Dove 1 Flight Named for 2026 Special Olympics Airlift

Omani and Jeanie Carson are donating their Citation and crew to fly the inaugural departure day Dove 1 mission for the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift. The Dove 1 flight is the first time that Airlift organizers Textron Aviation have marked this trip as the honorary departure day flight.

Departure flights leave June 27 from Minneapolis St. Paul Downtown Airport (KSTP) with donated Cessna Citation, Beechcraft, and Hawker airplanes taking off every few minutes to bring athletes home. More than 100 volunteer owners and operators are donating airplanes, crew, fuel, and time for this year’s Airlift. Some 10,000 athletes and coaches have been transported on such donated airplanes since 1987.

“We are honored to help bring these remarkable athletes home,” said Carson Group founder and chairman Omani Carson. “Witnessing their determination and joy throughout the Games inspires us all. Being part of their journey home is a privilege, and we hope our involvement encourages others to join this incredible mission in the future and make a lasting impact.”

“Watching these athletes board their flights home, you see the pride in their eyes and the joy in their smiles,” said Textron Aviation president and CEO Ron Draper. “Omani and Jeanie’s commitment ensures that every athlete’s journey concludes with celebration and a sense of accomplishment. Their leadership inspires all of us to lift others up and make a difference.”