal funding, requiring an eight-percent state match.

The ASF derives its resources from the aircraft sales and use tax, a percentage of the aviation fuels tax, charges for use of the state aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft registrations and airport license fees. The ASF also supports airport programs not funded by the CAF (maintenance, facilities and equipment, rural runway rehabilitation program, voluntary security, promotions) in addition to agency operations, education grants, state aircraft operations and other agency services. 

Other funds received by the agency are strictly designated for support of the National Air and Space Museum educational programs (license plate revenues), the General Fund appropriation (Governor's Flight fund), and federal grant funds from the Federal Aviation Administration. It is important to note that FAA funded agency projects benefit the Virginia's air transportation system. These projects include obstruction surveys and pavement management surveys at airports and the Air Transportation System Plan.

The Commonwealth Aviation Fund is funded by transfers from the Transportation Trust Fund (1.5% share) and provides funding for eligible airport projects. Approximately 98% of DOAV’s revenues are collected by other state agencies, such as the Departments of Taxation and Motor Vehicles, and transferred to DOAV to support its investment in Virginia’s aviation system. The general fund appropriation is strictly designated to support Governor flights provided by the executive air service.

Virginia airports are economic engines, technology magnets and tourism gateways.  They provide our Virginia citizens access to the National Air Transportation System as well as economic opportunities for the communities they serve.  Virginia's system provides 99% of Virginia's population access to a commercial airport within a 45 minute drive and access to a general aviation airport within a 30 minute drive.  The department works closely with the communities and the Virginia Aviation Board to ensure the airports meet the community needs.  DOAV along with the FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) inspect the Virginia airports to ensure they maintain the highest level of safety and security.  This partnership with the community, DOAV, FAA and TSA, ensure Virginia's aviation system is one of the best in the nation. 

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Financial Assistance Programs: DOAV plans and develops the Commonwealth’s air transportation system through partnerships with the local airport boards and commissions and with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  For FY2024, the agency allocated approximately $27.8 million in state funds (matching $36.3 million in federal funds) for airport related construction, maintenance, security, planning, promotion, and navigational aids and weather reporting equipment in addition to $16.0 million in entitlement funding to commercial service airports.

Airport Services: The Airport Services Division (ASD) conducts statewide aviation planning and maintains the Virginia Air Transportation System Plan. This team provides technical assistance to airport sponsors for airport planning, environmental studies, design and construction of airport facilties, airport maintenance and general aviation airport security and administers the grant program to support such projects.  ASD conducts inspections to improve safety, issues licenses to public-use airports and registers eligible private airports.

Aviation Education & Awareness: The Communications and Education Division promotes aviation in the Commonwealth through aviation awareness and education programs, speaking engagements, briefing documents, the agency website and social media sites, attendance at airport events and aviation tradeshows, and administers the airport promotion grant program for air carrier airports in Virginia.  The Communications and Education Division has developed a robust educational program with the ICON-A5 that includes visits to schools and organizations bringing awareness of education and sharing the joy of flying. Students and the public have the opportunity to sit in the aircraft and “fly” using the flight simulator. A teacher’s grant program is available to educators incorporating aviation in their lesson plans. A grant program is also available to eligible individuals wanting to learn to fly. The division also supports three scholarship programs for rising high school seniors planning to pursue an aviation career.

Aircraft Registration:  The Communications and Education Division manages the aircraft registration program as mandated in the Code of Virginia § 5.1-5.

Executive Flight Services: The Flight Operations Division is responsible for operating, maintaining and scheduling state-owned aircraft to provide safe, secure, and cost-effective transportation for the conduct of the Commonwealth’s business for the Administration's leadership, economic development prospects, and other state agencies, including emergency services, . 

The Department of Aviation understands that an airport is the gateway to the community it serves and is a conduit for economic development. As such, the agency administers various financial programs to support the development and improvement of the 65 public-use airports in the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Aviation Fund (CAF) supports the capital grant program, which is the largest source of state funding for airports in Virginia.  In FY2024, $3,426746  in state funds leveraged $36,300,905 in federal funding for airport development and improvement projects. Sixty-three state-supported projects were also funded by $24,344,870 from the CAF. Additionally, the Department administered $16,000,000 in entitlements to Commercial Service airports to support capital improvement projects. All eligible project requests were successfully funded through the CAF in FY2024.

As a non-General Fund agency, DOAV has a second source of funding – the Aviation Special Fund – that supports projects focused on airport maintenance, facilities and equipment, security, rural airport runway rehabilitation, and promotion programs at the 65 public-use airports throughout the Commonwealth.  For FY24, 100% of the maintenance and promotional funds were allocated. In excess of $2.5 million supported projects for airports in the Commonwealth.  

In addition to financial support, the Airport Services Division (ASD) provides planning and engineering guidance to airports on development and improvement projects. In FY24, ASD implemented an outreach program to conduct increased on-site staff engagements with the airports throughout the Commonwealth. During these engagements, ASD staff provided technical assistance and expertise to assist airport sponsors for the planning, development, promotion, construction, and operation of airports and aviation facilities. Other services, such as obstruction surveys and inspections and airport licensing, were conducted to help ensure airport safety compliance.The annual goal for this program is 189 engagements, an average of three engagements per airport. As of June 2024, the goal was surpassed with 279 engagements. 

The agency’s Communication and Education Division offers an award-winning aviation education program that focuses on both school-based educational opportunities as well as aviation events, such as fly-ins and open houses, at airports that contribute to workforce development.  The goal is to deliver aviation education programs to students using an ICON A5, a mobile classroom. This amphibious aircraft is trailered to schools and introduces students to the opportunity to fly by giving them time and training in the cockpit of this unique aircraft.  In FY24, more than 19,000 students had the opportunity to participate in this aviation education program.

In addition to our educational programs, DOAV also provides significant funding to support people, young and old, who wish to become the next generation of aviation professionals.  Learning to fly is a very expensive undertaking.  DOAV provides funding for student scholarships for those who study aviation in college, but we also offer scholarships for those Virginians who are interested in earning their private pilot’s license or their certified flight instructor credential.  The Department offers a grant program for teachers who develop and integrate aviation-based learning into their lesson plans.  Additionally, DOAV provides $100,000 to support the aviation education and operational needs of the Virginia Wing of the Civil Air Patrol with its 1,000 enrolled cadets. And, finally, DOAV supports aviation education at the National Air & Space Museum’s Hazy Center at Dulles International Airport. This program is funded through aviation license plate purchases through a partnership with the Department of Motor Vehicles,.  

DOAV is a national leader in in the emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector, developing products and services that provide for the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace. An example of this was the development of  the Virginia Flight Information Exchange (VaFIX) which provides critcal safety advisories to drone operators.  DOAV's initial goal for VAFIX had been to grow the drone flight advisories from 1,000 to 2,000.  But, due to explosive growth, we have logged more than 19,000 advisories in FY2024.  Five states have already joined the VaFIX.  Other iniatives in AAM this year included hiring a full-time AAM Manager who has made signifcant strides in developing a strategic vision for AAM implementation and intergration. A component of this strategy will be the recently completed  Minimum Viable Infrastructure Plan to guide implementation and intergration of AAM in the Commonwealth. Additionally, the Department initiated, as a founding member, the AAM Multistate Collaborative, consisting of 27 states, with a goal of harmonizing rules and regulations in the implementation of AAM into the National Air Space. This group is working to present recommendations to the Federal Aviation Administration in early 2025. 

The Department of Aviation provides safe air transportation for the Commonwealth’s leadership, Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and state agencies. The agency’s Flight Operations and Safety Division administers, maintains and schedules state-owned aircraft to provide safe, secure and cost-effective transportation for emergency services, economic development prospects, the Administration and other Commonwealth of Virginia agencies for the conduct of their business.  

By leveraging state funds to maximize federal funds awarded to airports in the Commonwealth, airports are afforded greater growth opportunities leading to more economic development in the communities they serve.

More than $380,000,000 in federal funding has been awarded to public-use airports in the Commonwealth through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This funding is spread over a period of five years, with a potential additional demand on the Commonwealth Aviation Fund in excess of $6,100,000 each year. This demand is in addition to standard funding requests received from the airports each year.

• Review project submissions for eligibility under IIJA

• Confirm state match (8%) availability from the Commonwealth Aviation Fund

• After determining eligibility, submit projects to the Virginia Aviation Board for consideration of approval

Members of the agency's Airport Services Division periodically meet with the airport representatives and Federal Aviation Administration representatives to review and amend, if needed, the airport's AIP. Potential projects are submitted for FAA approval before added to the airport's AIP. Approved projects are then submitted to the Department of Aviation for review, eligibility determination, and submission for approval to the Virginia Aviation Board. If approved, the project receives a grant for the state's eight-percent match.

• Collaborate with airports to regularly update their Federal AIP

• Develop a plan of future projects and timelines

The agency's Airport Services Division collaborates with the Finance Division to identify available Commonwealth Aviation Funds to support projects.

• Review project submissions for eligibility

• Score eligible projects and determine funding availability

• Submit projects to the Virginia Aviation Board for consideration of approval

To develop and deliver cutting-edge aviation programs to students of all ages and the public creating an awareness of aviation and opportunities for career development in an effort to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

Creating greater awareness of aviation and bringing educational opportunities to the public, especially elementary, middle and high school students, is the greatest path in developing an aviation workforce. Having a qualified aviation workforce is a major factor in attracting new aviation businesses to the Commonwealth.

• Maintain a log of the type of education program and the total participants

• Track the number of lesson plans developed by teacher grant recipients

A variety of scholarships and grants are available to students, teachers and the public to invest in and support interest in aviation. This funding helps to grow an awareness of aviation in the Commonwealth.

• Identify the number of grants and total grant amounts awarded

Provide safe and cost-effective transportation for the Commonwealth’s leadership, Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and state agencies by efficiently moving individuals within and outside of the Commonwealth to transact business.

Pilots and mechanics are required to report any accidents, incidents or violations to the Chief Pilot who will investigate and complete necessary reporting.

• Maintain a log of all state aircraft trips

• Maintain a log of any reported accidents, incidents, violations

By continuing to follow recommended maintenance guidelines on all aircraft and following pilot and aircraft mechanic training metrics, the availability and efficiency of the state aircraft provides safe and cost-effective travel for the Commonwealth’s leadership, economic development teams, and state agencies.

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• Maintain a log of all completed training and certifications, required and optional, for all pilots and mechanics

• Identify any discrepancies and take necessary steps to resolve

Establish the framework and strategic plan to prepare Virginia for new aircraft technologies and platforms related to Advanced Air Mobility

Designate an internal team to develop minimum operational infrastructure to support AAM.

• Advise the Virginia Aviation Board on funding initiatives (ie electric/broadband)

• Collaborate with airports, industry, local economic development agencies, and technology providers

• Finalize strategic plan for AAM utilizing MVI guidance and Multi-State Collaborative outcomes

Incorporate planning at airports in the commonwealth to accommodate new platforms and propulsion.

• Coordinate with Airport Services Division staff on upcoming Airport Capital Improvement Program (ACIP)/Airport Layout Plan (ALP) meetings

• Discuss options and potential changes to the ALPs

• Engage with airports to advocate for additional planning considerations

• Work with airports and the FAA to incorporate into planning efforts

In order to meet demands of and move forward with advancements in the aviation industry, the agency will recruit, develop and retain an effective and qualified staff capable of accomplishing the agency's mission.

The agency will evaluate vacated positions to identify where there may be a greater staffing need and if the position should be allocated for another purpose.

• Review division structure for maximum use of personnel resources

• Identify areas where there is a greater need for new services/programs

As part of the Employee Work Profile, employees are encouraged to participate in a minimum of two professional development sessions each evaluation period. The agency is developing a process to record and track completed training and professional development opportunities for each employee. The agency is in the process of developing an employee survey to identify areas where employees feel new or enhanced training is needed.

• Develop training/professional development tracking tool

• Survey employees for their input on needed internal training.

The agency will continue to be good stewards of taxpayer funds by monitoring both revenues and expenditures and ensuring that appropriations are not exceeded. The agency will conduct all fiscal operations in compliance with the CAPP manual and act in a fiscally responsible manner in its offering of services.

Weekly budget reports are posted on a shared drive to be reviewed by any DOAV employee. Budget managers are encouraged to view and track their assigned areas.

• Weekly accounting and appropriation data downloaded into report format

• Budget reports are updated weekly and posted to shared drive

The agency will strive for a success rate of 99% in issuing payments against eligible invoices.

• Track invoices submitted for payment

• Communicate with responsible staff member to ensure documentation is approved and submitted for payment

This service area provides financial assistance to public-use airports for maintenance services and equipment, so the public has safe, convenient and economical access to the national air transportation system. Examples of DOAV financial assistance for airport maintenance include: painting runway markings, drainage system clearing, terminal building rehabilitation, navigational equipment repair and maintenance equipment.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and provides financial assistance for airport maintenance that enables the Department of Aviation to accomplish its mission, which is to improve airport facilities and advance aviation in Virginia.

Allocate funds for maintenance projects to extend the life cycle of existing facilities.

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees.

This service area provides financial assistance to public-use airports for planning, development, construction, safety, security, environmental and operation, so that the public has safe, convenient and economical access to the national air transportation system. Examples of DOAV financial assistance programs include: entitlements; capital, planning and environmental; security; rural runway rehabilitation; and navigational aids and weather reporting equipment.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and provides financial assistance to airports that enables the Department of Aviation to accomplish its mission, which is to which is to improve airport facilities and advanced aviation in Virginia.

Commonwealth Aviation Fund grant program

Facilities and Equipment funding program

Rural Airport Runway funding program

Funding for navigational aids and weather-reporting equipment projects

Develop six-year airport needs reports

This service area is supported by the  Commonwealth Airport Fund (a component of the Transportation Trust Fund) and the Aviation Special Fund . The Commonwealth Airport Fund is a 1.5% modal allocation of the Commonwealth's Transportation Trust Fund to support the capital improvement needs of airports in the Commonwealth. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees. 

This service area provides financial assistance to localities and organizations for aviation education and promotion. The service area is designed to contribute to the economic well-being of the Commonwealth as well as increase awareness and stimulate aeronautical activity throughout Virginia. Examples of support functions include grant-in-aid programs for airport sponsors, aviation support groups and non-profit organizations to address commercial air service development and general aviation services. Results of this service area include public relations, marketing and business plans as well as research and development opportunities for an advanced set of technologies designed to expand general aviation and personal air transportation.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and provides financial assistance in support of the agency's mission to:

• financial assistance to airports

• promote aviation awareness and education

•  emerging new aviation technologies

Allocations of financial assistance for aviation promotion.

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees. The agency is experiencing increased demand for funding to support and develop aviation education.

The Aviation Licensing and Regulation Service Area provides for the registration of aircraft and licensing of airports in the Commonwealth.



•AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION

All aircraft based in Virginia more than 90 days in a 12-month period are required to be registered. The registration requirement includes aircraft which are based at both public-use and private-use airports, heliports and landing areas. In addition to the Private Aircraft registration, the Department also issues Commercial Aircraft Licenses, Non-Commercial Dealer and Commercial Fleet Dealer Licenses and Contract Carrier Permits.



• AIRPORT LICENSING

Public-use airports, and private-use airports within five miles of a public-use airport, are required to be licensed. Owners of private-use airports not within five miles of a public-use airport are only required to register their airports with the Department. Public-use and private-use airport owners or sponsors are required to submit an annual based aircraft survey to the Department. Title 5.1-88.7 of the Code of Virginia provides that every licensed public-use airport must maintain adequate amounts of liability insurance.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and aligns with the Department's mission to ensure compliance with aircraft and airport licensing and to develop, promote and advance aviation in Virginia.

 

Provide accurate, timely and consistent information to the aviation public regarding any and all regulations for the Commonwealth of Virginia.



License all public-use airports and private-use airports within five miles of a public-use airport, register private-use airports, and license all aircraft in Virginia.

Register all eligible aircraft



Provide thorough and consistent inspection and enforcement of all aviation laws and regulations regarding aircraft registrations, airport licensing, and the safe operation of such facilities within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees.

This service area is designed to increase aviation awareness; promote and expand aviation development opportunities; participate in industry events, trade shows, conferences and conventions; develop and provide aviation education opportunities; and promote commercial air service development. The components within this service area are to enhance the Commonwealth's economic development efforts by promoting aviation; educating the public about the benefits of aviation; promoting commercial and general aviation to state, national and international business leaders; assisting with the promotion of commercial air service, both passenger and cargo; and informing young people about the wide variety of current and future aeronautical careers

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and aligns with the Department's mission, which is to:  

• promote and advance aviation in Virginia

• cultivate an environment to educate about new technologies

• promote aviation awareness and education; and

• inspire the next generation

This service area funds programs to advance aviation in the Commonwealth. These programs include: aviation education opportunities, participation in aviation industry events, legislation activities, and supporting aviation and aerospace research.

 

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund and by the Aviation Education Facilities Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees. The Aviation Education Facilities Fund derives its resources from the sale of aviation-oriented license plates by the Department of Motor Vehicles. The agency serves as a clearinghouse for these funds as they are forwarded to the National Air and Space Museum annually.

The General Aviation Personnel Development Service Area administers the Commonwealth's Aviation Safety Program for the pilots and general public of Virginia.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and aligns with the Department's mission, which is to:

• develop, promote, and advance aviation in Virginia for the benefit of all.

• inspire the next generation

• promote aviation awareness and education

This service area is to promote and enhance safety programs for pilots and the general public. 

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees.

This service area provides assistance to cities, towns, counties and other governmental subdivisions for planning, development, construction, safety, security, environmental and operation for the 65-public use airports in the Commonwealth. This service area enforces rules and regulations promulgated by the Virginia Aviation Board. Responsibilities in this service area include developing a state aviation system that provides the public safe, convenient and economical access to the national air transportation system. Examples of air transportation planning and development functions provided include technical assistance to airport sponsors (owners); state aviation system planning; enforcement of environmental and safety regulations; administration of financial assistance programs to localities; and aviation security oversight. This area also includes federal funding awarded to the department for safety and planning projects to identify areas of concern at the airports. Previous federal grant awards include the Payment Management Study, Obstruction Surveys (2), Economic Impact Study, and the five-year Virginia Air Transportation Study. Currently, a grant for a NAVAIDS (navigational and safety equipment) study is underway and scheduled to be completed in early FY26. A second federal grant award is in the application stages to conduct an economic impact study for aviation in the Commonwealth with completion in FY27.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and provides technical and administrative support that enable the Department of Aviation to accomplish its mission, which is to:

• develop, promote, and advance aviation in Virginia

• improve airport facilities

• foster economic development

This service area funds the planning, design, navigational aid, security, safety, maintenance, environmental and construction plans and specifications of the 65-public use airports in the Commonwealth. The performance of on-site airport inspections are periodically conducted to provide the airports guidance on obstruction removal and/or mitigation needed.

Airport sponsors submit funding requests for airport improvement projects that are reviewed and assessed by staff. Eligble projects are submitted to the Virginia Aviation Board for consideration of approval provided sufficient funding is available.

This service area also funds the state match for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants awarded to the agency. FAA grants have sponsored the Airport Obstruction Surveys (2), Economic Impact Study, Pavement Management Study and the Virginia Air Transportation System Plan. An FAA grant for a NAVAIDS study is underway with a target completion of the first quarter of FY26. A second FAA grant is anticipated in FY2025 for a study on aviation's economic impact in the Commonwealth, with completion in FY2027.

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund and grant funds from the Federal Aviation Administration. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees.  The federal funds are utilized to conduct statewide aviation system assessments and planning activities.

The State Aircraft Operations and Maintenance Service Area provides economical and efficient on-demand air transportation for the Governor, Legislature, Economic Development Partnership, and all state agencies to destinations throughout the Commonwealth and the nation. Service includes flight scheduling and planning for stakeholders to ensure their needs are met. Flight crews undergo recurrent flight training and aircraft are maintained to Federal Aviation Administration and manufacturer mandated levels to maximize safety.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-4 of the Code of Virginia and aligns with the Department's mission, which is to:

•  provide executive air service in the Commonwealth

• Provide executive air transportation for the Governor, Cabinet, VEDP, state agencies


• Provide flight scheduling support


• Maintain state-owned, fixed-wing fleet assets in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration and manufacturer mandates


• Review usage of other agency-owned aircraft
  
   

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees. There is a general fund appropriation to support the cost of utilization of the Department''s executive aircraft by the Governor's office.

This service area provides administrative and financial support to the agency's programs and staff. Examples of support functions provided include general management and direction regarding agency programs, accounting operations, budget development and execution, strategic planning, human resource management, information technology services and management, facilities management, and Virginia Aviation Board responsibilities.

This service area is mandated by Section 5.1-1.6 of the Code of Virginia and provides administrative and financial support that enable the Department of Aviation to accomplish its mission, which is to:

• develop, promote, and advance aviation in Virginia for the benefit of all.

• improve airport facilities,

• cultivate new technologies,

• inspire the next generation, 

• foster economic development, and

• provide executive air service in the Commonwealth.

This service area provides support to all agency divisions and the Director's office. This support includes accounting operations, budget development and execution, procurement services, information technology services, human resource management, advanced air mobility and facilities operations. The support of the Virginia Aviation Board is also managed in this service area.

This service area is supported by the Aviation Special Fund. The Aviation Special Fund derives its resources from aircraft sales and use tax, aviation fuels tax, charges for client use of agency executive aircraft, and miscellaneous sources such as aircraft and airport license fees.