Chapter 1218 Holds Successful Flying Start Event

October 2020 – Saturday, September 19, was a perfect day in Willow Springs for our Flying Start Learn to Fly event. Attendees came from several area towns; some from an hour away. We had six walk-ins, along with the 12 pre-registered for a total of 18 attendees excited to learn where to take that first step. We also had one return from last year still eager to learn more. Fourteen were given Eagle Flights and there were also five Young Eagles flown. Several chapter members were on hand to share their aviation story. The instructors were available for questions. The participants were given the opportunity to walk among the variety of aircraft on display before receiving their Eagle Flight.

In attendance were two of our newest chapter members (father and son) Ryan and Cinch Liggett. They joined at our May 2019 Flying Start event. Ryan joined the Ozark Aviators Flying Club and started flight lessons in the club's Cessna 172. He completed his first solo flight on September 11, 2020. His instructor, Paul Guiley, used the gathering as an opportunity to perform the traditional removal of the shirttail. Ryan, now 15, is taking flight lessons in the Ozark Aviators Flying Club Cessna 150. He has been awarded a scholarship from the Memphis Soaring Society and is taking soaring lessons at their facility at Cherry Valley, Arkansas. Both were great role models for our participants.

Our attendees were a well-rounded group, men and women in all age groups and all passionate about learning to fly. One purchased a ground school course that very evening. Several plan to begin flight training, join our next chapter gathering, and become chapter members. It was an enjoyable day for all involved.

For more information about EAA Chapter 1218, visit our website, email: eaachapter1218@gmail.com, call 417 233-1218, or visit our Facebook page.