Contributed
When Adventist World Aviation was founded over three decades ago, their mission was simple: to carry the love of Christ — and the practical compassion of His people — to places where roads end, infrastructure fails, and hope seems distant. This year, that mission became profoundly real in Jamaica.
In the aftermath of the worst hurricane the island has ever experienced, entire communities were cut off from food, clean water, and basic aid. Bridges collapsed, roads washed away, and entire regions became inaccessible to traditional relief methods. As reports began streaming in, it became clear that aviation would be the lifeline Jamaica desperately needed.
From their headquarters in North Carolina, Adventist World Aviation (AWA) quickly mobilized aircraft, volunteers, logistics teams, and partner ministries. At the center of these efforts was a beautiful Cessna 206, a rugged, high-capacity aircraft uniquely suited for disaster response, short runways, and mountain-valley operations.
Within hours of receiving clearance, the aircraft began flying into the hardest-hit areas — communities where not a single truck or relief vehicle could yet enter. The Cessna 206 became a sky bridge of compassion, carrying emergency food supplies, fresh, clean drinking water, medical kits, solar lanterns, shelter tarps, and pastoral and emotional support
Every takeoff carried hope. Every landing represented another family reached.
No mission is accomplished alone. The ability to respond quickly and effectively was made possible because of a powerful network of Adventist partners working together with complete unity of purpose.
ASI Inter-American Division has joined hands with AWA in the most meaningful way. Through this partnership, AWA will permanently station the Cessna 206 in Jamaica, ensuring the aircraft becomes an ongoing blessing — not only during disasters, but during regular humanitarian, evangelistic, and community-development missions across Jamaica and the surrounding islands. This collaboration allows AWA to operate independently as a supporting ministry, while fully serving the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church across the Inter-American region.
West Jamaica Conference pastors and local churches immediately became the boots on the ground — identifying urgent needs, supporting flight operations, assisting with distribution, and ministering to families whose lives were upended overnight. Their spiritual leadership has been a beacon of stability and encouragement in the midst of destruction.
The Good Samaritan Inn is a humanitarian outreach center operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Jamaica, primarily through the East Jamaica Conference. It was established to serve vulnerable and underserved populations in Kingston and surrounding areas, but has proved to be a real blessing in serving those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
These are not just logistics — they are acts of grace, written in the sky by the hands and prayers of God’s people.
As the hurricane response continues, the vision is expanding.With the Cessna 206 permanently stationed in Jamaica, AWA will support ongoing disaster preparedness; assist medical evacuations; support missionaries and pastors serving in remote regions; deliver Bible workers and evangelistic teams; transport supplies to churches, clinics, and schools; and serve as a training platform for young Adventist pilots in the region.
This aircraft — and this ministry — now belong to Jamaica and the wider Inter-American territory as a tool dedicated to the glory of God.
“As I reflect on these past weeks,” says Deyvid Batista, AWA president, “I am humbled by how God still uses simple tools — a small airplane, a willing pilot, a praying church — to reach the brokenhearted and suffering. Adventist World Aviation remains committed to continuing what Jesus began: lifting burdens, restoring dignity, and bringing hope to places that may otherwise be forgotten. To our supporters, partner ministries, pastors, members, and friends: thank you. Your generosity fuels these flights. Your prayers keep us safe. Your faith makes miracles possible. And, to the people of Jamaica: We love you. We see you. And with God’s help, we are here to stay.”
Carolina | February 2026
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