Addison M. Maloney of Union Township, Ohio, has received a full scholarship opportunity for flight training, thanks to EAA Warbirds Squadron 18 of Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Ray Aviation Scholarship program.
Since its introduction in 2019, the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program has allowed more than 350 youths to complete their flight training and receive their pilot certificates. The program has been consistently meeting and exceeding its expected 80 percent success rate each year.
Addison, a junior at West Clermont High School, has already completed more than 25 hours of flight training since she first borrowed money from her dad to take a ride in a T-6 Texan at one of the Cincinnati warbirds events in 2022. She will continue her training at Flamingo Air Academy based at Cincinnati Municipal Airport — Lunken Field. The scholarship is designed to support a flight student through both written and practical segments of flight training that are part of successful FAA pilot certification.
EAA chapters play a critical role in the success of the Ray Aviation Scholarship program. Chapters interested in participating are prequalified by EAA through an application process. If selected, they mentor and support the scholarship recipient throughout their flight training journey. Once selected as a Ray Aviation Scholarship participant, candidates also commit to volunteer service with their local EAA chapter.
EAA Warbirds Squadron 18 is the first warbirds squadron to receive the Ray Foundation Scholarship. It meets at various locations around the area, including the Tri-State Warbird Museum at Clermont County Airport on the first Thursday of each month. More information EAA Warbirds Squadron 18 is available at www.cincinnatiwarbirds.org.
