WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - Honor Flight of the Cape Fear Area (HFCFA) has announced the date for its fifth mission flight set to take off in 2026.

HFCFA provides Veterans with an all-expenses-paid day of honor and remembrance in the nation’s capital.

HFCFA gives priority to World War II and Korean War Veterans, but the flights are open to all who served before 1975 and those of any era who have a life-limiting illness. Veterans are not required to have served in combat to participate.

“Participants in Honor Flight consistently tell us that the trip is a life-changing experience,” said Patty Miljenovic, HFCFA Flight Leader. “We are thrilled to celebrate our Veterans on this 5th mission to DC.”

The 2026 Honor Flight is set to fly to Washington, DC, on April 18.

Click here for applications to participate in the flight.

Applicants who are not chosen for the 2026 flight will be placed on a waiting list for the next flight.

Community members will be able to participate in the Mail Call Operation and the Welcome Home Celebration for the Veterans at ILM Airport when the flight returns on the evening of April 18.