The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has officially chartered the Hawaii Wing, establishing the organization’s first unit in the Aloha State and expanding its nationwide network dedicated to preserving and sharing American military aviation history. Based at Pacific Flight Academy at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, the new Wing is located just a few miles from Pearl Harbor, one of the most significant sites in American military and aviation history. The Hawaii Wing has made rapid progress since its formation, assembling 15 CAF Colonels in less than three months. The group is now working toward reaching 30 members, the threshold required to qualify for an aircraft assignment through the CAF’s New Unit Initiative.
Leading the effort is Unit Leader Brian Columbus, an experienced commercial pilot with a strong passion for aviation and historical preservation. “The formation of the Hawaii Wing is an exciting milestone for the Commemorative Air Force,” said CAF President and CEO David Oliver. “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.”
While the Hawaii Wing represents the CAF’s first permanent unit in the state, the organization has maintained ties to the islands through several commemorative events and film projects over the years. One of the most notable visits occurred in 2020, when the CAF’s FM-2 Wildcat participated in events marking the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII. The aircraft flew alongside other historic warbirds in aerial tributes honoring the Greatest Generation. With its proximity to Pearl Harbor, the Hawaii Wing is expected to play an important role in aviation education, living history programs, and future commemorative events throughout the Pacific region.
The chartering of the new Wing also highlights the CAF’s structured process for establishing new units. Prospective groups must build local membership, develop leadership, and demonstrate long-term sustainability before receiving an official charter. Communities interested in starting a new CAF Unit can learn more through the CAF New Unit FAQ page. According to the CAF, the Hawaii Wing completed this process in record time, reflecting strong local interest and dedicated volunteer leadership. The Commemorative Air Force currently operates one of the world’s largest collections of flying historic military aircraft, using them to educate the public and honor the men and women who served in the armed forces.
