International Learn to Fly Day 2011

The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in the US is encouraging pilot communities around the globe to get involved in its International Learn to Fly Day 2011.

Held inaugurally last year, the EAA’s International Learn to Fly Day is an aviation community-wide effort connecting aviators with those who have always wanted to discover flight and helping people of all ages take that first step to discover the fun, freedom and accomplishment of flight.

International Learn to Fly Day 2011 will take place on Saturday May 21.

The inaugural International Learn to Fly Day in 2010 drew more than 40,000 people to nearly 250 events, resulting in more than 500 documented news stories about local events along with countless social network postings. A survey conducted by www.AviationSchoolsOnline.com showed 64 per cent of respondents introduced to aviation during International Learn to Fly Day planned to pursue flight training afterwards.

“The joy, fulfillment and sense of accomplishment of flying an aircraft is unlike anything else that one can experience,” EAA President Rod Hightower said. “We want to share this unique freedom with others, as there are millions of people who have thought, ‘I would love to learn to fly,’ but have never taken the first step. EAA asks every pilot to individually take a friend flying on May 21.”

While primarily a North American event in its short history to date, the EAA is encouraging aviation organisations and businesses around the world to get involved in the event by offering introductory flights, seminars and open houses at airports and flying clubs.

To find out more about International Learn to Fly Day 2011, including how to host an event at your flying club, school, or airport, click here.