When William, a line service technician at Jets FBO at the Youngstown–Warren Regional Airport in Vienna, Ohio, got engaged to his wife Lydia, they knew they wanted their engagement photos to reflect something deeply personal. Aviation has always been more than a career for William — it’s a passion that fuels his everyday life. So, when we began brainstorming ideas for their session, one question stood out: how incredible would it be to photograph them at the airport?
Jets FBO, the fixed base operator at Youngstown–Warren Regional Airport, plays a vital role in serving pilots, crews, and passengers traveling through the region. Known for its professionalism and commitment to service, Jets FBO provides comprehensive ground support and fueling services with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and hospitality. As an essential part of the airport’s daily operations, the team helps create a welcoming and dependable environment for the aviation community.
Fueled by William’s love for aviation, we reached out to EAA Chapter 117 to help bring the vision to life. Chapter 117 is made up of aviation enthusiasts, aircraft builders, and pilots who gather to share ideas, exchange knowledge, promote safety, and serve the local aviation community — all while having a lot of fun doing it. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating the spirit of flight made them the perfect partners for this session.
Under the leadership of Chapter President Anthony DeGaten, members graciously opened their community to us. Surrounded by beautifully maintained aircraft and the unmistakable energy of the airfield, William and Lydia’s engagement session became more than a photo shoot — it became a celebration of the aviation family that has shaped so much of William’s life.
Beyond their involvement in this session, EAA Chapter 117 plays an active role in building awareness and education within the community. From sponsoring Young Eagles events to hosting fly-ins, building seminars, and social gatherings, the chapter brings together individuals who are passionate about learning, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation of aviators.
What began as a creative idea for engagement photos turned into something far more meaningful. It was a reflection of love — not only between William and Lydia — but also for aviation, community, and the people who keep that passion alive.
Editor’s Note: Share your story about your “Aviation Love Story” by emailing midwestflyer.com@gmail.com. This series was started March 1, 2026, you can view more articles like this by clicking here.
