Walnut Ridge Lands One of Only Four FAA Aviation Testing Sites in Arkansas

WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. — Pilot’s Ally has become one of only four FAA-authorized Airframe and Powerplant Oral and Practical testing locations in Arkansas, expanding access to FAA certification for aspiring aviation maintenance technicians across the state and the surrounding region.

The authorization, awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration in July 2026, adds Walnut Ridge to a short list of Arkansas testing locations that also includes Greenbrier, Texarkana, and West Memphis.

Pilot’s Ally is co-owned by Alan Morvin and Tyler Thomas. As part of the authorization, Alan serves as the FAA-authorized Designated Mechanic Examiner responsible for administering the Oral and Practical examinations, the final hands-on assessments required for candidates seeking Airframe and Powerplant certification.

The designation builds upon Pilot’s Ally’s established aviation services, which include aircraft maintenance and inspections, avionics installations, structural repair and fabrication, aircraft management, aircraft sales, and a variety of specialized maintenance services for general aviation aircraft.

“This authorization represents years of preparation and a shared commitment to serving the aviation industry at the highest level,” said Tyler Thomas, co-owner of Pilot’s Ally. “Alan has worked incredibly hard to earn the FAA’s confidence, and we’re proud to bring this opportunity to Walnut Ridge. Completing our first examination this month was an exciting milestone for our team, and we look forward to serving candidates from across Arkansas and the surrounding region for years to come.”

The FAA’s Airframe and Powerplant certificate is the industry-standard credential for aviation maintenance technicians in the United States. The Oral and Practical examinations are the final step in the certification process, evaluating candidates’ technical knowledge, practical skills, and ability to safely perform aircraft maintenance in accordance with FAA standards.

By adding a fourth authorized testing location in Arkansas, Pilot’s Ally provides greater access to the certification process for students, military veterans, aviation maintenance professionals, and others pursuing careers in the aviation industry. The authorization also strengthens Walnut Ridge’s long-standing connection to aviation, a legacy that dates back to the Walnut Ridge Army Air Field during World War II and continues today through aviation businesses and workforce development initiatives.

Walnut Ridge Mayor Charles Snapp said the designation reflects both Pilot’s Ally’s commitment to excellence and the city’s continued role in Arkansas aviation.

“Walnut Ridge has a rich aviation heritage, and we’re proud to see businesses like Pilot’s Ally continue building on that foundation,” Snapp said. “This achievement creates new opportunities for aviation professionals while strengthening our community’s reputation as a place where the aviation industry continues to grow. We congratulate Alan, Tyler, and the entire Pilot’s Ally team on this outstanding accomplishment.”

Terrence Ward, executive director of the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, said the designation represents an important milestone for both the company and the region.

“Pilot’s Ally has built a reputation for providing high-quality aircraft maintenance and aviation services,” Ward said. “This FAA authorization is a natural extension of that commitment to excellence. Having one of only four FAA-authorized Airframe and Powerplant Oral and Practical testing locations in Arkansas is an asset not only to Pilot’s Ally but also to Walnut Ridge and the broader aviation industry. It’s another example of how specialized businesses in Lawrence County are making an impact well beyond our community.”

Pilot’s Ally has already begun administering FAA Oral and Practical examinations and has successfully completed its first examination following the company’s July authorization. The designation positions Walnut Ridge as an additional access point for FAA certification while helping meet the aviation industry’s continued demand for highly skilled maintenance professionals.

About Pilot’s Ally
Pilot’s Ally, based at Walnut Ridge Regional Airport, is a full-service aviation company providing aircraft maintenance, inspections, avionics installations, structural repair, aircraft management, aircraft sales, and other specialized services for general aviation aircraft. In July 2026, the company became one of only four FAA-authorized Airframe and Powerplant Oral and Practical testing locations in Arkansas.

The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce serves as the county’s leading business advocacy organization, supporting economic development, tourism and workforce initiatives throughout Lawrence County. Based in Walnut Ridge, the Chamber works with local businesses, community leaders and regional partners to foster opportunities that strengthen the county’s economy and quality of life.