Republic Airways Hosts 14th Annual Plane Pull at Indianapolis Airport

Family-friendly event has raised $6 million for children's charities since 2012

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Republic Airways is hosting its 14th Annual Plane Pull event on April 25, 2026 at the Indianapolis International Airport. The event, which has raised $6 million over the years, benefits children's charities like A Kid Again, Indiana Wish, Riley Children's Foundation, and Peyton Manning Children's Hospital. The public is invited to participate by forming teams of 10 to race against the clock and pull a 24-ton aircraft across 15 feet. The event will also feature a Kids' Zone, food and beverage vendors, and aircraft displays.

Why it matters

The Plane Pull event honors and supports children with life-threatening illnesses, providing a powerful way for the community to come together and make a difference. Over the years, the funds raised have made a significant impact on local children's charities in the Indianapolis area.

The details

The 14th Annual Plane Pull presented by Lucas Oil will take place on April 25, 2026 at the Republic Airways Indianapolis Maintenance Center Hangar on the Indianapolis International Airport property. Teams of 10 people will race against the clock to pull a 24-ton aircraft 15 feet. In addition to the main event, the day will feature a Kids' Zone, food and beverage vendors, and opportunities to see and tour various aircraft and airport vehicles.

  • The 14th Annual Plane Pull will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
  • The event began in 2012 and has raised $6 million over the past 13 years, including $1 million at the 13th annual event in 2025.

The players

Republic Airways

An American airline holding company that owns and operates regional airlines including Shuttle America and Republic Airline.

A Kid Again

A nonprofit organization that provides year-round, cost-free, group activities and events for families raising children with life-threatening illnesses.

Riley Children's Foundation

The fundraising arm of Riley Hospital for Children, one of the nation's leading children's hospitals located in Indianapolis.

Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent

A children's hospital in Indianapolis that is part of the Ascension St. Vincent healthcare system.

Amy Arnell

Director of Corporate and Community Responsibility for Republic Airways.

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What they’re saying

“The Plane Pull honors and protects children with life threatening illnesses while offering a powerful way for people to work together to make a difference.”

— Amy Arnell, Director of Corporate and Community Responsibility, Republic Airways (Business Wire)

What’s next

Republic Airways will also host its annual Plane Pull Gala at Lucas Estate on Friday, April 24, 2026, the night before the main event. The gala will include a silent and live auction, and details on corporate sponsorship opportunities that include the gala are available on the event website.

The takeaway

The Republic Airways Plane Pull has become an annual tradition that brings the Indianapolis community together to support local children's charities in a fun and engaging way. Over the past 14 years, the event has raised millions of dollars to help children with life-threatening illnesses, demonstrating the power of collective action to make a meaningful difference.