Question
: I'm 14 year old and interested in flying, how do I get started? I also was told that there are programs for minority students to help get more of my peers interested in being a pilot? How can we find out more about this in Florida?
Answer : First, in case you haven’t already, I highly recommend that you take your first Young Eagles Flight. It will give you an opportunity to experience flying in a small aircraft, as well as the opportunity to meet local pilots in your community. Developing relationships with mentors and friends is a huge part of the aviation experience.
Yes, there are a variety of programs out there, that focus on getting minorities and women involved in aviation. Check out Women In Aviation, OBAP (Organization of Black Airline Pilots), and FAA’s ACE (Aviation Career Enrichment) Camps just to name a few. You might also want to check out EAA’s AeroScholars and Air Academy Programs or Embry-Riddle’s Summer Camp Programs as well.