Textron musters fleet to transport Special Olympics athletes

For the ninth time since its beginning in 1987, the Special Olympics Airlift is marshalling hundreds of pilots, owners, and aircraft to, as the company says, “create the world’s largest peacetime airlift” and share the general aviation experience with their passengers. The airlift takes place June 19 and 27.

“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,” said 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. 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.”

A range of organizations support the airlift’s execution, including the FAA, Special Olympics North America, Special Olympics USA Games Local Organizing Committee, the Minneapolis Saint Paul Metropolitan Airports Commission/KSTP, and Signature Aviation.

Textron expressed a particular need for Cessna Citations; Beechcraft King Airs, Premiers, and Beechjets; and Hawker jets to take part in the event. The company said it expects participating aircraft, known as doves, to land or take off from St. Paul Downtown Holman Field every three minutes over a 10-hour operation. Visit Textron’s website for more information or to volunteer.