Do you know a child who’s curious what Randolph County looks like from the sky? Several kids will be getting the chance to see this viewpoint Saturday, September 19th at the Elkins-Randolph County Regional Airport thanks to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Young Eagles Program. From 10AM-2PM, children between the ages of 7-16 are welcome to see what real pilots do on the ground and in the air, free of charge. Trips are typically 10 – 15 minutes and piloted by members of the EAA Elkins Chapter 1530. To develop an interest in aviation at a young age, the national chapter of the EAA developed the Young Eagles program in 1992. In the past 23 years, more than 1.9 million Young Eagles have enjoyed a flight from the group’s network of volunteer pilots. “This is a great opportunity for young people to learn about aviation,” said Dick Chaney, Elkins-Randolph County Airport Manager.
Young flyers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign the registration form. All flights will take place on a first come, first served basis. Between five and eight Randolph County pilots will volunteer their time and planes for the event. Each pilot is licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration and all aircraft are licensed by the government. In addition to a free flight, each child will also receive a certificate, making them official “Young Eagles.”
“We are hoping this program gives a new generation a chance to learn more about the possibilities that exist in the world of aviation,” Chaney said.
Learn more about the Young Eagles Program and give your child the opportunity to see Randolph County from a whole new perspective!