Grand Island, Neb. – Central Nebraska Regional Airport invites the community to attend the dedication of The Aviator, a bronze sculpture made by nationally recognized American artist Bobbie Carlyle. This dedication ceremony takes place at the Central Regional Nebraska Airport on August 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
The dedication celebrates the spirit of aviation and the countless journeys that begin at Central Nebraska Regional Airport. Every takeoff represents a story, whether it’s reuniting families, serving our country, pursuing new opportunities, or discovering places once thought out of reach. The Aviator stands as a tribute to the dream of flight.
This was made possible through a generous donation from Dr. Tom and Lynne Werner. Lynne has served on the Hall County Airport Authority Board for 21 years, including as Board Chair, and currently serves as Vice Chair. She and Dr. Werner are both pilots whose lifelong passion for aviation inspired this gift to the community.
The airport also recognizes The Eihusen Foundation for its support of the project. The foundation honors the legacy of Virgil Eihusen, whose dedication and vision were instrumental in bringing the airport to Grand Island. Eihusen also served on the Hall County Airport Authority Board from 1993 to 1999.
Created by nationally recognized sculptor Bobbie Carlyle, The Aviator reflects the enduring spirit of flight. The sculpture was originally featured as part of the Railside Sculpture Walk, Grand Island’s annual outdoor public art exhibit. The program features a rotating collection of sculptures displayed throughout the historic downtown district, creating a walkable gallery for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Carlyle earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Brigham Young University while raising seven children and has spent decades creating bronze sculptures found in public spaces across the United States and around the world. She is perhaps best known for her iconic work, Self Made Man, one of the most recognized figurative bronze sculptures in the country.
The dedication ceremony will include remarks from Mayor Roger Steele; Dr. Tom Werner; Ms. Lynne Werner; Jack Henry, representing the Eihusen Foundation; and Airport Board Chair Ryan O’Neil. Community members are invited to attend this special celebration.
Event Details
What: The Aviator Sculpture Dedication
When: Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
Where: Central Nebraska Regional Airport
Parking: First come, first served. 90 minutes is free in the east and west lots.
For more information, visit flygrandisland.com or contact Central Nebraska Regional Airport at 308-385-5170.
About Central Nebraska Regional Airport
Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI) has served central Nebraska for nearly a century. Beginning as a grass airstrip in the 1920s, the airport has grown into a regional transportation hub connecting travelers, businesses, and communities throughout the country. Today, the airport is governed by the Hall County Airport Authority and provides commercial passenger service, business aviation, military operations, air cargo, and general aviation. American Airlines offers daily service to Dallas/Fort Worth, providing connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide, while Allegiant Air offers nonstop service to Las Vegas and Phoenix-Mesa. Conveniently located in Grand Island, Nebraska, CNRA proudly serves travelers throughout central Nebraska and beyond.
