Learning what it’s like to fly a plane is an opportunity that few would pass up. Every year the Experimental Aircraft Association on Orcas provides young people a chance to take to the skies with an experienced local pilot, as part of the Young Eagles Program developed to interest more young people in flying.

“I know that we have influenced young people’s lives because I get letters from those I have taken on a Young Eagles flight,” local EAA organizer Beverly Franklet said.

A pilot for more than 18 years, Franklet is one of about six local pilots who donate their time to taking between 40 and 75 participants up in their personal planes each year.

For those who fly with Franklet, they will be in her 180 horsepower Cessna 172 and the experience is free of charge.

The pilots may explain to each participant, between the ages of eight and 17, what will happen during the flight.

Most Young Eagle flights last about 30 minutes. Each participant will receive an official Young Eagles Certificate, a free EAA student membership and more.

The rides will be conducted between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 9, and those interested should come to the Port of Orcas Biplane Hangar.

For more information, contact Beverly Franklet from the EAA Chapter 937 at 376-4763