The EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly program is an intensive RC model building and flying initiative to introduce youth to aircraft construction and the fundamentals of flight.
This is a chapter modeling “program-in-a-box” designed for EAA chapters to partner with local Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) clubs to engage Young Eagles participants and other youth. The program can either be a follow-up to or lead to an EAA Young Eagles flight and is intended to further their passion for aviation.
The EAA Build and Fly program is offered in two different RC airplane kit options where chapters can purchase an RC kit directly from EAA, then build and fly the RC airplane with local youth. The kit platforms include all building materials, electronics, and accessories, including RC flight simulator software to help train new RC pilots on techniques and skills required to fly RC.
Who is eligible for this program?
- Be an EAA chapter or squadron in good standing.
- Have an area suitable for building and storing the Fifty Six model.
- Ability and desire to partner with a local AMA club and solicit AMA volunteer presence for their RC expertise.
- Have all volunteers complete EAA’s Youth Protection Policy training and background check. For more information, visit EAA.org/YouthProtection.
- Solicit youth participation by reaching out to previous Young Eagles, during Young Eagles rallies, local school programs, clubs, or other youth outlets.
- A commitment to foster the project through to completion.
Kit #1 – Flite Test Simple Scout XL MKR2
A gentle flying RC trainer with a wingspan measuring 58”, this versatile airplane offers incredible performance and quick assembly. Constructed of pre-cut flat foam board, youth can build this airplane in two or three half-day build sessions while preparing for flight using the RC flight simulator software included. All electronics including motor, controller, servos, battery, and accessories are included. Flite Test offers free video tutorials to aid in the building process. View list of contents here.
Cost to Chapters: Thanks to Flite Test providing an EAA chapters discount, the cost for the entire package is only:
$400 plus a $50 shipping fee. EAA Young Eagles credits may be used to purchase the kit.
Kit #2 – Old School Model Works Fifty Six
A traditional light weight and easy to build 56” wingspan balsa wood RC airplane, the Fifty Six features precision laser cut parts that interlock together resulting in an uncomplicated build. The Fifty Six is finished with heat tautening covering materials and includes all electronics including motor, controller, servos, batteries and accessories provided by Horizon Hobby and DuBro. This balsa kit provides an opportunity to bring kids back to the airport for a series of build sessions (about 8-10) where chapters may engage in additional aviation activity including RC flight training using the included RC flight simulator software.
Cost to Chapters: Thanks to suppliers Old School Model Works, Horizon Hobby and DuBro for providing an EAA chapters discount, the cost for the entire package is only:
$500 plus a $50 shipping fee. EAA Young Eagles credits may be used to purchase the kit. Additional financial support for this kit is provided by The Burgher Fund.
Kit #2A - Old School Model Works Fifty Six Supplemental Kit
If your chapter has already participated in the program by purchasing a complete Fifty Six kit and wants to host another youth build, request materials for the Young Eagles Build and Fly supplemental kit. Offered at a chapter price, this kit will include the main components needed to build a second kit, however, it excludes the tools received during the first build. View list of contents here.
Cost to Chapters: $400 plus a $50 shipping fee.
EAA Young Eagles credits may be used to purchase the kit.
Requirement: Chapter must have participated in the initial Young Eagle Build and Fly Program.
Program Resources:
- EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly Program Handbook [PDF]
- Frequently Asked Questions [PDF]
- Know Before You Fly
- Find Your Local AMA Club
- AMA Membership Discount
Chapters in Action:
EAA Chapters 172 and 1246 Build and Fly With Local Youth ›
EAA Chapter 578 Building and Flying With EAA’s Build and Fly ›
