Education

'Young Eagles' Passes Flight To New Generation

(WCCO) The Experimental Aircraft Association is giving kids the opportunity to take to the friendly skies. Best of all, it's free.

Young Eagle volunteer pilots are sharing their knowledge of flying with future generations.

"There's a declining number of pilots in the United States," said Young Eagles volunteer pilot Bill Brown.

The group decided to do something about the low number of pilots in this country by offering the free flights. They've been doing it since 1992.

"I love aviation. I've been flying for about 45 years, and it's really fun to introduce the kids," said Brown.

The pilots volunteer their time and plane. They even pay for the gas. The whole idea is to get kids interested in flying.

Eight-year-old Molly Winter actually flew a plane.

"It was fun. It was kind of scary because I didn't know if I could really do it," said Molly.

She added it wasn't as easy as it looked.

"You had to keep on looking on each side out each window because you have to make sure that the wings are balanced," explained Molly.

Molly's Mom was also surprised at her daughter's accomplishment.

"I think that's awesome. What a great experience," she said.

Eight-year-old Jackson also went for a ride. He was at a loss for words. His Mom, Leslie McLain said she wanted Jackson to experience what it was like to fly in a small plane.

"It's something that I never got a chance to do. I've only been on regular big airplanes, so for him to be able to experience this and have it, it's really fun," she said.

Kids eight to 17 years old can go on the free flights.

The event is Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at Airlake Airport in Lakeville. It's also a preview of the huge Air Venture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Young Eagles
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