If you’ve ever wondered who keeps an airport running when no one is watching, meet Luis Pratts.
For Luis, no two days at Sebring Regional Airport are ever the same. One morning he may be repairing fueling equipment. By afternoon, he could be responding to a wildlife hazard near an active runway. Whatever the challenge, his job is to keep airport operations running safely and efficiently.
“If something breaks down, that’s what I’m here for,” Pratts said.
As Airport Operations Supervisor, Pratts oversees Fixed Base Operator (FBO) fueling operations, supervises the airport’s line technicians, manages the airport’s fuel farm, and directs fueling services at Avon Park Air Force Range under the Sebring Airport Authority’s Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) contract.
The airport’s fuel farm consists of four tanks holding nearly 48,000 gallons of aviation fuel. Keeping that system operating safely requires continuous inspections, preventive maintenance, and attention to every detail—from worn gaskets and damaged nozzles to routine quality-control testing.
Safety extends well beyond fueling operations.
Wildlife management is another important part of Luis’s job. Deer, hawks, eagles, pigeons, raccoons, coyotes, and even armadillos occasionally find their way onto airport property.
“The goal is to figure out where they’re coming from and keep them away from the runways,” he explained.
To safely discourage wildlife from lingering near aircraft operations, Pratts often uses a pyrotechnic launcher that produces a loud report, encouraging animals to leave the area without causing them harm.
Originally from Miami, Pratts never expected aviation to become his career.
After graduating from high school, his uncle helped him secure an entry-level position at Sebring Regional Airport as a line technician. His days were spent fueling aircraft, marshaling airplanes to parking positions, assisting flight crews, and helping customers.
That first job turned into a career.
Today, sixteen years later, Pratts helps oversee many of the airport’s critical day-to-day operations—work that keeps aircraft moving safely, customers receiving exceptional service, and airport facilities operating around the clock.
Whether maintaining fueling equipment, supporting military operations, or ensuring wildlife stays clear of active runways, Luis Pratts represents the dedication and professionalism that help keep Sebring Regional Airport flying every day.
Florida’s Proposed “Aerial Highway Network”August 21, 2026 - 2:09 pm
Florida’s Proposed “Aerial Highway Network”
NewsFlorida is looking beyond testing eVTOL aircraft to the infrastructure needed to support them.
A proposed statewide “Aerial Highway Network” could establish approximately 32 locations across Florida capable of supporting electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These sites could provide charging, takeoff and landing infrastructure at airports and other strategically located properties.
While the proposal still requires federal approval, it’s another indication that Advanced Air Mobility is moving from concept toward real-world transportation planning—and that airports could play an important role in what comes next.
Air Taxi Testing Coming to Central Florida
NewsThe future of aviation is getting closer to home.
Florida is preparing to begin active testing of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, or eVTOLs, in Central Florida by the end of 2026. The testing will take place through SunTrax AirGround in Auburndale as part of the state’s growing focus on Advanced Air Mobility.
Often described as “air taxis,” eVTOL aircraft have potential applications far beyond passenger transportation, including cargo delivery, emergency response and medical transportation.
For Florida airports, the development represents another glimpse at how rapidly aviation is evolving. From new aircraft technologies to the infrastructure required to support them, Advanced Air Mobility could become an increasingly important part of the state’s transportation system.
Sebring Regional Airport continues to follow these developments as Florida helps shape what comes next in aviation.
Environmental stewardship begins with good data.
NewsSebring Regional Airport has released its July Southern Basin Stormwater Monthly Flow Monitoring Report, continuing its ongoing program to monitor stormwater flow through four outfalls located along airport property.
During the July 1–31 reporting period, 5.34 inches of rainfall were recorded. Automated monitoring measured a maximum combined hourly flow rate of 29.4 cubic feet per second across the four outfalls, with a total cumulative stormwater discharge of 503 acre-feet for the month.
Automated telemetry systems at Outfalls B, C, D and E provide hourly monitoring of water levels and stormwater flow. Monitoring data for all four outfalls has been reported since May 2026, giving the Airport consistent information to better understand drainage conditions and stormwater movement across the property.
The automated monitoring is supplemented by visual inspections conducted two to three times each week. During July, the peak observed hourly total flow during those inspections was estimated at 0.66 cubic feet per second. No significant maintenance issues were identified during the reporting period.
This ongoing monitoring program provides Sebring Regional Airport with reliable, measurable data to support informed environmental management and responsible stewardship of airport property.
Read the full July 2026 Monthly Flow Monitoring Report.
Keeping General Aviation Flying: Carter Aircraft at Sebring Airport
NewsAt Sebring Regional Airport, the activity on the ramp tells the story of a thriving aviation community. One of the businesses helping keep aircraft flying is Carter Aircraft, a valued airport tenant specializing in aircraft maintenance, repair, inspections, and engine services.
From routine maintenance to preparing aircraft for their next journey, the Carter Aircraft team supports pilots and aircraft owners with the expertise and attention to detail that general aviation depends on.
Companies like Carter Aircraft are an important part of what makes Sebring more than just an airport. Together with our diverse aviation tenants, they contribute to a dynamic environment where aircraft are maintained, businesses grow, and aviation professionals thrive.
We’re proud to have Carter Aircraft as part of the Sebring Regional Airport family.
Photo courtesy of Luis Pratts, Airport Operations Supervisor.
Keeping Sebring Flying: Meet Airport Operations Supervisor Luis Pratts
NewsIf you’ve ever wondered who keeps an airport running when no one is watching, meet Luis Pratts.
For Luis, no two days at Sebring Regional Airport are ever the same. One morning he may be repairing fueling equipment. By afternoon, he could be responding to a wildlife hazard near an active runway. Whatever the challenge, his job is to keep airport operations running safely and efficiently.
“If something breaks down, that’s what I’m here for,” Pratts said.
As Airport Operations Supervisor, Pratts oversees Fixed Base Operator (FBO) fueling operations, supervises the airport’s line technicians, manages the airport’s fuel farm, and directs fueling services at Avon Park Air Force Range under the Sebring Airport Authority’s Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) contract.
The airport’s fuel farm consists of four tanks holding nearly 48,000 gallons of aviation fuel. Keeping that system operating safely requires continuous inspections, preventive maintenance, and attention to every detail—from worn gaskets and damaged nozzles to routine quality-control testing.
Safety extends well beyond fueling operations.
Wildlife management is another important part of Luis’s job. Deer, hawks, eagles, pigeons, raccoons, coyotes, and even armadillos occasionally find their way onto airport property.
“The goal is to figure out where they’re coming from and keep them away from the runways,” he explained.
To safely discourage wildlife from lingering near aircraft operations, Pratts often uses a pyrotechnic launcher that produces a loud report, encouraging animals to leave the area without causing them harm.
Originally from Miami, Pratts never expected aviation to become his career.
After graduating from high school, his uncle helped him secure an entry-level position at Sebring Regional Airport as a line technician. His days were spent fueling aircraft, marshaling airplanes to parking positions, assisting flight crews, and helping customers.
That first job turned into a career.
Today, sixteen years later, Pratts helps oversee many of the airport’s critical day-to-day operations—work that keeps aircraft moving safely, customers receiving exceptional service, and airport facilities operating around the clock.
Whether maintaining fueling equipment, supporting military operations, or ensuring wildlife stays clear of active runways, Luis Pratts represents the dedication and professionalism that help keep Sebring Regional Airport flying every day.
Sebring Airport Launches Monthly Stormwater Flow Monitoring Reports
NewsEnvironmental stewardship begins with good data.
Sebring Regional Airport has published its June 2026 Monthly Stormwater Flow Monitoring Report for the Southern Basin. The report summarizes rainfall, stormwater outfall monitoring, and environmental observations within the Southern Basin during the month. June recorded 7.31 inches of rainfall, and no significant maintenance issues were identified during the reporting period.
Read the full report here.
What Sebring Will Be Watching at AirVenture 2026
NewsIn just a few days, the global aviation community will turn its attention to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where EAA AirVenture 2026 will bring together pilots, aircraft owners, manufacturers, airport leaders, educators, students, and aviation enthusiasts for the world’s largest aviation gathering.
More than an airshow, AirVenture is where ideas are shared, innovations are introduced, and the future of aviation takes shape. Throughout the week, manufacturers unveil new aircraft and technologies, aviation organizations announce major initiatives, and industry leaders discuss the challenges and opportunities facing airports, pilots, businesses, and communities across the country.
For Sebring Regional Airport, AirVenture offers an opportunity to stay informed about developments that align with our mission of supporting aviation growth, economic development, and workforce opportunities in our region.
Among the topics we will be following are advancements in general aviation aircraft, emerging technologies, airport infrastructure, flight training, workforce development, and youth aviation programs. We are also interested in discussions surrounding Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), evolving FAA initiatives, sustainability, and innovations that help strengthen the future of aviation while supporting communities of all sizes.
AirVenture has long been recognized as a gathering place where aviation professionals exchange ideas, build partnerships, and inspire the next generation of pilots, mechanics, engineers, and aerospace leaders. Many of the conversations and announcements made during the event influence the direction of the aviation industry well beyond the week itself.
As Sebring Regional Airport continues to invest in infrastructure, support aviation businesses, and expand opportunities for education and community engagement, staying connected to these industry conversations helps ensure we remain informed about emerging trends and best practices.
Throughout AirVenture 2026, we’ll be following key announcements and noteworthy developments from Oshkosh and sharing highlights that are especially relevant to our airport, our tenants, our partners, and our community.
Whether you’re attending AirVenture or following along from home, we invite you to join us as we celebrate another exciting chapter in aviation and explore the innovations shaping the future of flight.
Follow Along with Sebring
Throughout AirVenture week, Sebring Regional Airport will be sharing noteworthy announcements, emerging technologies, and industry developments from Oshkosh—highlighting what they mean for our airport and the future of aviation.
Celebrating 250 Years of American Independence
NewsThis Fourth of July, Sebring Regional Airport joins communities across the nation in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
For 250 years, the United States has been defined by innovation, perseverance, and a shared commitment to building a stronger future. Those same qualities continue to inspire the aviation industry and the work being done every day at Sebring Regional Airport.
As we celebrate this historic milestone, we extend our appreciation to the service members, first responders, airport employees, tenants, pilots, and community partners who contribute to the strength and vitality of our region.
From our airport family to yours, we wish you a safe, joyful, and memorable Independence Day.
Sebring Airport Launches Monthly Stormwater Flow Monitoring Reports
NewsEnvironmental stewardship begins with good data.
Sebring Regional Airport has launched a new monthly stormwater monitoring program using automated telemetry equipment installed at four drainage outfalls across airport property.
The May 2026 report is the first to include telemetry data from all four monitoring locations following completion of the monitoring system earlier this spring. During the reporting period, 3.39 inches of rainfall were recorded, with no measurable stormwater discharge from airports southern basin. Routine field observations also confirmed the automated monitoring results.
The expanded monitoring program combines hourly automated telemetry with regular visual inspections to create a transparent, science-based record of stormwater conditions. Monthly reports will continue to be published as part of the Airport Authority’s ongoing commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and transparency.
Download the complete report.
Honoring Doris Gentry Hawthorne
NewsThe Sebring Airport Authority is proud to recognize Doris Gentry Hawthorne for her lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing the rich history of Highlands County. Through her passion for community storytelling and historical preservation, Doris has helped ensure that the people, places, and events that shaped our region will continue to inspire future generations.
Her commitment to preserving local heritage serves as a lasting gift to our community and a reminder of the importance of honoring our past while building for the future.
Celebrating a Community Historian
Few individuals have done more to preserve the stories of Highlands County than Doris Gentry Hawthorne. Through decades of research, writing, and community involvement, she has helped document the history that connects generations and strengthens our sense of place.
The Sebring Airport Authority is honored to recognize Doris for her enduring contributions and her dedication to keeping our community’s stories alive.
A Legacy of Preserving History
The Sebring Airport Authority is honored to celebrate Doris Gentry Hawthorne, whose dedication to documenting and preserving local history has enriched Highlands County for generations. Her work has helped safeguard the stories, achievements, and memories that define our community and ensure they remain accessible for years to come.
Her passion for history continues to inspire others to appreciate and preserve the heritage that makes our region unique.
Advanced Air Mobility: Sebring’s Long View of the Future of Flight
NewsBefore Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) became one of aviation’s most talked-about innovations, Sebring Regional Airport was already exploring what the future of regional transportation might look like.
In the early 2000s, Sebring participated in NASA’s Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS) initiative, a program that examined how emerging technologies could transform the way people travel. The vision centered on creating more efficient, point-to-point transportation networks using smaller aircraft, reducing congestion and improving access to communities beyond major commercial hubs.
Many of the concepts explored through SATS—including distributed transportation networks, increased aircraft automation, and more direct regional travel—have evolved into what we now know as Advanced Air Mobility.
Today, Sebring Regional Airport continues to help pave the way forward. The airport became one of the first in the nation to receive FAA approval for an Airport Layout Plan incorporating a vertiport, positioning Sebring to pursue future infrastructure opportunities as the industry evolves.
While widespread adoption of powered-lift aircraft and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles will take time, airport leadership believes these technologies have the potential to expand access to medical services, business opportunities, arts and entertainment, and other regional destinations.
“As technology advances, there will be longer flight times,” said Deputy Director Andrew Bennett.
Executive Director Mike Willingham added, “It’s been the future for a long time. It’s just finally being realized.”
At Sebring Regional Airport, innovation isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about preparing thoughtfully for what’s next—ensuring our region is ready to connect people to opportunity as the future of flight continues to take shape. Download the complete story here.
Pilot Safety Video – A Quick Refresher for Operations at SEF
NewsAs part of Sebring Regional Airport’s ongoing commitment to safe operations, we’re reissuing our 2025 Safety Advisory Video for pilots flying into or out of SEF.
The video provides important updates on:
Watch the video here
Download the Safety Advisory PDF
Originally released in April, this advisory remains essential viewing as we enter peak summer flying months. Please take a few minutes to review it and help us keep Sebring safe for everyone.