The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapters of Oxnard and Camarillo airports hosted a Youth Discovery Day on December 10th at Oxnard Airport and welcomed nearly 50 local families with an opportunity to explore the world of aviation.
Joined by volunteers from the Ventura County Ninety-Nines, Commemorative Air Force, Whiteman Airport Aviation Explorers, California Aeronautical University, Camarillo’s Flying Circus, and Aero Vironment, Inc., the EAA event offered a variety of opportunities for children of all ages to experience flight simulation, remote controlled aircraft simulation, a static display of unique aircraft, and a demonstration of the Mars Ingenuity Helicopter. In addition, five EAA pilots provided free flights in small aircraft to 41 local children ranging in age from 8 to 17 years old as part of the national EAA Young Eagles Program. All participants were awarded Young Eagle wings, pilot certificate, and flight logbook.
The event concluded with a reception honoring local pilot and Navy veteran, Mark Swaney, as the 2022 Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, which recognizes exceptional performance of pilots with at least 50 years of experience.
Special thanks is extended to the team from the Oxnard Air Tower and Aspen Helicopters who provided fuel at a discounted rate for the Young Eagles flights.
Held in partnership with the County of Ventura’s Department of Airports, the Youth Discovery Day was just one example of the local aviation community’s commitment to youth educational and development opportunities.
Click here to watch a video showcasing the event.
For more information, visit vcairports.org.