Youth Programming Brings Aviation to the Next Generation

EAA’s first-ever Girls on the Fly on April 29 provided an opportunity for girls to experience the wonders of aviation. The one-day event attracted girls who wanted insight into the aviation industry.

This free event for 6th through 12th graders included hands-on activities such as:

• A preflight check and sitting in the cockpit of a club airplane

• Learning about the physics of flight with members of the 99s

• Building RC airplanes

• Introductory flights on Redbird Flight Simulators

Learning about circuitry through soldering lights, resistors, and a battery holder onto a printed circuit board

An impressive 45 spots were filled by girls who wanted to find out all the ways they can get involved in aviation as a hobby or career.

Despite the weather preventing the Young Eagles flights from taking place, feedback from participants was very positive.

“I love that we weren’t just listening to people talk,” an attendee said. “I’m a hands-on learner and it really helped [me learn]. [It was a] great day!”

Many parents appreciated the coordination of the event.

“I would like to express my gratitude to you and all of the volunteers that put on Girls on the Fly,” a parent said. “[My daughter] couldn't wait to get home to show and talk about everything she did. This really expanded her interest to possibly pursue a career in aviation.”

Thank you to our dedicated volunteers and donors who helped this event be as successful as it was. Events such as these come to life because of the support of donors like you. You help the next generation of aviators find their passions.