OSU aviation program adds new airplanes to fleet

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

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The Ray and Linda Booker Oklahoma State University Flight Center expanded its impressive fleet of aircraft with three new Cirrus SR2 G7 planes, boosting
the fleet’s overall horsepower and enriching the training experience for aviation
students and future professional pilots.

Lance Fortney, program manager at the center, said the new planes represent the latest
advancements in aviation technology, offering students a training experience that
closely mirrors the systems they will encounter in their professional aviation careers
and providing them with a competitive edge in the industry. 

“By having this technology in our fleet, students are getting experience with it and
know how to use it when they go on to the airlines,” Fortney said. 

The Cirrus SR20 G7, with its seventh-generation design, is a substantial upgrade from
the G6 models currently in the fleet. One of the most notable improvements is the
avionics system. The G7 introduces a more advanced touch-screen control system.  

This touch-screen interface simplifies the process of adjusting radio frequencies
and other settings, offering a modern experience that aligns with the advancements
seen in today’s aviation industry. 

Fortney also emphasized the importance of maintaining a fleet that integrates both
innovative and traditional avionic systems. He said he believes that having a mix
of modern and older technologies provides students with a comprehensive understanding
of various aircraft systems. 

“It’s good to have both,” he said. “While the industry is moving toward more modern
technology, understanding older systems gives students a broader base of knowledge.”
 

Introducing the new Cirrus planes has expanded OSU’s fleet to an impressive 45 aircraft.
The move is part of OSU’s broader strategy to maintain its position as a premier aviation
program.  

“These state-of-the-art planes provide our students with unparalleled hands-on experience,”
College of Education and Human Sciences Dean Jon Pedersen said. “These new aircraft
will bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and real-world application, ensuring
they are not only prepared for the future but are actively shaping it.” 

OSU offers a bachelor’s degree in aerospace administration and operations with options
in aerospace security, aviation management, professional pilot and technical service
management. In addition, the university is one of less than 20 nationwide to offer
master’s and doctoral programs in aviation and space. Located south of Stillwater
Regional Airport, the new Ray and Linda Booker OSU Flight Center opened in 2022 and
serves as a premier training facility for students.