What is Young Eagles?
The EAA Young Eagles program was launched in 1992 to give interested young people, ages 8 - 17, an opportunity to go flying in a general aviation aircraft. These flights are offered free of charge and are made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers. Since 1992, more than 2.1 million Young Eagles have taken flight!
VAA Chapter 37 hosts a number of Young Eagles rallies each year. If you are unable to attend a rally, a Young Eagles flight that fits your schedule can be arranged.
Please contact Young Eagles Coordinator Laramie Resler at 260-402-3478 or youngeagles@vaa37.org if you have any questions regarding the Young Eagles program.
Young Eagles Flight Experience
Each Young Eagles flight covers pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities.
- Pre-flight: The pilot will explain what will happen during the flight. This might include talking about the aircraft; reviewing an aeronautical chart; completing a preflight inspection of the aircraft and identifying the parts that control the aircraft. The pilot will then help you buckle your seat belt and will describe the interior of the aircraft, including the instrument panel.
- In-flight: Once in the air, you'll see the earth and sky in a new and exciting way. The flight will last between 15 and 20 minutes and you may even get to take the controls!
- Post-flight: Once back on the ground, there will be additional time for you to ask questions about the flight. Ask away! The pilot will be happy to tell you more about flying.
Each Young Eagle will receive a certificate and a logbook signed by the pilot. In addition, the Young Eagle is eligible for a number of other free benefits such as a student membership to EAA, access to Sporty's Learn To Fly online flight training course and more! See the Young Eagles Flightplan for more information.
Young Eagles Rally Schedule
Due to weather conditions, pilot or ground crew availability, as well as other factors, Young Eagles rally times and dates may be altered or registration may end early. Flights are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to arrive at the rally as early as possible.Vintage Chapter 37 Rallies at DeKalb County Airport | |
The rallies are held at the Vintage Chapter 37 Clubhouse on the west end of the airport. | |
May 03, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
May 17, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
June 21, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
August 16, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
EAA Chapter 2 Rallies at Smith Field Airport | |
The rallies are held at historic Hangar 2 on the southeast side of the airport. Visit EAA Chapter 2 online! | |
August 09, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
September 13, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
Young Eagles Rallies at Kendallville Municipal Airport | |
The rallies are held at the terminal building. | |
September 20, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | |
Young Eagles Rallies at Tri-State Steuben Co. Airport | |
The rallies are held at the terminal building. | |
June 14, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM |
Pilot Milestones
Pilot's Name | Young Eagles Flown |
David Resler | 3000+ |
Drew Hoffman | 700+ |
Craig Barscht | 600+ |
Bob Schmelz | 600+ |
Scott Noble | 600+ |
David Dewald | 600+ |
Tim Ormsby | 500+ |
Craig Swanson | 400+ |
Craig Brown | 300+ |
Archie James | 200+ |
Chuck Surack | 200+ |
Mike Blombach | 200+ |
Mark Beck | 200+ |
Kevin Stahl | 200+ |
Phil Riter | 200+ |
Ted Tahmesian | 200+ |
Brad Moore | 200+ |
Mike Williams | 200+ |
Larry Gering | 200+ |
Jack Lindsay | 100+ |
Fred Allina | 100+ |
Lauren Otis | 100+ |
Kurt Beuchel | 100+ |
Brad Hartz | 100+ |
Tim Fox | 100+ |
Dan Boyle | 100+ |
Marcus Brewer | 100+ |
Matt Krinn | 100+ |
Archie James | 100+ |
Steve Churchill | 100+ |
Steve Horney | 100+ |
Sam Heiter | 100+ |