At this year’s National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, NBAA announced its full support, once again, for the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift. Sponsored and organized by Textron Aviation, the airlift counts on support from Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker aircraft operators to donate their time and aircraft to transport Special Olympic athletes, coaches, and families from around the country to the games. The business aviation pro bono effort dates back to 1987.
The 2026 games will take place between June 19 and 27 in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Aircraft will begin arriving at St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field (KSTP) on Friday morning (6/19) and the influx will continue for some 10 hours with aircraft landing an average of once every three minutes. The process reverses on Saturday June 27 as the athletes head home after a week of competition.
Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation, said, “We couldn’t do this alone. The support of the National Business Aviation Association, our customers and the entire aviation industry is a powerful testament to what we can achieve together. The Special Olympics Airlift gives these athletes the opportunity to shine, and NBAA’s support helps amplify that mission.”
NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen added, “By coming together to support these remarkable athletes, the aviation community delivers unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories. NBAA is honored to stand behind this powerful initiative that reflects the very best of our industry.” Our podcast interview with Textron CEO Ron Draper is below.
