Saturday, June 6, 2009

COPA for Kids Aviation Program

This stands for Canadian Owners and Pilots Association. Today in St.Thomas they held a program which included free flights for kids ages 7-17. Since we live practically around the corner, I thought this was something we should investigate. And I'm glad we did. What a great opportunity for kids. There was a bit of a line-up, but I think it was absolutely worth it. It was fantastic to watch each kid get off the plane with their pilot with an absolutely huge smile on their face!

They started off by giving each kid (or group of kids) a quick tour of an aircraft, explaining which parts were which and what jobs they do. Here is Kevin preparing for takeoff with his pilot Clarence.

And the spectators watching all the action - though they would have preferred to be IN on the action as well. It was neat for them too though because there was always action happening. There were planes taking off and coming in constantly, so it wasn't boring for those of us on the sidelines. Kade eagerly awaits his turn just the same!
And coming in after landing.
At the end, the kids got a flight certficate showing that they had participated in the aviation program as a junior aviator. Kevin's pilot told me that Kevin could be a pilot someday. He let Kevin drive out there somewhere which of course was the higlight, but the pilot assured me that he took care of the landing. That's good!!And upon completion and after receiving their certificate, they got coupons for a hotdog and pop. It doesn't get much better!

3 comments:

  1. That is so fun. Looks like a blast. Lucky Kevin.

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  2. What fun! What a neat program to offer kids!

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  3. That looked so neat! What a great memory for Kevin. Can we incorporate this into a Kena session somehow:-)?

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