The next chapter of the Kalitta family racing legacy is getting ready to hit the NHRA track. Mitch Kalitta, son of NHRA Top Fuel standout Doug Kalitta, will debut his rookie Top Alcohol Dragster campaign with Randy Meyer Racing at the Brainerd Nationals. The dragster will feature prominent branding from Kalitta Air Careers, which is actively seeking qualified pilots and mechanics to join its growing operation, connecting Mitch’s first season behind the wheel with the aviation company that has been part of the Kalitta family legacy for decades.
For Mitch Kalitta, the partnership is especially meaningful. He has spent virtually his entire life around Kalitta Motorsports, watching his father, Doug Kalitta, compete in Top Fuel and make history along the way. Most recently, at the August 2024 Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, Doug became the first Top Fuel competitor in NHRA history to make 600 career national event starts.
After beginning his own driving career in Super Comp, Mitch is now taking the next step in the Kalitta family racing legacy, moving into Top Alcohol Dragster with Randy Meyer Racing.
“I’ve been around these cars for forever and I’m ready,” said Kalitta. “Brainerd has always been a special race for me. It’s one we grew up going to as a family, so getting back in the seat there and representing the Kalitta Air family is something I’m really excited about.”
“We’re excited to have Kalitta Air Careers represented on Mitch’s dragster as he begins this next chapter of his racing career,” said Randy Meyer. “The Kalitta name has been a major part of our sport for generations, and this partnership is a great way to connect their racing legacy with the opportunities available through Kalitta Air. We’re proud to help tell that story.”
The partnership brings together two sides of the Kalitta organization – drag racing and global air cargo – to put Kalitta Air’s career opportunities in front of the NHRA’s passionate and highly engaged fan base. Kalitta Air is a global air-cargo carrier headquartered in Ypsilanti, Michigan, operating Boeing 747 and 777 freighter aircraft on scheduled and on-demand charter flights throughout the United States and around the world.
For pilots, Kalitta Air offers the opportunity to work in a global airlift environment with pilots based in their home cities, airline travel provided to and from trips, competitive compensation, medical benefits and retirement plans.
The company also provides extensive training through its Michigan-based training facility, which features five flight simulators used for certification and continuing education.
For those interested in aviation maintenance, Kalitta Air operates its own maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Oscoda, Michigan, along with maintenance outstations across the country. The company also offers a U.S. Department of Labor-approved apprentice program that provides paid training and employee benefits while participants work alongside experienced mechanics.
No prior aviation experience is required for the apprentice program, although candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old. Participants can work toward their FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification while building hands-on experience in the aviation industry.
Mitch’s connection to aviation runs deeper than his involvement with Kalitta Air. He has earned his pilot’s license and is actively involved in flying, giving him a firsthand connection to the aviation industry and another way to carry on the Kalitta family legacy. Growing up around both race cars and aircraft, Mitch has had the unique opportunity to pursue both passions, making the partnership with Kalitta Air Careers a natural fit as he begins his own journey behind the wheel.
“It’s an honor to run the Kalitta Air colors, especially as I’ve had the opportunity to become more involved in the day-to-day operations here at the airport,” said Kalitta. “It’s also been a privilege to follow in my family’s footsteps and learn how to fly along the way. Being able to combine that family history with racing and the support of everyone across the Kalitta companies makes this a perfect fit.”
As Mitch prepares for his first NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster race, he will have the support of the same family and organization that have surrounded him since childhood.
“I can already feel the support from Connie, my dad, and so many others throughout the company,” Kalitta said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to make some noise at Brainerd!”
With Kalitta Air continuing to grow its fleet and operations, the partnership with Randy Meyer Racing provides an opportunity to showcase these career paths to a motorsports audience that already understands the importance of teamwork, technical skill, precision and performance.
This story was originally published on August 18, 2026. 
