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.
Pilot Safety Video – A Quick Refresher for Operations at SEFJune 1, 2026 - 4:43 pm
Sebring Airport Joined U.S. Experts to Discuss Advanced Air Mobility at Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid
NewsSebring 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.
New flight training academy opens at KSEF
NewsFollowing 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’s “Knock The Rust Off 2025”
NewsSebring 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.
New Safety Advisory & Pilot Video for Sebring Airport (SEF)
NewsAs 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!
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.
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.
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!