ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Centennial Airport (KAPA) will be the new base of operations for AeroAngel, a national aviation charity that provides private flights at no cost to families with seriously ill children who need to access life-saving medical care across the country.
The flights on private business aircraft are donated to children who cannot safely travel on a commercial airline flight but who do not need an air ambulance, AeroAngel officials explained.
This past year, AeroAngel provided more than $2.7 million in donated flights to families with children needing to access medical care thousands of miles from home.
AeroAngel’s ties to Centennial date back to 2010, when the newly formed charity flew its first mission from the airport. For several years, the organization based its Learjet there as well.
For the past five years, AeroAngel has held its annual Light Up the Sky Gala at Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight at Centennial. The next gala is set for Sept. 19, 2026, at the same location.
“We’ve considered Centennial Airport our home base for many years and are excited to have a more permanent presence as part of a top-tier general aviation airport,” said Mark Pestal, AeroAngel’s Executive Director and Founder. “Centennial Airport hosts a great business aviation community that has been very supportive of our mission over the years. Our team looks forward to building upon those relationships.”
“We’re very proud AeroAngel has chosen to locate their new headquarters at Centennial Airport,” said Centennial Airport Executive Director Michael Fronapfel. “Their work reflects the very best of general aviation and our airport, connecting people and communities while making a meaningful difference for families facing some of life’s toughest moments. We’re happy to continue supporting their mission and the positive impact they’ll continue to have here and across the country.”
Modern Aviation, owner of the office building where the charity will be housed, has provided flight support for AeroAngel flights at its 19 FBO locations across the country for many years.
AeroAngel’s mission model relies on donated private jet flights flown by a crew of professional pilots, along with financial donations to its Emergency Flight Fund that helps cover the cost of charter flights when a donated flight cannot be procured — particularly for long-distance trips. AeroAngel is working to expand its flight donation program through continued support for the Emergency Flight Fund.
For more information: AeroAngel.org
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