Gavin Watson is no ordinary 20-year-old. Recently, he achieved a major milestone in his aviation journey, earning his multi-engine commercial pilot license—a critical step toward his ultimate dream of becoming an airline pilot. But Gavin’s story isn’t just about hard work and determination; it’s also about the life-changing impact of a scholarship that made his success possible.  

By Scholarship Recipient Kathryn Bremer

I was born and raised in Key West, where I lived my entire life until 2022. My love for aviation began on the ground, but everything changed when I took my first eco-discovery flight at the Marathon Airport. That experience transformed my passion for aviation and gave me a new perspective from behind the flight controls.

When Kendrick Wilson gazes at the skies over St. Petersburg, Florida, he doesn’t just see clouds and sunshine—he sees endless possibilities. Born and raised in this vibrant city, Kendrick’s passion for aviation was sparked by two simple yet profound things: the breathtaking views from above and the opportunity to serve others. Read More

The Friends of Albert Whitted Airport (FOAWA) is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Flight and Mechanics Scholarships!

These scholarships are designed to support developing pilots and aviation mechanics, helping them achieve their career goals and contribute to the aviation industry’s future.  Read More

Every year on December 17th, we pause to honor the incredible legacy of Orville and Wilbur Wright, the visionaries who turned the dream of powered flight into reality. Known as Wright Brothers Day, this special occasion commemorates their historic achievement on December 17, 1903, when they completed the world’s first controlled, powered, and sustained heavier-than-air flight near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.  

For kids who light up at the sight of a plane soaring overhead or dream of being in the cockpit, there’s no gift quite like the chance to be part of the world of aviation. This holiday season, you can inspire their passion for flight while supporting a meaningful cause with the Ground Crew Trainee Membership, offered by the Friends of Albert Whitted Airport (FOAWA).  

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