Recent News & Media

Vintage military aircraft flying over mountains.

Historic C-47s “Second Chance” and “Placid Lassie” to Support Take FLIGHT with AVi 2026

August 10, 2026 | Vintage Aviation News — Vintage Aviation News recently highlighted the upcoming Take FLIGHT with AVi 2026, which will feature the addition of two historic Douglas C-47 aircraft, Second Chance and Placid Lassie, to this year's event at Atlantic City International Airport.

Scheduled for Sept. 26, this engaging event will bring together youth, families, students, young professionals, educators, and aviation industry leaders to explore aircraft displays, hands-on STEAM activities, and career development opportunities. The inclusion of the two C-47s will not only provide a unique connection to military aviation history but also elevate the aviation influence while supporting AVi's mission to inspire STEM engagement in the next generation.

Read the full article on Vintage Aviation News →

Two women in lab coats smiling in a laboratory.

Aviation Influence Opens Registration for Expanded Take FLIGHT with AVi 2026, Welcomes Team Genius Squad as Featured Keynote Experience

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. | July 31, 2026 — Aviation Influence (AVi) proudly announces that attendee registration is now open for its 2026 Take FLIGHT with AVi event, featuring Team Genius Squad as the Highlighted Keynote Experience.

"At Team Genius Squad, we believe every child should have the chance to unlock their potential. Our collaboration with Aviation Influence enables us to introduce young individuals to thrilling STEAM interests they might not have previously considered, demonstrating that curiosity, creativity, and confidence can genuinely lead them anywhere," stated Tita Simmons, President of Team Genius Squad. "We are excited to inspire the next generation of innovators, engineers, pilots, and problem-solvers."

Set for Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Signature Aviation at Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), Take FLIGHT with AVi is becoming one of the Mid-Atlantic’s foremost aviation, aerospace, and STEAM engagement events. It will unite youth, families, educators, collegiate students, young professionals, and aviation industry leaders for a day filled with inspiration, exploration, and career discovery.

Founded by Ava N. Simmons, an entrepreneur, author, STEM advocate, and host of PBS NC's Mini Fab Science Lab, Team Genius Squad has grown into a nationally acclaimed platform that motivates young people through innovation, curiosity, entrepreneurship, and hands-on STEM learning. This partnership highlights the shared mission of both organizations to empower the next generation through meaningful discovery, innovation, and career exploration.

"There is no better venue to unveil this exciting announcement than within the global aviation community at EAA AirVenture," remarked Ian Lumpp, founding board member and current chair of Aviation Influence. "As we officially launch registration, we are thrilled to welcome Team Genius Squad as our Featured Keynote Experience, unveiling the newest evolution of Take FLIGHT with AVi. This year's event has been thoughtfully expanded to create impactful experiences not only for youth and families but also for collegiate students and young professionals preparing to enter the aviation workforce."

Learn More About Take FLIGHT at ACY →

Passengers boarding a purple and white Wvelo airplane on the tarmac.

Aviation Influence Expands 2026 Take FLIGHT with AVi, Returns to Signature Aviation, Atlantic City International Airport

October 28, 2025 | Atlantic City, NJ — After another record-breaking year inspiring over 1,100 youth and families through hands-on aviation experiences and STEM engagement, Aviation Influence (AVi) is excited to announce the return of its signature outreach event, Take FLIGHT with AVi, at Signature Aviation, Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

"Take FLIGHT with AVi has always been centered around connection — connecting people, passions, and purpose," said Stacy Suazo, General Manager of Signature Aviation ACY and founding board member of Aviation Influence. "Bringing this event back to Atlantic City feels like coming home. The enthusiasm from our community, partners, and attendees reminds us of our mission — to open doors, spark curiosity, and illustrate that there’s a place for everyone in aviation."

Building on the success of the 2025 event in Wilmington, Delaware — which saw participation from 25 schools, 70 volunteers, and 35 STEAM exhibitors — AVi is set to elevate its mission even further in 2026. The Wilmington program showcased the inspiring presence of 101-year-old Dr. Alma Bailey, a Tuskegee Nurse, alongside dynamic keynote speaker and aviation entrepreneur Jamail Larkins. Their involvement highlighted AVi’s dedication to connecting generations and igniting new possibilities within aviation. AVi also expresses gratitude to its 2025 co-emcees, Samantha Mitchell and Lyndse Costabile, whose leadership and collaboration — along with the organizations they represent — made the event’s success possible. Building on this legacy, the 2026 event will innovate its format, expand its reach, and enhance its impact with new experiences, partnerships, and a more flexible layout for attendees, exhibitors, and partners alike.

The 2026 edition of Take FLIGHT with AVi will transform Signature Aviation at Atlantic City International Airport into an immersive, dual-hangar aviation campus designed for hands-on learning, exploration, and ongoing engagement.

Hangar 1 will feature engaging exhibits, sponsor booths, hands-on STEAM activities, and food tables, while Hangar 2 will host fireside chats, presentations, and a professional photo studio for attendees 18+, providing a space to refresh professional images and enhance digital presence. The tarmac area will expand with larger aircraft static displays, live demonstrations, and the debut of a Food Truck Rodeo experience.

To accommodate families, schools, and community groups traveling from across the region, the event will offer a flexible attendee check-in window from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM, allowing for seamless arrival and exploration instead of a formal opening ceremony. Advanced registration will still be required for entry.

Program Enhancements for 2026 include:

- Upgraded audio and presentation systems for improved reach and acoustics

- Expanded two-hangar layout for exhibitors and educational sessions

- Author’s Corner benefitting the AVi Scholarship Program

- Professional photo studio for attendees 18+

- Continued focus on hands-on aviation training, simulators, and youth engagement

"This next chapter for Take FLIGHT with AVi builds on years of incredible growth and community support," said Ian Lumpp, Board Chair of Aviation Influence. "We’re reimagining the event to provide even more opportunities for connection, mentorship, and inspiration — while maintaining our mission: to make aviation and STEM engagement accessible, exciting, and inclusive for every young attendee who walks through the hangar doors."

Expanding the Impact

The results speak volumes. In 2025 alone, AVi’s Take FLIGHT event created measurable impact:

- 480+ youth attendees and 460 parents and educators

- 15 aviation training experiences awarded

- $11,750 raised to support aviation scholarships

- $12,700 in donated auction packages and $2,200 raised through merchandise and auction sales

- 70 volunteers, 35 STEAM exhibitors, and 25 schools represented

All Aspects of Aviation Represented

AVi’s events showcase the full spectrum of aviation — from commercial and military to corporate, educational, and humanitarian missions. Past participants include major airlines such as Avelo Airlines, American Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, along with Leonardo Helicopters, Fanatics Flight Department, Verizon and Fiserv Flight Operations, Cirrus Aircraft, and Honda Jet.

The event also attracts participation from the Delaware Air National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force Academy, and Delaware Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Partnering institutions such as Delaware State University, Atlantic Cape Community College, Rowan College of Burlington County, Beyond Aviation, and flyGATEWAY showcase flight training aircraft and career pathways, along with Civil Air Patrol wings from NJ, PA, and DE, bringing Cessna 182s, Piper Arrows, and simulators to inspire attendees.

Technology and trade-focused institutions like Polytech School of Aviation Maintenance and Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology have made significant contributions, alongside the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), emphasizing professional roles in business and corporate aviation.

Mission-driven organizations such as Corporate Angel Network and influential figures including Capt. Barrington Irving (Flying Classroom), 2021 Miss United States Samantha Anderson (STEM advocate), FAA Ambassador Jamail Larkins (pilot and entrepreneur), Air Jamaica’s first female A&P mechanic Samantha Mitchell, and Miss New Jersey 2019 Jaime Gialloreto have all played pivotal roles in furthering AVi’s mission of connection and inspiration. Additionally, the FAA has been a valued participant, engaging attendees through drone demonstrations, workforce opportunities, and aviation exhibits.

With this unmatched diversity of partners and participants, Take FLIGHT with AVi 2026 is poised to once again unite every facet of the aviation community — creating a lasting impact and invaluable opportunities for the next generation.

Full event details, registration, and sponsorship opportunities will be available soon at https://aviationinfluence.org/take-flight-at-acy.

Happy man smiling near a small aircraft.

Record-Breaking Aviator Jamail Larkins Headlines Take FLIGHT Event Sept 27

Wilmington, DE – August 19, 2025 — In celebration of National Aviation Day, Aviation Influence (AVi) is thrilled to present Take FLIGHT with AVi in Delaware! This engaging event, hosted by Atlantic Aviation and supported by the Delaware River and Bay Authority, along with presenting partners Black Women in Aviation and the Delaware Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, aims to foster STEM engagement and welcome over 1,200 attendees for a day rich in aviation and STEAM exploration.

Keynote Guest: Jamail Larkins

Record-breaking aviator Jamail Larkins will inspire attendees with his incredible story:

- At 14, he became the youngest American to solo a powered aircraft.

- At 16, he was the first student pilot to solo the Cirrus SR Series.

- By 18, he was a certified airshow performer, opening for the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

- By 21, he performed aerobatics on national primetime television.

- He was appointed the FAA’s first-ever Ambassador for Aviation & Space Education.

- He is also the founder of AviationStart, the largest scholarship resource for aspiring aviation professionals.

Event Emcees

This year, we welcome two dynamic leaders in the aviation community:

✈️ Lyndse Costabile – An entrepreneur, pilot, and co-founder of Aviation Influence, who pilots Lady Liberty, AVi’s mission-based aircraft.

✈️ Samantha Mitchell – An FAA-certified A&P technician, founder and president of Black Women in Aviation, author, and the first female Aircraft Maintenance Technician for Air Jamaica.

What to Expect

Take FLIGHT with AVi is more than just an event—it’s a unique experience! Attendees can look forward to:

- Hands-on STEAM activities & interactive exhibits

- Sectional Chart Scavenger Hunt

- Paper Airplane Challenge & photo ops

- Static displays of aircraft, helicopters & equipment

- Exciting surprise historic aircraft appearances, including a 90-year-old warbird flyover

- Author’s Corner & special aviation influencer guests

- Catered lunch, swag bags, giveaways & raffle prizes

- A digital silent auction opening one week before the event

Voices from the Community

“We are proud to host this year’s Take FLIGHT with AVi in partnership with Atlantic Aviation. The mission of familiarizing young people with the world of aviation is so important and will hopefully inspire the next generation to pursue their dreams.” — Ben Clendaniel, Director of Airport Operations

“We’re excited to take flight with this year’s event, an evolution of our past Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) events that offers so much more! Aviation Influence couldn’t accomplish this without our amazing sponsors, board members, volunteers, and staff.” — Ian Lumpp, Board Chair, Aviation Influence

“I’m thrilled that flyGATEWAY is teaming up with Aviation Influence for Take FLIGHT with AVi. This event provides experiences that truly ignite young people’s interest in aviation.” — Brad Snyder, Chief Instructor, flyGATEWAY Aviation Institute

Registration & Group Info

Advance registration is required—no walk-ins permitted. The event is open to youth ages 8–17. For group registration support for schools, academies, scout troops, and homeschool groups, email takeflight@aviationinfluence.org. 👉 Register now at www.aviationinfluence.org

Support the Mission

AVi is working towards a $28,750 fundraising goal to keep these enriching experiences 100% free. Your support directly fuels scholarships, programming, and future outreach.

- Donate or sponsor

- Contribute to the silent auction

- Exhibit at the event

Learn more at aviationinfluence.org/september-event-ilg or contact: Maricarin Minnock – Development, Corporate Relations & Administration at development@aviationinfluence.org.

Greater Delaware Valley 'Girls in Aviation Day'

Transforming Lives with Aviation Influence, Inc.

Marlton, NJ - August 7, 2023: Atlantic Aviation at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) has teamed up with Women in Aviation International (WAI) chapters and corporate members globally as a host for Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) Greater Delaware Valley, an annual outreach initiative organized by the nonprofit, Aviation Influence, Inc. (AVi). The highly anticipated event will take place at Atlantic Aviation’s PNE location, aligning with the Greater Delaware Valley’s goal of expanding aerospace opportunities in the region. GIAD aims to inspire the next generation of females in aviation and foster STEM engagement. Nearly 800 guests are expected to attend this FREE event, featuring a wide range of aerial displays, activities, special surprises, and STEM exhibits. Key sponsors include The Boeing Company, alongside presenting sponsors Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Philadelphia Northeast Airport (PNE), Leonardo, CHUBB, Clay Lacy Aviation, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, FunD Av Consulting, Pilot Institute, Influential Drones, Civil Air Patrol, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and corporate member and venue host, Atlantic Aviation.

“The underrepresentation of girls and women in STEM fields is a global challenge,” remarked Michele Hengey, Boeing Global Engagement Community Investor. “Boeing is committed to investing in young women in STEM to cultivate top talent for the engineering and aerospace industries. Girls in Aviation Day, in partnership with Aviation Influence, Inc., enables Boeing to connect with as many young girls in our communities as possible. We want them to recognize they are the future of the aerospace industry and to aim high as they consider this crucial career pathway.”

Hundreds of young ladies, along with their parents or guardians, are invited to the upcoming ‘Girls in Aviation Day’ (GIAD) Greater Delaware Valley event on Saturday, September 23, at Atlantic Aviation PNE. The event will welcome registered attendees from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Attendees will enjoy lunch provided by Franco’s of Marlton, a veteran caterer family-owned and involved in aviation. Guests will have the opportunity to experience static displays, fly drones, explore inside aircraft, and participate in engaging STEM and aviation exhibits. Female participants will also interact with influential women in aviation, including a Tuskegee Nurse, airline and corporate pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, dispatchers, wildlife experts, drone pilots, and Civil Air Patrol cadets, among others!

“PNE is thrilled to co-host the 'Girls in Aviation Day' event with Atlantic Aviation,” added Nikki Marenic, PNE’s airport operations officer. “This event holds immense significance as it empowers young girls to dream big and break down barriers in the aviation industry. We believe that diversity and inclusivity are vital for growth and progress in any sector, and we are proud to support an initiative that encourages girls to pursue their passions fearlessly.”

For the second consecutive year, AVi’s STEM partnership with NEXTGEN Aviators will enhance this year’s event. NEXTGEN Aviators offers a three-hour aviation experience for youth, introducing them to technical careers, including aerospace engineering, parts fabrication and assembly, electronics and avionics, and flight. As part of NEXTGEN Aviators’ involvement, there will be an aircraft display featuring Dynamic Aviation’s vintage C-47, “Miss Virginia,” which will undoubtedly be a highlight of the aerial display. Dynamic Aviation, based in Bridgewater, Va., is known for its fleet of vintage aircraft, including the renowned Columbine II built in 1948—the first presidential transport to carry the call sign “Air Force One.” With a rich history in aviation, Dynamic Aviation is a leading organization serving civil, defense, and commercial flight operations, and just in time for GIAD, they are looking to hire the next talent in the workforce. As a result of the GIAD 2022 event, Aviation Influence implemented a new award within their scholarship program to support NEXTGEN Aviators and plans to continue funding annually.

“Last year at GIAD 2022, I had the privilege of serving as a keynote speaker in my role as Miss United States 2021,” shared Samantha Anderson, partner relations and marketing coordinator for NEXTGEN Aviators. “As an aviator and STEM advocate, it's crucial that we persist in our efforts to expose our industry to minority groups. We are excited to showcase our NEXTGEN Aviators mobile exhibit once again this year.”

GIAD seeks to tackle the aviation workforce shortage by introducing young women to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) while highlighting their role in aviation. Over the past four years, Aviation Influence has tirelessly worked to enhance access and scholarships for young people aiming to enter the STEM and aviation fields.

“We’re delighted to fulfill our commitment to the Philadelphia area and bring GIAD to PNE this year,” expressed Lyndse Costabile, an event sponsor and co-founder of the organizer, Aviation Influence, Inc. “Last year, our GIAD event generated over $12,000 in scholarships, and we anticipate exceeding that amount this year. We are grateful to our partners and hosts for stepping up in 2023 and creating a positive impact and excitement for young ladies planning to attend.”

As a corporate host, Atlantic Aviation collaborates with other industry organizations, including Boeing, the Federal Aviation Administration, PNE and PHL airports, Leonardo, Civil Air Patrol, Parts Life, Beyond Aviation, Pilot Institute, Influential Drones, and Aviation Institute of Maintenance, who will also showcase their contributions at the event.

Girls aged 8-17 are encouraged to join us. For more details, including logistics and registration, please visit RSVP for GIAD 2023 at PNE.

Corporate partners and donors interested in supporting our mission can reach out to Maricarin Minnock at Development, Corporate Relations & Administration for Aviation Influence, Inc. at development@aviationinfluence.org.

Stay connected with Aviation Influence on social media platforms: @aviationinfluence.

Photos from GIAD 2022 and promotional material for GIAD 2023 can be found here: GIAD Greater Delaware Valley Event Logos_Graphics.

Girls in Aviation Day poster with illustrated female aviators and aircraft icons.