EAA FLYING START PROGRAM OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES AT EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH 2018

EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — (July 23, 2018) — The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is introducing its new Flying Start program, which welcomes and encourages new aviation enthusiasts to the fun, freedom, and accessibility of personal aviation, during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018.

The Flying Start program is a new tool for EAA chapters to use to offer a local pathway for interested adults into the world of flight. The program consists of an EAA-prepared PowerPoint presentation and video that provides information about learning to fly, with topics ranging from what is involved in flight training and which certificate would be best suited for each individual, to how much it will cost in both time and money. The hosting chapter can customize this experience with information about their local chapter and flight training options.

“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 also 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 the Flying Start program is to provide a pathway for adults into the world of flight, the program also allows EAA chapters to engage their current members and recruit new aviation enthusiasts 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 see the program requirements, register, and receive the materials needed to help plan, promote, and host a successful Flying Start event at www.EAA.org/FlyingStart.

About EAA

EAA embodies The Spirit of Aviation through the world’s most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA’s 210,000 members and 900 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or go to www.eaa.org. For continual news updates, connect with www.twitter.com/EAA.