The scheme originated with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in the USA. The Royal New Zealand Aero Club (Flying NZ) adapted the EAA program to suit the New Zealand environment and the existing Aero Club structure. In April 2020 there were a total of 17 Aero Clubs with Young Eagles programs and total enrolments exceeded 350.
Flying NZ encourages the participants to continue, coordinating and supporting a system of Flight Leaders or Young Eagle Coordinators, at individual Aero Clubs. These qualified pilots are Aero Club members who volunteer to support the program in their local Aero Club.
The Young Eagles program includes a variety of activities designed to interest and teach the participants throughout the program and to maintain their interest – in addition, once the Young Eagle turns 15, they qualify to apply for one of the scholarships on offer.
Many Young Eagles graduates have continued on to a career in an aviation-related field, be that as a pilot, an engineer, an air traffic controller or in any of the myriad of roles in aviation.
You get the opportunity to:
- Have rides in aircraft
- Meet other young people interested in aviation
- Go on visits to places you would not normally get to see including:
- Air Traffic Control centres such as the Towers
- Maintenance bases and aircraft engineering shops
- RNZAF bases
- Air New Zealand aircraft up close
- Meet aviation professionals such as airline and airforce pilots
- You can earn NCEA credits for some Young Eagle activities
- Scholarships are available each year to six Young Eagles to continue training towards a Pilot’s License