YOUNG EAGLES

Written by Anthony Barbaro

My name is Anthony, I am a Flight Instructor who was recently entrusted with the responsibility of supervising the children that participated in the Young Eagles Program at the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia. I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this program has on aspiring aviators aged 10-14. This program brings together enthusiastic children, exposing them to a range of captivating aviation activities that foster their love for flight and provides them with valuable experiences, which I hope will ignite their spark for aviation.

The Young Eagles Program offers an array of thrilling aviation activities that captivate the participants’ imaginations. From the Air Traffic Control Tower tour at Jandakot to the fleet tour of the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia’s aircraft and facilities, the program exposes these young aviators to the inner workings of the aviation industry. During model aircraft viewing sessions, the children explore various aircraft models, learning about their features and the principles of aerodynamics. It is rewarding to witness their passion and enthusiasm as they engage with these hands-on experiences. Seeing their reactions to flight reminds me of the time I was their age, being so intrigued by aviation.

I had the privilege of teaching these young aviators about navigation using maps and radio communication. Guiding them through the process of understanding flight planning, the decisions that pilots make on a day-to-day basis as well as making the correct radio calls. I am able to witness their growth in confidence and knowledge. It is truly inspiring to observe how they embrace these skills and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in piloting an aircraft.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Young Eagles Program is witnessing the formation of new friendships among the participating children. Over the course of multiple days spent together, they share their passion for aviation, exchange stories, and building friendships with fellow participants, being able to bond over a common interest. As someone who was intrigued by aviation at a very young age it brings me immense joy to see how these connections enhance their experience, creating a supportive community of like-minded individuals who encourage and inspire each other, and hopefully add to our aviation community in the future.

Undoubtedly, one of the most exciting aspects of the Young Eagles Program is the opportunity for the children to experience flight firsthand. As a flight instructor, I am lucky enough to have the privilege of accompanying them on these thrill-seeking journeys, seeing their eyes light up with wonder and excitement as they take to the skies in either a scenic flight or a Trial Introductory Flight. It’s a moment that fills me with immense satisfaction. The experience not only ignites their passion for aviation but also provides them with a unique perspective of the world below. It is a joy to witness their sense of accomplishment and the unforgettable memories they create through these flights.

Overseeing the Young Eagles Program at the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia, I am privileged to witness the transformative impact of this initiative, empowering young aviators and nurturing their dreams of soaring through the skies along with building friendships with other participants that share similar interests.