Prospective pilots will have an opportunity to take the first step toward a pilot certificate May 19 through dozens of International Learn to Fly Day events that will feature free orientation flights.
The Experimental Aircraft Association, which announced the formation of International Learn to Fly Day in 2009, said local EAA chapters and aviation organizations are leading the way by offering the adult orientation flights, “helping connect aviators with those who have always wanted to discover flight.” The flights are similar to the youth orientation flights of the longstanding Young Eagles program.
International Learn to Fly Day 2010 attracted the community to Frederick Municipal Airport.
“As we inspire the next generation of aviators, International Learn to Fly Day is one day where we can make a special effort to invite and welcome those who have always dreamed of flying,” said EAA President and CEO Rod Hightower in a media release. “If you’ve always wanted to discover what it is like to sit right seat in an aircraft, seek out an International Learn to Fly Day event in your area. If you are a pilot, share your passion with a friend and take them up for a ride so they can experience the joy and sense of accomplishment of flying an aircraft.”
Pilots can search for a Learn to Fly Day event in their area on the website; for more open houses and airport events, see AOPA’s online calendar. EAA also encourages aviation organizations to host events of their own. AOPA is sponsoring a Learn to Fly Day event at the Frederick, Md., airport June 2 because airspace restrictions related to the G-8 Summit make May 19 impractical.