Free Flights for Suncoast Kids

Taking the first airplane ride is a rite of passage for anyone.  That rush of adrenaline combined with excitement as you taxi down the runway, followed by tummy flutters as you experience your body doing the impossible, leaving the ground is one-of-a-kind. As a child, seeing an airplane in the sky is something every tot points to and exclaims, “Look!  An airplane.”  Even today’s children, who from birth are introduced to and grow up with technology laden devices everywhere love airplanes.  Tablets, computers, AI, gaming, and apps surround kids at a young age, and it can be hard to break that cycle of screen time.  But even with all of the advanced technology, kids still marvel at the sight of an airplane up in the sky.  They mimic its movement by running around arms extended like wings as they make the engine noise and “fly” from space to space.  One of the first vehicles beloved by boys and girls is any type of little airplane because flying is way more exciting than walking, running, or even driving and kids just gravitate toward what excites them.

For many families, offering their child an opportunity to ride on an airplane is cost prohibitive.  Parents want to expose their children to flights at a young age to increase their comfortability and to make flying less stressful as they age.  They want their kids to be able to travel well on an airplane so the family can see extended family and friends in other states.  Oftentimes, the child may have extra fears and anxieties related to flying due to emotional, health, or developmental issues.  But for all, flying remains an exciting milestone they wish to conquer.

Recently, I was reminded of a wonderful organization which allows children to take their first flight free of charge.  The Young Eagles program Free Young Eagles Flights | EAA allows children ages 8-17 to take their first airplane ride.  Developed to foster a love of aviation over 30 years ago, the program has provided airplane rides for millions of children over the years.  With the help of volunteer member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), children are presented with the opportunity to take one of these free flights and to experience firsthand that thrill of leaving the ground.  For many, this spurs on a lifelong passion for aviation which can result in producing more pilots, flight attendants, mechanics and engineers.  Whether you are a budding aviation enthusiast, or just a kid with a passion for planes, Young Eagles program is available nationwide and a wonderful opportunity for all.  To find a Young Eagles Flight near you, please visit Become a Young Eagle | EAA.

Photos courtesy of EAA-The Spirit of Aviation Facebook page.