Where It Started. Where We’re Going.

Twenty years ago, Friends of Aviation began with three friends — Jack, John Mason and John Tonko — getting together for dinner.

The idea was simple: step away from the airplanes, companies, deals and day-to-day demands of the aviation industry and spend time with people who genuinely enjoyed being together.

Before long, friends began inviting friends. The table grew, the gatherings became a tradition, and Friends of Aviation developed into a community where competitors became friends, longtime relationships were renewed and new ones began.

Over time, dinners expanded into larger gatherings, golf tournaments and industry events. And as the community grew, so did the opportunity to do something more with it.

What if the same relationships that brought people together could also be used to give back?

Today, Friends of Aviation is entering its next chapter. With the support and partnership of Leviate Air Group, the organization is moving toward becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, creating the foundation to turn a community built on friendship into one capable of making a meaningful difference.

Our events will continue bringing the aviation community together — but now, those gatherings will also create opportunities to support charitable organizations, causes and communities in need.

The goal isn't to change what made Friends of Aviation special.

It's to build on it.

What began around a dinner table became a community.

Now, that community has the opportunity to make a difference.