Free "Introduction to Becoming a Pilot" Program Returns This Fall at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™

  • Published
  • By Cheryl Prichard
  • National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Students with dreams of taking to the skies can get an early start this fall through the Introduction to Becoming a Pilot program, offered free of charge at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

Designed for students ages 14–18, this interactive educational experience introduces participants to the fundamentals of flight. Students receive classroom instruction, complete practical exercises, and take the controls in a flight simulator—guided by knowledgeable volunteer instructors.

Intro to Pilot 101 is a six-session course that covers key flight principles including taxiing, takeoff, navigation, and landing. Students who complete Intro to Pilot 101 are eligible to continue into Complex Aircraft 201, which explores more advanced aircraft systems and procedures.

Held at the museum in Dayton, Ohio, the program is open to students with a serious interest in aviation. No prior experience is necessary, but space is limited, and registration is required in advance. One recent participant called the experience “AMAZING,” adding, “I enjoyed this a lot—it’s on a completely different level than I expected!”

This program is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Air Force Museum Foundation. (Federal endorsement not implied.)

Please note: This program does not provide any form of flight certification and is not a substitute for instruction provided by a certified flight school.

For full details and registration, visit: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Education/Introduction-to-Becoming-a-Pilot/