In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the EAA Young Eagles program in 2017, we’re featuring 25 Young Eagles whose stories inspire and exemplify the impact of the program.
February 9, 2017 – Aaron Kischnick, EAA 1174614, got his first taste of general aviation flying in 2015 when John Swantek, EAA 739401, gave him a Young Eagles flight in his Mooney at an aviation camp at Midland Barstow Airport held by EAA Chapter 1093.
“I was interested [in aviation] and just wanted to learn more so I decided to go to the camp, which led to the flight,” he said.
Aaron said he doesn’t come from a family of aviators but being immersed in a weeklong camp encouraged him to take that Young Eagles flight and eventually go on to be a Young Eagles pilot himself, he flew 16 Young Eagles in 2016, and inspired his father as well.
“Towards the end of my training my dad decided to start up,” he said. “He got his license a few months after I got mine.
“I think the Young Eagles program really helps to inspire others about aviation as a whole,” he said. “It really helps introduce children to the industry. It allows us as pilots to express our passion of aviation and to inspire others to follow their dreams.”
In addition to the Young Eagles program, Aaron said he encourages young people to talk to staff and pilots at their local airport to find out how to get involved in aviation.
If you or someone you know has a Young Eagles story to share, e-mail us at khollidaygreenley@eaa.org. You can also share your Young Eagles photos or video with us on Twitter and Instagram using #YoungEagles25.
Read all 25 for 25 stories here >>