Free airplane rides for kids at Upshur County Regional Airport on June 29

BUCKHANNON – Local youth can soar the skies for free when Young Eagles Day returns to Upshur County this month.

The Experimental Aircraft Association is offering free airplane rides to kids ages 8-17 at the Upshur County Regional Airport on Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Young Eagles program aims to inspire the next generation by connecting young people to the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through aviation.

Local pilots will be volunteering their time and aircraft to provide kids with an exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of flying. Flights are free of charge, but parent or legal guardian consent is required.

“You will spend about 15 to 20 minutes in the air and follow the basic steps in the flight pattern,” according to the Young Eagles website. “You will experience the awesome feeling of flight that many people only dream about. Many people remember this experience for the rest of their lives. You will, too!”

Families interested in participating are encouraged to pre-register online at https://youngeaglesday.org/?10748 to secure a flight spot. The event will be located near the main airport terminal building at 630 Airport Road, Buckhannon, WV 26201. Signs will be posted directing attendees to the proper area on the day of the event.

In case of questionable weather, email 842youngeagles@gmail.com.

The EAA Young Eagles program has flown over 2 million kids nationwide since launching in 1992, with the goal of ensuring the vitality of aviation by inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers and innovators.

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