April 2026

Greetings!

April brought another unforgettable day of inspiration as we gathered in Frederick, Maryland for a remarkable Fly Day hosted by Signature Aviation and AOPA. A special shoutout goes to Event Chair Kari Anderson, whose journey with Challenge Air began 25 years ago as a volunteer at a Dallas Fly Day—and who has been dreaming of bringing an event to life in her own community ever since.

Watching that dream come full circle was powerful, but what continues to leave me in awe is the transformation of our VIPs: children who walk out to the airplane shy and uncertain, and return beaming with confidence—high-fiving everyone in sight and declaring, “This was the best day ever!”

These moments are only possible because of the incredible volunteers, dedicated pilots, and generous donors who pour their hearts into each event. I invite you to visit our website to learn more about upcoming Fly Days and see how you can be part of these life-changing experiences.



For the Kids,

April Culver

CEO/ Executive Director

Wheels Up in Dallas! A Fly Day to Remember

Get Ready to Take Flight!

We’re ready to take flight into a brand-new year of unforgettable Fly Days with Challenge Air! ✈️💙

Spring registration is officially open, and we can’t wait to welcome families, volunteers, and pilots back for another incredible season. This year brings a new city, new faces, and even more opportunities to help children with special needs experience courage, confidence, and pure joy—right from the cockpit.

Upcoming Fly Days:

• Chattanooga — 5/2
• Sonoma County- 5/30
• Spokane 6/13

Spots fill quickly—tap below to register now! Keep an eye on the website for upcoming Fall Fly Days.

Confidence Takes Flight:

Frederick Fly Day Featured by AOPA and NBC 4 News

We’re excited to see the impact of Fly Days continue to reach new audiences. Check out this inspiring feature from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and watch the recent NBC 4 News coverage below from our Frederick Fly Day on April 11 to see the magic in action.

The Flight That Changed Everything

What started as just one Fly Day turned into something life-changing. Volunteer Ryan shares how a single flight with his brother as a child shifted his perspective—and why he’s never looked back. 💙

Hear how one experience can make a lasting impact. ⬇️

Sharing Our Mission in Santa Rosa 

CEO/Executive Director, April Culver recently had the opportunity to join a luncheon with the Active 20-30 Club of Santa Rosa, where she shared the heart behind Challenge Air’s mission and the life-changing impact of our Fly Days.

It was an inspiring afternoon spent connecting with a group that is deeply committed to serving children in their community. We’re grateful for the warm welcome, thoughtful conversation, and shared passion for making a difference in the lives of children with special needs.

Won't you join the Active 20-30 Club of Santa Rosa by sponsoring the fly day scheduled for May 30th? We still need your support. Volunteers are also needed! Please go to our website at www.challengeair.org and sign up today.

See you on May 30th!!

Connecting Families, Inspiring Possibilities at the Blue Valley Resource Fair

We were honored to be part of the 2026 Blue Valley Special Needs Resource Fair and connect with so many incredible families and providers in the community. Events like this are at the heart of what we do—sharing resources, building relationships, and helping families discover new opportunities for their children.

With approximately 225 families in attendance, it was inspiring to see so many meaningful conversations happening throughout the day. From answering questions about our Fly Days to connecting with fellow organizations, every interaction reinforced the power of community and collaboration.

We’re grateful to have been included in such a well-organized and impactful event, and we look forward to continuing these connections and supporting families.

Happy Birthday, April Culver!

This month, we’re celebrating a very special birthday—our CEO and Executive Director, April Culver! 🎉



April’s passion, leadership, and heart for the families we serve continue to shape everything we do at Challenge Air. Her dedication inspires our team, our volunteers, and the entire community we’re so proud to be part of.

If you see April this month, be sure to wish her a very happy birthday on April 25th—we know she’ll appreciate the love!