The Orcas Aviation Association (OAA) will award two adults a $4,000 Flight Training Scholarship on a matching fund basis in 2023.

The training program will be offered in cooperation with the Airhawks Flying Club and operate the same as their Youth Scholarship Program with the goal of obtaining a Private Pilot’s Certificate within a year.

OAA’s primary mission is to operate the Mercy Flight Program. Another OAA mission is to support the airport and aviation activities on Orcas Island. Several of the Mercy Flight pilots have been flying patients on and off the island for over 30 years and OAA wants to ensure there will be additional new pilots to support this vital program in the future.

Interviews will be scheduled starting in April so recipients can take advantage of good flight training weather throughout Spring, Summer, and Fall. Scholarship qualifications include: a resident of Orcas Island, able to successfully pass a flight physical, have a flexible work schedule that would allow participation in accelerated training, and a commitment to participate in Mercy Flights once the Private Pilot Certificate is achieved and sufficient flight experience gained.

Applications are available at the Port of Orcas Terminal office or online at https://Airhawks.org.