The Air Care Alliance (ACA) and The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) have unveiled the highly anticipated recipients of their esteemed Public Benefit Flying Awards. These awards honor contributions of individual volunteers and volunteer organizations who leverage aviation for humanitarian causes.
“Combining a love of flying and selfless devotion to humankind, pilots and other volunteers involved in Public Benefit Flying make a profound and significant impact on communities and individuals in need,” said Amy Spowart, President and CEO, NAA. “This altruistic form of aviation encompasses a range of vital missions, including transporting patients for medical care, supporting environmental and conservation efforts, and responding to emergencies and natural disasters. The recipients of this year’s Public Benefit Flying Awards showcase the aviation community’s enduring legacy of generosity and commitment to making a positive impact.”
The 2025 NAA Public Benefit Flying Award recipients are:
Distinguished Volunteer Pilot
Hogan Brian Brooks, for his selfless dedication of time, talent, and resources to Angel Flight South Central, public benefit flying, and those in need in his community and beyond.
Distinguished Volunteer Pilot
Rolf Wallin, for altruistically giving his time, talent, and resources to support numerous organizations working to pursue conservation and environmental justice, by providing flights as a SouthWings volunteer pilot.
Outstanding Achievement in the Advancement of Public Benefit Flying
Jeffrey Kahn, for decades of support for Public Benefit Flying, your devotion to Air Care Alliance and Angel Flight East, and your inspiration for the future leaders in charitable aviation.
Outstanding Achievement in the Advancement of Public Benefit Flying
Operation Helo, for unparalleled civilian helicopter disaster relief after Hurricane Helene and the Texas floods, saving hundreds of lives and delivering millions of pounds of aid.
Public Benefit Flying Teamwork Award
Lifeline Pilots & Angel Flight East, in recognition of outstanding collaborative efforts in advancing the field of public benefit flying.
For detailed descriptions of these awards, please visit: https://naa.aero/awards/awards-trophies/public-benefit-flying-awards/.
The Public Benefit Flying Awards will be presented at the NAA’s Fall Award Dinner on November 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C.