Our Story

In the 1930’s, international workers in Borneo were struggling to find transport to the interior of the country where they were called to demonstrates God’s love to villagers. One of them, George Fisk, was literally calling out to the heavens for help when a bird flew by, and, in that moment, mission aviation was born. He shared the vision for aviation support to EXPAND and EXPEDITE their compassion efforts and, eventually, a Beech 17 on floats was in service there.

Mission Aviation continues to Impact people around the globe, with the purpose of sharing God’s- in Word and Deed.

THINGS ABOVE PROJECT carries on this effort…

to Expand and Expedite compassion efforts, in Jesus’ name, around the globe.

Since 2009, in Gabon, TAP supports:

  • Aircraft for National Church ministries

  • Flight Department Staffing

  • Aviation Education Initiatives

  • Involvement in Aviation Community

  • Encouragement & Funding towards local Sustainability

  • Wellness and Member Care Support

Stewarding these efforts…

TAP work is a result of many people, linked through their faith in Jesus, working together, believing that their steps of faith play a role in God’s redemptive plan for our broken world. Many churches, individuals, and organizations have been key to collaboration to keep the operations active.

Steve Straw is an FAA certificated pilot (9600+ flight hours) & mechanic as well as an ordained minister (C&MA). Steve is a board member of the International Association of Mission Aviation, had his mission aviation technical evaluation with Missionary Aviation Fellowship, and is a checked out operational pilot with JAARS. Steve graduated from LeTourneau University and had a career as a commercial pilot in the US prior to international work. Along with his wife, Alace, they served in US local church ministries (‘93-’07), then, after a year of French language training in France, have primarily made Gabon their home, with small projects in Cameroon (dorm parents; aviation department management), as well as the US (apprentice mission pilot training program development; pre-field deployment training for missionaries). Alace has counseled and overseen pre-field missionary coaching (Wycliffe/JAARS) as well as on-field provision of care (C&MA).

It's ONLY with your teamwork, that we can reach remote people with the God's Love and Compassion! Through this blog, we hope that you can read about the many ways that the LOVE of GOD is being creatively expressed in Word and Deed.

Why Train Nationals?

1


It's in keeping with the vibe of God's Word. Equipping, training, multiplying ourselves in others as a part of discipleship and mentoring.

2

It's a great way to build teamwork! There is a picture, in scripture, about all of us joining in the important work of worshipping Jesus around the throne. It's clear that we'll be on equal ground- every tribe, tongue, nation, and people. By becoming colleagues on this side of eternity will give us and the world a preview of the awesome things to come.

3

It's a great way to give back a lasting investment to the host country. Sure, simply coming and doing the transport work ourselves is important. However, investing in the training of local believers is a great way to extend your impact to a generation (or more!) to come.


4

What happens when international staff have to leave the country due to illness, age, political instability, or immigration issues? Will operations cease to function? With equipped, local staff, this will not be an issue.

5


In the developing world, aviation is a critical need. Pilots and aviation organizations are highly respected. The ground is RIPE to make a HUGE impact! Training nationals from a faith perspective demonstrates how to use a skill, that is somewhat viewed as "secular", and turn it into something "sacred" to bless people. Nationals that are skilled in aviation will then have a big stage to demonstrate the love and compassion of God.