EAA Flying Start Program Officially Launched

August 8, 2018 - EAA introduced its new Flying Start program, which welcomes new aviation enthusiasts to the fun, freedom, and accessibility of personal aviation, during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018.

Flying Start is a new tool for EAA chapters to use to provide interested adults with a local pathway into the world of flight. The program consists of an EAA-prepared PowerPoint presentation and video that provide information about topics ranging from what is involved in flight training and the types of certificates that can be pursued, to how much it will cost in both time and money. EAA chapters can customize the presentation with information about their local chapter and flight-training resources.

“EAA chapters throughout the country supply a natural support system for those adults pursuing their dreams of flight,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs. “The Flying Start program gives those local chapters the tools to welcome and encourage those who are eager to discover aviation, but may not know how to take the next step.”

Flying Start participants will have direct access to EAA’s Eagle Flights program through the hosting chapter, allowing them to experience aviation for themselves with a free introductory flight and informal mentorship from an EAA volunteer pilot. After the flight, participants will receive a free six-month membership to EAA and the local chapter.

While the primary goal of Flying Start is to provide a pathway for adults into the world of flight, the program also allows EAA chapters to engage their current members to help build stronger organizations that support and promote aviation on a local level.

The Flying Start program fulfills EAA’s mission to grow participation in aviation by promoting The Spirit of Aviation through its network of nearly 900 local chapters.

Chapters that are interested in hosting a Flying Start event can review the program requirements, register, and download the materials needed to help plan, promote, and host a successful Flying Start event at EAA.org/flyingstart.