The Pink Jet, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness and supporting survivors, made its world debut at EAA AirVenture 2024 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The organization presented its pink Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros, piloted by an all-female crew consisting of Heather “Lucky” Penney, Stephanie Goetz, and Vicky Benzing. The jet is operated by Aerial Angels, another nonprofit focused on breast cancer survivor support and awareness.
Aerial Angels' founders stated that their motivation stemmed from personal experiences with breast cancer among family, friends, and colleagues. This concern was combined with a passion for aviation, leading to the creation of The Pink Jet. Generous donations facilitated the transformation of a former Czechoslovakian fighter jet into The Pink Jet. Scheme Designers provided the paint scheme for the aircraft, which was painted by Dean Baldwin using paint supplied by Mankiewicz.
The organization plans to field an all-female aerobatic team flying five to six pink jets. They aim to participate in various airshows and events this year and beyond.