City of Wichita recognizes Textron Aviation-led Airlift that brings Cessna and Beechcraft community together for Special Olympics athletes

The City of Wichita has issued a proclamation recognizing Special Olympics Airlift Month, honoring a signature aviation initiative rooted in the city’s aviation heritage and led by Textron Aviation employees. The effort brings together the Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker community, including aircraft owners, pilots and volunteers across the country, to transport Special Olympics athletes to the USA Games. 

Why It Matters

For many athletes, the journey to the Special Olympics USA Games begins long before they step onto the field of competition. The Special Olympics Airlift removes barriers that might otherwise prevent athletes and coaches from participating, providing reliable transportation and a welcoming experience from the moment they depart. Founded in 1987 and strengthened by the combined heritage of Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker, the Airlift brings together aircraft owners, operators, pilots and volunteers who donate their time and resources in service of athletes. The 2026 event will mark the ninth coordinated Airlift, supporting athletes traveling to the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities.

About the Special Olympics Airlift

A nationwide effort led by Cessna and Beechcraft and organized by Textron Aviation, the Special Olympics Airlift is recognized as the largest peacetime airlift dedicated to transporting Special Olympics athletes and coaches to the USA Games.

• Aviation community in action Aircraft owners, operators and volunteer pilots fly Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft in coordinated missions to the Games. 

• Removing barriers to participation The Airlift addresses the cost and complexity of travel, ensuring athletes can focus on competing, connecting and experiencing the Games. 

Key Facts

• More than 120 aircraft known as Doves will take part in the 2026 mission, representing one of the largest coordinated efforts in general aviation 

• More than 800 athletes and coaches will be transported, removing one of the biggest barriers to competing at the USA Games 

• Aircraft will arrive or depart every 3 to 4 minutes during a 10-hour window, reflecting the scale and precision of the Airlift 

• Volunteer owners and operators from the Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker community donate their aircraft, fuel and time to make each journey possible 

• Since 1987, the Airlift has helped transport nearly 10,000 athletes and coaches to the USA Games, building a lasting legacy of access and inclusion 

Learn more and find Media Kits at https://airlift.txtav.com/.