Flying Where the Need Is Greatest

In a world where millions live beyond the reach of roads, healthcare, or hope, there exists an extraordinary ministry that takes to the skies to bridge those impossible gaps—MAF UK (Mission Aviation Fellowship). Known as the world’s busiest airline by the number of destinations it serves, MAF is unlike any other. It’s a Christian aviation charity flying to places others won’t, or can’t, in the name of Jesus.

Among the hundreds of dedicated staff MAF sends into service are Becki and Matt Dillingham, long-time friends of our Emmanuel Church community and true examples of faith lived out with humility, courage, and purpose.

A calling that took flight early

Becki’s story is remarkable. She sensed God’s call to become a missionary pilot at just 11 years old, a conviction that never faded. By the age of nine, she was already in the cockpit for her first flying lesson. That seed of passion, combined with a deepening faith, would grow into a lifelong calling. Becki trained as a commercial pilot and prepared her heart and skills for a unique mission: flying for MAF.

Matt, too, felt a pull toward meaningful service. With a background in science and education, he not only fell in love with Becki but fully embraced her calling. Matt married both her and her calling. Their marriage is a shared mission, centered on service, shaped by faith, and powered by love.

From the UK to Madagascar, Chad and now Tanzania

Since joining MAF, the Dillinghams have served in Madagascar, then for many years in Chad, often flying into desert outposts and isolated communities on the edge of the Sahara. Now, they are stationed in Tanzania, where Becki serves as both pilot and Operations Manager for MAF’s East Africa program, and Matt continues his impactful work supporting / advising a Tanzanian school and a charity called Heshima, which equips people with skills to enable them to earn a living.

Life in these places is far from easy, but they’ve embraced it all. They raise their two children, Bethan (born 2012) and Luke (born 2016), in cross-cultural environments, navigating language barriers, logistical challenges, and ever-changing assignments with grace and resilience. They don’t lead with fanfare, but with a steady, prayerful presence that uplifts those around them.

A joyful reunion with Emmanuel

We at Emmanuel have been proud and blessed to support the Dillinghams financially and prayerfully over the last three years. Many of you will remember their visits in 2022 and 2023, as well as the live video interview we hosted with them from Chad—a powerful moment of connection that reminded us how small the world becomes when hearts are united in Christ.

Now, Becki and Matt are preparing to return for another visit, and we are thrilled to reintroduce them to the wider church family. This is not just a homecoming—it’s a celebration of faith in action, a chance to hear their stories firsthand, and an opportunity to be inspired anew by what God is doing through their obedience.

Let’s show up, listen and support

Their story is a living example of 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” Becki and Matt live this out in every takeoff, every cargo drop, every prayer shared with a local community.

Whether or not you’ve met them before, we encourage everyone, young and old, seasoned Christians and seekers to come, listen, and engage. Let’s support them with our presence, our prayers, and, where possible, our resources.

Evening service featuring Becki & Matt Dillingham

📅 Sunday 20th July

🕡 6:30pm Evening Service

📍 Emmanuel Church

Hear about:

• The incredible work MAF is doing through evangelism safaris in partnership with a local Bible college

• The types of flying involved in MAF’s East Africa operations

• How God has led them through their unique journey of faith and mission

• A chance to reflect on how we each might respond to God’s calling