SPRINGDALE (KFSM) --More than 50 kids got to take part in a program Saturday (June 11) that taught them the basics of flying an airplane all in one day.
It`s something most kids dream off and those dreams came true when kids got the opportunity to fly with a pilot as part of the Young Eagles Flight Orientation Program.
“It was breath taking being up there...you could see everything and it was within a short distance and it was overall just a really good experience,” said Sierra Linderth.
Sierra Linderth said this is something she definitely wants to experience again and she may even want to get her pilot's license once she turns 16.
“Free first flights for young people” was the theme of the program and it is sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association.
Ground school instructor Dave Bowman said he loves seeing the big smiles on kid’s faces when they land.
“We want young people to know that this could be a career for them or it could be something they want to do recreational...they don`t have to be a pilot but if they want to be a pilot it`s a good thing,” said Bowman.
The program is for children between the ages of eight and 17.
Bowman teaches ground school before the students get to take off and the flights last around fifteen minutes.
Over the last several years more than 3,000 kids in Northwest Arkansas got to fly just like Linderth.
“The best part was probably when he handed over the controls to me because you don`t have to do a lot for it to turn...just gradually shift the gear,” she said.”
This program will be offered again on July 9th at the Rogers Airport.