EAA Chapter 1361’s first Flying start event was a success by all measurements even though the weather wasn’t what we had hoped it would be.

For several days before the event our local weather forecasters were predicting that the day of the event would be a windy one. Unfortunately they got it right this time with gusts measured near 45 mph.

That resulted in a lighter than expected turnout from participants but did not put a damper on the indoor activities. After some initial technical difficulties the presentations got underway which gave the participants a look into the process of obtaining a pilot certificate, the types of certificates that are available, typical training aircraft and the areas of study that will be involved.

Representatives from the two major flight schools in the Reno/Sparks area (Great Basin Aviation and NV Flight) were on had to discuss their offerings. Jennifer Fonda also gave a short presentation on the newly formed Sierra Battle Born Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI).

After the presentations, the participants were introduced to the volunteer Eagle Flight pilots so that they could learn a little about each other and agree on a date and time when the Eagle Flight can be completed.

It was a fun day and a good introduction to aviation for the participants and a way to find other individuals in the Reno area who are involved in aviation.

Check back here and on our Facebook page for the notification of our next Flying Start Event. Many thanks to all of the Chapter volunteers who came out to meet the participants and to KOLO TV Channel 8 in Reno for the great promotion of our event.