#WildOrcaSeaplane
We teamed up with Wild Orca, a Washington state non-profit organization, to spread awareness about the Pacific Northwest’s endangered population of Southern Resident Killer Whales.
How? In a lot of ways, the biggest of which is a flying wild orca ambassador. That’s right – we transformed one of our iconic 10 passenger seaplanes (N606KA to be exact) into a flying replica of an orca whale.
And goodness, does she look beautiful.
N606KA will fly between Seattle and Kenmore Air’s extensive network of destinations across Washington and British Columbia. Additionally, we’ll be working with Wild Orca to equip our entire fleet with educational materials about the struggling population of orcas and a guide to practical changes needed for recovery.
Today, Saturday, May 2, we’re joined at Kenmore Air Harbor by several of Seattle’s media personnel; Wild Orca’s founders, Kenmore Air seaplane pilots, Michael Hays and Anna Gullickson; Ken Balcomb of the Center for Whale Research; Dr. Deborah Giles, a biologist specializing in Southern Resident Killer Whales; and several children from Friends of Youth, a local non-profit empowering children in need.
Tomorrow, Sunday, May 3, we’ll be offering exclusive 30-minute scenic flights aboard N606KA. Flights will depart from Lake Union between Noon and 4:00 PM. If you’d like to share your experience, please use the hashtag #WildOrcaSeaplane!
More About Wild Orca
Wild Orca is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization registered in Washington State, dedicated to supporting organizations and individuals that research, protect, and provide public education for the well-being of wild orca populations. Wild Orca carries out it mission by holding fundraising events, awareness campaigns and distributing educational materials to individuals about the factors affecting our endangered orcas.
In 2014, Wild Orca was founded by two Kenmore Air seaplane pilots, Michael Hays and Anna Gullickson. Through their work transporting people and goods throughout the Pacific Northwest, they gained an appreciation and affinity for the beauty and significance of wild orcas. They recognized the value and importance of caring for these unique, iconic creatures.
More About Friends of Youth
In 1951, Friends of Youth was officially incorporated. It was a place where young people could find a sympathetic ear, grow personally and contribute positively to their communities. Friends of Youth has grown into a leader in developing, providing and advocating for services for children, youth and their families. Its founding principles have endured: an unwavering dedication to providing quality services; the flexibility to meet new and emerging needs; and most important, a commitment to securing the futures of the most vulnerable members of the community.
