Stearman biplane flying over Stearman Field Airport (1K1) in Benton, Kansas [Credit: Grant Boyd]
Key Takeaways:
The Kansas Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation supports public airports by administering a $15 million annual grant program for infrastructure and connecting them with various funding sources and resources.
A key focus is on researching and integrating emerging aviation technologies, such as drones and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), including participation in federal programs and developing state-level roadmaps for their deployment.
The division actively promotes aviation through community engagement, updating K-12 education pathways, and hosting events to inspire new aviators and connect airports with their local communities.
A significant priority is improving access to medical care in rural Kansas by developing air ambulance pickup locations and necessary infrastructure, leveraging both conventional and emerging aviation solutions.
State aviation agencies are important for a variety of reasons, from guiding legislative policy and supporting airports to strengthening aviation safety and inspiring new aviators.
One of the main functions of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is to oversee the growth and development of the state’s air transportation system.
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Grant Boyd is a private pilot with eight years of experience in aviation business, including marketing, writing, customer service, and sales. Boyd holds a Bachelor's and a Master's of Business Administration degree, both from Wichita State University, and a Doctor of Education degree from Oklahoma State University. He was chosen as a NBAA Business Aviation ""Top 40 Under 40"" award recipient in 2020.
![Stearman biplane flying over Stearman Field Airport (1K1) in Benton, Kansas [Credit: Grant Boyd]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3.jpg)
