Multi-platinum country music artist Dierks Bentley has pledged his support for the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift, which will transport hundreds of athletes and coaches to the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities aboard Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft. In doing so, Bentley is calling on fellow pilots across the nation to join him in the extraordinary mission to enable athletes to attend regardless of financial or logistical challenges.

The Special Olympics Airlift, organised by Textron Aviation, is the world’s largest peacetime airlift, mobilising hundreds of volunteer pilots and aircraft to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Special Olympics athletes.

“Getting to be part of the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift is something I’m genuinely excited about,” says Bentley. “As a pilot, it’s an incredible way to use aviation for good, and as a person, it’s a chance to connect with some truly inspiring athletes. It’s going to be unforgettable.”

The Dove call sign is awarded to aircraft owners and operators who donate their planes, crew, fuel and time. While flying as Doves, they receive priority handling from the Federal Aviation Administration.

“Dierks supporting the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift is a powerful example of how aviation can bring people together for a greater purpose,” comments Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “His passion for flying and for giving back reflects the very spirit of this mission, and we’re honoured to have him on board.”

Since the inception of the Special Olympics Airlift in 1987, volunteer aircraft owners have carried more than 10,000 athletes and coaches to various Special Olympics World and USA Games. During the 2026 event, Doves are expected to take off or land at St. Paul Downtown Airport Holman Field every three minutes over a 10-hour period.

Organisers are calling on pilots nationwide to join the mission on 19 and 27 June 2026 and help make the Airlift possible.