At thousands of feet above Sebring Regional Airport, a young pilot feels the hum of the engine as the aircraft soars through the brilliant blue sky. It’s a moment of focus and exhilaration—navigating the skies alone for the first time.
This past week, 12 Civil Air Patrol (CAP) cadets from across the country experienced this pivotal milestone, completing their first solo flights as part of a National Special Activity Program held at Sebring. Among them was 18-year-old Jordan May-Roman, who reflected on the mix of nerves and concentration.
“It’s definitely a little nerve-wracking, being the only person in the plane,” Roman shared. “But once you take off, the training kicks in, and you focus on what you’re doing. It was absolutely amazing.”
On the ground, CAP Lt. Col. Bob Brinley observed Roman’s smooth landing with pride, alongside fellow cadets eagerly awaiting their turns.
“He looks great, he’s doing just fine,” Brinley said as Roman’s Cessna 175 glided to a stop.
The week-long program brought together six CAP flight instructors, each paired with two cadets. Under the guidance of CAP General Joseph Vazquez, the students mastered takeoffs, landings, and essential flight patterns to build the confidence and skills needed for solo flight.
“They have to safely orbit in the pattern, land, and come to a complete stop—precisely as they’ve been taught,” Vazquez explained. “Instructors guide them through repeated takeoffs and landings, addressing mistakes and ensuring readiness before the solo.”
Seventeen-year-old Jetley Joseph of Pennsylvania was among the cadets who completed his solo flight, describing the experience as a major achievement.
“It’s a milestone,” Joseph said. “Flying without an instructor is different. There’s more to learn, like navigating cross-country, but this is an important step toward my pilot’s license.”
Cadets hailed from across the U.S., including Florida, West Virginia, Arizona, and Rhode Island. Each brought their unique enthusiasm and dedication, united by their shared goal of becoming pilots.
The program’s significance extended beyond the individual flights. Vazquez highlighted CAP’s broader mission: fostering aerospace education, leadership skills, and career pathways in aviation and aerospace.
“Beyond flying, we prepare cadets for roles in the FAA, mechanics, and other aerospace careers,” Vazquez said. “With a national pilot shortage, our work is more important than ever.”
The week concluded with a graduation dinner and ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of these aspiring aviators. For these young cadets, the skies above Sebring marked the beginning of new horizons and a lifetime of flight.
Excerpted from Read the complete story here.
FAA Approves Updated Airport Layout Plan for Sebring AirportMay 15, 2025 - 8:09 am
FDOT Assistant Secretary Kim Holland Visits Sebring Airport
NewsSebring 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.
Porsche Dominates the 73rd Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring
NewsThe 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.
Big Things Are Happening in Sebring! HGTV’s Home Town Takeover is Putting Our Community in the Spotlight!
NewsSebring, 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.
Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring March 15!
NewsThe 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:
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
NewsSebring, 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
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!
For updates on upcoming events, click here to subscribe to our event news or follow us on Facebook.
#GirlsInAviationDay #SebringAirport #FuturePilots #AviationEducation #WomenInAviation
New Tech Alert at Sebring Airport!: Lektro
NewsCheck 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!
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.
Sebring Adds New Point of Sale and Fuel Management System
NewsThe Sebring Flight Center (FBO) recently transitioned to a new cloud-based business management and point of sale system – MOSAIX AVMAN. MOSAIX developed AVMAN as a fully integrated solution designed to serve the specific requirements of a general aviation business. AVMAN has been designed to assist FBO’s by providing the information and tools they need to ensure a high level of customer service, maximize sales, and optimize business profitability.
The AVMAN Point of Sale and Fuel Management System provides the tools FBOs need to manage their day to day activities and includes a complete reservation management system, a fully integrated point of sale system, and a complete fuel management system. AVMAN POS includes publication in AVMAN Central™ and a live interface to the AVMAN Central Communication Portal.
USA Advanced Aerobatic Team Trains at Sebring Regional Airport
NewsSebring Regional Airport is proud to serve as the winter training base for the USA Advanced Aerobatic Team. This elite group of pilots, flying high-performance aerobatic aircraft, visits Sebring regularly to refine their skills in preparation for international competitions.
Coach Craig Gifford emphasizes that their practice focuses on precision and execution rather than performance aesthetics. The team appreciates the hospitality of Sebring and its ideal flying conditions, making it a prime location for their rigorous training.
The team will continue training here throughout the winter as they prepare to represent the USA at the World Aerobatic Championships in Hungary this September.
Civil Air Patrol Cadets Take to the Skies in Sebring for Their First Solo Flights
NewsAt thousands of feet above Sebring Regional Airport, a young pilot feels the hum of the engine as the aircraft soars through the brilliant blue sky. It’s a moment of focus and exhilaration—navigating the skies alone for the first time.
This past week, 12 Civil Air Patrol (CAP) cadets from across the country experienced this pivotal milestone, completing their first solo flights as part of a National Special Activity Program held at Sebring. Among them was 18-year-old Jordan May-Roman, who reflected on the mix of nerves and concentration.
“It’s definitely a little nerve-wracking, being the only person in the plane,” Roman shared. “But once you take off, the training kicks in, and you focus on what you’re doing. It was absolutely amazing.”
On the ground, CAP Lt. Col. Bob Brinley observed Roman’s smooth landing with pride, alongside fellow cadets eagerly awaiting their turns.
“He looks great, he’s doing just fine,” Brinley said as Roman’s Cessna 175 glided to a stop.
The week-long program brought together six CAP flight instructors, each paired with two cadets. Under the guidance of CAP General Joseph Vazquez, the students mastered takeoffs, landings, and essential flight patterns to build the confidence and skills needed for solo flight.
“They have to safely orbit in the pattern, land, and come to a complete stop—precisely as they’ve been taught,” Vazquez explained. “Instructors guide them through repeated takeoffs and landings, addressing mistakes and ensuring readiness before the solo.”
Seventeen-year-old Jetley Joseph of Pennsylvania was among the cadets who completed his solo flight, describing the experience as a major achievement.
“It’s a milestone,” Joseph said. “Flying without an instructor is different. There’s more to learn, like navigating cross-country, but this is an important step toward my pilot’s license.”
Cadets hailed from across the U.S., including Florida, West Virginia, Arizona, and Rhode Island. Each brought their unique enthusiasm and dedication, united by their shared goal of becoming pilots.
The program’s significance extended beyond the individual flights. Vazquez highlighted CAP’s broader mission: fostering aerospace education, leadership skills, and career pathways in aviation and aerospace.
“Beyond flying, we prepare cadets for roles in the FAA, mechanics, and other aerospace careers,” Vazquez said. “With a national pilot shortage, our work is more important than ever.”
The week concluded with a graduation dinner and ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of these aspiring aviators. For these young cadets, the skies above Sebring marked the beginning of new horizons and a lifetime of flight.
Excerpted from JOHN GUERRA Staff Writer Read the complete story here.
Exciting News for Sebring Airport!
NewsThe future of transportation is here!
Sebring Airport Authority is proud to announce the planning stages of our new Vertiport, part of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) project.
This state-of-the-art facility will connect seamlessly to our remodeled airside terminal building, offering a convenient passenger waiting area for those boarding the next generation of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft.
What’s Next?
We’re working closely with the FAA to amend our airport plan, ensuring we’re ready to take flight into this exciting future of mobility.
Stay tuned for updates as Sebring Airport continues to soar to new heights!
Sebring Airport Authority Mentors Aviation Programs in Trinidad
NewsThe Sebring Airport Authority, in a collaboration exercise, is actively mentoring Trevor Benjamin, a Senior Aviation Instructor at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Trevor, a former Chairman of the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago and Deputy Chairman of the Trinidad & Tobago Civil Aviation Authority, is committed to advancing aviation education in the region. He teaches courses in Airport and Airline Operations, Airside Safety, Air Regulations, and the History of Aviation, providing his students with some of the essential skills needed for a career in aviation.
As part of this mentorship, Sebring Airport Authority will be conducting a Zoom presentation for Trevor’s Airport Management class on its Airport Operations and Advanced Air Mobility. The presentation, titled “University of Trinidad and Tobago Presentation on Advanced Air Mobility,” will offer insights into cutting-edge aviation technologies and operations, preparing students for the evolving landscape of the industry.
Trevor Benjamin’s efforts to promote aviation education extend beyond the classroom. He has initiated programs that engage young people through STEM, organizing events for grade school children, aviation entrepreneurs, and marginalized groups such as orphaned and disabled children. His goal is to inspire the next generation of aviators and industry leaders in Trinidad and Tobago.
With his extensive background, including roles as Airport Manager at both Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport in St. Kitts and Nevis, Trevor brings a wealth of experience to his current position. Trevor holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba and a Master’s degree in Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and is a trained commercial pilot.
The partnership between Sebring Airport Authority and Trevor Benjamin highlights a shared commitment to fostering the development of aviation education and career opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago, ensuring that the region is well-positioned to contribute to and benefit from the future of global aviation.
Sebring Airport may have 1st ports for vertical takeoff-landing craft
NewsSebring Regional Airport has an opportunity to get into the cutting edge of Advanced Air Mobility.
If the airport can get funding soon enough and get facilities in place on the ground, it might just edge out bigger airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta, as a pioneer with “vertiports” in place to serve electric vertical takeoff and landing craft.
“This would be the first,” Willingham said.
The Airport Authority Board of Directors voted on Thursday to amend their airport layout plan to include a takeoff/landing pad, area to park the vehicles and up to five stations for recharging.
Meghan Sheehan, technical manager and the Aviation East and US Advanced Air Mobility lead at AtkinsRéalis, presented the proposed change to the board. Advanced air mobility refers to systems and aircraft that enable air service for passengers and cargo to previously unserved or underserved places.
Highlands County would fit that profile, but it also has a prime location, Sheehan said, in that it is right within the typical 100-150 mile range of eVOTL craft. Some craft can travel up to 250 miles on a charge, which would allow Sebring Airport, once established as an eVOTL hub, to take in traffic from an even larger radius.
Sebring sits 58 nautical miles from Orlando International Airport, 48 nautical miles from Lakeland Linder International Airport and 71 nautical miles from Tampa International Airport.
Sarasota is 65 nautical miles and Palm Beach International is 91.
Willingham said board members need not be concerned about the prospective market.
“We know these vehicles are coming,” he said.
He said that the Florida Department of Transportation will have grant money available to help develop this system, and Sebring Airport could position itself well, being in the middle of the state between two coasts and at the center of a circle of metropolitan areas.
“This is a big step toward our master plan,” Willingham said.
Why would pilots, passengers and cargo carriers use eVOTL craft?
Sheehan said they run quieter than helicopters and airplanes, especially at cruising speed, can transition easily from horizontal to vertical flight and give off no emissions.
A typical craft can carry from two to eight people. Although all have human pilots now, some in the future will fly autonomously, she said.
FDOT has done research on these craft and is prepared to provide funding to develop this system, Sheehan said, especially for airports that have plans already in place: A main reason for asking the board to amend the layout plan on Thursday.
The prospective cost of the vertiport is unknown, yet. It will depend on several factors, including exactly how many charging terminals the airport will build and the cost for construction, which fluctuates regularly.
The addendum to the plan would place the takeoff/landing pad close to the existing terminal, with access to parking for people wanting to drive in and fly.
Carl Cool, board member and former Highlands County engineer and administrator, said he recalled the county benefited from having plans for new roads already on paper when FDOT made millions of dollars available for counties with plans ready to build.
Board members did raise questions about the amount of parking provided on the layout for the vertiport, but Willingham pointed out that that lot sits adjacent to the main parking lot for the terminal, which he said is never full. Some tweaks to the plan are to be expected, he said.
“There’s more than one way to skin this cat,” Willingham said.
Cool said he was glad to hear that the airport might be able to bring in extra business at a cost significantly less than a runway extension.
“That’s crazy money,” Cool said.
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