An opportunity to see the world from a whole new view is being offered through the Young Eagles free airplane ride program.
Chapter 463 of the Experimental Aircraft Association is offering the rides to children and youth ages eight to 17-years-old from 11a.m to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 at the Miami Regional Airport, located at 2600 Rex Plott Drive in Miami.
“I instruct at the airport too and it’s rewarding,” EAA Chapter 463 member Jerry McFerron said. “Most all of them really enjoy it and get excited.”
Since 1992, EAA members worldwide have been offering this chance of a lifetime to children giving more than 1.8 million a flight in a general aviation plane.
The flights are possible only through the generosity of the EAA members who volunteer the use of their aircraft and pilot skills.
Locally EAA Chapter 463 member pilots offer the flights twice yearly, in spring and fall, free of charge.
The program is designed to inspire and engage youngsters in pathways to aviation including piloting, mechanics, and aeronautics.
Each child or youth must be accompanied to the airport by a parent or legal guardian who will not ride, but must be present to give authorization for the plane ride. Airplane rides will be given in order of arrival.
The 30 plus member Miami EAA Chapter has offered the free rides since the mid ’90s each year with approximately 60 to 100 children and youth coming to the airport for each event.
EAA is a worldwide organization with chapters across the nation offering camaraderie with 180,000 other passionate aviation enthusiast members through events such as the Young Eagles program and others.
The organization offers resources including videos, articles, workshops, technical counselors, flight advisors, and a homebuilders forum. EAA offers special aviation interest groups to join including the Vintage Aircraft Association, Warbirds of America, and International Aerobatic Club.
EAA’s mission is to grow participation in aviation by providing knowledge, information, and resources and aviation events and activities.
If weather does not permit for the Oct. 3 event scheduled, it will be rescheduled for the following weekend on Oct. 10.
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