Hundreds of Adults Introduced to Aviation Through Flying Start in May
Serena Kamps, EAA Chapters Field Representative I
June 13, 2019 - As many of our EAA chapters move into flying season, the warmer weather and milder conditions of the month of May provide a great incentive to share our passion for aviation. EAA chapters recently had just such an opportunity through EAA's Flying Start program with more than 75 chapters and squadrons participating throughout the month.
On May 18, chapters all across the U.S. and Canada celebrated International Learn to Fly Day by hosting Flying Start events. Participants in these events were given an introduction to the process of learning to fly through an EAA-prepared presentation and video that provides information about topics ranging from what is involved in flight training and the types of certificates one can pursue, to how much it will cost in both time and money.
In addition to being provided an opportunity to ask questions and meet area flight instructors, attendees were invited to experience flying for themselves with a free introductory Eagle Flight provided by an EAA volunteer pilot.
As a result, more than 250 adults were introduced to the joy of flight and provided a clear path to begin flight training as well as the opportunity to stay engaged with their local EAA chapters where they can find support and mentorship throughout their flight training. As of this writing, there were approximately 280 reported Eagle Flights given in May, making it a record-setting month for the number of flights given.
Three chapters that participated in May 2019 Flying Start events across the country include Chapter 534 in Leesburg, Florida, Chapter 24, located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Chapter 1434 located in Belfast, Maine.
"EAA Chapter 24 is looking forward to scheduling another Flying Start program in the future," said Chapter 24 President Jerry Calvert. "One of the ladies participating was very adamant that she will become a pilot!" EAA Chapter 1434 President Duke Tomlin reported the chapter had at least two participants move on to taking lessons, and noted everyone felt it was a successful program.
For more information on how your chapter can host an event, go to EAA.org/flyingstart.
