Volunteer pilots bring the joy of flight to Fort Mohave kids

Volunteer pilots will share their time and aircraft with young passengers at Sun Valley Airport on Saturday, Nov. 7, when EAA Chapter 1558 hosts a free Young Eagles flight rally in Fort Mohave.

There is an important detail for families hoping to join: the chapter’s event page listed registration as full when checked Nov. 3. Families should consult that page for updates rather than assume a flight will be available.

The rally is part of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles program, which introduces children ages 8–17 to aviation through free airplane rides. Launched in 1992, the volunteer-supported program has flown more than 2.5 million young people, according to EAA’s current national tally.

A lesson before takeoff

For the Fort Mohave event, organizers describe an experience that begins on the ground: meeting the pilot, learning how an airplane works and getting a look at the instrument panel and an aeronautical chart.

The flights are expected to last about 15–20 minutes. Pilots are EAA members volunteering both their time and their aircraft, the event listing says.

The listed event window is 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Mountain time, with flight time slots beginning at 8:30 a.m. Sun Valley Airport is at 5050 Bison Ave. in Fort Mohave.

A way to keep exploring

The introduction can continue after landing. EAA’s Young Eagles Flight Plan gives participants access to a free student membership and an online Learn to Fly course through Sporty’s. The organization also offers aviation activities through AeroEducate.

For families who miss this rally, Chapter 1558 lists Young Eagles among its ongoing programs and meets at Sun Valley Airport. Its website and EAA’s information for parents provide a starting point for learning about future opportunities.