EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly Program

The EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly program is an intensive RC model building and flying initiative to introduce youth to aircraft construction and the fundamentals of flight.

This is a chapter modeling “program-in-a-box” designed for EAA chapters to partner with local Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) clubs to engage Young Eagles participants and other youth. The program can either be a follow-up to or lead to an EAA Young Eagles flight and is intended to further their passion for aviation.

What's Included in the Build and Fly Kit?

The program kit includes an Old School Model Works Fifty Six kit, all building materials, electronics, and accessories; a Horizon Hobby Vapor indoor RC model, and a RealFlight RC flight simulator (wifi required). The Old School Model Works Fifty Six is powered by an electric motor and is an all-time favorite RC trainer. The only things the chapter and club need to provide are the volunteers, a space to house the program, and a computer and wifi to run RealFlight simulator. View the full list of kit contents.

What is the cost to an EAA chapter for the kit?

Thanks to the generous support of the Burgher Fund and discounts provided by Old School Model Works and Horizon Hobby, the complete project kit is available to EAA chapters for just $500 (plus shipping & handling), which is approximately one-third the usual retail price.

Young Eagles Credits may be used for the purchase of the kit.

Who is eligible for this program?

All EAA chapters and squadrons are eligible to participate in the EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly program if they meet the following criteria:

  • Be an EAA chapter or squadron in good standing.
  • Have an area suitable for building and storing the Fifty Six model.
  • Ability and desire to partner with a local AMA club and solicit AMA volunteer presence for their RC expertise.
  • Have all volunteers complete EAA’s Youth Protection Policy training and background check. For more information, visit EAA.org/YouthProtection.
  • Solicit youth participation by reaching out to previous Young Eagles, during Young Eagles rallies, local school programs, clubs, or other youth outlets.
  • A commitment to foster the project through to completion.

Complete the Application Form


NEW OFFERING: Young Eagle Build and Fly Supplementary Kit
If your chapter has already participated in the program and wants to host another youth build, request materials for the Young Eagles Build and Fly supplementary kit. Offered at a cheaper price, this kit will include the main components needed to build a second Old School Model Works Fifty Six but excludes the tools you received during the first build. Learn more ›

Requirement – Chapter must have participated in the initial Young Eagle Build and Fly Program.


Program Resources:

EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly Program Handbook [PDF Download]

Frequently Asked Questions [PDF Download]

Know Before You Fly

Find Your Local AMA Club

AMA Membership Discount


Chapters in Action:

Young Eagles Build and Fly

Building and Flying at EAA Chapter 690 ›

EAA Chapter 1522 Continues Building RC Airplanes with Area Youth ›

Young Eagles Build and Fly Program Implemented at EAA Chapter 309 ›

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