Sebring Shines on Home Town Takeover

HGTV’s “Home Town Takeover” has brought its transformative energy to Sebring, Florida, for its third season, focusing on revitalizing the heart of this charming town. Led by hosts Ben and Erin Napier, the show aims to rejuvenate Sebring’s downtown area, breathing new life into its homes, businesses, and public spaces.

A significant contributor to this ambitious project is Jonathan Walters, a Fort Myers-based contractor and owner of Royal Corinthian Homes. Walters, who previously collaborated with the Napiers during the initial seasons of “Home Town,” returned as the general contractor for the Sebring renovations. His role encompassed overseeing schedules, managing subcontractors—including some from Southwest Florida—ensuring quality control, and maintaining budgets. Reflecting on the experience, Walters expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with the Napiers, noting their genuine and down-to-earth nature. ​

The revitalization efforts in Sebring were extensive, covering more than a dozen homes, businesses, and public spaces. The “Home Town Takeover” team collaborated closely with local leaders and residents to accelerate existing grassroots initiatives aimed at rejuvenating the town. This partnership not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of Sebring but also fostered a renewed sense of community pride and engagement.

HGTV ribbon cutting: SebringEpisode 3

Ben and Erin, along with HGTV star Veronica Valencia, bring a Cuban flair to a family-owned restaurant on the Circle. They also surprise community leaders with a home renovation to help them better serve those in need throughout Sebring.

Episode 4

A champion for single parents, a Sebring woman gets the shock of a lifetime when Ben and Erin surprise her with a home renovation. Also, HGTV’s Sarah and Bryan Baeumler fly in to help the historic Circle Theatre with a major facelift.

For those interested in witnessing the remarkable transformations and the collaborative spirit that fueled them, “Home Town Takeover” airs on HGTV, with episodes also available for streaming on Max. See the schedule here. This season offers an inspiring look at how dedicated individuals and communities can come together to breathe new life into their hometowns. Read more here

Sebring Airport Joined U.S. Experts to Discuss Advanced Air Mobility at Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid

Sebring Airport Authority’s Deputy Director, Andrew Bennett, joined a distinguished panel at the 2025 Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, Spain to discuss the future of advanced air mobility (AAM) in the United States.

The panel, titled “Advanced Air Mobility: A U.S. Planning Perspective,” brought together leaders from a range of U.S. airport systems and aviation organizations, including:

  • Andrew Bennett, Deputy Director, Sebring Airport Authority

  • Austin Futch, Aviation Planning & Development Manager, Dallas Airport System

  • Kenyatta Lee, Chief of External Affairs, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

  • Meghan Sheehan, Deputy U.S. Aviation Manager, AtkinsRéalis

Representing diverse geographies and markets, the panelists shared insight into the challenges and opportunities of preparing for AAM within their regions. Topics included how airports are navigating regulatory uncertainty, working with utility providers, and engaging stakeholders as the industry adapts to rapid technological advancement.

Key Takeaways:

  • How U.S. airports are prioritizing AAM preparedness

  • Strategies for engaging utility providers and key stakeholders

  • Building the business case for AAM in distinct regional markets

  • Insights into how airports and vertiport operators are adapting to evolving regulations

Sebring Airport’s participation highlights its growing role in shaping the future of regional aviation and its proactive approach to innovation in the evolving transportation landscape.

Additional event attended by Deputy Director Andrew Bennett earlier this spring.

Aero Friedrichshafen 2025

Held in Friedrichshafen, Germany from April 9-12, this exhibition showcased the full spectrum of general aviation, including air sports aircraft, helicopters, and business jets. The event featured over 760 exhibitors from 38 countries, highlighting innovations in sustainable aviation and ultralight aircraft. Attendees enjoyed two airshows, including an e-Flight Airshow with electric-powered aircraft. From Sebring Regional Airport in the United States, Tecnam Aircraft (Italy), DUC Hélices Propellers (France), and Lockwood Aviation (United States) were notable attendees.

Rexair Preflight

New flight training academy opens at KSEF

Following a soft opening period of several months, Naples, Florida-based Rexair Flight Training has opened the Rexair Professional Pilot Academy in Sebring, Florida.

Based out of the main FBO building at Sebring Regional Airport (KSEF), Rexair Professional Pilot Academy provides ground school, flight training, and housing solutions for students.

The school operates factory-built Vans RV-12 aircraft that meet Technically Advanced Aircraft standards, as well as a TECNAM P2006T for multi-engine training.

“From the start our goal was to provide high-quality one-on-one customer service to our students. We spent our first several months of operation in a real-world testing environment of our systems, aircraft, and facilities with an intentionally limited number of students,” said Michael Hangartner, director of professional flight training.

“When it comes to flight training, Florida has so much to offer,” said Rexair CEO and former Naval Aviator Keith West. “In Naples we’ve been established and successful for a number of years. But we saw a need for a dedicated academy style program that could provide opportunities to students from outside the local area. After a statewide search we determined Sebring Regional Airport is the perfect place to do just that.” For more info about Rexair click here.  Read more here.

T-34 association

T-34 Association’s “Knock The Rust Off 2025”

Sebring Regional Airport recently hosted the T-34 Association’s “Knock the Rust Off 2025” event from March 28 to April 1, welcoming pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and their families for five days of camaraderie, training, and flight operations.

The event served as a formation flying clinic and a perfect tune-up for the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo. Each day began with mass briefings and was followed by formation flights, on-site lunches at the EAA hangar, and evening gatherings that brought participants together to share stories and celebrate their shared passion for aviation.

While pilots were busy in the skies, non-flying attendees enjoyed a range of Sebring’s attractions—including golf, museums, fishing, and even race car driving opportunities.

Participants stayed at the Seven Sebring Hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of the airport, creating a seamless and engaging experience from airfield to evening socials. The final day featured a mass briefing and practice for the Sun ‘n Fun mass arrival, capping off a highly successful and well-organized event.

Sebring was proud to be the launchpad for another exciting aviation season and looks forward to welcoming the T-34 Association back in the future.

sun n fun

Sun ‘N Fun 2025

The 2025 Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo is a wrap. The 51st annual expo took place from 1-6 April at Lakeland Linder International Airport in Central Florida.

Big thanks to our team who attended this event representing Sebring Airport: Jami, Colleen, Andrew and Heather.

Over 200,000 guests, 3000-3500 aircraft, and several hundred vendors attended the event. The Expo brought in roughly $31 million, and a big portion of the profits will go to the Aerospace Center For Excellence, which supports Youth Education Programs in aviation.

Throughout the week, Sun ‘n Fun offers activities such as military and civilian flying demonstrations, static displays, workshops, lectures, and vendor displays.

safety

New Safety Advisory & Pilot Video for Sebring Airport (SEF)

As part of our continued commitment to safety and service excellence, Sebring Airport has released a 2025 Safety Advisory for all incoming pilots. This comprehensive document provides updated procedures and important operational information to ensure a safe and efficient arrival.

We’ve also created a new, comprehensive pilot orientation video to help familiarize you with the airport layout and arrival protocols before you touch down.

View the Safety Advisory

Watch the Pilot Orientation Video

Please review these materials before your next flight into SEF. Fly safe, and we look forward to welcoming you to Sebring!

Kim Holland FDOT

FDOT Assistant Secretary Kim Holland Visits Sebring Airport

Sebring Airport was honored to welcome Kim Holland, Assistant Secretary for Strategic Development at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), during her recent visit to the region for the FDOT Equipment Rodeo at Sebring International Raceway.

Secretary Holland, who brings over 28 years of experience in infrastructure engineering, joined FDOT in 2023. In her role, she oversees strategic investments into Florida’s transportation system, including the Strategic Intermodal System. Her mission includes strengthening the state’s supply chain logistics, maximizing competitive grant opportunities, building strong public-private partnerships, and advancing resilience strategies to protect Florida’s infrastructure from extreme weather.

Airport Executive Director Mike Willingham and Deputy Director Andrew Bennett had the pleasure of hosting Secretary Holland during her visit. Although initially scheduled for a brief 30-minute meeting, the conversation extended to more than 90 minutes, underscoring her deep interest in Sebring Airport’s strategic initiatives.

Key highlights of the discussion included Sebring’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) project, engineering and vocational training programs, and the Board’s commitment to workforce development and job creation in the region.

Plans are now underway to coordinate a return visit from Secretary Holland to explore the Highlands County School Board’s youth training programs in greater depth. Sebring Airport looks forward to continuing this valuable dialogue and to further strengthening partnerships that support innovation, education, and long-term economic growth.

sebring raceway

Porsche Dominates the 73rd Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring

The 73rd running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring delivered a thrilling finish and a commanding performance by Porsche Penske Motorsport, who swept the top two positions in one of endurance racing’s most iconic events.

Porsche Penske Goes 1-2
Pilots Felipe Nasr, Nick Tandy, and Laurens Vanthoor steered the No. 7 Porsche 963 to a hard-fought victory, narrowly edging out their teammates in the No. 6 Porsche 963 by just 2.239 seconds after 12 grueling hours on track. It was a statement win, with the No. 7 machine leading much of the race and holding strong under pressure until the final lap.

A Race Steeped in Legacy
Held annually at Sebring International Raceway in Florida, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring is one of the crown jewels of endurance racing. Known for its notoriously rough and technical circuit, Sebring challenges even the best teams with a mix of old-school bumps and modern-day speed.

Part of the IMSA WeatherTech Championship
As a key stop in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the Sebring race features a fierce field of GT and prototype cars competing at the highest level. The Porsche 963’s performance in both the No. 7 and No. 6 cars underscores the team’s strength and the close competition that defines the series.

 

HGTV Sebring Makeover

Big Things Are Happening in Sebring! HGTV’s Home Town Takeover is Putting Our Community in the Spotlight!

Sebring, Florida, is experiencing a remarkable revitalization as the focus of HGTV’s “Home Town Takeover” Season 3, hosted by Ben and Erin Napier. This initiative has breathed new life into our community by renovating homes, local businesses, and public spaces, thereby enhancing Sebring’s appeal as a vibrant destination. The increased national attention is expected to boost tourism and economic growth, presenting exciting opportunities for Sebring Regional Airport to welcome a surge of visitors eager to experience our transformed town.

Youtube-play Youtube-play Sneak Peak Video
race

Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring March 15!

The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring is a grueling test of endurance, reliability, and speed, attracting some of the top names in motorsport and featuring thrilling, unpredictable action every year.

Purchase tickets and parking for up to four days of racing and eight races, culminating with the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

Free parking is available outside the facility and tent camping is included in the price of a ticket. Among the highlights of the 2025 event are:

  • Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 15
  • Alan Jay Automotive Network 120 on Friday, March 15
  • Lamborghini Super Trofeo races on both Thursday, March 13 and Friday, March 14
  • Porsche Carrera Cup N.A. races on both Thursday, March 13 and Friday, March 14
  • Mustang Challenge Races on both Thursday, March 13 and Friday, March 14
  • Marshall Tucker Band concert on Friday night, March 14

Even before the big race starts, fantastic racing is already taking place at the Birthplace of American Endurance Racing. Many of the cars that competed decades ago at Sebring, and some from just a few years ago, are on track all day Saturday and Sunday. Buy tickets online or on site

Upgrade Your Ticket to a Much Better Seat

If you’ve already purchased tickets and want a full VIP experience, stop by the ticket trailer at Gate 3 and upgrade to the Sebring Officers Club or Club Seven at Seven Sebring Raceway Hotel.

Leave Your Cooler and Grill at Home and Enjoy Fan Hospitality.

A limited number of tickets are still available for the Sebring Officers Club or Club Seven at Seven Sebring Raceway Hotel.

If you’ve always wanted to go to Sebring, but your significant other won’t let you, buy him or her a ticket to one of the luxurious hospitality locations and prove to them there is a very sophisticated side to Sebring. Meals, open bars, convenient parking, and multiple days with fantastic views are just the beginning of a great weekend.

Girls in Aviation Day at Sebring Airport: Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviators

Sebring, FL – The future of aviation took flight at Girls in Aviation Day at Sebring Airport, an annual event designed to introduce young minds to the exciting world of aerospace. This year’s event welcomed over 30 attendees, including students from Divine Academy, Boys & Girls Club Highlands, and other local schools.

From hands-on activities to real-world aviation experiences, the day was filled with opportunities to learn, explore, and dream big.

Aviation in Action: Highlights from the Day

Flight Simulator Experience – A standout feature of Girls in Aviation Day since 2018, the Sebring Flight Academy’s flight simulator allowed attendees to experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft firsthand. This immersive training opportunity continues to empower young pilots and provide invaluable exposure to aviation careers.

Build an Airplane Activity – Under the guidance of Lisa Watkins, students assembled and decorated balsa wood airplane silhouettes, bringing their creativity to life with unique and colorful paint schemes.

Rexair Flight Academy & The 99s – Aviation students Kate & Rebecca from Rexair Flight Academy engaged attendees in discussions about their journey to becoming pilots, while the 99s organization led fun, hands-on learning games that tested aeronautical knowledge.

Civil Air Patrol Drill Demonstration – The CAP Squadron cadets impressed the crowd with their precise drill formations, then invited Boys & Girls Club members to try their hand at marching alongside them—a memorable moment for all!

EAA Chapter 1240’s Pancake Breakfast – This popular gathering brought in aviation enthusiasts from across the area, adding a community feel to the event.

FBO & SAA Support – Led by Jamie Olive, the Sebring Airport FBO team played a key role in making the day a success, assisting with event setup, directing aircraft, and coordinating static displays, including a fire truck and ambulance.

Air Cam Airplane on Display – A crowd favorite, the Air Cam airplane, provided by Lockwood Aviation, offered a unique up-close look at an aircraft designed for adventure.

Women In Aviation:

A Bright Future for Women in Aviation

Sebring Flight Academy has been a Girls Fly Day partner every year, and their generous support of the flight simulation experience makes an incredible difference,” said event organizer Janice Rearick. “Girls truly walk away knowing that they can fly.

Huge Thanks to Women In Aviation International for supporting us once again with marketing materials, information, fabulous swag and inspiration.

With another successful Girls in Aviation Day in the books, we look forward to welcoming even more future pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts next year!

 

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#GirlsInAviationDay #SebringAirport #FuturePilots #AviationEducation #WomenInAviation

lektro

New Tech Alert at Sebring Airport!: Lektro

Check out our SLICK new addition – the LEKTRO® All-Electric, Towbarless Aircraft Tow Tractor! ⚡✈️ This cutting-edge, eco-friendly workhorse moves aircraft seamlessly with precision and power—all without a towbar!

  •  Zero emissions for a cleaner future
  • Whisper-quiet operation—because efficiency should sound this good
  • Smooth & precise maneuvering for ultimate aircraft handling

LEKTRO is the global leader in electric, towbarless aircraft towing vehicles. Their patented universal cradle gently lifts the nose gear and allows for unparalleled towing maneuverability.
LEKTRO invented the first towbarless towing vehicle in 1967 and continues to pioneer leading technologies for safer, more efficient aircraft towing. Their all-electric towing vehicles come in five different model series that can handle aircraft ranging from the smallest piston aircraft to narrow body airliners like the Boeing 757.