With aerobatics overhead and aircraft, products, and pilots on every side, the Learn to Fly Discovery Center on AeroShell Square at EAA AirVenture was an ideal spot to launch prospective pilots into training.
After a successful exhibit last year, AOPA again featured a Let’s Go Flying/Flight Training exhibit in the Discovery Center. More than 350 attendees completed a daily drawing entry and flight training pledge that made them eligible to win a package of flight training products worth more than $750, including a flight bag, sunglasses, a headset, and training materials. Prospective pilots pledged to begin flight training by taking an introductory flight; student pilots pledged to complete flight training to become certificated pilots; and pilots pledged to encourage someone to begin flight training.
“AOPA was pleased to be invited back as an exhibitor in the EAA Learn to Fly Discovery Center,” said AOPA Director of Public Relations Jennifer Storm. “The exhibits, presentations, and free resources are a big attraction for AirVenture attendees who are in flight training or wondering how to get started.”
All attendees who took the pledge could sign up for a free Let’s Go Flying monthly e-newsletter (for those dreaming of flying), a free Flight Training student trial six-month AOPA membership, or a six-month trial membership in EAA.
Those who stopped by the tent were also able to get behind the controls of a Redbird FMX flight simulator, and many found out more about what it takes to earn a pilot certificate. Prospective and student pilots asked about time and financial commitments and the differences between sport and private certificates, and many attended forums on funding the dream, choosing a flight instructor, and learning to fly after 40.
For those with an interest in sport pilot, the Flight for the Human Spirit’s Hope One (a Remos GX) was a part of the Remos display, and student sport pilot certificates were issued in the center.
Pilots pledge to get involved
More than 4,000 members of the aviation community pledged to engage in aviation this year at kiosks in the Big Yellow Tent at EAA AirVenture. AirVenture attendees took the engagement challenge by pledging to encourage a prospective pilot to begin flight training, attend an aviation event, support their local airport, find out where their government officials stand on general aviation, know the industry news, stay proficient, or make a contribution to an AOPA initiative.
Find out more about the year of engagement >>
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