Humbled by Enormous Support — Thank You!
EAA Aviation Foundation Inc. is very pleased to report the results of our Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), which ran March 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025.
FY25 ended as not only a great year, but a record year, in its ability to secure financial support for EAA. I am thrilled to see continuous support from our donor community. This funding allows EAA to maintain — and grow — the incredible impact our mission-based programs have on aviation.
Over the last year, I saw many examples of donors enthusiastically taking action to make a difference. One story in this year’s report details a donor’s visit to EAA’s Kermit Weeks Hangar and the opportunity to provide modern, sustainable, energy-efficient LED lighting. Another story features a donor’s motivations for documenting a planned gift.
I am pleased to share the Foundation welcomed a record number of First Wing members in FY25! These EAA members have a profound appreciation for the role aviation has played in their lives and want to share that passion with others. I reflected on this recently when I revisited my own intended legacy. As a First Wing member, planned giving ensures that my hard work will continue to thrive long after I’m gone. These gifts can be transformative and provide a foundation for the future of EAA.
Programs, like Young Eagles, AeroEducate, and EAA’s Youth Education Center, support our mission by introducing youth to aviation. Scholarships also nurture the next generation of aviation enthusiasts by breaking down barriers. Thanks to generous donor support, the Foundation was able to double the number of scholarships awarded in FY25.
EAA’s Pilot Proficiency Center, which came to life thanks to donor support, offers fundamental programming to new pilots as well as experienced pilots. Read about increased year-round activity during FY25 that makes the PPC a focal point for aviation learning.
While we can only share a few stories in our report, the impact our donors have is endless. The results across the board are very impressive. It’s humbling to see the loyal support, increased generosity, and engaged participation. You, the donor, validate that our programs deliver on our mission. We sincerely thank you!
Again, thank you for all you do to help grow our mission!
Jack J. Pelton
CEO and Chairman of the Board, Experimental Aircraft Association<