Kids aged eight to 17 will have their chance to fly in the skies with COPA (Canadian Owners and Pilots Association) for Kids that brings a day of flying and a taste of being in the skies.
The free program brings local pilots offering up their seats to kids who are excited about the idea of flying, said organizer Perry Wilson. Set for Saturday, May 28 at the Ponoka Industrial Airport, this is the second year of COPA for Kids in Ponoka, although events similar to this are hosted across the country.
“One of their (COPA) goals is to educate youngsters about aviation,” said Wilson of the event.
Being able to fly in the sky over Ponoka and area will give kids a greater understanding of general aviation, which are non-commercial flights. Last year’s event brought 60 kids and this year pilots are hoping for 90 kids.
To accommodate that many participants, there are approximately nine planes set to fly over Ponoka. Wilson said there are a variety of planes set to fly with twin engines or single engines.
The hope is to plant a seed in kids’ minds about aviation and the many benefits it can bring to the Canadian economy. Wilson said there are many different avenues in flying that a person can delve into.
Part of the fun day includes giving kids an idea of what makes planes work, giving them a ground inspection and the best part, flying.
“There’s no better way than having a ride to start to feel whether that’s something they really like or not,” said Wilson.
Being up in the air will also provide kids with a greater perspective of the area and geography. To sign up for the program check www.copaforkids.org.