life-changing experiences for athletes
The Special Olympics Airlift, organized by Textron Aviation, mobilizes hundreds of volunteer Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker pilots and aircraft from across the country to create the world’s largest peacetime airlift and provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Special Olympics athletes.
Since the Airlift’s inception in 1987, this remarkable initiative has brought together the aviation community to transport over 10,000 athletes and their families to the Special Olympics USA Games, helping ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
2026 Special Olympics Airlift
The Special Olympics Airlift aims to transport hundreds of athletes and coaches to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota. Generous Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker pilots will donate the use of their aircraft and fuel to transport athletes to St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field (KSTP) on Friday, June 19, 2026, and return them home on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
How it works
Volunteer pilots & aircraft: Experienced Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker pilots from the aviation community donate their aircraft and fuel to transport athletes and their families. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of the Airlift, ensuring that every athlete can reach the game like a champion.
Coordinated logistics: A dedicated team at Textron Aviation coordinates flight schedules, routes and logistics for participants.
Comfort & reliability are our two top priorities: All flights are conducted by highly skilled pilots who adhere to the highest standards of aviation excellence. We strive to ensure that the travel experience is comfortable and enjoyable, making the journey a life-changing experience for athletes.
A profound impact
Empower athletes: The Airlift helps athletes show up to the Special Olympics USA Games as the champions they are — providing them with the opportunity to showcase their skills and achieve their goals on a national stage.
Build community: During the event, aircraft will touch down or take off from KSTP every three minutes throughout a 10-hour period. The Airlift brings together people from all walks of life, fostering camaraderie and the spirit of the Special Olympics.
Powerful industry collaboration
The Special Olympics Airlift is made possible by collaboration from influential industry groups such as the Federal Aviation Administration, Minneapolis Saint Paul Metropolitan Airports Commission/KSTP, Signature Aviation, Special Olympics USA Games Local Organizing Committee and Special Olympics North America.