EAA Inaugural Sport Pilot Academy

The EAA's Young Eagles program has been a success in exposing young people to aviation, but not as successful at converting large numbers into pilots down the line. The organization plans to take direct action on this state of affairs starting this summer with the launch of a dedicated training program designed to get young people their Sport Pilot certificate in three short weeks. The intensive nature of the program is bound to help, says EAA. Statistics demonstrate that for more than 60% of those who begin flight training and drop out, they do so due to schedule conflicts. The three-week immersion course includes the pilot checkride to earn a Sport Pilot certificate. There will be bonuses, too, including guest speakers, EAA behind-the-scenes tours, flight experiences in EAA aircraft and more. Additionally, students will have access to EAA's aviation education resources while in Oshkosh. We agree. It sounds really cool.

The inaugural EAA Sport Pilot Academy is accepting a limited number of applicants, and registration must be completed by July 1, 2016. Acceptance includes access to Sporty's Online Pilot Training Course that allows applicants to complete ground school training prior to beginning the course at Oshkosh.

Total cost for the course is $9,999, which includes flight training, accommodations, meals and unique EAA experiences. Students must successfully complete the FAA written test by August 5 2016, prior to participating in flight training at Oshkosh.

For more information and for registration materials, visit the Sport Pilot Academy area of the EAA website atEAA.org/SportPilotAcademy.