Sustainable Aviation Program

Sustainable Aviation Program

Four new electric airplanes arrived at Chandler Airport. This is part of the Sustainable Aviation Program. The project involved the Cities of Mendota and Reedley, CALSTART, and Reedley College. This initiative is one of the first of its kind in the nation and aims to train students in electric aviation.

In 2018, the Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA) provided $1,071,348 for the Sustainable Aviation Project. This funding bought electric airplanes. It also started the student pilot training program in Fresno County.

“The FCTA is excited to offer new chances in solar and electric power for our students. This helps shape a brighter future,” said Supervisor Buddy Mendes, FCTA Chair.

The Measure C New Technology Reserve Program celebrated a historical day in aviation on May 9, 2024. Student pilot Josiah Bohanon flew for the first time in an all-electric airplane. He flew with co-pilot Joseph Oldham, the founder of New Vision Aviation, a non-profit organization.

A pilot and student are pictured sitting in an electric plane.
An electric plane is pictured parked on the tarmac. It has the Measure C logo on the tail.
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