It could be the perfect two-week getaway: a free trip to France to participate in the Tour Aérien Des Jeunes Pilotes.
The goal of the Tour Aérien Des Jeunes Pilotes is to motivate the next generation of pilots, build camaraderie, and serve as a public outreach event promoting general aviation. Forty-five pilots between the ages of 18 and 24 are expected to participate in the event July 15 through 28. Each stop in the race will allow participants to meet with the public and share their passion for aviation.
AOPA, the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations, and the Fédération Française Aéronautique are teaming up to send an American pilot to the race and will pay for the pilot’s roundtrip airfare to France, airplane rental for the race, fuel, lodging, and basic meals. The American pilot will fly with a flight instructor who speaks French and English.
Pilots must be between the ages of 18 and 24, have a valid U.S. passport, be at least a private pilot, and have a current flight review; applicants also must be able to participate in a short telephone or Skype interview and be available to travel abroad July 12 through 30. To apply for the opportunity, send a 500-word essay describing your passion for flying and flight experience to AOPA at [email protected] with “TAJP application” in the subject line. Also include a photo or copy of your pilot certificate and passport. Preferred applicants should have knowledge of the French language. The application deadline is June 17.
The event, celebrating its sixtieth anniversary this summer, is sponsored by the Fédération Française Aéronautique. Officials from the organization visited AOPA on May 31 to discuss the race and its rich history. The race is made possible each year by volunteers, experienced pilots, and flying clubs.
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