This past Saturday, Jones Memorial Airport in Bristow was buzzing with excitement as middle and high school students logged their firstever flight hours, thanks to the Young Eagles EAA program. Now celebrating more than 30 years of inspiring future aviators, the Young Eagles program has introduced over 2.5 million young people to the thrill of flight. Thanks to the tireless efforts of nonprofit Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1709, these students had the chance to experience something truly unforgettable.
As each student stepped off their flight, smiles stretched wide across their faces. For some, the spark of a lifelong dream was ignited. These memorable moments are made possible by volunteer pilots, all proud members oftheEAA, whodonate their time, aircraft, and passion to give the next generation a chance in the skies.
“What do you get when you put a physics teacher, an airport manager, and three pilots in a room?”
“A team that can explain how you fly, where you fly, and actually take you there!”
Teacher Vicki Wilson, Airport Manager and Pilot Dr. Vicki Roth, Pilots Lou Malinchak, Louis Malinchak, and Clint Bryan (who also served as ground coordinator) all volunteered their time, along with their aircrafts: a Bonanza BEA-36, a Globe GC-1B Swift, and a Cessna 175.
Together, they gave 19 eager students their first Young Eagles flights.
Adding to the team effort were Bristow High School students Eric and Cole, who previously participated in the Young Eagles and also participate in the school’s aviation program led by Vicki Wilson. They helped coordinate flights and move aircraft, ensuring that every student got airborne just in time before a pending storm rolled in.The fun is not over, come out and enjoy the Bristow Fly-In Car Show at Jones Memorial Airport (3F7) on June 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Bristow EAA Chapter. Don’t miss it.