Various organizations and companies offer structured programs and courses designed to introduce individuals to the world of aviation and flight. These opportunities range from free flight training for youth and discounted online ground school for aspiring pilots to specialized courses for teaching pet birds to fly freely outdoors. The availability of these programs varies by eligibility, age requirements, and specific training goals. This article outlines the details of these distinct learning opportunities based on current program descriptions.
Youth Aviation Programs: EAA Young Eagles
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) offers a comprehensive program for youth ages 8 to 17 known as the Young Eagles. This initiative is designed to engage young people in aviation and help them progress toward becoming pilots.
A key component of the Young Eagles Flight Plan is a partnership with Sporty’s, a provider of aviation training materials. As part of the program, EAA Student Members receive free access to the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, which typically costs $249.00 for non-members. Over 20,000 Young Eagles have enrolled in this online course.
The Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course offers five formats for one price, allowing students to access videos and quizzes via an online learning platform without needing to install software.
In addition to the free online course, the EAA Young Eagles program provides a free aircraft flight. Upon completing the first three volumes of the Sporty’s Online course, participants receive a voucher for a free flight lesson at a local flight school. Furthermore, EAA reimburses Young Eagles for the cost of the FAA written exam upon passing.
Free Online Ground School and Flight Training Resources
For those interested in learning to fly but unsure where to begin, Sporty’s offers a free introductory course. This "Get Started with Learning to Fly" course is designed to help aspiring pilots get off to a fast start.
The free course includes: - Four video segments covering topics such as why to learn to fly, how the learning process works, what to expect on the first flight, and how to choose a flight school. - A getting-started guide featuring 12 articles that answer common questions regarding medical exams and selecting the appropriate certificate. - A flight school directory to help locate the nearest training options. - A high-resolution digital cockpit poster of the world’s most popular training airplane. - Helpful links to essential pilot supplies and online learning resources.
This course is accessible on all devices, including web browsers and the Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. While the course is completely free, it requires a checkout process where users must add the course to their cart and create or sign into a Sporty’s account; no credit card information is required.
For a more hands-on experience, Legacy Aviation in Florida offers a "Learn to Fly Camp." This aerospace STEM camp allows students to perform experiments, construct and fly balsa gliders, and learn about commercial aviation careers. A major feature of this camp is the opportunity for all students to pilot an actual aircraft and a flight simulator, with an HD video recording provided. The camp curriculum covers forces of flight, aviation history, weather, and atmosphere properties over a multi-day schedule.
Specialized Training: Teaching Parrots to Free Fly
BirdTricks offers a specialized course for bird owners interested in teaching their parrots to fly freely outdoors. The program is built around the philosophy that birds are designed for flight and that free flight is beneficial for their mental and physical health.
The training emphasizes risk management to ensure safety. This involves understanding predators, flying at the proper time of day and season, and selecting safe locations. The course requires enrollment in the entire program, and trainers must be present for the first few days of outdoor flying.
Regarding age, the program notes that while it is easier to train a bird when it reaches the natural fledging age, birds of any age—including older, previously clipped, or plucked birds—can learn to free fly. The program accepts applications via email.
Skydiving and Freeflying
For those interested in freeflying—which involves flying in orientations other than belly-to-earth, such as on one's back, in a sit, or head-down—there are specific guidelines to follow. Skydive AZ notes that freeflying increases fall rate and potential for instability. It is highly recommended that participants become competent belly-flyers and canopy pilots before attempting a freefly jump. Additionally, participants should ensure their rig is freefly-friendly, use a hard helmet, secure all clothing, and utilize both visual and audible altimeters.
Gift and Experience Options
For adults seeking a one-time experience rather than full flight training, companies like Giftory offer "learn to fly" experiences. These are often marketed as unique gifts for birthdays or anniversaries. These experiences allow participants to see landscapes and cityscapes from a new angle and provide an opportunity to learn about aviation mechanics in a single session. Sharing a flying lesson with a friend or loved one is described as a bonding experience.
Conclusion
Opportunities to learn about and experience flight are available for various age groups and interests. The EAA Young Eagles program provides a fully funded path for youth to begin aviation training, including free ground school and flight lessons. Adults can utilize free introductory courses from providers like Sporty’s or attend specialized STEM camps like Legacy Aviation’s program. Specialized training is also available for pet owners wishing to teach their birds to fly freely. Finally, gift experiences offer a way for individuals to try flying without committing to a full training curriculum.