Wed, May 04, 2011
Offers A Free First Flight To Potential Pilots Of All Ages
More than 130 events will help dreams of flight become a
reality for perhaps tens of thousands of future aviators
during the second annual International Learn to Fly Day on
Saturday, May 21. International Learn to Fly Day is an aviation
community-wide effort helping people of all ages take that first
step to discover the fun, freedom and accomplishment of flight.
Local EAA chapters are leading the way by offering complementary
adult orientation flights on May 21, helping connect aviators with
those who have always wanted to discover flight.
These introductory flights for adults are similar to EAA's
popular Young Eagles program, which has offered free flights to
more than 1.6 million young people since 1992. EAA also encourages
other aviation organizations and businesses to join in the effort
by offering introductory flights, seminars, and open houses at
airports and other locations throughout the United States and
internationally. "The joy, fulfillment and sense of accomplishment
of flying an aircraft is unlike anything else that one can
experience," said Rod Hightower, EAA president/CEO. "As we grow the
next generation of aviators, International Learn to Fly Day is one
day where we can make a special effort to invite and welcome those
who have always dreamed of flying."
Organizations and EAA chapters that are hosting events are
encouraged to post their events on International Learn to Fly
Day's website. The website features the ability to
find a local event that encourages a person to discover more about
flying, and allows a group or company to post an event that
welcomes those interested in flying. Introductory flights spark
continued interest in flight, evidenced by recent research of the
EAA Young Eagles program. Those receiving flights free of charge
through Young Eagles are five times more likely to become pilots
than non-Young Eagles. EAA's statistics indicate that they also
already comprise more than seven percent of the United States'
pilot population under age 35.
The inaugural International Learn to Fly Day in 2010 drew more
than 40,000 people to events. Additionally, the U.S. House of
Representatives passed a resolution in 2010 declaring the third
Saturday in May as International Learn to Fly Day, recognizing the
contributions of flight instructors, flight schools, aviation
groups, and industry in promoting and teaching the nation's next
generation of pilots.
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