Volunteer pilots, ground crews, and donors are needed to help deliver essential supplies to communities affected by Hurricane Isaias.
The Southeast Section of The Ninety-Nines is encouraging members and the broader aviation community to support Operation Airdrop’s Hurricane Isaias relief mission in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Currently working from Gulf Air Center at Gulf Shores International Airport, Jack Edwards Field (KJKA), Operation Aidrop is coordinating donated supplies and volunteer efforts to help communities recover from the storm.
Gulf Air Center has generously provided space for the operation, bringing volunteer pilots and ground teams together to help move essential supplies to people who need them. The mission is focused on helping affected communities clear debris and begin recovery, particularly where road access has been disrupted.
How You Can Help
Donate supplies. Operation Airdrop is collecting tools and protective equipment to assist with storm cleanup. Requested items include:
- Chainsaws, replacement chains, chainsaw bar oil, and ready-mix chainsaw fuel
- Safety goggles, ear protection, and work gloves
- Rakes and contractor-size trash bags
- Sleds, axes, axe sharpeners, and pry bars
Physical donations can be dropped off at Gulf Air Center outside Hangar A. Look for the Operation Airdrop tent and signage. The mission operations base is in Hangar B, so be sure to use the designated donation drop-off point.
Volunteer as a pilot. Pilots interested in transporting supplies should register through the Operation Airdrop mission app and review the mission’s flight information before participating. Anyone planning to deliver donations by aircraft should contact the team in advance to coordinate arrival, confirm cargo suitability, and review applicable requirements.
Lend a hand on the ground. You do not have to be a pilot to make a difference. Ground volunteers help receive donations, sort supplies, prepare shipments, and coordinate the work that keeps relief efforts moving.
Make a financial contribution. Those unable to travel to Gulf Shores or donate physical supplies can also support the mission with a financial gift through Operation Airdrop’s website.
Help Before October 16
Operation Airdrop will be at Gulf Air Center through Friday, October 16, 2026, according to the request shared with the Southeast Section. Members and supporters who can contribute supplies or volunteer are encouraged to act before the team’s scheduled departure.
Get Involved
Visit the Operation Airdrop Hurricane Isaias Relief page for the full list of requested supplies, donation instructions, pilot registration, and additional mission details:
Operation Airdrop: Hurricane Isaias Relief
Questions about donations, volunteering, or mission support can be directed to Operation Airdrop:
- Email: contact@operationairdrop.org
- Website: https://operationairdrop.org/hurricane-isaias-relief/
- Phone: 469-777-5360, extension 302
- Location: Gulf Air Center, Gulf Shores International Airport (KJKA), Gulf Shores, Alabama
The Ninety-Nines have a long tradition of supporting one another and serving their communities through aviation. This relief effort offers another opportunity to put that spirit into action. Whether by flying supplies, sorting donations, or contributing needed equipment, every helping hand can make a meaningful difference for families recovering from the storm.