Keeping Alaska’s Skies Alive
Contributed by Alaska Airmen’s Association
Alaska is a place where aviation isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifeline. For 75 years, the Alaska Airmen’s Association has stood at the center of it all, working to protect, preserve, and promote general aviation across the state.
Founded in 1951, the Association is the largest general aviation organization in Alaska and one of the largest in the country, with more than 2,000 active members spanning 46 states, 5 countries, and over 50 Alaskan cities and villages. Members range from student pilots and mechanics to seasoned aviators and aviation enthusiasts of all backgrounds, united by a shared love of flight.
Each spring, the Association brings that community together in a big way. The Great Alaska Aviation Gathering, now in its 28th year, is one of America’s largest free-entry aviation tradeshows, drawing over 25,000 attendees and more than 144 exhibitors. This year’s event takes place May 2nd and 3rd at the Alaska State Fairgrounds and Palmer Municipal Airport, featuring aircraft displays, educational seminars, a career fair, and the beloved Show & Shine competition, all free to attend.
None of it would be possible without the Association’s primary fundraiser: the annual Aircraft Raffle. This year’s prize is a Custom 4-Place Cub built by Highline Air out of Cordova, Alaska, led by Brad Sjostedt, a certified A&P mechanic, commercial pilot, and 22-year Alaska Airlines veteran. Highline Air brings exceptional craftsmanship and deep Alaskan aviation expertise to the build. Raffle ticket sales make up 75% of the Association’s operating budget, directly funding the programs that keep general aviation thriving in Alaska, including over $150,000 in scholarships awarded last year alone.
Every ticket purchased is an investment in that legacy and in Alaska’s aviation future.