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You didn't become a pilot alone. Spread the passion and help someone else become a pilot by doing these 6 things...
Most people don't realize that they can become a pilot. At first glance, especially without connections inside the aviation community, getting started can seem difficult, if not impossible. If you have something to share about your training, job, or GA flying, do it! You never know who you might inspire to get started.
The EAA Young Eagles program was launched in 1992 to give interested young prospective pilots an opportunity to go flying in a general aviation airplane. These flights are offered free of charge and are made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers.
Since 1992, more than 1.6 million Young Eagles have enjoyed a flight through the program. Young Eagles have been registered in more than 90 different countries and have been flown by more than 42,000 volunteer pilots.
If they've never been in a small plane before, take them up for a discovery flight. You don't have to be a CFI to take someone flying and let them do a few turns while you shadow the controls. The first "spark" is what got most of us addicted to flying. Create that moment for someone else!
There are thousands of flight schools out there, and some are better options than others. Help your aspiring pilot pick a solid flight school.
Mentorship doesn't have to be extensive and burdensome to be valuable. No matter where you are in your career or training, your experience is valuable to someone that doesn't know how to get started. Give them advice based on your experience, and tell them to reach out to other pilots to see how they got it done.
As a pilot, you know the costs involved with getting started. Give a new pilot advice on planning finances and make sure they have a solid plan in place before they get started. The worst thing that can happen is starting training with an insufficient plan, resulting in paused training and even more time/money wasted.
What can pilots do today to help the pilots of tomorrow? Tell us your ideas in the comments below!
Thinking about becoming a pilot? Get started with ATP Flight School, and find out how to start your aviation career here.