Commemorative Air Force Expands Reach with New Hawaii Wing
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The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has expanded its national footprint with the launch of a new Hawaii Wing in Honolulu. The move strengthens efforts to preserve U.S. military aviation heritage while creating new opportunities for education and historical engagement in the Pacific region.
Published: 5 June 2026
Written by: Shashwat Dwivedi
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF), a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving, restoring, and flying historical military aircraft, has taken a major step with the official chartering of the Hawaii Wing. This marks the organisation’s first unit in Hawaii and expands the CAF’s growing nationwide network dedicated to preserving American military aviation history.
The new wing is based in Honolulu at Pacific Flight Academy at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Notably, the wing is located near Pearl Harbour, one of the most important sites in American military history.
A roster of 15 CAF Colonels has been assembled in less than three months, and the new Hawaii Wing is aiming for about 30 members, the benchmark required to qualify for aircraft assignment under the CAF’s New Unit Initiative.
The effort is being led by Unit Leader Brian Columbus, an experienced commercial pilot with a passion for aviation and preserving history through flight.
“The formation of the Hawaii Wing is an exciting milestone for the Commemorative Air Force,” said David Oliver, CAF President/CEO. “Hawaii holds a unique place in both American and aviation history, and having a permanent CAF presence there creates incredible opportunities to connect new audiences with the stories and aircraft that helped shape our world.”
Despite this being their first official unit in Hawaii, the organisation has made its presence felt on the islands on several historic anniversaries and events. Most notably, in 2020, the CAF’s FM-2 Wildcat participated in the 75th Anniversary Commemoration of the End of World War II in Hawaii, flying alongside historic warbirds during aerial tributes honouring the Greatest Generation.
The Hawaii Wing’s location near Pearl Harbor positions the unit to play an important role in aviation education, living history, and future commemorative events in the Pacific region.
Key Facts
First CAF unit established in Hawaii, based in Honolulu
Located near Pearl Harbour, a key historic aviation site
15 members recruited within three months
Target of 30 members to qualify for aircraft assignment
Operates under CAF’s New Unit Initiative
Focus on aviation heritage, education, and commemorative events
Supports CAF’s mission to preserve historic military aircraft
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Author: Shashwat Dwivedi Aviation staffing and consultancy insights LinkedIn
