Join us for a weekend of fun for the family!

Republic Airways will host its 13th Annual Plane Pull, presented by Lucas Oil, on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This highly anticipated event offers a unique and exhilarating experience for all participants. The free event starts with the ceremonial first pull, a showcase of strength from the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital children. These brave children, who have faced incredible medical challenges, are honored to lead the event, symbolizing the courage and resilience that the Plane Pull aims to support. Expect to see balloon makers and face painters providing fun to all. The event benefits A Kid Again, Indiana Wish, Riley Children’s Foundation, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent and other organizations improving the lives of children facing life-threatening illnesses.

To kick off the event, spectators will watch as selected children from the crowd pull a LIFT Academy training aircraft. LIFT Academy, a flight training school owned by Republic Airways Holdings Inc., plays a key role in inspiring the next generation of aviators. Watching children pull a plane, cheered on by the community, is a powerful reminder of their strength and determination. The involvement of these young participants emphasizes the importance of the event’s mission: supporting children facing medical challenges and making them feel like champions.

The main attraction of the Republic Airways Plane Pull is a thrilling competition where teams of 10 attempt to pull a 24-ton aircraft a distance of 12 feet as fast as possible. This challenge happens at the Republic Airways Indianapolis Maintenance Center Hangar at the Indianapolis International Airport. Whether you are part of a competitive team or a spectator, the event guarantees fun and camaraderie. The sight of teams banding together to move a massive aircraft is inspiring and entertaining, making it a must-see for attendees of all ages.

In addition to the main event, the Plane Pull offers a variety of festivities designed to entertain the whole family.

The free Kids Zone offers engaging activities, games and prizes. Children can participate in interactive experiences that keep them entertained while discovering the wonders of aviation. These aviation-themed activities help spark curiosity and educate children about the world of flight in an engaging manner. Hands-on activities give young attendees an immersive experience.

All attendees will enjoy an array of food and beverage vendors, ensuring that no one goes hungry during the actionpacked day. Whether you’re craving a savory meal or a sweet treat, there are options to satisfy every palate. Popular food trucks, local eateries and beverage stations will be available for an enjoyable dining experience. The variety ensures something for everyone, from classic comfort foods to healthy options and delicious desserts.

Aviation enthusiasts will be particularly delighted by the opportunity to see a variety of aircraft up close. This unique access allows guests to experience impressive aviation technology firsthand. For those who have always been fascinated by planes, this is a rare chance to experience the world of aviation in an immersive and personal way. Pilots and aviation professionals will also be available to answer questions and provide insight into the industry, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the mechanics and operation of these massive flying machines.

Excitement grows as special guests and local celebrities often appear at the Republic Airways Plane Pull. Over the years, notable figures have supported the cause, engaging with attendees and participating in the competition. Local sports teams form teams to compete, adding excitement to the event. In addition, participants and teams are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the event by dressing in costumes. Creativity is rewarded as an award is given to the most spirited team, recognizing their enthusiasm and dedication.

The Republic Airways Plane Pull is more than just a fun competition. The event is driven by a heartfelt mission inspired by the story of Tyler Frenzel, a young boy from Carmel, Indiana, who lost his battle with leukemia in 2004. Tyler’s memory and courage serve as a reminder of the importance of hope, faith and resilience. Since its beginning, the event has raised over $5 million to help children with critical illnesses, significantly impacting the lives of many families.

Many of the beneficiaries of the Plane Pull event have direct connections to children like Tyler. Organizations such as Riley Children’s Foundation and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital provide critical care to children facing serious illnesses, ensuring that families receive the support they need. Indiana Wish and A Kid Again work tirelessly to bring joy to children and their families by granting wishes and organizing memorable experiences that provide relief from medical struggles. Attendees directly contribute to meaningful initiatives that honor Tyler Frenzel’s legacy by participating in or supporting the Plane Pull.

For the families benefiting from these organizations, the Plane Pull is more than just an event; it’s a beacon of hope. Many children undergoing treatments and their families attend the event, forming a community that supports one another. The opportunity for these children to participate in the ceremonial pull and see the vast number of people cheering them on reinforces the importance of their fight and the encouragement they receive from the community.

Beyond fundraising, the Plane Pull fosters awareness about childhood illnesses and the importance of continued medical research and community involvement. The event serves as an educational platform where attendees learn about the struggles children with life-threatening illnesses face and how organizations like Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and Riley Children’s Foundation play a crucial role in their care. Throughout the event, testimonials from families and beneficiaries highlight the real-life impact of donations, demonstrating the value of giving back.

Another aspect making the Republic Airways Plane Pull special is the unity it brings. People from diverse backgrounds unite for a shared purpose. The event provides participants with a unique chance to build relationships and enhance teamwork while contributing positively to the community. The camaraderie shared among participants fosters a sense of community and collective responsibility.

The success is largely due to the dedication of many volunteers who play a crucial role. They assist with logistics, coordinate activities, cheer on participants and help ensure everything runs smoothly. Volunteers are the backbone of the Plane Pull. Their commitment and enthusiasm create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere, making the event memorable.

If you’re interested in participating in the event, assembling a team or supporting the cause as a spectator, mark your calendar for April 26, 2025. Whether pulling the plane, cheering on the teams or simply enjoying the festivities, there are plenty of ways to be part of this impactful and exhilarating day.

Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in a unique event that blends fun, teamwork and philanthropy to make a difference in the lives of children who need it most. Join Republic Airways and the community to pull for a purpose, celebrate resilience and continue Tyler Frenzel’s legacy of hope.

Stay updated on event details through the official event website, republicplanepull.com. Time Estimates for April 26

• 8:30 AM EDT - Doors Open & Team Captain Check-in Begins

• 9:00 AM EDT - All Team Captains Need to be Checked In

• 9:30 AM EDT - National Anthem

• 9:35 AM EDT - Welcome & Introductions

• 9:40 AM EDT - Top Corporate Sponsor Recognition

• 9:45 AM EDT - Kids Plane Pull with LIFT Academy Training Aircraft • 9:50 AM EDTCeremonial First Pull

• 9:55 AM EDT - Plane Pull Round

• 11:30 AM EDT - Awards - Most Spirited Team

• 11:35 AM EDT - Plane Pull Round II

• 11:45 AM EDT - Awards - 1st & 2nd Place Pull Teams

“Republic Airways is proud to host this unique event! The Plane Pull honors and protects children with lifethreatening illnesses while offering a powerful way for people to work together to make a difference.”

- AMY ARNELL, DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY FOR REPUBLIC AIRWAYS

“It felt so cool. Especially one kid was in a wheelchair and seeing him in action was the most magnificent thing I’ve seen in my life.”

- TONY DINGLE, AGE 10 FROM FISHERS, 2023 PLANE PULL PARTICIPANT

JOIN US AT THE 13TH ANNUAL REPUBLIC PLANE PULL!

HAVE A BLAST IN OUR FREE KID’S ZONE WITH GAMES AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES!

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 Indianapolis International Airport

To learn more, visit REPUBLICPLANEPULL.COM