Help a Hero Take Flight and Honor a

Brigadier General's Wish This Memorial Day

This Memorial Day Weekend, a lifelong dream is preparing for takeoff, and you can help make it soar. We invite you to join us in supporting Stallion 51 Flight Operations and Covenant Care as they team up to grant a powerful Vet’s Wish for retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Jerry Neff. A decorated veteran and 2024 inductee into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame, General Neff has one final wish: to fly the legendary P-51 Mustang, the iconic WWII fighter that represents the courage of America’s greatest generation. Thanks to the dedication of Covenant Care and the Vet’s Wish program, plans are underway for General Neff’s flight at Stallion 51, located at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, this Memorial Day Weekend, but your support is crucial to bring this mission to life. Together, let’s salute service, legacy, and the dreams that never fade. Every contribution helps us get one step closer to liftoff. 👉 Donate today to help fulfill a hero’s wish.

City School of Government Cohort

Visits Kissimmee Gateway Airport

The City of Kissimmee’s School of Government program continues to offer residents a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how their city operates, and last week’s stop took participants to the heart of regional transportation: Kissimmee Gateway Airport. As part of the nine-week program, the current cohort explored the airport’s operations and learned firsthand how this vital facility contributes to the local economy and infrastructure. From business aviation and flight training to emergency services and aerospace innovation, the airport plays a critical role in supporting Central Florida’s growth and connectivity. The School of Government program, held every Wednesday evening, is open to those who live, work, or own a business within the city. It’s designed to educate and empower residents by connecting them with city leaders and providing insight into municipal operations, from public safety to economic development. For this group, seeing the Kissimmee Gateway Airport up close offered a powerful example of how local government services extend far beyond what’s visible day-to-day. It’s just one of many stops that make this program a must for anyone eager to get involved and make a difference in their community.

Hometown Hero Bay McIntosh

Makes Surprise Visit to Kissimmee Gateway Airport

We had a surprise visit from our former intern and Airport Operations Coordinator, Bay McIntosh. He is currently assigned to the 104^th Fighter Squadron with the Maryland Air National Guard, and pilots the A-10C Thunderbolt II. He performed a low approach over the Kissimmee Gateway Airport to say hello on his way to the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo at the Lakeland Linder International Airport that occurred from April 1-6, 2025. Thank you for your service!

Support General Aviation in Florida

With a Specialty License Plate

A new opportunity has landed for aviation enthusiasts in Florida. A general aviation license plate is now available for pre-sale at local tax collector offices. This initiative aims to support aviation education scholarships, helping to foster the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals. So far, 201 plates have been sold, but 2,799 more are needed to meet the goal. By purchasing this specialty license plate, you can showcase your passion for aviation and contribute to a worthy cause. The funds raised will directly support scholarships, providing aspiring aviators with the financial assistance they need to pursue their dreams. This is a fantastic way for the community to come together and invest in the future of aviation. The design of the plate captures the spirit of flight, making it a perfect addition to any vehicle for those who love the skies. Don't miss the chance to be part of this exciting initiative. Head to your local tax collector's office to secure your plate and help reach the target. Together, we can support aviation education and make a difference in the lives of aspiring pilots across Florida.

Tenant Employee Spotlight:

Deidre Wilson, AeroStar Training Services

Growing up in a small community outside Orlando, Deidra Wilson recalls her intrigue in aviation and all the possibilities within the world of flying. Intrigue turned to passion after taking her first steps within the industry. Early in her career she quickly learned the logistics of business operations in the general aviation training market. From there her passion and motivation soared and has taken her to where she is today as the owner and CEO of Aerostar Training Services at Kissimmee Gateway Airport. She takes pride in training the next generation of airline pilots and instructors from all over the world. For Deidra, being a female CEO in aviation is an opportunity to bring fresh thinking, a bold perspective and passion to the role. Her approach centers on encouraging an ownership mindset when it comes to her staff and students. Her leadership within the organization along with the staff has gained Aerostar recognition as one of the finest aviation-training providers in the world, serving the needs and demands across a broad market of individuals, flight schools, colleges/universities, government agencies, and airlines worldwide. Deidra's passion for aviation has allowed her to create an environment that prepares and qualifies professional aviators for the present and future of the commercial airline industry. 

Shout Out to the Amazing Air Traffic Controllers at Kissimmee Gateway Airport!

This week, we’re giving a special shout out to the incredible team of Air Traffic Controllers at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, led by the outstanding Chris Mathis. Their expertise, precision, and dedication keep our skies safe and operations running smoothly every single day. Whether guiding student pilots, coordinating business jet traffic, or ensuring seamless communication with emergency and commercial aircrafts, this team plays a vital role in the safety and efficiency of one of Central Florida’s busiest general aviation airports. Chris Mathis and his team exemplify professionalism and excellence under pressure, and we’re grateful for their service to the airport and the broader Kissimmee community. Behind every successful flight is a controller making it all happen, and at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, we’re lucky to have some of the very best. Thank you for keeping our skies safe and our runways clear!

Relocate Your Business and Fly Kissimmee!

With over 180 acres of land available for development, a new aerospace park and innovative incentive packages, Kissimmee Gateway Airport is the ideal location for your business. To learn more, contact the City of Kissimmee Economic Development Office at (407) 518-2307.

This newsletter is a publication of Kissimmee Gateway Airport. For more information about this publication, please contact us at newsletter@flykissimmee.com or call (407) 847-4600.



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