The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) pledged ongoing support for the RedTail Flight Academy and its mission at the Academy’s inaugural graduation on May 21, 2022, at New York Stewart International Airport.
The RedTail Flight Academy is developing a pipeline of diverse aviators to meet the increasing demand for U.S pilots and aviation professionals—all while honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen’s goal to produce extraordinary aviators of color.
In commemoration of the Academy’s first graduating class, NATA Executive Vice President Ryan Waguespack announced the Association’s commitment to a long-term relationship contributing to the RedTail Flight Academy Fund and promoting opportunities for the Academy and its students to engage with NATA members.
NATA also encourages its members to consider donating to the Academy and providing internships and other opportunities for RedTail candidates to explore the business aviation industry.
“NATA is honored to support the RedTail Flight Academy and its students through this annual pledge. The Academy is fostering the next generation of aviation advocates by providing a pathway for those who may have once thought a career in aviation was only a dream. We honor the talent, spirit, and drive of these students and the role models who went before them,” stated NATA Executive Vice President Ryan Waguespack. “Together, we will continue to build an open and innovative future for our next leaders.”
“The pledged support from NATA and its members will go a long way in helping the RedTail Flight Academy achieve our mission to recruit, develop, expose, and place diverse talent in the aviation industry,” said retired Air Force Lt. Col. Glendon Fraser, Director of the RedTail Flight Academy and Board President of the Lee A. Archer, Jr. Red Tail Youth Flight Program. “In return, we collaborate with our ambassadors and partners to elevate Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion awareness throughout the industry – leveling the playing field and increasing opportunities for diverse talent.”
