Dierks Bentley Supports 2026 Special Olympics Airlift: Join the Mission to Transport Athletes to the USA Games
Country music artist Dierks Bentley has announced his support for the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift, a mission that will transport athletes and coaches to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities using Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker aircraft. Bentley is encouraging pilots nationwide to participate in this initiative, which aims to provide transportation for athletes from all over the country to the host city, regardless of financial constraints.
The Special Olympics Airlift, organized by Textron Aviation Inc., mobilizes volunteer pilots and aircraft to create the world’s largest peacetime airlift, offering a unique experience for Special Olympics athletes. This event will transport athletes and coaches to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities.
Dierks Bentley expressed his excitement about being part of the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift, highlighting the opportunity to use aviation for a good cause and connect with inspiring athletes. The prestigious Dove call sign is awarded to aircraft owners who donate their resources to transport athletes to and from the games, receiving priority in the National Airspace System.
Textron Aviation is calling on Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker aircraft owners to support the transportation of Special Olympics athletes and coaches during the 2026 USA Games. Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation, commended Bentley for his support, emphasizing the power of aviation in uniting people for a greater purpose.
Since its inception in 1987, the Special Olympics Airlift has transported thousands of athletes and coaches to various Special Olympics events. During the 2026 event, Doves are expected to operate at St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field every three minutes over a 10-hour period.
Dierks Bentley expressed his honor in providing athletes with a first-class experience and encouraged other pilots to join in lifting these champions to new heights. Pilots interested in participating can become a Dove for this nationwide aviation event by visiting airlift.txtav.com.
Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has a long history of delivering exceptional aviation experiences across its Beechcraft, Cessna, and Hawker brands. With a diverse product portfolio and global customer service network, Textron Aviation continues to inspire the journey of flight for customers worldwide.