Free airplane rides for kids with Young Eagles

In the Young Eagles program, volunteer pilots give kids age 8-17 years old free airplane rides.

The flights last about 15 or 20 minutes long. The pilot involves the kid in the pre-flight inspection, and teaches him or her about the instrument panel, aeronautical chart and parts of the plane.

Founded over 25 years ago, Young Eagles program has flown over 2 million kids with the help of EAA’s network of volunteer pilots and ground volunteers. The Young Eagles program is powered by volunteer pilots who aim to encourage an interest in aviation in kids.

Participants will receive information about EAA free on-line ground school course, details regarding other youth aviation programs, and EAA scholarships. 

Find the closest Young Eagles co-ordinator in Ohio here!

Young Eagles events for 2025

Young Eagles at Bolton Field Airport
EAA Chapter 9
2000 Norton Rd, Columbus,
May 31, 2025, 10 am – 2 pm
August 9, 2025, 10 am – 2 pm
Details and Registration

Young Eagles at Ohio State University Airport
EAA Chapter 9
2160 W Case Rd, Columbus
June 14, 2025
September 13, 2025, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Details and Registration Weather permitting

Young Eagles at Fairfield County Airport, Lancaster
The EAA Chapter 443
3266 Old Columbus Road, Carroll, Ohio
May 3, 2025, 9 am – noon 
June 7, 2025, 9 am – noon
July 5, 2025, 9 am – noon
August 2, 2025, 9 am – noon
September 6, 2025, 9 am – noon
October 4, 2025, 9 am – noon
Details and Registration

Marysville EAA Chapter 1629 Young Eagles Rally
Free airplane rides for kids ages 8-17, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Marysville Union County Airport 760 Clymer Rd. Marysville, OH 43040
May 17, 2025
June 14, 2025
August 16, 2025
Details and Registration

Madison County EAA Chapter 9 Young Eagles Rally
Free airplane rides for kids ages 8-17, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Madison County Airport 1281 US-40, London, OH
June 28, 2025
August 30, 2025
Details and Registration

Aviation events

Freedom Fly-In at Union County Airport

Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
760 Clymer Rd, Marysville OH 43040

A salute to the military including WWII airplanes, the Ohio Army National Guard (artillery and Air Defense units), the 801st Medical Air Evacuation Squadron (WWII living History), The Buckeye Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, and The Historical Aircraft Squadron, Inc.

Great BBQ lunch featuring Triple P Barbeque Co. The airport has a covered outdoor eating area, capacity for up to 50 planes at a time to park. Warbird displays and airplane rides. Details here. 

Oktoberfest Fly-In at Union County Airport

Saturday, October 4, 2025, 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
760 Clymer Rd, Marysville OH 43040

Celebrate Oktoberfest pilot style at the Union County Airport in Marysville, Ohio for some authentic German traditions. Enjoy Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Curry Wurst, Hamburgers, Frankfurters, Potato Pancakes, Pretzel Bites, Sauerkraut, Potato Salad and deserts served up by “A Cut Above Schnitzel” food truck.

WWII T-6 Texan “Checkers,” biplane rides with Goodfolk & O’Tymes and the Historical Aircraft Squadron, Inc. Warbird displays! Airplane rides! Great German food! Details.

Over 18, but interested in flight? They have events and resources for ages 18+ with the Learn to Fly program.

Find more programs for youth here