Scammon Bay pilot stretches his wings to fly skies worldwide

YK delta pilot Kyle Kaganak has embarked on a new adventure – he is First Officer for ABX Airlines and has been flying 767 Boeing jets since October. Congratulations to Kyle and his family of Bethel and Scammon Bay. Expand your horizons!

Yukon Kuskokwim delta pilot Kyle Kaganak has embarked on a new adventure – he is First Officer for ABX Airlines and has been flying 767 Boeing jets since October. Congratulations to Kyle and his family of Bethel and Scammon Bay.

Kyle Kaganak is the son of David and the late Irene Kaganak of Scammon Bay, AK and the husband of Nicole Kaganak of Napakiak, AK.

After a lengthy pilot career of flying in the YK Delta, Kaganak decided to further his education. In October 2023 he attained a position as First Officer on the 767 Boeing Jet for ABX Air, a national and international cargo company.

His wife and family are very proud, “It’s very cool for a Yup’ik to represent us on this level,” said wife Nicole. “When his captains find out he’s Yup’ik, they admire our culture and way of life. He feels privileged to be a Yuk.”

Some of the destinations that he has flown to include Sacramento, CA, AZ; San Francisco, CA; New York, NY; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. His company, ABX, which is based in Wilmington, OH also flies to countries such as Columbia, Panama, Costa Rica, and Peurto Rico as well as Europe. Kyle resides in Bethel, AK with his wife and children. He encourages indigenous youth to continue pursuing your dreams, no matter where you come from. Here’s to expanding your horizons Kyle, quyana!

Kyle Kaganak at home in Bethel

Kyle as a baby with his parents Irene and David. Photos courtesy of Nicole Kaganak