Why We Fly

October 20, 2025October 31, 2025

Minnesota EAA Chapters 25, 54, and 1229 in Action

Chapters, Why We Fly

By Mark Kolesar, EAA Lifetime 294238 The Flying Cloud Airport located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, was the site of the 2025 Girls in Aviation Day on September 20, 2025. Three ... Read more

October 16, 2025October 17, 2025

Could Sport Pilot 2.0 Be the Next Red-Hot Revival?

Learn to Fly, Why We Fly

By Emme Hornung Picture it: Your local aviation scene flourishing. Most of the training aircraft at the flight school and the rentable aircraft at flying clubs are suddenly open to ... Read more

August 29, 2025October 20, 2025

From Patient to Pilot: How a Teen Aviator Is Using Flight to Inspire Hope Around the World

EAA Canada, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

By Jennifer Langdon and Byron Waller, EAA 1670717, Australia At just 15 years old, Byron Waller is preparing to do something extraordinary: become the youngest supported pilot to fly around ... Read more

July 26, 2025October 20, 2025

What AirVenture Oshkosh Means to Me

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Robbie Culver Any one of you reading these words could have written them. I know I am just lucky enough to be the one doing so. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh ... Read more

July 25, 2025October 20, 2025

Be the Squeaky Wheel

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Jim Roberts A few AirVentures ago, a friend introduced me to the concept of “MOO” — the Magic of Oshkosh. It’s the serendipitous and often quirky turn of events ... Read more

July 25, 2025October 20, 2025

How Volunteer Pilots Help Survivors of Human Trafficking Take Their Next Step

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Jared Miller, CEO and Co-Founder Across the country, volunteer pilots are quietly stepping up to make a life-changing difference in the fight against human trafficking. Freedom Aviation Network (FAN) ... Read more

July 23, 2025October 20, 2025

From Patient to Pilot

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Byron Waller, a 15-year-old from Brisbane, Australia, is using aviation to raise awareness about Crohn’s disease and show people they can overcome their limitations. Byron had been in and out ... Read more

July 23, 2025October 20, 2025

Conservation: SouthWings Okefenokee

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Laura Early, SouthWings Eastern Program Director North America’s largest blackwater wetland, the Okefenokee Swamp, covers more than 400,000 acres in Southeast Georgia. It is truly a unique freshwater ecosystem ... Read more

July 22, 2025October 20, 2025

Bringing Hope From the Sky

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Operation Helo When disaster strikes, most people wait for help to arrive. Operation Helo doesn’t keep them waiting long — it flies straight into the heart of devastation. With ... Read more

July 22, 2025October 20, 2025

50 Years at Oshkosh

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Robbie Culver Attending EAA AirVenture Oshkosh can be a life-changing event. Glen Matejcek (rhymes with “paycheck”), EAA 151163, who is attending his 50th AirVenture in 2025, said his early ... Read more

July 21, 2025October 20, 2025

Angel Flight West Command Pilot Kosta Constantine

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Corbett Stevenson Itzy’s mother, Mirna, remembers Itzy having a persistent fever, and Mirna had a nagging feeling that something was wrong. After a multitude of tests at their small ... Read more

July 20, 2025October 20, 2025

Public Benefit Flying: PALS for Patriots

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Stephanie Jendrzejewski, Development Manager, PALS SkyHope This year marks 15 years of PALS SkyHope — and one of the most meaningful initiatives to take flight in that time is ... Read more

July 19, 2025October 20, 2025

Pilot With a Purpose

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Kristinia Luke, Executive Director, Air Care Alliance Every pilot remembers the first time they took the controls — the thrill, the freedom, the pure joy of flight. Over time, ... Read more

July 3, 2025October 20, 2025

First and Last Flight in a T-34 Mentor

Member Stories, Why We Fly

On June 29, Gary Eichhorn, EAA 63653, departed from Tampa, Florida, for his last flight as a passenger in a Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, the very same aircraft type he learned ... Read more

July 3, 2025October 20, 2025

Times Flies and So Does Howie! Celebrating Howie Cammack’s 90th Birthday

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Howie Cammack, EAA 290592, celebrated his 90th birthday on June 29, surrounded by family and friends. The celebration took place at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum ... Read more

June 30, 2025October 20, 2025

Mabel Lake

EAA Canada, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Mike Davenport, Vancouver, BC Sometimes we have to make hard decisions. Admittedly, some are easier to make than others. Take a recent case in point. I was at the ... Read more

June 26, 2025October 20, 2025

Girls Can Fly Day

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the May 2025 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. It is early March as I ... Read more

May 22, 2025October 20, 2025

Rick Thorburn: Aviation Junkie

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By: Jay Thorburn Earlier this year while flying back home from Vernon, British Columbia, I reached into my bag and pulled out the latest issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine, ... Read more

April 24, 2025October 20, 2025

Mosquito Mission

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Gustavo J. Mas, EAA Lifetime 853532 I had just recently moved to Florida’s Gulf Coast and was enjoying some early morning salt water fishing near New Pass on Fort ... Read more

April 10, 2025October 20, 2025

Filling the Void

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA members come in all shapes and forms with diverse backgrounds and reasons for falling in love with aviation. For many members, their background is in military aviation. But what ... Read more

March 28, 2025October 20, 2025

The Wizardry of OZ

EAA Canada, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Curtis Penner, EAA 1103560 Wizardry: (noun) wi-zər-drē; surprising and/or clever accomplishment. Requiring significant skill and expertise. OZ: (noun) ˈoʊ zɑrks; an area of low mountains in northwestern ... Read more

March 6, 2025October 17, 2025

Flying the Superior Shoreline

Ultralights, Why We Fly

By Kevin Szalapski, EAA 792226 This piece originally ran in the January 2025 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. All winter long, I had envisioned a long cross-country flight with ... Read more

February 6, 2025October 17, 2025

Are We Looking Out the Window Enough?

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the December 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 I know what you are ... Read more

December 4, 2024October 20, 2025

Mountain Destinations: Stave Lake, British Columbia

EAA Canada, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Mike Davenport, Vancouver, British Columbia A recent discussion about flying through British Columbia’s mountains from the Coastal Range to the Rockies brought to mind somewhere that is a little ... Read more

October 31, 2024October 17, 2025

The Old Man and The Kid

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Brian Hart, EAA 1457879 The Old Man was not always old; he had once been young and dreamed of flight. And when he was young, he had an Old ... Read more

August 15, 2024October 20, 2025

The Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation Presents 2024 Aviation Spirit Award

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Mike Franceus In front of a crowd of approximately 300 pilots, friends, and family members, The Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation presented its 2024 Aviation Spirit Award to Larry ... Read more

July 27, 2024October 20, 2025

Able Flight Gains Nine New Light-Sport Pilots

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Barbara A. Schmitz Able Flight awarded its greatest number of flight training scholarships in a year to people with a disability in 2024, and nine of those 10 scholarship ... Read more

July 26, 2024October 20, 2025

Pretty (and Strong) in Pink

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Angela Satterlee The pink airplane that can be spotted from around the grounds is the first of its kind, making its world debut at AirVenture 2024. With a fresh ... Read more

July 21, 2024October 20, 2025

Ladies Love Taildraggers

AirVenture, Vintage, Why We Fly

Ladies Love Taildraggers (LLT) is a nonprofit organization made up of a group of remarkable female pilots. They recently returned from their Ladies Love Taildraggers Mississippi River Flying Tour, which ... Read more

May 9, 2024May 10, 2024

There’s a New Scholarship in Town!

Why We Fly

The Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation was founded by Mike Franceus to continue his wife’s mission of helping women achieve their aviation dreams. Multiple flight training scholarships are offered to ... Read more

February 7, 2024October 20, 2025

Becoming Corie

Member Stories, Why We Fly

One EAA member chronicles her unique path to aviation – a story of overcoming a lifelong illness and receiving her medical certificate, and how an internet scammer unknowingly inspired it ... Read more

November 30, 2023October 28, 2025

Reflections of a Tri-Motor Stewardess (Or Should I Say, Hostess)

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

100-year-old Ruth Hunter considered the Tri-Motor her home at one point, having been a stewardess on the Tri-Motor in the early ‘50s, and getting to fly in EAA’s Ford Tri-Motor ... Read more

November 9, 2023

Grounded No More: Healing Veterans One Flight at a Time

Why We Fly

Many veterans reach out after their day at Grounded No More with stories of how the experience helped them. Some think about their flight when they are having a bad ... Read more

November 2, 2023November 6, 2023

Young Eagles Milestone – Mac Molnar Flies 500

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Chattahoochee Valley EAA Chapter 677 member Mac Molnar, EAA 1028461, flew his 500th Young Eagle on October 28.

September 28, 2023October 28, 2025

The Ford Tri-Motor’s Biggest Fan

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

Do you believe in love at first sight? Or, perhaps more fitting, love at first flight? Arlene Maksymicz of EAA Chapter 846 sure does! The love affair started when the ... Read more

September 14, 2023October 29, 2025

A Bird’s-Eye View

Ultralights, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA staff member Timm Bogenhagen discusses his involvement with ultralights and light aircraft.

July 30, 2023October 31, 2025

See You on The Flightline!

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Seeing the light in the eyes of our young folks made me realize that the best way to honor those gone before us is to remember them, and to share ... Read more

July 28, 2023October 31, 2025

An Adventurous Beginning

Member Stories, Why We Fly

About ten thousand hours ago (pilots understand this time frame, and this is a flying story after all), I found myself working as a civilian for the Air Force in ... Read more

July 26, 2023October 31, 2025

Fight or Flight

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Many fairy tales start with “once upon a time” and are only a fable. However, my story started as a little girl with a dream. Not a lot of people ... Read more

July 25, 2023October 31, 2025

A Life-Changing Choice

Member Stories, Why We Fly

If I was asked to point a finger at the moment in time when aviation became my life, it would be that one. It may have only been a minute ... Read more

June 28, 2023October 29, 2025

The Common Question

Ultralights, Why We Fly

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor George Karamitis discusses his answer to the question he often receives about ultralight flying.

May 4, 2023

It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! It’s The Bateleurs!

Why We Fly

General aviation doesn’t immediately come to mind when thinking of wildlife conservation. However, for The Bateleurs, “southern Africa’s environmental air force,” using general aviation to support environmental and conservation efforts ... Read more

March 3, 2023

Idaho and the Frank – Expectation and the Reality

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Expectations were high as Rick and I headed out for a bucket list trip to Idaho that had been delayed two years by travel restrictions. After studying guidebooks, watching videos, ... Read more

February 2, 2023February 6, 2023

Alaska — Returning Home

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his return flight home from Alaska.

January 5, 2023January 6, 2023

Flying in Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his flying excursions in Alaska.

November 29, 2022December 2, 2022

A Whole New World

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Natalie Miles, EAA 1478672, provides the latest update on her journey through United Airlines’ Aviate Academy.

November 22, 2022November 29, 2022

Flying to Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his long flight north to Alaska.

November 22, 2022October 29, 2025

Airplanes to Ultralights

Ultralights, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor George Karamitis reflects on his many years in aviation.

October 18, 2022October 20, 2022

Sharing the Joy

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses one of his passions in life: sharing the experience of flying with his family.

October 11, 2022October 13, 2022

Looking Down on a Rainbow

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Rose Rivera, the pen name of an EAA member and Ray Scholarship recipient who lives in Florida and is currently working on her instrument rating, shared this story that is ... Read more

October 11, 2022October 13, 2022

Welcoming Young Women Into Aviation

Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Steve Krog discusses his experiences encouraging and welcoming women into the aviation industry.

October 6, 2022October 28, 2025

How Did They Do That? Behind the Scenes of the 50-Ship Flyover

Homebuilding, Why We Fly

If you were at AirVenture Oshkosh 2022 during the opening air show, you might not have believed your eyes when you looked up and saw no less than 50 Van’s ... Read more

September 21, 2022September 27, 2022

From Butterfly to Fly Girl

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

It seems only fitting that Olivia Carter, EAA 1143354, excelled in the swimming pool in the butterfly. As the 2021 NCAA champion in the 200-yard version of that event, Olivia ... Read more

August 17, 2022October 28, 2025

Remembering How Tom Helped Keep the Spirit of Flight Alive

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Philip Handleman, EAA Lifetime 227599, joins the many who have taken the time to share a heartfelt tribute after the recent loss of former longtime EAA President Tom Poberezny.

August 11, 2022October 22, 2025

Lily’s First Ride

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing the world of flight through new, young eyes.

August 10, 2022October 28, 2025

A Flight I’ll Never Forget

Aerobatics, Why We Fly

As a young aviation enthusiast, I never could have imagined taking a once-in-a-lifetime aerobatic flight at age 21. Come to find out, I guess anything is possible at AirVenture.

August 3, 2022October 31, 2025

Side by Side

AirVenture, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Father Mike Rath, of Spearfish, South Dakota, flew his Waco Classic biplane into EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on Saturday, alongside with his two sons flying a Cessna 140, piloted by 17-year-old ... Read more

July 11, 2022July 12, 2022

What I Would Have Missed

Why We Fly

In a column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Steve Krog reflects on the many wonderful experiences he would have missed if he hadn’t become a pilot.

May 16, 2022October 29, 2025

Love at First Flight

Ultralights, Why We Fly

Sixteen years and counting for EAA Sport Aviation contributor George Karamitis and his Quicksilver MX ultralight.

April 14, 2022October 28, 2025

Land, Air, and Sea by Motorcycle

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA member Jaime Bonet’s journey to creating a unique three-purpose motorcycle.

February 2, 2022

Bits and Pieces: The West Coast Pilot’s Club — Langley, British Columbia

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA member Mike Davenport provides an update on the relief flights that took place in British Columbia following catastrophic flooding in late 2021.

January 18, 2022October 16, 2025

Heaven in Havana (Illinois, That Is)

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Visiting a revitalized airport with a fascinating history.

January 4, 2022January 5, 2022

Bits and Pieces: Relief Flights to the Interior

Member Stories, Why We Fly

General aviation pilots stepped up to help out communities in need during recent flooding in British Columbia.

January 4, 2022

Bits and Pieces: Aerial Artistry With a Heart

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Canadian pilot Dimitri Neonakis has taken to creating inspiring aerial art in Nova Scotia.

December 14, 2021

Bush Flying Lite

Tips, Why We Fly

EAA Sport Aviation contributor Budd Davisson writes about backcountry flying in a feature story that originally ran in the June 2021 issue of the magazine.

October 14, 2021October 17, 2025

Exiting the Hold

Member Stories, Why We Fly

There is a category of commercial aviators that appear to be in the business only because it pays the bills. They couldn’t care less about the wonders we are privileged ... Read more

September 28, 2021October 29, 2025

A South African Adventure

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A transatlantic training flight turned into a reunion with old friends for EAA member Arnie Quast.

September 28, 2021October 16, 2025

Fly Me to the Center of the World

Why We Fly

A flight to the center of the northern half of the western hemisphere.

September 22, 2021

Airplane Camping

Tips, Why We Fly

Thinking about going camping with your airplane? EAA Sport Aviation writer Budd Davisson talks about everything you need to know prior to your trip.

September 13, 2021October 29, 2025

EAA’ers to the Rescue! “The Durban Airlift”

Chapters, Why We Fly

EAA pilots and aircraft owners in South Africa volunteered to transport supplies to affected regions and also to return stranded families and individuals to their homes.

September 2, 2021October 28, 2025

The Passing of a Mentor

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Gene Schumacher loved anything that flew, and he flew anything he could. Gene bought the flight school that became Pro Flight in 1996, where he became a mentor to so ... Read more

August 26, 2021October 20, 2025

Why I Fly

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A perfect, sunset flight was a chance for one EAA member to reflect on why he flies.

July 31, 2021October 28, 2025

Tying the Knot Twice on the Tri-Motor

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Holly Baldwin Scheibner said her husband, James, isn’t the most romantic guy. So that made the surprise even more unbelievable.

July 30, 2021October 20, 2025

Tracing History – Following the Oregon and California Trails

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Grand Prize winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 29, 2021October 28, 2025

Grandma’s First Flight: A Ford Tri-Motor Tale 92 Years in the Making

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Lifelong Oshkosh residents John and Ruth Clark recently flew for the first time ever with their family on the Ford Tri-Motor at AirVenture 2021.

July 29, 2021October 20, 2025

3D RC Flyer ‘Aces’ Night Performance

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Even though this is Jase “The Ace” Dussia’s fourth year performing at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the 3D RC flyer acknowledges he still gets a bit anxious.

July 29, 2021October 20, 2025

The Mass Mass Airport Tour

AirVenture, Why We Fly

The second-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 28, 2021October 20, 2025

The Infinite Highway of the Air – Flying From Alabama to Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The third-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 27, 2021October 20, 2025

Wings of Friendship

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The fourth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 26, 2021October 17, 2025

Cancer Survivor Saves Others

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Samaritan Aviation co-founder heads to front lines of Papua New Guinea after defeating cancer diagnosis

July 26, 2021October 17, 2025

A Circumnavigational Flight Around the United States

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The fifth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 8, 2021October 22, 2025

Those First Flights Really Do Make a Difference

EAA Canada, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Airline pilot and CFI David McIntosh traces it all back to a Young Eagles flight more than 20 years ago.

July 8, 2021October 22, 2025

Conquering (Kind of) My Flying Fear

Member Stories, Why We Fly

As far back as I can remember, being on an airplane has filled me with panic and fear. As someone who is afraid of heights, claustrophobic, gets motion sick, and ... Read more

June 16, 2021October 20, 2025

Coming of Age: A 16-Year-Old’s Cross-Country Adventure

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

On Tuesday, June 8, 16-year-old Luc Zipkin set out in his 1946 Piper J3C-65 Cub to fly cross-country.

May 10, 2021

Dream It

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Norm DeWitt, EAA Lifetime 179893, has flown Air Force fighters, competition aerobatic aircraft, homebuilts, and nearly everything in between over the past 56 years.

April 22, 2021October 28, 2025

Photo Highlights from SUN ‘n FUN 2021

Why We Fly

Take a look through some of the images EAA’s photography team captured last week while at the 2021 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida!

April 15, 2021

Setting Records and Taking Names

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Since moving to the United States 20 years ago, Harley Milne, EAA 1377610, made it his top priority to see as much of the country as he could, but he’s ... Read more

April 8, 2021October 28, 2025

From Bush Pilot to Army Experimental Test Pilot

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Lourie DeBoer grew up no stranger to aviation – flying was always something discussed in her house growing up. Even she couldn’t have predicted where her career would take her. ... Read more

April 8, 2021April 8, 2021

EAA Staffers Fly Great Horned Owl in Pilots N Paws Mission

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Christina Basken, EAA 1299943, and David Leiting, EAA Lifetime 579157, participated in their first Pilots N Paws mission on Friday, March 26, to transport an injured owl.

March 26, 2021March 26, 2021

Prolific Builders — Dale Lamport

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By email interview with Dale Lamport of Smiths Falls, Ontario, we put together the following this first in a series of articles about amazing Canadians who have built several aircraft.

March 25, 2021October 28, 2025

Lt. Col. Harry T. Stewart Jr., Tuskegee Airman, and a Tribute to His Colleagues

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

A young reenactor pays tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen and other veterans of color, and I was happy to be there to document it.

March 25, 2021March 25, 2021

My Last Airplane

Member Stories, Why We Fly

I turn 65 in May and I know my aviating days could be over at any time. Although I’m in good health, anything can crop up and change that in ... Read more

March 4, 2021October 22, 2025

Mission Complete

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA Chapter 27 members Laurie and Arianna Strand, using an RV-12 that was built as part of EAA’s Project Give Flight, flew a sick pelican from Connecticut to Florida to ... Read more

February 11, 2021

An Empowered Couple Empowering Kids

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

For Corben Meyer, EAA 1252156, and Renee Brilhante, EAA 1074356, EAA’s Young Eagles program was exactly what they needed to get them started and now this young couple is paying ... Read more

January 21, 2021October 17, 2025

Not Your Mother’s STOL Competition

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Taking place this past September at Byrd’s Adventure Center in the middle of the Arkansas Ozarks, the ArkanSTOL Ozark Backwoods Challenge featured some of the nation’s premier STOL pilots!

January 7, 2021January 8, 2021

EAA Young Eagles Pilot Receives Heartwarming Thank You

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Former United Airlines Captain Larry Steenstry received a pleasant surprise when his former Young Eagle, Tyler Norton, knocked on his door to say thank you nine years after his introductory ... Read more

December 16, 2020December 16, 2020

Pipistrel’s Panthera Comes to Oshkosh

Why We Fly

Right Rudder Aviation made a stop in Oshkosh on their tour of the United States showing off Pipistrel’s Panthera.

December 15, 2020December 15, 2020

In Search of the Ultimate Kit Aircraft: DarkAero 1, Chapter 2

Why We Fly

In anticipation of one day building a DarkAero 1, Richard thinks ahead to the requirements of long-distance cross-country flight.

December 10, 2020October 28, 2025

SUN ‘n FUN Holiday Flying Festival Photos

Why We Fly

EAA paid a visit to the SUN ‘n FUN Holiday Flying Festival and Car Show in Lakeland, Florida, on December 4-5. Here are some of our favorite photos from this ... Read more

November 24, 2020October 20, 2025

5 States and 510 Airports in 55 Days Over 3 Years

Member Stories, Why We Fly

How Michael Haubrich became the first pilot to complete the airport passport program in five Midwest states.

November 11, 2020October 20, 2025

Stay Close to Home Flyout

Member Stories, Why We Fly

On July 18, 2020, I organized a small fly-out to explore to some of our local airports.

October 21, 2020October 16, 2025

A Really Fun Day

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Making Stearman memories.

October 14, 2020October 15, 2020

Beefalo Fly-In

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Fresh burgers and corn on the cob on the Québec/U.S. border.

October 13, 2020October 28, 2025

Wow, That Really Was An Air Show

Why We Fly

An airshow in Ontario gets creative.

October 7, 2020October 7, 2020

Every Airport Has a Personality

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Is yours a “friendly” airport?

October 1, 2020October 20, 2025

I Can See Clearly Now

Learn to Fly, Why We Fly

We flew in this small airplane with no doors. I instantly fell in love with the freedom that experience gave me; it was so beautiful.

September 10, 2020September 10, 2020

North to Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Like most great adventures, this one started over dinner.

September 3, 2020October 20, 2025

Someplace to Go

Tips, Why We Fly

When it comes to maintaining proficiency, there is no better prescription than to go flying — anywhere — and have fun doing it.

August 27, 2020August 27, 2020

Live with Mike Patey

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Watch never-before-seen Scrappy content, hear about Draco, and learn about Mike’s cool new projects in this interview that originally aired during Spirit of Aviation Week.

August 19, 2020August 19, 2020

AirVenture Inspires Marymoor RC Field Members to Build 15-foot Model C-133

DIY, Why We Fly

After seeing a C-130 at AirVenture in 2019, Marymoor, Washington, RC Club members Bryan Connelly, Hailin Truman, and Ian Morrow were inspired to begin their dream project of building and ... Read more

August 19, 2020October 17, 2025

A Friday Fun Flight

Why We Fly

Exploring Door County, Wisconsin, in an RV-12.

August 13, 2020October 20, 2025

PEEPSKOSH 2020

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A young man nicknamed Peeps was devastated that AirVenture was canceled, so his friends and family got together to put on the next best thing.

August 12, 2020October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot — Author/Publisher Jackie Ruiz

Podcast, Why We Fly

This time on EAA’s The Green Dot, the crew sat down with author, publisher, and sport pilot Jackie Ruiz to discuss her upcoming book, Latinas in Aviation, her thoughtful journey ... Read more

July 29, 2020October 17, 2025

The Power of a Cub

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Seven-year-old Tayten Rentfrow didn’t just want to go for a ride in his uncle’s Cub — he wanted to start learning to fly.

July 9, 2020July 13, 2020

Fitting the Sport Plane to the Mission

Tips, Vintage, Why We Fly

It starts with a definition, as columnist and regular contributor Budd Davisson explains in this piece that originally ran in the June 2020 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine.

July 1, 2020October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot — Hangar Flying to Favorite Airports

Podcast, Why We Fly

This time on EAA’s The Green Dot, the crew goes around the virtual table and takes turns hangar flying to various favorite airports around North America, describing amenities, nearby sights, ... Read more

May 21, 2020May 21, 2020

Never Forget

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Will Golden taught me that the best way to face death is to live to the end.

May 14, 2020May 14, 2020

Aloha Aviators Are Helping in Hawaii

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Aloha Aviators is a group of amateur female pilots and Honolulu-based Delta flight attendants who have been sewing masks and delivering them, plus other supplies, to the outer islands ... Read more

May 7, 2020May 7, 2020

Flying — It’s in the Blood (and the Genes)

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Four generations of flying Slingers.

May 6, 2020May 6, 2020

Paying It Forward

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Former Young Eagle Nathan Welch, EAA 1044612, gives back to youth as a STEM Flights pilot mentor.

April 23, 2020April 23, 2020

Angel Flight West

Why We Fly

Flying for a cause.

April 16, 2020April 16, 2020

Flying Made it Possible: They Did so We Did

Why We Fly

We’d meant to go for years, but, like seemingly every good thing in life, it was just easier not to. When we finally did, flying made it possible.

April 15, 2020April 15, 2020

Brockport Flying Club Takes Off

Why We Fly

It has been a long road, longer than expected, but we have our club up and flying at Genesee County Airport in Batavia, New York. We now have nine full-time ... Read more

April 10, 2020April 10, 2020

Moe’s Ottawa River Fly-In 2020

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The last time I attended this event was with John Wyman in his ski-plane, a Champ, say five years ago.

February 27, 2020February 27, 2020

A Very Special Young Eagles Flight

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

I had just completed a Young Eagles flight when I was approached by one of the adult chaperones with a request to fly a 14-year-old girl who, he said, was ... Read more

February 6, 2020February 6, 2020

Groundhog Chili Skiplane Fly-In Photo Gallery

Chapters, Why We Fly

A hearty EAA chapter braved the Wisconsin winter to remind us that flying can be a year-round activity.

January 22, 2020January 22, 2020

Who Is Your Avspiration?

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Who is your aviation inspiration? Take a flight of fancy through the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh grounds and watch as the young — and young at heart — find the answer ... Read more

January 2, 2020October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot — EAA CEO and Chairman Jack J. Pelton

Chapters, Podcast, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

The Green Dot crew sat down with EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board Jack J. Pelton to look back at 2019 from an EAA and general aviation at large ... Read more

December 11, 2019December 11, 2019

More Than One Mission

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Eric Sampson’s recent Eagle Flight had an ulterior motive.

November 5, 2019November 5, 2019

Full Circle — A Happy Reunion, 35 Years On

Member Stories, Why We Fly

How often is it at age 17 that you get your first ride in a historic 1942 Meyers OTW airplane? Then you end up owning that same airplane 35 years ... Read more

October 23, 2019October 17, 2025

It Takes All Kinds — Why My Students Fly

Learn to Fly, Why We Fly

Pilots and pilot prospects are all ages and come from all walks of life. To be a good instructor, one must be able to know and understand what makes each ... Read more

October 10, 2019October 17, 2025

Don’t Wait

Member Stories, Why We Fly

“I really enjoyed this trip,” I told my wife, Lois, as we flew the last leg home. Little did I know I’d never pilot my airplane again.

September 18, 2019September 18, 2019

Meeting With Members at AOPA’s Tullahoma Fly-in

Why We Fly

A few EAA staffers and CEO Jack J. Pelton headed to William Northern Field on September 13 for AOPA’s Tullahoma Fly-In to visit with fellow EAA members, answer questions, and ... Read more

September 5, 2019September 5, 2019

New Holstein Super Cub Fly-In Photo Roundup

Why We Fly

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike gathered in New Holstein July 19-23 to share their passion for flight.

August 22, 2019October 28, 2025

Heather Penney Discusses 9/11 Experience, Beliefs in TEDx Talk

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA board member Heather Penney, EAA 1266991, told her story of being scrambled on September 11, 2001, to protect Washington, D.C., and more in this TEDx talk given in Chelsea ... Read more

August 7, 2019October 28, 2025

Finding Myself Through Learning to Fly

Learn to Fly, Milestones, Why We Fly

If you had told me 365 days ago that I would be a pilot by EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019, I’d have thought you were crazy.

August 7, 2019October 28, 2025

Metamorphosis: Transforming From Student to Pilot

Learn to Fly, Why We Fly

Following my colleague’s flight training journey help me relive my own learning to fly memories.

July 26, 2019October 20, 2025

Back in the Family ⁠— A Glasair With History Returns to the Fold

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Barbara A. Schmitz Austin Bowman, then 14, recalled being upset, even mad, when his parents sold the family’s Glasair in 2000 that his dad, Skip, had built soon after ... Read more

July 25, 2019October 20, 2025

Whirling Around the World — Taking a Gyroplane on a Worldwide Journey

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In 2003, Norman Surplus, then 40, was diagnosed with bowel cancer. The prognosis wasn’t good. “They gave me a 40 percent chance to live 18 months,” he recalled. As he ... Read more

July 22, 2019October 28, 2025

A Super Group — The New Holstein Super Cub Fly-In

Chapters, Why We Fly

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike gathered in New Holstein on Sunday, July 21, to share their passion for flight. The New Holstein Super Cub Fly-In started in 2002 and was ... Read more

June 13, 2019October 16, 2025

Dedicated to Perfection

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

It was an emotional reunion as a group of Stinsons gathered to honor an old friend.

June 6, 2019June 6, 2019

Relay Gives Pilots a Reason to Fly

Why We Fly

A bunch of pilots plus one well-traveled stuffed bear shows that GA is alive and well in Virginia.

May 23, 2019October 20, 2025

The Story That Speedy Told Me

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Dale Mitchell, EAA 766538, shares a special story of how one airplane can make a large impact on many people.

May 16, 2019May 16, 2019

International Learn to Fly Day!

Why We Fly

International Learn to Fly Day is this Saturday! Are you thinking about taking the first steps to earning your pilot certificate? We can help! EAA has developed pathways to flight ... Read more

May 16, 2019May 16, 2019

Landing the Space Shuttle — An Incredible Flying Machine and the Thrill of a Lifetime

Member Stories, Why We Fly

This was my first landing at the controls of Atlantis, and it was the culmination of a 10-day mission to the Russian Mir to deliver supplies and a fresh crew ... Read more

May 2, 2019May 2, 2019

The Cross-Country of a Lifetime

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Arnold Ebneter planned for decades to make an epic solo cross-country flight, and eventually he was able to take that great adventure that so many who pursue aviation dream of.

April 25, 2019October 17, 2025

One Hundred Years Young

Member Stories, Why We Fly

I asked a 100-year-old World War II bomber pilot if he wanted to go for a gyroplane ride. He said he’d love to, as soon as he was finished with ... Read more

April 18, 2019October 29, 2025

Watching Stratolaunch Make History

Member Stories, Why We Fly

It’s dawn in the desert. In the gray early morning light Stratolaunch, the largest airplane ever built, hulks silently at the opposite end of the 12,503-by 200-foot runway.

April 17, 2019October 16, 2025

New Learning — Giving Gliders a Go

Why We Fly

I tried yet another aviation experience. This one, over the years, was never an itch I had to scratch, but it was always something I was interested in: gliders. (Yeah, ... Read more

April 12, 2019April 12, 2019

A Very Special Young Eagle

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Jeff Seaborn, EAA 793688, recalls a very special Young Eagles flight he gave last year.

April 11, 2019October 28, 2025

Aviation Splendor at SUN ‘n FUN 2019

Why We Fly

The 45th annual SUN ’n FUN International Fly-In & Expo certainly lived up to its name this year with blue skies and plenty of Florida sunshine to go around.

April 9, 2019October 17, 2025

Take Your Kid Flying — Our Children Need to Know How Great It Is

Ultralights, Why We Fly

I had my older son, Kevin, in the right seat of my Ercoupe. (This would be my first Ercoupe, the one I had 30 years ago. Kevin was 30 years ... Read more

April 4, 2019April 8, 2019

Alaskan Ice Cave Fever

Why We Fly

One of my very favorite things to do in the summers here in Alaska is to fly with my husband to an off-airport, 900-foot backcountry treasure called Mud Strip.

March 7, 2019March 7, 2019

Get Your Kicks

Member Stories, Why We Fly

With a total of 2,448 miles of history-rich pavement, Route 66 is an ideal backdrop for a desert fly-in event.

February 27, 2019October 29, 2025

Why I Fly Young Eagles

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

On June 28, 2010, I gave a Young Eagles ride. I probably gave more than one Young Eagles ride that day, but it was eight years ago and I don’t ... Read more

February 18, 2019October 28, 2025

Canadians Check Out the Aviation Scene in Hawaii

EAA Canada, Member Stories, Why We Fly

During the month of January, my wife and I were lucky enough to spend several weeks exploring and enjoying three Hawaiian Islands.

January 23, 2019October 17, 2025

Backcountry Flying, STOL Drag Racing at High Sierra Fly-In

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The love for aviation felt all over the dry lakebed at the ninth annual High Sierra Fly-In had quite the EAA convention feel. Get a taste of the event in ... Read more

December 20, 2018October 28, 2025

A Picture Worth a Thousand Words

Honoring The Past, Warbirds, Why We Fly

Rides on EAA’s B-17 Aluminum Overcast connected three generations of the Culpepper family.

December 20, 2018December 20, 2018

Make Way for Turtles

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Daniel Wegmueller recently got to fly a floatplane to an island in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

December 6, 2018

Professional Pilots of Tomorrow Assists in Guiding Future Pilots

Why We Fly

Professional Pilots of Tomorrow helped Alex Zenni, a young pilot with dreams of flying for a living, in his search for career options.

November 29, 2018November 29, 2018

EAA Chapter 1572 Hosts Special Young Eagles Event

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

EAA Chapter 1572 hosted 70 children in Lima, Peru, for a special Young Eagles event in July that was captured in video form.

November 15, 2018

Fly-In Tales From the Passenger Seat

Chapters, Why We Fly

Terry Scarborough, recently married to Chapter 1094 member Ben Scarborough, attended her first ever fly-in at the Flying M Ranch in Reklaw, Texas, a few weeks ago and wrote down ... Read more

November 15, 2018October 17, 2025

Young Eagle Goes From Learning to Teaching at EAA

Member Stories, Why We Fly

After his Young Eagles flight, Thomas Sieracki dove deep into aviation before coming back to share his knowledge at EAA.

November 8, 2018

EAA Has Presence at Successful AMA Expo West Show

Why We Fly

EAA programs were in the spotlight at the newly relocated and expanded Academy of Model Aeronautics Expo West, which was held last week in Pomona, California.

November 8, 2018November 8, 2018

A Young Eagle Pays it Forward

Chapters, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Longtime Young Eagles participant and volunteer Jerad Lewark flew his first Young Eagles mission and provided an Eagle Flight one week after passing his private pilot checkride.

November 8, 2018October 28, 2025

EAA’s Spirit of Aviation Mobile Experience Wraps Its Sophomore Tour

Why We Fly

For the second year, the EAA Spirit of Aviation mobile experience, presented by NATCA, has toured the United States spreading EAA’s passion for aviation to new audiences.

November 1, 2018

A Primitive First Solo Initiation

Learn to Fly, Why We Fly

A first solo is always something to celebrate. But, as it turns out, not everybody celebrates the same way.

October 31, 2018October 28, 2025

The Ladies Love Taildraggers Haunted Flying Tour

Why We Fly

Ladies Love Taildraggers, not to mention long cross-countries, museums, gizzards, and camaraderie.

October 31, 2018October 17, 2025

Finding the Spirit of Aviation in the Backcountry

Why We Fly

There might be more dust, playa desert, and cowboys in Nevada than in Wisconsin, but the atmosphere, camaraderie, and love for aviation felt all over the dry lakebed at the ... Read more

October 31, 2018October 17, 2025

Homebuilts in Oregon

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Oregon Aviation Historical Society celebrated the state’s rich homebuilt history with a recent fly-in.

October 25, 2018October 28, 2025

Oshkosh in the Backcountry

Why We Fly

Finding the spirit of aviation on a dry lake bed.

October 23, 2018October 28, 2025

From Young Eagle to Airline Pilot

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Alan took Renée on a Young Eagles flight when she was 13, and now she’s an airline pilot.

October 18, 2018

Flight of the Condors

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The story of two volunteer pilots and their extremely unusual passengers.

October 15, 2018October 16, 2018

Hitting the Beech (Party) With EAA

Vintage, Why We Fly

Check out some highlights from EAA’s visit to the Beechcraft Heritage Museum and its annual Beech Party fly-in.

September 27, 2018October 16, 2025

Local Community Unites for Inspirational Warbird Flight

Chapters, Warbirds, Why We Fly

Thanks to Inspire Aviation, a 29-year-old Army veteran with advanced leukemia was able to take a special warbird flight and cross an item off of his bucket list.

September 26, 2018October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot – Flying Cowboys: Backcountry Pilots

Podcast, Why We Fly

So, who are the Flying Cowboys? We’ve seen a lot of them lately so this time around,The Green Dot crew hosted Cory Robin, EAA Lifetime 558743, and Trent Palmer, EAA 1211098, ... Read more

September 6, 2018October 28, 2025

XP-82 – Fate, Circumstance, Necessity

Honoring The Past, Warbirds, Why We Fly

After 10 years of work, Tom Reilly, EAA 802376, is close to restoring a North American XP-82 Twin Mustang.

August 23, 2018

Getting Away – Javron Super Cub

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Bill Rusk, EAA 350098, built his Javron Super Cub for a specific mission: Alaskan bush flying.

August 16, 2018

National Aviation Day on August 19

Why We Fly

It’s National Aviation Day on August 19! It’s a time for our aviation community to not only celebrate our freedom to fly, but to reflect on how far we have ... Read more

August 16, 2018

Eagle Vistas Ag Pilot Training

Why We Fly

Take a look inside the Eagle Vistas ag pilot training school — and inside the cockpit of a mighty Ag Cat during a crop dusting lesson — and learn how ... Read more

August 16, 2018

Flight Training for a Good Cause

Member Stories, Why We Fly

When 39-year-old Eric Sampson was asked to fly an animal rescue mission, he was happy to help. There was only one problem — he wasn’t a pilot, yet.

July 28, 2018

Rachel’s Jewelry Funding Homebuilt LSA

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Sixteen-year-old with flying dreams using small business earnings to build plane

July 25, 2018

U.K. Pilot Teaches Life’s Flying Lessons

AirVenture, Why We Fly

Inspiring speaker wows AirVenture audience

July 11, 2018July 11, 2018

Youth Revival – Triple Tree Young Aviators Fly-In

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Triple Tree Aerodrome recently hosted the inaugural Young Aviators Fly-In, which drew approximately 500 attendees and 200 airplanes.

July 5, 2018July 6, 2018

Celebrating Independence Day Everyday

Why We Fly

EAA staffer Jim Busha took a flight to remember on this year’s Independence Day.

June 13, 2018June 13, 2018

Big Turnout for Inaugural Triple Tree Aerodrome Young Aviators Fly-In

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

It’s estimated that more than 500 attendees flew and drove into the first Young Aviators Fly-In at Triple Tree Aerodrome.

June 5, 2018

What Do I Desire?

Why We Fly

After a 15-year hiatus from flying, Reggie Paulk finally began living out his aviation dreams.

June 1, 2018June 1, 2018

Return to Flight

Member Stories, Why We Fly

An air traffic controller shares the story of his return to the left seat.

May 16, 2018May 16, 2018

Breezy Bob Flew Cross-Country to Fight Cancer

Why We Fly

After losing a loved one to cancer, Breezy Bob flew across the U.S. to raise awareness for research.

May 15, 2018May 16, 2018

8 Reasons Why to Fly

Why We Fly

There are many reasons to learn to fly, but having fun should always be a part of the equation.

May 10, 2018October 29, 2025

Ed Becerra – Private Pilot Milestone

Milestones, Why We Fly

An EAA member fulfills his longstanding dream of becoming a pilot to honor his late father and late wife.

April 19, 2018October 28, 2025

SUN ‘n FUN 2018 Recap

Why We Fly

Wandering the grounds and watching the air shows, the EAA staff captured much of SUN ‘n FUN — here are just a few of our favorites.

April 16, 2018April 17, 2018

Flying Young Eagles, One at a Time

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

EAA Chapter 382 shares its philosophy for flying Young Eagles.

March 12, 2018October 16, 2025

Childhood Dreams Come True for the Kutryk Brothers

Why We Fly

As boys growing up in Whitehorse, Yukon, Joshua and Matthew Kutryk were like-minded in their interests, not the least of which was their shared dream to become fighter pilots.

March 8, 2018March 8, 2018

The Vashon Aircraft Ranger 7

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Dynon founder John Torode, EAA 1213461, thinks that most airplanes are too expensive. Instead of complaining about it, he started a new company that has designed and built a brand ... Read more

February 22, 2018October 28, 2025

Engagement on Flight 13

Chapters, Why We Fly

EAA’s Tri-Motor tour has a memorable stop at Chapter 565 in Punta Gorda, Florida.

February 15, 2018October 29, 2025

EAA Skiplane Fly-In at Pioneer Airport

EAA Museum, Why We Fly

Guests flocked to Pioneer Airport for the annual EAA Skiplane Fly-In, one of the more colorful events of the winter season

February 6, 2018February 7, 2018

EAA Member Leads Heritage Flight Over Super Bowl 52

Warbirds, Why We Fly

An EAA member led the Super Bowl flyover honoring U.S. air power history.

February 6, 2018February 6, 2018

Full Immersion

Why We Fly

Dive into the culture and community at Spruce Creek, the world’s best-known residential airpark.

February 1, 2018

Unchecked Aggression

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Everyone customizes their homebuilt a little. Bill O’Neil, EAA 367019, doesn’t know the meaning of the word “little.” Get the full story of the truly unique Berkut 360 that he ... Read more

January 25, 2018

Chapter 1189 Makes Second Coat Donation Flight

Chapters, Why We Fly

Chapter 1189 helped deliver 450 coats cross-country to students in South Dakota.

January 15, 2018October 17, 2025

Western Odyssey in C-FJNJ

EAA Canada, Why We Fly

One member’s cross-country Canadian flight experience in a CH 750.

January 4, 2018January 4, 2018

Aviation Resolutions for 2018

Why We Fly

Make a resolution that will help spread The Spirit of Aviation in 2018!

January 4, 2018October 16, 2025

Students of the Wing

Milestones, Ultralights, Why We Fly

Follow EAA Staff Writer Megan Esau’s journey to soloing a powered paraglider.

December 18, 2017December 15, 2017

Kyle’s Falco Takes Flight

Chapters, Homebuilding, Why We Fly

An EAA chapter helps make a special scratchbuilt Falco fly.

December 7, 2017December 7, 2017

Flying the Yosemite Valley in an Open-Cockpit Gyroplane

Member Stories, Why We Fly

An EAA member shares his memorable flight over one of our country’s national parks.

December 7, 2017

Tractor Parts and Humble Pie

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A bush pilot revisits a flight that brought with it a memorable learning experience.

November 21, 2017November 21, 2017

From the Lowest to the Highest to the Busiest

Member Stories, Why We Fly

As he was planning to fly his Bonanza to Oshkosh, Tom Snider had an idea.

November 1, 2017November 1, 2017

Boeing YL-15 — Defying Physics

Honoring The Past, Warbirds, Why We Fly

Boeing built 10 YL-15s for evaluation as they competed for the U.S. Army Air Forces contract for a new L-bird, a liaison aircraft.

October 17, 2017

Lessons From a Hurricane Hunter

Why We Fly

An EAA member uses his passion for aviation to professionally hunt hurricanes and save lives.

October 10, 2017October 10, 2017

See You in C-U-B-A

Why We Fly

Four friends make the first round trip gyroplane flights from Florida to Cuba since 1932.

October 5, 2017October 5, 2017

Just One More Thing

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A little bucket-list flying while finding EAA stories in America’s breadbasket.

October 5, 2017October 28, 2025

International Aerobatic Club – 2017 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships

Aerobatics, Why We Fly

Nearly 100 pilots competed in this year’s competition, in five different categories: Primary, Sportsman, Intermediate, Advanced, and Unlimited, and each group represents a different level of proficiency in competition aerobatics. ... Read more

October 3, 2017October 3, 2017

Model Airplanes Lead to a Pair of Pilots

Homebuilding, Vintage, Why We Fly

More than a decade of work went into C.M. Shearer getting his certificate, and although he will turn 77 in October, he shows no signs of slowing down.

September 28, 2017September 27, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring: Our Magic Carpet – New Mexico Velocity

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The 20 year journey to completing the New Mexico Velocity.

September 14, 2017September 14, 2017

Jack J. Pelton Appears on Lars Larson Show

Why We Fly

On September 13, EAA CEO/Chairman Jack J. Pelton was a guest on the nationally syndicated Lars Larson radio show to talk about the dangers of ATC privatization and why general ... Read more

August 23, 2017

The Best Seat in the Sky

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Viewing the solar eclipse from an RV-6A at 12,000 feet.

August 22, 2017

Still Working on that Left Turn

Why We Fly

An EAA intern’s first time in the right seat.

August 17, 2017

10 Activities To Celebrate National Aviation Day

Why We Fly

Every year since 1939, the U.S. has celebrated National Aviation Day on August 19, Orville Wright’s birthday, as a way to promote the development of aviation and to honor those ... Read more

August 10, 2017August 10, 2017

Proteus Takes Flight at Oshkosh

AirVenture, Why We Fly

John Barton, Proteus’ crew chief, took some time between flights and the many Scaled Composites forums that happened at AirVenture to talk about the airplane’s history and its future.

August 9, 2017October 16, 2025

Stallion 51 Celebrates 30 Years

Warbirds, Why We Fly

Stallion 51 of Kissimmee, Florida, invited former Mustang pilot graduates and fellow P-51 owners to an in-depth, hands–on, three-day immersion in all things Mustang.

July 28, 2017October 28, 2025

50 Years of Fly-Ins

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Scott Christiansen, EAA 43627, hasn’t missed an EAA fly-in convention since he was 18 years old, 50 years ago. He’s flown into the convention each year since, and by Scott’s ... Read more

July 27, 2017

17-year-old RC Flyer Entertains With High-Energy Demo

AirVenture, Why We Fly

How does he do that? Jase Dussia can make remote-controlled airplanes snap, roll, loop, spin, tumble, and more. Much, much more.

July 26, 2017

B-52 Crew Has GA Ties

AirVenture, Why We Fly

By Frederick A. Johnsen What do B-52 crew members do for fun when they’re not flying the biggest strategic bomber in the world? Five of the seven crew members who flew ... Read more

July 25, 2017

A Maule Comes Home

Member Stories, Vintage, Why We Fly

You don’t need to know her last name to realize Susan Maule, granddaughter of STOL aircraft pioneer B.D. Maule, has aviation in her blood.

July 25, 2017October 28, 2025

One Point Per Year

Aerobatics, Why We Fly

The Suells are a flying family. With two airplanes in the hangar, flying is something the children experience often, and at an early age. But what kind of flying?

July 17, 2017

The Impossible is Possible

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

“These experiences stick with the kids in more ways than we realize.”

July 13, 2017October 17, 2025

Three Engines, Three Generations

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Dave Hirt of Chapter 1247 shares the story of a special flight for Tri-Motor pilot Tom Leahy.

July 5, 2017July 5, 2017

A Magical Experience – The Alaskan inside passage by floatplane

Why We Fly

My aviation story is probably no different from many others. At a young age, my family would visit the local airport, from which my dad travelled for business. That was ... Read more

June 27, 2017October 17, 2025

Sometimes It’s About More Than Flying

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

When flying helps build character and commitment.

June 25, 2017June 23, 2017

EAA Chapter Helps a Young Eagle Achieve Her Dream

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

“Walking into Chapter 790 was like hitting the lottery for a kid.”

June 20, 2017

Getting Your Significant Other Into Aviation

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Jared McQuade I have an unhealthy love for aviation. It has shaped my entire life. Whether it was going to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh every year since 1998, going to ... Read more

June 20, 2017June 20, 2017

Young Eagle Following in His Family’s Footsteps

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Although he had a strong family connection to aviation, Alex said it was his Young Eagles ride that really fortified his desire to follow in his parents’ footsteps.

June 14, 2017June 15, 2017

An Evening of Flying Firsts

Why We Fly

A few EAA employees recently flew out to a hamburger social.

June 14, 2017October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot – Jack Pelton

Podcast, Why We Fly

This week on EAA’s The Green Dot we meet our fearless leader, Jack J. Pelton, CEO and chairman of the board at EAA. Jack ... Read more

June 12, 2017

From RC to ATC

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

For many EAAers, an interest in general aviation is in their blood. Mario Rosales, however, developed a fascination on his own at a young age.

June 6, 2017June 7, 2017

International Young Eagles Day is June 10

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

June is the most important month for Young Eagles as anywhere from 12,000 to 15,000 Young Eagles flights are conducted, depending on the weather.

June 6, 2017

Like Grandfather, Like Grandson

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Sometimes love of aviation skips a generation, which is exactly how 18-year-old Tyler Barry got the flying bug.

May 28, 2017May 26, 2017

The Magic of Flight

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Ben Bushnell shares how Young Eagles lit a passion for aviation in his life.

May 24, 2017May 30, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Washington Glasair Sportsman

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

How this Sportsman kit was built as part of Glasair’s annual Build-a-Plane challenge.

May 23, 2017May 22, 2017

Unlocking the World of Flight

Why We Fly

A first flight in an airplane can become the key to unlocking the airport gates and pursuing an aviation passion.

May 22, 2017June 22, 2017

Brian Jones – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Brian Jones, EAA 1216827, soloed April 9 after being inspired to pursue his pilot certificate at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016.

May 18, 2017May 18, 2017

Is an EAA Lifetime Member Pilot a Hero?

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Mark Hanson recounts his life changing experience volunteering as a pilot on one special and critical Patient Airlift Services trip.

May 18, 2017

Adventurous AirCam

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Lockwood AirCam was purpose-built to be a camera platform to capture photos and video over some of the harshest terrain in the world, and now it’s a popular kit-built ... Read more

May 17, 2017May 18, 2017

A Visit to Tavares – “America’s Seaplane City”

Why We Fly

While in Florida recently, staff from EAA decided to stop in at “America’s Seaplane City,” the state where there are more registered seaplane pilots than any other in the nation.

May 16, 2017May 19, 2017

Flying EAA’s Spirit of St. Louis

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Why We Fly

On May 10, EAA’s flying Spirit of St. Louis replica made its season debut at the organization’s annual Fly Your Plane to Work day. I had the chance to fly ... Read more

May 11, 2017May 11, 2017

EAA’s Fly Your Plane To Work Day

Why We Fly

While most drove to work on May 10, a few lucky ones got to fly into EAA’s Pioneer Airport as coworkers welcomed them with admiration!

May 10, 2017May 11, 2017

Millennials in Action: Chapter 1342 Hosts Successful Young Eagles Rally

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

When EAA Chapter 1342 first formed at the University of North Dakota, its number one goal was to share aviation with local youth through Young Eagles.

May 3, 2017May 2, 2017

Overcoming Fear

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

EAA’s Young Eagles program helped Brandon Brown, EAA 1229004, overcome fears and set career goals.

April 24, 2017April 21, 2017

It Runs in the Family

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Twenty-two-year-old William C. Buck III got more from his father and grandfather than a family name, he also got a love of aviation.

April 20, 2017October 16, 2025

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Cross-Country to Canada: New Jersey Van’s RV-12

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Brent Connelly, EAA 874578 For many of us, building and then flying our own homebuilt aircraft is one of those life-changing events that ranks up there with the birth of ... Read more

April 18, 2017

Airline Pilot Thanks Young Eagles Mentors

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Joe Coraggio, EAA Lifetime 563242, got his first ride in a general aviation aircraft just one year after the Young Eagles program began.

April 14, 2017April 14, 2017

Florida Foray – Part 3

Why We Fly

I was feeling lucky that the next stop on the Florida Foray had fit into our travel plans. Being a Seaplane Pilots Association member, I’ve heard several times about the ... Read more

April 13, 2017April 14, 2017

A Florida Foray – Part 2

Homebuilding, Why We Fly

EAA’s JT Meidl recounts his Floridian adventure collecting photos and videos for upcoming stories.

April 13, 2017April 13, 2017

Then and Now: Celebrating 30 Years as a Pilot

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Hal Bryan remembers his first passengers after flying Young Eagles on the 30th anniversary of his private checkride.

April 13, 2017October 16, 2025

Our Favorite Moments from SUN ‘n FUN

Why We Fly

EAA staffers were all over the SUN ’n FUN International Fly-In & Expo last week, talking with EAA members at the Spirit of Aviation mobile experience, meeting with partners, and gathering ... Read more

April 11, 2017

From Young Eagle to the Pylons at Reno

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Tom McNerney’s introduction to aviation was much more humble than one might expect looking at his race plane Unleashed.

April 8, 2017June 22, 2017

Hal Bryan – First Pilots N Paws Flight Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Congratulations to EAA staffer Hal Bryan, EAA 638979, for completing his first Pilots N Paws rescue flight on November 12 with his wife, Muffy. Hal flew from Oshkosh to Jasper ... Read more

April 7, 2017October 16, 2025

Blue Angels Help Inspire Young Eagles

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Imperial County Airport in Imperial, California, holds an annual Aviation Day to educate the community about the importance of the airport and increase youth outreach through Young Eagles flights given ... Read more

April 6, 2017October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot — Episode 3

Podcast, Why We Fly

In this episode, we hear from EAA director of publications Jim Busha about the things he’s seen during an epic story-gathering trip to Florida. Jim talks about his visits to ... Read more

April 5, 2017April 6, 2017

Happy Birthday Steve Wittman!

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

One of the greatest air race pilots and aircraft designers, Steve Wittman, was born on April 5, 1904.

April 4, 2017April 5, 2017

A Pillar of Our Chapter

Chapters, Member Stories, Why We Fly

At the heart of this story is aviator Dick Pingrey, a force of nature from Selah, Washington, and his last two airplane projects he whipped into completion.

March 30, 2017

New Pilot Thanks Family, Friends, Young Eagles

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

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. High ... Read more

March 30, 2017October 16, 2025

The Ups and Downs of First Flights

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

By Justin Inman, EAA 1057655 Flying the first flight in an experimental airplane is unlike anything else in the world. The mix of emotions, physical senses, extreme focus, and heightened ... Read more

March 23, 2017March 27, 2017

Fourth-Generation Pilot Thanks Young Eagles Program

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

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. For ... Read more

March 15, 2017March 14, 2017

Fáilte (Welcome), Chapter 1597!

Chapters, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

Recently-formed EAA Chapter 1597 in Limerick, Ireland, has more than The Spirit of Aviation bringing life and vibrancy to the group — it also has great Irish craic (Gaelic for ... Read more

March 15, 2017October 31, 2025

EAA’s The Green Dot – Episode 1

Podcast, Why We Fly

Welcome to EAA’s ‘pilot’ episode of The Green Dot, a podcast for those who fly for the love of it or are simply fascinated by ... Read more

March 14, 2017March 27, 2017

For Young Eagle, Passion Plus Encouragement Led to Career in Aviation

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

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. For ... Read more

March 9, 2017March 9, 2017

Searey Solo Around the World

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Michael Smith, EAA 1001669, of Williamstown in Victoria, Australia, recently finished a flight that most of us could only dream about: a trip around the world in his Searey named ... Read more

March 8, 2017March 9, 2017

Why Do I Fly?

Why We Fly

That’s a harder question than it first appears. It is tempting, seductively so, to just finish this right now with five words, and then walk away whistling, hands in pockets, ... Read more

March 2, 2017October 28, 2025

Learning to Fly in the Late Fifties

Learn to Fly, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Hans Schroeder, EAA 43437 We all agree (I think) that once you catch the bug, flying never lets go of you no matter how long you abstain. And so, after ... Read more

March 2, 2017October 28, 2025

A Tri-Motor Ride 84 Years in the Making

Honoring The Past, Why We Fly

EAA’s Ford Tri-Motor flew a special passenger at its Chapter 1067 stop in Naples, Florida, on February 26: 104-year-old Helen Johnson Collins, who took her first flight in this iconic ... Read more

March 1, 2017October 17, 2025

Young Eagles Program Ignites Passion for Aviation

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

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. Twenty-year-old ... Read more

February 10, 2017February 22, 2017

New Pilot Flies Young Eagles One Year After His First Ride

Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

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 ... Read more

February 3, 2017February 22, 2017

Flying in a Winter Wonderland – Skiplane Flying

Tips, Why We Fly

Skiplane flying becomes an integral part of life once winter weather begins to encroach on many remote communities in places like Canada and Alaska. There, it can be a lifeline, ... Read more

January 5, 2017December 1, 2017

Way Better Late Than Never – Gubert’s Fly Baby Biplane

Vintage, Why We Fly

“Why did I wait so long?” That’s what Kurt Gubert, EAA 441434, said on May 16, 2015, when he made the first flight of his eye-catching Fly Baby biplane, a ... Read more

December 1, 2016October 16, 2025

From Young Eagle to Young Eagles Pilot

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly, Youth Outreach

By Owen Leipelt, EAA 1102131, EAA Chapter 62 Vice President December 1, 2016 – In 2013, when I was 13 years old, I took my first Young Eagles flight with ... Read more

November 17, 2016October 20, 2017

Winging It West For Labor Day

Member Stories, Why We Fly

VFR flying demands a bizarre mix of meticulous planning and a penchant for spontaneity. I learned that over Labor Day weekend when my girlfriend and I set out one morning ... Read more