Eagle Flights target adult enthusiasts

OSHKOSH - AirVenture is the place to be if you love aviation. But for some, the hobby is nothing more than a dream. But that is what the EAA hopes to change with a new program aimed at helping aviation enthusiasts take the first step toward getting their wheels up.

"To spread the word about aviation and the joys of flight to the adult population as well," said Jeff Skiles, EAA Vice President of Chapters.

The program spun to life Tuesday morning as Dianne Thornton earned the first free ride in the program, with EAA CEO Rod Hightower at the controls of his WWII T-6.

"It's just beautiful, it really is very inspiring, I think it's always been in my blood and I think its even stronger now going up in that big plane and coming down," said Thornton.

Not everyone will get a ride in the CEO's personal airplane, but that's not the point. The goal of the program is to help connect the people who want to learn to fly with those who already do, to help them learn the process.

"We're going to use our membership, our aviation community to sort of act as mentors for those who want to come into aviation," said Skiles.

The program will pair interested fliers with EAA chapter members in their area. To help pass along their advice to those with a passion but no experience.

"I think you use all of the resources you can and of course the EAA is a great resource and I am fortunate enough to have someone in my family with experience as well," said Thornton.

To help with an experience many of these attendees might not otherwise get the chance to do. The free program is open to anyone 18 years or older who wants to learn how to earn a pilots license.