articles

Free Flights For Kids

Kids ages 8 & up can soar high over Vacaville

By Erin Ardans, publisher of Macaroni Kid Vacaville September 24, 2019

We headed out to the Nut Tree Airport early Saturday morning for a fun new adventure! We were excited to be a part of the EAA Young Eagles Program which is offered for free to kids ages 8 and up. To check out the next event on our calendar click HERE.

Location: 300 County Airport Rd. Suite C4 Vacaville, California 95688 | Free Flights Offered Seasonally on the 3rd Saturday of the Month, Next one is October, 19th 2019 | Check out our calendar for more details! 

Features: Volunteer pilots offer free flights for kids in their airplanes. Launched in 1992, the Young Eagles program has dedicated more than 25 years to giving youth ages 8–17 their first free ride in an airplane.

What my kids love: My 9 year old was pretty nervous at first, not knowing what to expect. They had a handy brochure that went over all the safety regulations and flight plan which we had time to go over after registration. Also, it was less scary knowing that he didn't have to fly his first time alone!

Also, once the flight was over he got a certificate of fight and a wings pin that he couldn't wait to show off! 

What I loved: Everyone was really friendly, we had met one of the volunteers at the pancake breakfast a few weekends previous. They had plenty of seating, indoors while you wait, which was nice because it was a particularly breezy morning. And lastly, I was happy that they let us onto the airfield before take off for plenty of photo opportunities! 

Tips: Arrive early for a spot on one of the first flights, they will book fast! Sign ups are from 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM. Bring an activity while you are waiting for the kids!

After your flight, check out their website to learn more and inspire your kids LOVE for aviation! They also offer a FREE membership program once you flight is complete, more details here.

Happy Flying!