Manassas
“Electra doesn’t have ‘the complication others face of going through a still untested certification pathway,’” Aerospace America reported. “This [Part 23] is a certification pathway that’s well understood, and we have a team that’s gone through that pathway dozens and dozens of times.” “That rewrite of Part 23 is going to significantly facilitate our pathway through certification, just as the FAA intended,” the outlet added.
Electra has submitted its application to certify the nine-seat EL9 for commercial and military use and has expanded its footprint at Manassas Regional Airport, where it is building its first aircraft and displaying a full-size mockup. Flight tests are planned to begin in 2027, followed by three prototypes for FAA pilot evaluations. The EL9 is designed for ultra-short takeoffs and landings enabled by blown-lift aerodynamics, and the company is evaluating a future manufacturing site to support mass production.
The Manassas City Council moved one step closer to bringing commercial passenger service to Manassas Regional Airport, securing several foundational approvals that will enable the airport to expand operations and welcome regional carriers in the coming years.
The actions taken during the December 8 council meeting mark a significant milestone in a multi-year effort to transform the city-owned airport from a general aviation hub into a limited-commercial-service facility.
“A big round of applause and congratulations to all of the winners announced of this year’s 79th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade,” Greater Manassas Christmas Parade announced. “Everyone did an amazing job bringing ‘Elfin’ Around Old Town’ to life with their floats, routines and decorations!”
“Our awards ceremony will be held on Monday, January 12th at 6:00pm at City Hall! If you are a winner mentioned below, please join us to accept your trophy and certificate.”
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Christmas festivities were interrupted Friday night when a vehicle crashed through a police barricade during the annual Santa Lights Manassas celebration, injuring an officer and sending families scrambling during one of the city’s most heavily attended holiday events.
The crash occurred around 7:43 p.m. in Old Town at the intersection of West and Center streets, where officers were directing traffic as thousands gathered for the tree lighting, wagon rides, and Santa’s arrival by Virginia Railway Express train.
“Due to the forecasted inclement weather, all Manassas City Public Schools and offices will be closed Friday, December 5, 2025,” Manassas City Public Schools announced. “Code Blue for employees. AlphaBest is also cancelled.”
The division said the closure applies to all schools, administrative offices, and before- and after-school programs.
“This holiday season, shop small at local businesses and purchase gifts for your loved ones in Old Town Manassas,” The Talon student newspaper reported. “I visited some of the nearby shops and you can easily spend hours finding the perfect gift for everyone on your Christmas list.”
“As you walk into the welcoming venue, you’ll see rooms full of toys,” the publication added while describing Kerbobble Toys on Center Street.
Old Town Manassas is gearing up for one of its busiest and most festive weekends of the year as the city prepares to welcome thousands for the annual Santa Lights Manassas celebration and the 79th Annual Greater Manassas Christmas Parade.
Historic Manassas, Inc. Marketing and Communications Manager Darren Blevins joined Potomac Local News this week to preview the holiday lineup. A familiar face to many, Blevins previously operated the Shining Sol candle shop on Center Street and now owns Black Metal Mercantile across the street, offering unique gifts and a curated vinyl collection. He says this weekend marks the official start of the holiday season in the city.