Soar the Skies with EAA’s Free Youth Airplane Rides in Dubuque

Calling all young adventurers in Dubuque! Are you ready to experience the thrill of flight? EAA Chapter 327 is offering an amazing opportunity for kids aged 8 to 17 to take to the skies with Free Youth Airplane Rides on Sunday, September 15th, 2024, at the Dubuque Regional Airport. This exciting event is part of the nationwide Young Eagles program, which has been inspiring the next generation of pilots and aviation enthusiasts for over 30 years.

What’s in Store for Young Eagles in Dubuque?

Imagine the wind rushing past as you soar high above the ground, seeing your world from a completely new perspective. That’s what over 2.3 million kids have experienced through the Young Eagles program since it started in 1992. The Dubuque event last year was a huge success, with over 80 kids getting their first taste of flight, on their first airplane ride ever. Inspired by that incredible turnout, EAA Chapter 327 is back to offer even more kids the chance to feel the joy of flight.

What Happens on a Typical Flight Day?

On September 15th, kids will not only get to ride in a plane but also meet their pilots, who are local members of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). These pilots volunteer their time and aircraft to share their love of flying with young people. All pilots are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and safety is their top priority.

Before the flight, the pilot will explain what to expect, introduce you to the airplane, and go over safety tips—like staying away from the propellers and listening carefully to instructions. Once you’re in the air, you’ll see Dubuque from a whole new angle, soaring like a bird over the landscape. The flight usually lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, but the memories will stick with you forever.

Overall, the Young Eagles program is more than just a free airplane ride. It’s a gateway to the world of aviation. After your flight, you’ll receive a Young Eagles logbook, which comes with a unique code that unlocks a FREE EAA student membership.

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This membership opens doors to many cool resources, including career exploration in aviation, scholarships for flight training, and even glider flying opportunities. It’s a fantastic way to keep your aviation dreams alive! Still have questions parents? Check out the Parent FAQs section.

What Is the EAA?

The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was founded in 1953 and is all about bringing together aviation enthusiasts of all ages. From airline pilots to engineers, EAA members share a passion for flight and everything related to it. Local chapters, like EAA Chapter 327 in Dubuque, host events like the Young Eagles program to inspire young people and connect them with the world of aviation.

If you’re excited about flying, there’s so much more to discover! The EAA offers scholarships, career videos, and even opportunities to fly gliders. The possibilities are endless, and they all start with that first exhilarating flight. So, get registered and mark your calendar for September 15th, when you'll head to Dubuque Regional Airport for a day that could change your life. Who knows? Your first flight as a Young Eagle might just be the first step toward becoming a pilot, an engineer, or even an astronaut!