Young Eagles

The EAA Young Eagles program is an opportunity for volunteer pilots to show kids a new point of view. The program was launched in 1992 to give interested young people, ages 8 – 17, an opportunity to go flying in a general aviation airplane.

These flights are offered free of charge and are made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers. Along with Santa Barbara EAA 527, Santa Ynez EAA 491 has given hundreds of Young Eagles flights over the years. For more information, contact us.

Since 1992, more than 1.5 million Young Eagles have enjoyed a flight through the program. Young Eagles have been registered in more than 90 different countries and have been flown by more than 42,000 volunteer pilots.

Participation is easy: start by contacting any EAA491 member. From there, arrange a convenient time to go flying. We hope you enjoy a Young Eagles introduction to the exciting world of aviation. Make sure you come back to visit this site after your flight to continue exploring the wonderful world of aviation!

So what will your flight be like?

The biggest question on your mind might be about the actual flight. So what should you expect?

First of all, your pilot will explain what will happen during the flight. This might include talking about the airplane, reviewing an aeronautical chart (or map), identifying reference points during the flight, and completing a careful “walk around” or preflight inspection of the airplane and identifying the parts that control the airplane.

Once you are ready to go flying, your pilot will help you buckle your seat belt and then will describe the interior of the airplane, including the instrument panel. Pretty soon, it will be time to go flying!

Once in the air, you’ll see the earth and sky in a new and exciting way. You’ll experience the wonderful freedom of flight that many people only dream about. If you are like most Young Eagles, you’ll remember this experience for the rest of your life.

Most Young Eagle flights last between 15 and 20 minutes. Once back on the ground, there will be additional time for you to ask questions about the flight. Ask away! Your pilot will be happy to tell you more about flying and their particular airplane. And don’t forget, you’ll also receive an official Young Eagles logbook, which is signed by your personal pilot.

We look forward to adding your name to the ever-growing list of EAA Young Eagles!