As we enter the season of giving, we’re reaching out to ask for your support in a cause that truly makes a difference. The Friends of Albert Whitted Airport (FOAWA), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has set an ambitious goal of raising $175,000 to fund scholarships for aspiring aviation professionals. With your help, we can provide life-changing opportunities for future pilots—and, for the first time ever, we’re thrilled to announce two additional scholarships for aspiring airplane mechanics!

November marks National Aviation History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible achievements and innovations in aviation that have transformed our world. At Albert Whitted Airport, we are proud to honor our aviation heritage, the visionaries and pioneers who’ve pushed the limits of flight, and the thriving aviation community that continues to shape the future of the skies.

Aviation is at a critical juncture. As the industry continues to grow, the demand for pilots is reaching unprecedented levels. Yet, despite the clear need for more aviators, there is a looming pilot shortage that threatens to disrupt not just the commercial airline industry but also the broader aviation ecosystem, including smaller airports and general aviation. Understanding why we need more pilots and how communities, airports, and organizations like the Friends of Albert Whitted Airport (FOAWA) can help is essential to safeguarding the future of aviation.

As we track the quickly developing storm in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida is bracing for impact this week. Once again, the businesses and teams at Albert Whitted Airport are preparing to support residents and local authorities before, during and after the storm – a reminder of the critical role AWA plays during Florida’s volatile storm season. Read More

In the high-flying world of aviation, diversity has long been a challenge. For decades, aspiring aviators from underrepresented communities have found the career path to the cockpit filled with barriers. However, there is a growing movement to change that narrative, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the availability of scholarships. These scholarships are not just financial aid but gateways to a more inclusive and diverse aviation industry.

Welcome aboard! Fasten your seatbelt and prepare for takeoff as we dive into the fascinating – and sometimes amusing – world of pilot lingo. Pilots have a unique way of communicating, not just with each other, but also with air traffic control and even the passengers. 

Here are some fun phrases pilots use that you might not know about!

Aviation has always been at the forefront of technological advancement, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. From the Wright brothers’ first flight to supersonic jets, the industry continually evolves. Today, we stand on the cusp of some of the most exciting innovations yet. 

Let’s take a look at the latest advancements that are set to revolutionize aviation.

A brand-new “Support General Aviation” Florida license plate has been approved and will be available for pre-order on October 1, 2024. Friends of Albert Whitted Airport is thrilled to support this fantastic initiative and want to encourage all of you to get your own plate to show your support for general aviation. At least 3,000 pre-sale vouchers must be sold before the state will produce the first plate. Read More

National Airlines played a significant role in the history of Albert Whitted Airport, contributing to its development and prominence in the aviation industry. Founded in 1934 by George T. Baker, National Airlines started as a small, regional airline but quickly grew into one of the leading carriers in the United States. Its connection to Albert Whitted Airport is a testament to the airport’s importance as a hub for aviation innovation and growth.

On January 1, 1914, the dawn of commercial aviation was heralded by a short but significant flight from St. Petersburg to Tampa, Florida. This pioneering journey, undertaken by pilot Tony Jannus in a Benoist XIV biplane, marked the inception of the world’s first scheduled airline service, the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line. The flight revolutionized transportation and laid the foundation for the global commercial aviation industry.