It was an unforgettable moment at Livermore Airport on January 24, 2021, when a Bay Area pilot wins airplane in a surprise twist. Aaron Benedetti, a United Airlines Captain and experienced Dreamliner 787 pilot, arrived at the airport that weekend unaware of the life-changing news waiting for him. Though he had heard rumors circulating among fellow aviators about a giveaway, he had no idea the winner would be him.
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)—the largest pilot organization in the United States with over 300,000 members—was holding its annual airplane giveaway. Aaron, like many others, knew a plane was going to be awarded, but the idea of winning it himself never crossed his mind. The shock on his face when he realized the aircraft was his said it all.
Aaron was initially lured to the airport under the guise of meeting a friend from Oregon for lunch. That friend, who helped orchestrate the surprise, played a key role in making the reveal extra special. When Aaron saw the gleaming aircraft sitting on the ramp, he was intrigued—but still unaware. Moments later, he learned that the airplane was his, and he could hardly contain his excitement.
The lucky pilot expressed pure joy, saying that although he never considered himself lucky—especially when it came to contests or raffles—this win changed everything. He jokingly admitted that his usual luck with lottery tickets was nonexistent, making this unexpected gift all the more meaningful.
The aircraft Aaron received was a Van’s Aircraft RV-10, the first experimental aircraft ever given away by AOPA. According to AOPA President Mark Baker, the RV-10 is a standout model: fast, fuel-efficient, and equipped with a modern glass cockpit. Its sleek paint job and revamped interior make it feel brand new, despite originally being built in Canada in 2007. The RV-10 can cruise comfortably at around 180 miles per hour, making it perfect for weekend trips, cross-country flying, or scenic getaways.
For Aaron, the RV-10 is not just a trophy; it’s a tool for new adventures. He mentioned he plans to use the aircraft for camping trips with his wife, combining his love of flying with the outdoors. The versatility and range of the RV-10 make it ideal for personal travel and recreational flying—something Aaron can now enjoy anytime.
This giveaway is part of AOPA’s continued effort to celebrate and promote general aviation. Each year, one lucky member walks away with an aircraft, and this year’s selection of an experimental model represents the growing appeal of kit-built and custom planes. The RV-10, in particular, has become a favorite among pilots for its performance, reliability, and passenger comfort.
Baker emphasized the value of personal aircraft, especially in a time when many people are reevaluating how they travel. “When people are getting around in cars and looking for alternatives, planes like this come in handy,” he said.
Aaron’s story has since resonated with aviators and aviation enthusiasts across the country. It’s not just about winning a plane—it’s about the thrill of flight, the generosity of the aviation community, and the joy of being part of something bigger. For a man who never thought of himself as lucky, this surprise win has truly taken his passion for flying to new heights.
Photo Credit: KRON4