Those involved with public benefit flying gathered once more at the Air Care Alliance’s annual AIR CARE Conference held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida this April. The 32nd iteration of the conference was hosted by ACA member group, Vital Flight. Representatives from 20 different public benefit flying groups from all across the country attended and discussed topics such as safety, technology, and outreach.
The annual conference has become a much-anticipated event among volunteer pilot organizations who view it as an opportunity to learn from one another, develop more efficient collaboration, and get to know fellow public benefit flying professionals in this niche non-profit sector.
This year’s conference kicked off with a welcome reception aboard the high seas–okay, not the high seas but the comfortable inter-coastal waterway. Attendees boarded a private charter of the Fiesta, a popular Water Taxi boat in Ft Lauderdale. It sailed up and down the inter-coastal waterway as guests took in the gorgeous views and socialized with others in the charitable aviation sector.
On Saturday, attendees heard the latest on national outreach efforts aimed to promote charitable aviation; they learned about new technologies designed to engage volunteer pilots; and received updates on legal and regulatory issues. Two breakout sessions fostered collaboration and gave attendees an opportunity to brainstorm solutions to shared challenges, and a lively round table discussion addressed the group’s most pressing issues.
After a schedule packed with engaging discussions, attendees were treated to a banquet dinner with keynote speaker Barrington Irving, a World Record setting pilot & National Geographic Explorer. STEM+ Educator & Innovator. Barrington delivered an engaging presentation on his globe-circling, life-changing experience, and how he takes an innovative and creative approach to STEM education.
The Air Care Alliance extends its deepest gratitude to the sponsors of this year’s conference whose financial and logistical support made the event possible.
Conference Host:
Silver Sponsor
