Sebring Regional Airport recently welcomed a new generation of aviation enthusiasts during the annual Girls Fly Now / Girls in Aviation Day, an event designed to introduce young students to careers in flight, aerospace, and STEM.
Women have been piloting aircraft nearly as long as airplanes have existed. In 1910, Elise Raymonde Deroche became the first licensed female pilot — just seven years after the Wright Brothers’ first powered flight. That pioneering spirit was alive and well on the Sebring ramp.
JoAnne Alcorn of Polk County, who flies the “City of Winter Park” Cessna 172R in the 2,500-mile Air Race Classic, spoke to the students about drag, lift, and the forces that govern flight. The Air Race Classic traces its roots back to the 1929 Women’s Air Derby, which included aviation legend Amelia Earhart as well as Louise Thaden and Pancho Barnes.
Young attendees from the Boys & Girls Club of Highlands County rotated through hands-on learning stations led by female pilots, Civil Air Patrol cadets, and aviation leaders.
“It’s important for pilots to learn these forces, how the aircraft will react, and the response at the controls,” explained pilot Shira Ellsworth. “If you don’t understand these forces, you can put the aircraft in a stall.”
Students explored aviation charts, learned about airspace boundaries, and even built their own balsa-wood airplanes. Civil Air Patrol cadets demonstrated how pilots navigate terrain, airport frequencies, and restricted areas.
“This helps get them prepared for a possible career as a pilot in aerospace — not just commercial or military, but space exploration,” said Lt. Stephen Armentrout. “The world needs more pilots.”
The event was supported by members of the Highlands Ninety-Nines, the international organization of licensed women pilots founded in 1929 with Amelia Earhart as its first president.
“We’ve been doing a girls aviation day since 2018,” said Janice Rearick, CEO of the Highlands County Boys & Girls Club. “It’s heavy on academics — and still fun.”
Sebring Regional Airport is proud to serve as a hub not only for aviation activity, but for workforce development and community inspiration. With pilot shortages projected nationwide, events like this play an important role in cultivating the next generation of aerospace professionals. Read the Mid Florida Newspaper Coverage
Pilot Safety Video – A Quick Refresher for Operations at SEFJune 1, 2026 - 4:43 pm
Sebring Airport Breaks Ground on Taxiway Delta Project
NewsThe Sebring Airport Authority has begun construction on Taxiway Delta, a major airfield infrastructure project designed to enhance safety and operational efficiency at Sebring Regional Airport (SEF).
The project includes the construction of a 1,800-foot by 35-foot partial parallel taxiway serving Runway 14-32, along with associated grading, drainage improvements, asphalt pavement, and airfield markings required to support safe aircraft movement.
Currently, aircraft using Runway 14-32 must back-taxi on the active runway to reach the terminal apron due to the absence of a parallel taxiway. Taxiway Delta will eliminate the need for back-taxi operations in this area, reducing runway occupancy time and improving overall airfield safety.
“Projects like Taxiway Delta are essential to maintaining a safe and efficient airport for pilots, businesses, and visitors who rely on Sebring Regional Airport,” said Mike Willingham, Executive Director of the Sebring Airport Authority.
The project carries a construction cost of $2,249,536. E.O. Koch Construction Co. was selected as the contractor, and Avcon, Inc. is providing engineering design and construction inspection services.
Funding for the project is provided entirely through public aviation infrastructure programs, with 95 percent funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and 5 percent funded by the Florida Department of Transportation.
The Taxiway Delta project reflects the Sebring Airport Authority’s continued commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient, and modern aviation facility serving the needs of airport users and the broader Highlands County community.
Photo Caption:
Members of the Sebring Airport Authority and project partners participate in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Taxiway Delta project at Sebring Regional Airport. The $2.25 million infrastructure improvement will construct a new 1,800-foot taxiway serving Runway 14-32, improving safety and operational efficiency on the airfield.
Pictured left to right:
Board Member Jason Dunkel; Board Member Carl Cool; Airport Deputy Director Andrew Bennett; Avcon, Inc. Project Manager Keira Medina; Board Member Mark Andrews; Board Member Stanley Wells; Board Member Pete McDevitt; and Board Member Craig Johnson.
(Photo credit: Sebring Airport Authority)
Terminal Atrium and Runway Café Receive Interior Refresh
NewsSebring Airport Authority recently completed renovations to the terminal building atrium and the Runway Café, creating a refreshed and welcoming environment for travelers and visitors.
The atrium upgrades include new luxury vinyl tile and plank flooring installed in a herringbone pattern, updated interior paint in soft gray tones, and modern furnishings that give the space a clean, contemporary feel.
The Runway Café renovation complements the atrium improvements with updated flooring, refreshed interior finishes, and new cabinetry and countertops. The café’s original fireplace was restored with new porcelain tile and an updated mantel, while new blackened-steel pendant lighting adds warmth and character to the space.
Improvements also extend to the outdoor patio, where stained concrete, upgraded aluminum tables and chairs, and new aeronautical-inspired ceiling fans create a comfortable area for guests to relax and enjoy views of airport activity.
Together, these updates create a cohesive, modern space that enhances the overall experience for airport visitors and café guests.
The Runway Café remains a popular gathering place at Sebring Regional Airport for pilots, visitors, and members of the community.
General Aviation Posts Record $35.7 Billion Year in 2025
NewsThe general aviation industry achieved a historic milestone in 2025, recording $35.7 billion in aircraft billings — the highest total ever reported in the annual General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report released February 18, 2026.
While overall aircraft deliveries were largely steady year-over-year, the business aviation sector led the surge. Business jet deliveries increased 11.8%, totaling 854 aircraft in 2025. Piston airplane shipments rose to 1,782 units, while turboprop deliveries saw a slight decline to 594 aircraft.
Helicopter deliveries were mixed, but overall helicopter billings increased approximately 5.5% to $4.7 billion. Industry leaders also report a $7.7 billion backlog, reflecting strong and sustained demand across general aviation.
“The state of the general aviation manufacturing industry remains steadfast,” said James Viola, President and CEO of GAMA. “We continue to see robust numbers of total aircraft delivered, as well as annual billings eclipsing $35 billion, the highest it has ever been.”
For Sebring Regional Airport, these national trends underscore continued strength in general aviation and business aviation markets — reinforcing long-term demand for airport infrastructure, hangar development, and aviation services in our region.
Private Investment Strengthens Aviation Capacity
NewsModern hangar facilities at Sebring Regional Airport reflect continued private investment in aviation infrastructure across Florida’s Heartland.
High-clearance doors, direct airside access, and scalable layouts support a range of corporate and private aviation operations. The airport’s proximity to Sebring International Raceway further enhances its unique positioning within the region’s performance and aviation landscape.
As additional development activity progresses, Sebring Regional Airport remains focused on long-term infrastructure readiness, operational flexibility, and measured expansion. Strategic planning and private capital investment continue to reinforce the airport’s role as a key regional aviation asset. Find out more about Sebring Resorts hangars here.
For more information regarding airport operations or development activity, please contact Sebring Regional Airport administration.
Girls in Aviation Day Soars at Sebring Airport
NewsSebring Regional Airport recently welcomed a new generation of aviation enthusiasts during the annual Girls Fly Now / Girls in Aviation Day, an event designed to introduce young students to careers in flight, aerospace, and STEM.
Women have been piloting aircraft nearly as long as airplanes have existed. In 1910, Elise Raymonde Deroche became the first licensed female pilot — just seven years after the Wright Brothers’ first powered flight. That pioneering spirit was alive and well on the Sebring ramp.
JoAnne Alcorn of Polk County, who flies the “City of Winter Park” Cessna 172R in the 2,500-mile Air Race Classic, spoke to the students about drag, lift, and the forces that govern flight. The Air Race Classic traces its roots back to the 1929 Women’s Air Derby, which included aviation legend Amelia Earhart as well as Louise Thaden and Pancho Barnes.
Young attendees from the Boys & Girls Club of Highlands County rotated through hands-on learning stations led by female pilots, Civil Air Patrol cadets, and aviation leaders.
“It’s important for pilots to learn these forces, how the aircraft will react, and the response at the controls,” explained pilot Shira Ellsworth. “If you don’t understand these forces, you can put the aircraft in a stall.”
Students explored aviation charts, learned about airspace boundaries, and even built their own balsa-wood airplanes. Civil Air Patrol cadets demonstrated how pilots navigate terrain, airport frequencies, and restricted areas.
“This helps get them prepared for a possible career as a pilot in aerospace — not just commercial or military, but space exploration,” said Lt. Stephen Armentrout. “The world needs more pilots.”
The event was supported by members of the Highlands Ninety-Nines, the international organization of licensed women pilots founded in 1929 with Amelia Earhart as its first president.
“We’ve been doing a girls aviation day since 2018,” said Janice Rearick, CEO of the Highlands County Boys & Girls Club. “It’s heavy on academics — and still fun.”
Sebring Regional Airport is proud to serve as a hub not only for aviation activity, but for workforce development and community inspiration. With pilot shortages projected nationwide, events like this play an important role in cultivating the next generation of aerospace professionals. Read the Mid Florida Newspaper Coverage
Colt Ford to Headline at the 74th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring
NewsSebring International Raceway is turning up the energy during race week with a full slate of live entertainment — highlighted by a performance from multi-RIAA-platinum country artist Colt Ford on Friday, March 20.
Known for his high-energy blend of country, Southern rock, and hip-hop, Colt Ford has built a loyal following with multiple Top-10 Billboard Country albums and chart-topping hits, including co-writing Jason Aldean’s No. 1 song “Dirt Road Anthem.” His Friday night performance is included with race admission and will take place in the Fan Zone as part of race-week festivities.
Live music and fan programming will fill the Fan Zone each evening beginning Wednesday, March 18, adding to the excitement surrounding North America’s longest-running sports car endurance race. Fan favorites include nightly concerts, the annual Jordan Taylor S4L Wing Eating Contest, and a special “Beer with Wayne” event honoring retiring Raceway President and General Manager Wayne Estes.
The 74th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring runs March 18–21, featuring four full days of on-track action and eight races, culminating with the iconic IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship endurance race on Saturday, March 21.
🎟️ All race tickets — including single-day admission — include access to the Colt Ford concert.
ℹ️ Tickets and event details are available at www.SebringRaceway.com.
Sebring Airport Participates in Vertical Aerospace VALO Event
NewsSebring Airport Authority Deputy Director Andrew Bennett recently attended an advanced air mobility event in New York City hosted by Vertical Aerospace, showcasing the company’s newly unveiled VALO eVTOL aircraft. The gathering brought together aviation industry leaders and public-sector partners to discuss safety, innovation, and the evolving regulatory landscape for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. Mr. Bennett highlighted the importance of responsible integration and collaboration, emphasizing Sebring’s commitment to staying at the forefront of aviation innovation.
Sebring Honors Medal of Honor Recipients March 25
NewsThe Florida Medal of Honor Memorial, Inc. will host a public National Medal of Honor Day Ceremony at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 25, in downtown Sebring.
Veterans, families, and community members are warmly invited to attend this important annual observance, which honors the brave men and women who have received the Medal of Honor — our nation’s highest military award for valor in action.
The ceremony will include:
Presentation of the colors
National anthem
Roll call of Medal of Honor recipients
Reflections on service and sacrifice
Memorial sculpture dedication
Sounding of Taps
We are proud to support this meaningful tribute in the heart of our community.
EAA Heartland Chapter 1240 Annual Banquet at Sebring Airport
News✈️ Sebring Regional Airport is proud to host the EAA Heartland Chapter 1240 Annual Banquet this weekend, celebrating the organization’s unwavering commitment to aviation education and community service.
This year’s banquet will bring together aviation enthusiasts, youth program advocates, pilots, and community leaders in a shared celebration of flight and learning. The event underscores Chapter 1240’s exceptional dedication to mentoring and inspiring future aviators through its Youth Aviation Education programs—a mission closely aligned with the airport’s values.
Sebring Airport Board Member Pete McDevitt shared:
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, sponsors, and guests who make this event possible—and we look forward to sharing photos and highlights in the coming days.
Sebring Jet Center Announces New Private Hangar Complex
NewsSebring Regional Airport will soon be home to a new private hangar development known as the Sebring Jet Center — a premier facility offering up to 14 modern, secure hangars tailored to aircraft owners and operators.
The upcoming complex, expected to open in late 2027, will offer hangar sizes of 70′ × 70′ and 90′ × 90′ with features such as badge access, fully sprinkled interiors, private and guest parking, and electrical infrastructure for office or bathroom installation. With limited availability and a design that blends security, convenience, and functionality, the project represents a significant enhancement to the airport’s aviation infrastructure.
Located adjacent to Sebring Regional Airport’s full‑service FBO, the new hangars are ideally positioned for aircraft owners who want both accessibility and premium facilities. This initiative underscores SEF’s continued growth and attractiveness as a general aviation hub in Central Florida.
Sebring Supports Winter Navy Training Operations
NewsSebring Regional Airport proudly hosted U.S. Navy Training Air Wing Five for a five-week winter detachment from January 23 through February 27, 2026. The detachment brought as many as 22 T-6 Texan II aircraft to the region, conducting essential Visual Flight Rules (VFR) training during a time when inclement weather often disrupts operations at Naval Air Station Whiting Field.
Flights occurred Monday through Saturday, with aircraft launching in up to four training blocks per day. This high-activity schedule helped the squadrons stay on track to meet mission readiness goals while showcasing Sebring’s capacity to support complex training efforts in partnership with Avon Park Range, MacDill Auxiliary Field, and local airspace controllers.
The airport’s involvement reflects a strong ongoing commitment to aviation safety, military readiness, and community awareness. Local residents were notified in advance, and all operations were coordinated to adhere to FAA standards and minimize disruption.
Trans Am National Championship Comes to Sebring
NewsSpeed, precision, and roaring engines are heading back to Sebring! The Trans Am National Championship returns to Sebring International Raceway from February 26 – March 1, 2026, featuring multiple classes of competition cars battling on one of America’s most historic road courses.
As the longest‑running professional road racing series in North America, the Trans Am Series draws top drivers, passionate fans, and high‑performance competition from across the continent. With races in TA, TA2, XGT, SGT and GT classes, the event promises thrilling on‑track action and weekend‑long excitement for racing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a fan of motorsports or looking for an exciting weekend in Central Florida, this annual event is not to be missed. Stay tuned for schedule details and ticket information!