International Young Eagles Day is Next Weekend

June 4, 2015 - Next Saturday, June 13, marks the annual International Young Eagles Day, the day when more kids ages 8-17 receive a free flight from EAA volunteer pilots than any other day of the year. Typically 5,000 or more go airborne at scores of EAA chapter events and from individual members. For many young people it’s the spark that ultimately leads to a pilot certificate, or possibly an aviation career.

Sean D. Tucker, National Aviation Hall of Famer and chairman of the EAA Young Eagles program, had the following remarks regarding this epic event and the drive toward the 2 millionth Young Eagle flown.

“International Young Eagles Day is when we celebrate our volunteer heroes on the ground and in the sky who give children a chance to push boundaries and experience the magic and freedom of flight. The thousands of Young Eagles that we’ll fly on this special day—in addition to all year long—will become our engineers, pilots and leaders of tomorrow.

“As I travel the country, performing at air shows, I get the chance to fly Young Eagles and Young Eagle pilots. I know that just like me, each one of their lives is enhanced because of aviation. I’m certain that the work we do through Young Eagles builds a better future for all of us and generations to come.

“Thank you Young Eagle pilots and volunteers for your meaningful work as we count down to the flight of the 2 millionth Young Eagle.”

Many of you will hold special rallies at your home airports, so if you haven’t already done so, please make sure you get yours listed on EAA’s online Calendar of Events. Chapters are also encouraged to submit a description of their event along with photos to chapters@eaa.org.