Youth
EAA Chapter 234 Young Eagles
More community. More flying. More fun.
Free Airplane Rides for Kids

Young Eagles flights

Founded in 1992, the Young Eagles program is dedicated to giving youth ages 8–17 an opportunity to fly free of charge in a general aviation airplane. These flights are made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers. It’s the only program of its kind, with the sole mission to introduce and inspire kids in the world of aviation, and today has flown more than 2 million young people.

Young Eagles flight events happen throughout the summer. In 2021, we flew more than 100 local youngsters, some for their very first ride in a general aviation airplane.

Young Eagles Club

Chapter 234 holds monthly Young Eagles Club meetings to introduce young people ages 12–16 to aviation and STEM-related activities. 

The club teaches them the principles of flight, navigation, airplane and airport terminology, airspace and air traffic control through hands-on activities such as aircraft builds, visits to aviation-related facilities and flight simulator sessions.

Ground School Mentoring

Each Young Eagle Flight participant receives a free coupon to Sporty's Online Private Pilot Ground School. This course can qualify you to take the FAA Private Pilot Written Exam.

To assist our Young Eagles in accomplishing this goal, we hold twice monthly mentoring sessions to answer questions and help students understand the material.

Ray Aviation Scholarship

Through the generous support of the Ray Foundation, EAA provides up to $10,000 to deserving young adults for their flight training expenses, totaling nearly $1,200,000 in scholarships annually.

Each year, our chapter supports one scholar, between the ages of 16 and 19, in the form of funding and mentorship to help them earn their pilot certificate.

Scholar eligibility and requirements

Ray Aviation Scholarship Fund applicants are engaged, excited and motivated aspiring pilots.

Additional consideration will be given to candidates who are former Young Eagles, EAA student members and actively participating in the EAA Flight Plan, specifically the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course.

Learn more about applying →
Read the scholar handbook and see other resources→

Local candidates must meet these criteria

  • Age 16–19 for powered flight training
  • Possession of a student pilot certificate (we'll help you get this)
  • Possession of an FAA medical certificate (for those pursuing private pilot—we can also point you in the right direction on this)
  • Ability to begin their flight training within 60 days of receiving the award
Download an application
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