Approaching a Historic Milestone: EAA’s Young Eagles Program Nears 2.5 Million Flights
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) Young Eagles program is on the verge of achieving a remarkable milestone. With a mere 25,000 flights remaining, the program is set to reach the 2.5 million mark by EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 in July.
As of March 2026, the program has flown a staggering 2,475,000 youth since its inception in 1992. This makes it the most extensive youth aviation education program ever created. An impressive 50,000 volunteer pilots have participated, offering free introductory flights to youth aged 8-17 across all continents, barring Antarctica.
The organization is now offering special incentives through its “Mission 2.5” campaign to reach this goal. EAA chapters that recruit new volunteer Young Eagles pilots will earn $25 in additional credits. Additionally, pilots who fly 25 or more Young Eagles through July 31, 2026, will receive a commemorative cap courtesy of Sporty’s.
“We are now calling upon EAA members to reach the next big milestone of 2.5 million Young Eagles flown in the next 10 months and to celebrate this achievement with us at Oshkosh next July,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board.
Source: General Aviation News