Vero Beach Takes Flight: Young Aviators Invited to Free Flights at Annual Young Eagles Event
Vero Beach, Florida continues its tradition of inspiring future aviators as the local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) prepares to host its latest Young Eagles event. This exciting opportunity offers young aviation enthusiasts in Vero Beach the chance to experience the thrill of flight firsthand, completely free of charge.
Scheduled for Saturday, December 13th, the event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sun Jet Center, located at 3350 Cherokee Drive, Vero Beach Airport. This initiative is a cornerstone of EAA Chapter 99’s commitment to nurturing interest in aviation among the community’s youth.
The Young Eagles program, a nationally recognized endeavor by the Experimental Aircraft Association headquartered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, aims to introduce children aged 8 to 17 to the wonders of flying. These introductory flights, typically lasting around 20 minutes, are conducted by licensed volunteer pilots, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for every participant. Organizers have already seen significant interest, with approximately 50 children registered, and there is still availability for more as additional dedicated pilots volunteer their time and aircraft.
The Young Eagles program in Vero Beach offers complimentary flights for children aged 8 to 17, providing an invaluable introduction to aviation and fostering future pilots and enthusiasts in the community.
Beyond the initial flight, participants receive a commemorative certificate detailing their unique aerial journey, including the flight date, aircraft type, and the pilot’s signature. They also get a logbook to record this and any future aviation experiences. For those looking to delve deeper, complimentary flight simulator sessions, supervised by knowledgeable chapter members, will also be available on-site.
EAA Chapter 99 in Vero Beach is not just about a single event; it’s a vibrant community hub for young aspiring aviators. The chapter boasts an active youth program with over 50 enrollees, including 11 diligently working towards obtaining their private pilot licenses. Participants in the Young Eagles program unlock access to a free national EAA membership, which includes invaluable online training courses provided by Sporty’s Pilot Shop. Furthermore, local chapter membership is also free for youth, opening doors to robust community support and potential EAA scholarships for those pursuing careers in piloting, aircraft mechanics, or other vital aviation fields.
Since its inception in 1992, the Young Eagles program has profoundly impacted nearly 2.5 million young individuals across the nation, relying entirely on the passion and dedication of volunteer pilots. This local event underscores Vero Beach’s role in contributing to this impressive national effort to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals and enthusiasts.
Parents or guardians interested in registering their children for this incredible opportunity can do so online through the EAA website or by directly contacting Chapter 99. The success of such community events is also heavily dependent on the spirit of volunteerism, and the chapter actively encourages pilots and ground support personnel to get involved by reaching out.
For additional information regarding the Young Eagles Program and how to participate or volunteer, please contact Don Wheeler at (772) 277-0361 or email dadcrew96@gmail.com. This event represents a fantastic chance for Vero Beach’s youth to experience the boundless horizons of aviation, right here in their hometown.
