The Legacy Continues

Inspired by the service of the Tuskegee Airmen, the Legacy Flight Academy flight training program begins July 9 on historic Moton Field in Alabama, providing teenagers with an opportunity to cultivate careers in aviation and, best of all, to start learning how to fly

The next generation of pilots gets to work at historic Moton Field in Alabama, July 9-23, as part of the Legacy Flight Academy (LFA) pilot training program, the same airfield where the first class of "Tuskegee Airmen" began pre-flight training on July 19, 1941.

The LFA program offers a rich aviation experience, including flight training consisting of simulator and actual single-engine flight time, with the opportunity to "solo" an aircraft; ground training that builds toward completion of the FAA private pilot written examination; and college and career education that focuses on interaction with a variety of aerospace professionals, from commercial, military and corporate pilots to mechanics, engineers and air traffic control personnel, with multiple field trips to local military bases and commercial aviation training centers.

Students of the Legacy Flight Academy 2015 stand in front of an F-16D Fighting Falcon from the 100th Fighter Squadron, Ala. Air National Guard, and a T-1 Jayhawk from the 99th Flying Training Squadron, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2015. The students visited Montgomery Regional Air National Guard Base to learn more about the 187th Fighter Wing's historic ties to the Tuskegee Airmen.
Photo by Tech. Sgt. Matthew Garrett

Additionally, academic enrichment focuses on science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM) through partnership with the engineering departments at Tuskegee University and Auburn University, as well as character development through an intense study of the Tuskegee Airmen experience and practical leadership and teamwork activities.

Potential students must meet the basic eligibility requirements: must be between 16 to 19 years old; exhibit dedication and commitment toward a career in the aerospace industry; possess strong moral character and academic achievement; and be physically capable of obtaining an FAA 3rd Class Medical with student pilot's certificate.

If selected as finalists, potential students are required to submit letters of recommendation and agree to a code of conduct. If selected to attend LFA, students are required to complete a prescribed aviation study program prior to attendance. This year's full tuition was $332 for the 2-week program (students must provide their own transportation to and from LFA).

The Legacy Flight Academy is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and key partners include Golden Eagle Aviation, Middle Georgia State University and Auburn University, plus a number of additional donors and volunteers.

To learn more about Legacy Flight Academy and for updates on how to apply for the next program, go to legacyflightacademy.org.

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