The Maryland Aviation Council (MAC) successfully hosted the 28th Annual Maryland Regional Aviation Conference (MRAC) from June 10–12, 2026, bringing together aviation professionals, airport managers, and industry leaders from across the state. Held at the scenic Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort in Ocean City, Maryland, the three-day event was packed with insightful presentations, critical regulatory updates, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
If you missed out or just want to relive the highlights, here is a breakdown of how the aviation community connected and collaborated this year.
Day 1: Kicking Off in Ocean City
The conference launched on Wednesday, June 10, with a perfect blend of professional and social networking. Attendees kicked off the conference on the greens with a Golf Outing at Eagles Landing Golf Course, followed that evening with a Welcome Reception at the Ocean City Municipal Airport. It was a fantastic way to reconnect with peers and set a collaborative tone for the days ahead.
Day 2: Infrastructure, Innovation, and Beachfront Bonfires
Thursday’s general sessions opened with welcome remarks from MAC President Gustavus McLeod and MAC Vice President (and Ocean City Municipal Airport Manager) Jaime Giandomenico.
The day’s presentations tackled some of the most pressing opportunities and challenges facing Maryland’s aviation landscape today:
- Taking Control of the Narrative: Eric Blinderman, President of Narrative, shared crucial strategies for protecting airport reputations.
- Infrastructure & Technology: Attendees received an inside look at the C/D Connector project from Paul Shank (Chief Engineer, Maryland Aviation Administration) and an essential MOSAIC update from the FAA’s Jim Logie.
- Aviation History, Community, & Revenue Generation: Pat Valdata delivered an inspiring talk on her new book, Everyday Courage, which was followed by a dynamic panel of airport operators discussing how to host successful airport events. Later, Ali Sintec and Annemarie McKeown provided expert strategies on how facilities can effectively monetize their property through solar.
- Projects & Protection: Jesse Rangel and Kyle Thomas of Michael Baker International shared architectural insights into the New Airport Traffic Control Tower at Martin State Airport. Rob Schulte, Esq., closed the formal sessions by breaking down how to navigate complex land-use conflicts.
The evening concluded with an evening reception, followed by an unforgettable Bonfire on the Beach with S’mores, allowing attendees to unwind right on the Ocean City shoreline.
Day 3: Policy, Funding, and Airshow Practices
Friday morning focused heavily on advocacy and local development. Following a buffet breakfast, the MAC Quarterly Meeting commenced, featuring a comprehensive State of General Aviation and Regional Matters briefing from AOPA’s Leon Jackler and Sean Collins.
The final presentation of the conference highlighted regional success, as Andrew Moore and Shon Dempsey shared their blueprint for Funding New Hangars at Frederick Municipal Airport.
To wrap up the event, attendees traveled to the famous Ocean City Boardwalk for a casual lunch at Franco’s Pizza and Bar, enjoying a front-row seat to the local airshow practice.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors!
An event of this scale would not be possible without the incredible generosity of our industry partners. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the organizations that supported MRAC 2026:
