ERAU Supporting Next Element Of "Flight Plan"

EAA Young Eagles can now stay connected to the aviation world and enjoy a variety of benefits at no cost through the EAA Student Membership supported by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.  The EAA Student Membership, available free of charge to all Young Eagles and valid until the individual's 19th birthday, is the next element of a "Flight Plan" for EAA Young Eagles interested in earning a pilot certificate. Young Eagles can register for their free EAA Student Membership online.

"Thanks to Embry-Riddle's support, future aviators will discover how valuable an EAA membership is as they turn their dreams into reality," said Brian O'Lena, EAA youth programs manager. "The EAA Student Membership supported by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will provide Young Eagles with the tools and information to help their aviation pursuits flourish."

The membership includes the online edition of Sport Aviation magazine, e-newsletter subscriptions covering a variety of aviation interests, EAA member discounts to AirVenture and SportAir Workshops, unlimited free admission to the EAA AirVenture Museum, an Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) membership providing access to thousands of AMA Flying Clubs and fields around the country as well as information on how to start flying models, plus much more.      

"Embry-Riddle is gladly lending its support to the EAA Student Membership for Young Eagles," said Dan Montplaisir, Embry-Riddle vice president of institutional advancement. "EAA has assembled an impressive package of benefits for the Young Eagles that will speed them along in acquiring aviation skills and earning a pilot certificate. Over the years Embry-Riddle has proudly partnered with EAA on various programs that make it easier for young people to explore the world of aviation, whether they're interested in flying as a pastime or want to go even further, to pursue higher education in aviation, such as Embry-Riddle offers, and become a professional pilot."

Since 1992, EAA members have provided nearly 1.6 million Young Eagles ages 8-17 with an introductory flight experience in a general aviation aircraft. During the past 18 months EAA, with generous support from individuals and the aviation industry, has begun building a "Flight Plan" to assist Young Eagles interested in earning a pilot certificate.

"Through the Flight Plan, a young person can take that initial spark of curiosity from the Young Eagles program and pursue a direct path toward aviation participation," O'Lena said. "We are building the next generation of aviation by eliminating barriers that may stand between a Young Eagle and the cockpit."

Last year, EAA and Sporty's Pilot Shop began a partnership that gives Young Eagles free access to Sporty's Online Pilot Training Course upon completion of their first Young Eagles flight. In June 2010, the First Flight Lesson program was added to the Flight Plan. EAA continues to explore other opportunities for additions to the Flight Plan so more Young Eagles can pursue aviation.

FMI; www.eaa.org, www.youngeagles.org/join