Lakeland Linder Airport KLAL

As the new Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, the CAF-Tampa Bay Wing understands that for continuous growth we need to partner with businesses and people in the local area. Lakeland Linder Airport, KLAL, has agreed to be our partner in our continuous growth. When looking for an airport to call home, KLAL checked all of our boxes. KLAL is a large airport with multiple runways, great facilities and is a controlled air space/towered airport. As the Tampa Bay Wing grows, our eyes are focused on developing a Wing that will be large enough to make the transition to CAF-Air Base. KLAL is large enough for us to build our own hanger in the future as we grow in aircraft assignments. 

KLAL has highly trained staff to aid us as we grow to understand and provide airport operations as we hold aviation-based events. KLAL has already stepped up to help us hold our first fund-raising event, the 2023 First Annual Poker Run on October 7, 2023, from 8 AM to 5 PM. The goal of the Poker Run fund-raiser is to develop the required funds for aircraft assignment. This is the last item to fill out prior to our request for an aircraft from CAF-HQ.

CAF-Tampa Bay wing is very thankful for our partnership with KLAL and we are looking forward to our future and long-term partnership with Lakeland Linder Airport.  

SUN n FUN Aerospace Expo



When looking for partnerships for continuous growth, what better partnership could we ask for than SUN n FUN Aerospace Expo! At our first meeting, the SUN and FUN administration suggested that they would like to be more than just a sponsor for events and would develop a long-term partnership with the Commemorative Air Force's new Wing, the CAF-Tampa Bay Wing. We realize that the support of SUN n FUN and the immense resources and experience that SUN n FUN has developed over 50 years will significantly assist the Tampa Bay Wing in growing from a CAF-Wing to our ultimate goal of becoming a CAF-Air Base.

The First Annual CAF-Tampa Bay Wing Poker Run was a great success because of the support that SUN n FUN’s provided and will be vital in our desire to achieve rapid success. The CAF-Tampa Bay Wing is looking forward to a future that has a strong, long-term partnership with SUN n FUN.

Trig Avionics announces new partnership with the Commemorative Air Force – Tampa Bay Wing

Trig Avionics is proud to announce a new partnership with the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) - Tampa Bay Wing. This collaboration aims to support the CAF, by providing certified avionics solutions to enhance the safety and operational capabilities of the historic Fairchild PT-19 aircraft, enabling safer flights in controlled airspace.



The Commemorative Air Force is renowned for its dedication to preserving and showcasing historic military aircraft, and the Tampa Bay Wing's Fairchild PT-19 is a cherished example of aviation heritage. By partnering with Trig Avionics, the Tampa Bay Wing will benefit from certified avionics technology, ensuring that their vintage aircraft meets modern safety standards and regulatory requirements while maintaining the panel's vintage appearance.

The Fairchild PT-19, a primary trainer aircraft used during World War II, will be outfitted with Trig Avionics’ TT22 Mode S Transponder, TY91 VHF Dual Control Radio, and ADS-B out solutions. These enhancements will provide the aircraft with improved communication and surveillance capabilities, crucial for operating safely within controlled airspace.

"We are delighted to partner with the Commemorative Air Force - Tampa Bay Wing," said Andy Davis, CEO of Trig Avionics. "Our mission is to enhance aviation safety through innovative and reliable avionics solutions. Equipping the Fairchild PT-19 with our certified technology underlines our commitment to supporting both current and historic aviation."

"We are excited about this partnership with Trig Avionics," said Ken Hewes, Wing Leader of the Commemorative Air Force - Tampa Bay Wing. "Their expertise in avionics technology will greatly enhance the safety and reliability of our Fairchild PT-19, allowing us to continue our mission of honoring the legacy of military aviation while ensuring compliance with modern airspace regulations."

By providing certified solutions to the Fairchild PT-19, Trig Avionics not only supports the preservation of aviation history but also ensures that these treasured aircraft can operate safely and efficiently in today's airspace.

Sheltair is a family-owned company that started in 1963 and is customer-centered on service to the aviation industry. Sheltair is more than just a fuel center or FBO operations; they deeply understand the needs of aircraft owners and pilots. Located at Lakeland Linder Airport, Sheltair strives daily to provide the local aviation community with the best possible service. Sheltair supported the CAF-Tampa Bay Wing as a partner to support our growth as a new Wing of The Commemorative Air Force in the Tampa Bay area.

Sheltair is the fuel supplier for the CAF-Tampa Bay Wing. During our first fund-raiser, Tampa Bay Wing Poker Run, in October 2023, Sheltair provided on-site fuel at self-serve pricing. Additionally, they provided Visa gift cards as prizes for the winners. The CAF-Tampa Bay Wing is looking forward to a long-term partnership with Sheltair.

Double M Aviation has been supporting aviation since 2015. Located at Lakeland Linder Airport, they provide maintenance from 50/100 inspections through annuals, progressive/phase inspections on piston and turbine engine repairs, and maintenance. They also are able to complete paint touch-ups and preservations. CAF-Tampa Bay is proud to have Double M Aviation as a partner as we develop our Wing and move into aircraft assignment. We fully understand the required maintenance of our aircraft and know we can depend on Double M Aviation support.