Manufacturer Coordinates Ninth Special Olympics Airlift

Mega general aviation aircraft manufacturer Textron Aviation is calling all Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker owners to coordinate athlete transport for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. This will be the ninth airlift event since 1987.

The Special Olympics Airlift (SOA) is one of Textron’s most iconic community events, flying part of the games’ more than 4,000 athletes and coaches across the nation. Since the inaugural event in 1987, the SOA has carried upwards of 10,000 people to the Special Olympics World Games and USA Games. The last time around, in 2022, Textron asked for 228 aircraft owners to help transport athletes.

“The Airlift is more than just a flight; it’s about giving these champions the chance to shine and achieve their dreams on a national stage,” explained Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation. “Seeing the excitement and anticipation on the athletes’ faces as they embark on their journey to and from the Games is incredibly moving.”

The manufacturer is now starting its hunt for aircraft owners for the 2026 Special Olympics. Specifically, it is calling on Cessna Citation jets, Beechcraft King Air turboprops, Beechcraft Beechjet and Premier jets, and Hawker jets from every state to donate their time for a good cause.

The next event will occur on June 19 and 20, 2026. Once the Airlift begins, volunteers will fly their so-called “Doves” into and out of St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field (KSTP) every three minutes. The fly-in period will remain open for a total of 10 hours.

“We need Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker customers to join us in this heartfelt mission, volunteering their aircraft and time to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of these athletes and their families,” Draper continued.

FMI: https://airlift.txtav.com