July 2026

Greetings!

Summer is in full swing, and while our airplanes may be on a short break, the Challenge Air team is hard at work preparing for an exciting fall season!

The first half of 2026 gave us so much to celebrate. From the smiles of our VIP co-pilots to the dedication of our volunteer pilots, event volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community partners, each Fly Day reminded us why the Challenge Air mission is so important. Every child who climbs into the co-pilot’s seat has the opportunity to see the world—and themselves—from a whole new perspective.

This summer, our staff, trustees, and dedicated volunteers are busy preparing for upcoming Fly Days in Tulsa, Kansas City, Denver, and McKinney. There is a great deal of work that happens behind the scenes to make each event possible, and we are grateful for everyone who gives their time, talent, and resources to help us create these unforgettable experiences.

As we look toward the second half of the year, we need your help to keep our mission soaring. Every Fly Day is provided at no cost to our VIP co-pilots and their families, and your financial support helps make these life-changing experiences possible. Please consider making a gift today. Whether it is $25, $100, $500, or more, every donation helps us give another child the opportunity to take the co-pilot’s seat, build confidence, and discover that the sky truly is the limit.

Thank you for being part of the Challenge Air family and for believing in the power of flight to change lives. I hope you are enjoying a safe and wonderful summer!

For the kids,

April Culver

CEO/Executive Director

Challenge Air for Kids & Friends

Get Ready to Take Flight!

It may be summer, but we’re already gearing up for an unforgettable back half of the year!

Registration is OPEN for Challenge Air Fly Days, and we can’t wait to welcome families, volunteers, and pilots back for another season of smiles, confidence-building, and life-changing experiences.

Upcoming Fly Days:

• Tulsa 9/12
• Kansas City 9/19
• Denver 10/3
• McKinney 10/17

Spots fill quickly—tap below to register now!

Challenge Air Helps Send Team Texas to

the USA Special Olympics

Challenge Air trustees were honored to take part in the send-off for the Special Olympics Texas delegation as they embarked on their journey to the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis. Held at Million Air Dallas, the event was part of the Special Olympics Airlift, where volunteer pilots donated their aircraft and time to fly hundreds of athletes to the Games.

It was an inspiring morning celebrating determination, inclusion, and the power of aviation to change lives. We're proud to stand alongside organizations that share our mission of helping individuals with disabilities reach new heights.

ASF Family Conference

July 30th - August 1st | Aurora, Colorado

Challenge Air is excited to be an exhibitor at this year's Angelman Syndrome Family Conference in Aurora, Colorado.

The Exhibitor Fair brings together over 25 companies, service providers, and support organizations—all in one place—ready to share valuable information, offer product and service support, and showcase what they have to offer each family.

If you're attending the conference, be sure to stop by the Challenge Air booth! We'd love to meet you, share our mission, and tell you how our Fly Days empower children and youth with special needs through the life-changing experience of flight. Whether you're a family interested in participating, a potential volunteer, or simply want to learn more about our organization, we look forward to connecting with you.

We can't wait to see you in Aurora! Learn more HERE.

Join Us for Denver's Cocktail Fundraiser for Challenge Air

Raise a Glass for Challenge Air! 🍸✈️

Join us for an unforgettable evening of handcrafted cocktails, delicious bites, and giving back—all in support of Challenge Air's Denver Fly Day. Your ticket includes four craft cocktail tastings, one full-size cocktail, a gourmet charcuterie grazing board, dessert, and two raffle tickets for the chance to win exciting prizes.

Every ticket purchased helps give children and youth with special needs the opportunity to experience the confidence and joy of flight as a co-pilot. Tickets are limited and expected to sell out, so reserve your spot today. We can't wait to celebrate with you while making a difference, one toast at a time!

Save the Date to Make a Difference

Every Month = More Smiles in the Sky

Greater Kansas City, Discover What’s Possible at the Midwest Ability Summit

Challenge Air is helping spread the word about the Midwest Ability Summit, a FREE, one-stop opportunity for individuals with disabilities, caregivers, families, and professionals to explore valuable resources, services, and products designed to support everyday life and long-term success. LEARN MORE