For many pilots, the fascination with aviation began with one unforgettable experience: seeing an airplane up close or taking that first flight.
The EAA Young Eagles program was created to give young people the opportunity to experience aviation and discover the possibilities that exist beyond the airport fence.
EAA Chapter 723 is proud to support the mission of introducing young people to the world of flight.
More Than Just an Airplane Ride
A Young Eagles experience can be much more than a few minutes in an airplane.
For a young person who has never experienced general aviation, simply walking around an aircraft, meeting a pilot, learning about the controls, and seeing the world from above can completely change the way they think about aviation.
Suddenly, becoming a pilot may not seem impossible.
A career in aerospace may become something worth exploring.
Aviation becomes real.
Learning How Airplanes Fly
Young Eagles experiences help introduce basic aviation concepts in an exciting and memorable way.
Young participants may learn about topics such as:
- Aircraft controls
- Wings and lift
- Cockpit instruments
- Airport operations
- Aviation safety
- Weather
- Communication
- Navigation
Learning becomes much more interesting when you can connect the lesson with an actual aircraft.
Creating Future Aviation Professionals
The aviation industry includes far more than airline pilots.
A young person interested in aviation may someday pursue a career as a:
- Professional pilot
- Aircraft mechanic
- Aerospace engineer
- Air traffic controller
- Airport manager
- Aviation technician
- Flight instructor
- Military aviator
- Aircraft designer
Programs like Young Eagles help expose young people to these possibilities early.
The Importance of Aviation Mentorship
Aviation has always depended heavily on mentorship.
Experienced pilots help new pilots.
Aircraft builders share knowledge with first-time builders.
Flight instructors guide students.
Young Eagles continues that tradition by giving experienced members of the aviation community an opportunity to encourage the next generation.
Sometimes a short conversation with a pilot can have a lasting impact.
Parents Can Learn Too
Young Eagles experiences are also a great opportunity for families to learn more about general aviation.
Parents often have questions about pilot training, aviation careers, safety, scholarships, and what it takes to earn a pilot certificate.
Getting involved with a local EAA chapter gives families access to people who have firsthand experience in many areas of aviation.
Every Pilot Started Somewhere
No pilot begins with hundreds or thousands of hours in a logbook.
Every pilot had a first flight.
Every aircraft builder had a first project.
Every aviation professional once knew very little about the industry.
Young Eagles helps create that first connection.
For some young people, it may simply be a memorable experience.
For others, it may be the beginning of a lifelong journey in aviation.
At EAA Chapter 723, we believe the future of aviation depends on inspiring the people who will fly, build, maintain, and improve tomorrow’s aircraft.