Kids set to take to the sky

Kids set to take to the sky

From the ground, as well as in the air, kids and their families can learn more about aviation this Saturday at the Chatham-Kent municipal airport.

Discover Aviation, previously known as COPA for Kids, is organized by the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association YCK Flight 203.

COPA has more than 200 regional and local chapters across the country. Founded early in 2018 by a group of Chatham-Kent aviation enthusiasts, Flight 203 aims to promote aviation, safety and learning while raising awareness about the local airport.

Kids can also ask questions about flight as a future career – or as a hobby – and the requirements needed.

The pandemic had forced the cancellation of the annual event previously, which usually involved as may as 200 kids receiving free flights from local pilots consisting of a brief tour of Chatham-Kent.

Marion Smith, airport manager, said kids will be taken up for a ride, and there will be other learning experiences and activities for participants.

“They get ground school. They get to learn a little bit about the aircraft,” she said. “We provide them with a bit of a snack afterwards.”

Saturday’s event runs from 9 am to 4 pm, with registration starting at 8:30 am All flights are weather-permitting. For more information, visit copayck.com/

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