Charting New Waters | FEB 20, 2026

The Grounded Hogs Gala, hosted by the Washington Seaplane Pilots Association (WSPA), returns on February 20, 2026, transforming the Museum of Flight into a celebration of aviation heritage, innovation, and camaraderie.

Timed perfectly, the gala is held the evening before the Northwest Aviation Conference and Trade Show, making it an ideal kickoff to a weekend devoted to aviation. The Museum of Flight is located approximately 45 minutes from the Puyallup Fairgrounds, where the conference and trade show will take place February 21–22, offering attendees a seamless transition from an elegant evening gathering to a full weekend of industry connection and discovery.

Now in its signature setting—the Museum of Flight’s T.A. Wilson Great Gallery—the gala invites guests to dine beneath the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, amid a soaring six-story glass-and-steel hall that houses 39 historic aircraft. It’s a breathtaking backdrop for the evening. This year’s theme, Charting New Waters, reflects a moment of growth for both the association and the broader seaplane community. As access, advocacy, and innovation continue to shape seaplane aviation across Washington and beyond, the Grounded Hogs Gala serves as WSPA’s primary annual fundraiser—supporting its mission to protect and expand seaplane access, promote safe and responsible operations, and foster a thriving aviation community throughout the region.

The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with a l reception, social hour, and silent auction. Dinner follows, paired with a keynote presentation . This year, WSPA welcomes Joe Sprague as the 2026 keynote speaker. Recently retired after a three-decade career in aviation leadership—including roles at Alaska Air Group, Horizon Air, and as CEO of Hawaiian Airlines—Sprague’s story is rooted in the Pacific Northwest. His aviation journey began in Alaska, flying a Cessna 206 on floats, an experience that forged a lifelong connection to seaplane operations.

The Grounded Hogs Gala would not be possible without the support of its sponsor. WSPA extends its sincere thanks to Ace Aviation, Aerocet, Alaska Airlines, Cal Bamford, Cirrus Aircraft, Garmin, Hartzell Propeller, Jobe Real Estate Group, Kenmore Air, Seaplane Pilots Association, Southwest Aviation Insurance, The Museum of Flight, The Neiders Company, USAIG, and Wipaire.

A highlight of the gala is its world-famous raffle and silent auction, both returning with items designed to thrill pilots and adventurers alike. This year’s auction includes a striking aviation-themed showcase propeller from Hartzell Propeller, a rare and sculptural piece that captures the craftsmanship and spirit of flight. Also up for bid: round-trip Alaska or Hawaiian Airlines tickets to destinations across North and Central America—or Hawaii—with no blackout dates, as well as a custom handmade seaplane quilt created by Coffee Town Quilting, featuring a seaplane of the winner’s choosing. All proceeds directly support WSPA’s ongoing advocacy and access initiatives across the Pacific Northwest.

As an added benefit, gala registration includes complimentary all-day admission to the Museum of Flight on February 20. Guests may explore the exhibits from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., then return in the evening for the gala—making it a full day immersed in aviation history and innovation before heading to Puyallup for the weekend’s conference events.

With the Grounded Hogs Gala and the Northwest Aviation Conference forming a back-to-back weekend of connection, learning, and celebration, attendance is expected to be strong, and space is limited. Tickets are priced at $140 for WSPA members and guests, and $165 for non-members.

For tickets, sponsorship information, and event updates, visit www.groundedhogs.com.