Local aviation event inspires young prospective pilots

The Midland chapter of the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) offered a free flight experience to local youth on Saturday, hoping to inspire young enthusiasts to eventually become pilots.

COPA welcomed more than 50 youths to Huronia Airport in Tiny Township, briefing them on the basics of flight and taking them on a short journey 2,000 feet above the Midland area.

Eight recreational pilots volunteered their generation aviation aircraft for the occasion, taking the youth to the skies for a view of the ground up high and a cockpit’s instruments and gauges from up close – all at no cost.

“This is one of the greatest things you can do,” said William Dykie, a recreational pilot who has been flying for almost three decades. “Give the kids a chance to fly; no commitment is necessary. Throw them in the seat and let them see what it’s like to remove those fears that people have.”

The pilots took care of the takeoffs and landings, but some of their young co-pilots had the chance to test the controls during their flights, such as 15-year-old cadet and aspiring pilot Luke Higgs.

“It was pretty good. I think the only thing I could’ve done is barrel rolls,” Higgs joked. “I think that’s the only thing we were missing.”

A 2018 Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace report found that the industry will need as many as 7,300 more pilots by 2025. Retirements, training costs, and pay could mean the industry’s supply will be challenged to keep up with its demand.

COPA hopes to inspire interest in aviation among youth so they can one day pursue careers in the industry.

“There are airlines offering help to get your pilot’s license and get your airline license,” said Grant Lloyd, a recreational pilot and a coordinator for the Discover Aviation event. “If young people just look into it, it’s very doable, and it’s a great career.”

The next Discover Aviation event at Huronia Airport is planned for the spring. COPA National also offers free online ground school and scholarship opportunities for flight schools.