Wichita, Kansas

Prent Corporation named 'Dove 1' for 2026 Special Olympics Airlift arrivals

Global designer and manufacturer of medical packaging solutions, Prent Corporation, will serve as 'Dove 1' for Textron Aviation's 2026 Special Olympics Airlift arrivals

Marking the very first aircraft to land at St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field on Friday, June 19th, this historic arrival will officially launch the nationwide mission to transport athletes and coaches to the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities.

As the first arrival Dove, Prent Corporation will be the first to fly Special Olympics athletes and coaches to the Games, setting the tone for hundreds of volunteer pilots and aircraft owners who will follow. The designation symbolizes leadership and a deep commitment to lifting champions to new heights.

“By helping launch this journey for the athletes, Prent is sending a powerful message that every individual deserves to be celebrated and supported,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “We’re grateful for their leadership in making this moment unforgettable for the athletes and their families.”

Prent Corporation named 'Dove 1' for 2026 Special Olympics Airlift arrivals, leading the way in championing athletes’ journeys | Photo: Textron Aviation.

Organized by Textron Aviation, the Special Olympics Airlift mobilizes volunteer Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft owners and pilots to create the world’s largest peacetime airlift. This extraordinary event gives athletes a once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience. Aircraft donors - known by their Dove callsigns - contribute their aircraft, crew, fuel and time. During the Airlift, Doves receive priority handling from the FAA across the National Airspace System.

“Supporting the Special Olympics Airlift as Dove 1 is a true honor and privilege,” said Joseph Pregont, Executive Chairman, Prent Corporation. “These athletes embody courage, determination, and joy - and it is inspiring to witness their journey to the Games and to be a small part of their adventure. As a family-owned company rooted in community and purpose, we’re honored to play a role in lifting these remarkable individuals and their families. We hope our involvement inspires others to join this incredible mission and celebrate the spirit of unity and achievement.”

Textron Aviation is calling on aircraft owners and operators to join Prent Corporations and become Doves on Friday, June 19th, 2026, and Saturday, June 27th, 2026. Since its inception in 1987, the Airlift has transported more than 10,000 athletes and coaches to the USA Games, thanks to the generosity of Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker customers. The event exemplifies the power of aviation and community coming together for a greater cause.

Everybody needs a lift every now and then. Become a Dove for this monumental nationwide aviation event by visiting airlift.txtav.com.