On Sunday, January 4, 2026, AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston kicked off 2026 with his club, The Northeast Side Taildraggers, at an indoor flying event. Steve had the following to say about his time at this event:
"I kicked off 2026 the best way I know how—at my first indoor flying event of the year with my club, The Northeast Side Taildraggers.
"The moment I walked in, it felt right; the sound of propellers, the hum of conversation, and that friendly energy you only get when you're surrounded by people who genuinely love to fly. I managed to get a few flights in, and I'll be honest—I've got work to do. Indoor flying has a way of keeping you humble. Every little input matters, and the room rewards smooth hands and steady focus. But that's also why it's so fun. You fly, you learn, you adjust, and you try again.
"What really made the day memorable was what everyone brought. Some pilots, like me, were flying old favorites, aircraft they've tuned and cared for over years with stories in every repair and every perfectly dialed-in turn. Others had brand-new builds, including a handful of fresh 'Christmas planes' that looked like pure joy in the air. There was plenty of laugher, a few 'Did you see that?' moments, and the kind of easy encouragement that makes people want to keep improving.
"And that's the thing. Indoor events aren't just about flying. They're about people. Conversations at the tables. Tips shared without hesitation. A group cheering when someone nails a clean flight. It reminded me, again, that model aviation isn't only what happens in the air—it's what happens around the flightline: community, mentorship, and belonging.
"I left the event with two thoughts that stuck with me. First, I'm committed to improving my flying skills this year. Second, I can't wait for spring! Once the weather turns, I want to start visiting flying sites—showing up, listening, supporting clubs, and sharing what the AMA Foundation is working to accomplish in 2026. The AMA Foundation exists to strengthen the future of model aviation through philanthropic support—support that helps fuel scholarships, grants, and opportunities that keep this hobby accessible, educational, and thriving.
"Model aviation builds more than airplanes. It builds confidence, creativity, technical skill, and a pathway into STE(A)M education and aerospace. That's worth protecting and growing.
"This indoor event wasn't just a fun start to 2026. It was a reminder of what we have and what we can build next together."
