LightHawk, a non-profit public benefit flying organization, relaunched its second annual 50 in 50 Challenge May 26, 2025.
Over the course of 50 days, LightHawk will conduct 50 conservation flights across North America, using volunteer general aviation pilots and aircraft to support efforts that protect wildlife, waterways, and natural landscapes, LightHawk officials explained.
With more than 45 years of experience in aerial conservation, LightHawk partners with a wide range of organizations, agencies, researchers, and community leaders to provide the aerial perspective needed to drive conservation impact, officials noted.
These flights support efforts such as wildlife recovery, habitat protection, water quality monitoring, environmental research, and public education, delivering critical data and photos that inform decisions and accelerate progress on the ground, according to Lighthawk officials.
Every mission is made possible by LightHawk’s experienced volunteer pilots, each with over 1,000 hours of pilot in command time. These pilots donate their time, skills, and aircraft to fly missions that accelerate environmental progress.
“We are proud to bring back the 50 in 50 Challenge, which showcases how aviation can serve the greater good of conservation,” said Jim Becker, CEO of LightHawk. “By working closely with partners on the ground, and with the generous support of our volunteer pilots, we are able to move conservation forward in meaningful ways.”
“Our volunteer pilots and conservation partners make this challenge possible,” added Becker. “Together, we are expanding the reach of environmental science and strengthening on-the-ground efforts through the unique vantage point that only aviation can provide.”
Throughout the challenge, LightHawk will share mission highlights, visuals, and partner stories on its website and social media. The public is invited to follow the journey and learn how each flight contributes to the protection of the natural world, Lighthawk officials add.
For more information: LightHawk.org