Junior Flight Program

What a Difference a Year Makes

Photos by the author

Child flying a remote control plane on a grassy field under a partly cloudy sky. — **01.**Tyler Thompson practices a knife-edge maneuver.

Nineteen new youth pilots joined the North Georgia Model Aviators (NGMA) club and learned how to fly! That’s right, NGMA launched its Junior Flight Program slightly more than a year ago (see the November 2023 Model Aviation for the original story) to inspire the next generation of RC airplane enthusiasts. With the average age of RC hobbyists standing at 59 years old, the program was a bold initiative to breathe new life into the field, and what a success it has been!

Boy in sunglasses holding a remote near a large model airplane outdoors. — **02.**Tyler completed a successful flight with his E-flite trainer.

Young person posing with colorful model airplane on grassy area. — **03.**Ryan Gaines shows off his new Extreme Flight 69-inch Turbo Raven that he won in a raffle.

Boy and man wearing headsets in a small airplane cockpit. — **04.**Ryan flies in his father’s full-scale airplane.

Building Skills and Confidence

To join the Junior Flight Program, participants must be less than 18 years old, sign up for an AMA Youth membership, and join NGMA. In return, they receive a free RC trainer model and access to a transmitter. NGMA flight instructors then provide individualized flight instruction, often using a buddy-box system, to make the first flights both safe and enjoyable. The primary goal is to ensure that every junior pilot’s initial experience is positive and enriching.

After junior pilots gain proficiency, they are allowed to trade in their trainer airplanes for more advanced models. For example, Tyler Thompson, one of the program’s first participants, quickly progressed from his trainer to a Horizon Hobby Viper 70mm EDF jet. Another junior pilot upgraded from an Apprentice trainer to a Horizon Hobby E-flite P-47 Thunderbolt. These milestones showcase the program’s ability to foster rapid development in young pilots.

Weekends at the Field

On any given weekend, the NGMA field is alive with the buzzing excitement of three or four junior pilots "poking holes in the sky," as the members like to say. Watching these kids interact is a testament to the program’s success. They demonstrate incredible respect and camaraderie, cheering each other on during flights and stepping in to assist with model setups or troubleshooting.

"The way these kids support each other is inspiring," said one NGMA flight instructor. "You can see their confidence grow, not just in flying but in how they handle challenges and work together."

The Spark of Inspiration

What inspires a young person to take up RC flying? For many, it begins with a personal connection. Alejandro (AJ) Thompson shared, "My dad bought an RTF UMX Sport Cub when I was in the fourth grade, and we started flying it on the soccer field behind my elementary school."

Similarly, Ryan Gaines credits his father, a private pilot, for sparking his interest. "Two years ago, I started watching RC airplane videos on YouTube. Santa brought me a foam Spitfire airplane, which I flew in our front yard every day. I went through two of them after some ‘incidents,’ but they taught me the basics and fueled my love for RC flying."

For Wyatt Strayhorn, inspiration came from his grandmother. "She flew me out to the Pima Air and Space Museum, and that sparked my love for aviation." These stories highlight how personal experiences with aviation can ignite a passion that lasts a lifetime.

Boy holds model airplane, standing near full-size plane on airstrip. — **05.**Ryan stands in front of his father, Chris Gaines,’ fullscale airplane.

Boy in a soccer jersey holding a model airplane on a grassy field. — **06.**Ashton Swartzberg is ready to fly his E-flite UMX Turbo Timber.

Milestones and Memories

Every RC enthusiast has a moment when they know this is the hobby for them. For Ryan, that moment came after his neighbor, TJ Klise, president of NGMA, introduced him to NGMA’s Junior Flight Program. "My dad and I visited the field to check it out. Soon after, my parents made me a deal: if I saved up half the money, they’d cover the other half for an Apprentice, which was recommended as a great starter airplane. The day I soloed and landed that airplane by myself, I knew this was what I wanted to do."

James Coggins’ journey has been about progression and ambition. "Although there wasn’t a specific moment, I’ve spent a lot of time around airplanes and am thrilled to build and fly everything from 3D models to jets." For Ashton Swartzberg, it was love at first sight: "Walking into an RC store and seeing all of the airplanes was unforgettable."

Setting Ambitious Goals

The Junior Flight Program is not just about learning to fly; it’s about dreaming big. One afternoon at the NGMA field, James was seen studying an RC Aerobatics (Pattern) flying chart with his father. "I want to compete in Pattern flying competitions," he said, recognizing that the program provides a fast track to advanced skills.

Other junior pilots have their own aspirations. Tyler aims to master advanced aerial tricks. Ryan hopes to perfect aerobatics and eventually become a Delta Airlines pilot, using the skills he developed in RC flying as a foundation. For Wyatt, the joy comes from "meeting new friends and helping others learn."

Fostering Connections and Community

Although the Junior Flight Program began as a way to introduce young people to RC flying, it has evolved into something much greater. Beyond the free airplanes and mentorship, the program has created a sense of community and belonging for its participants. "I enjoy learning from each other and building friendships," said AJ. Ryan echoes this sentiment: "I love meeting other kids my age, helping them learn to fly, and seeing how the club supports us in this great hobby."

Three children with model airplanes on grass, under clear blue sky. — **07.**(L-R): Tyler, Wyatt, and Ryan prepare to fly a gaggle.

Boy shoveling sand on a truck under a clear blue sky. — **08.**Tyler helps out during NGMA’s field workday.

The program’s impact extends beyond the junior pilots. Their enthusiasm has energized the entire club, reminding longtime members of the excitement and curiosity that first drew them to the hobby. "Seeing these kids grow and thrive has been the highlight of my time here," said an NGMA veteran.

The Road Ahead

As the Junior Flight Program enters its second year, NGMA is already looking ahead. Plans are in place to expand outreach efforts, host youth-focused events, and provide additional resources for young pilots. The club hopes to attract even more participants and inspire a lifelong love of aviation.

The program’s success is a reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation. By providing young people with the tools and support they need, NGMA is ensuring that the RC flying community will continue to thrive for years to come.

For those who are interested in starting their own youth initiative, NGMA’s advice is simple: focus on creating a welcoming and supportive environment. "It’s not just about the airplanes," said one club member. "It’s about the friendships, the learning, and the joy of sharing a passion with others."

A Program That Soars

The NGMA club’s Junior Flight Program has not only brought 19 new pilots into the sky but has also built a community of young aviators who are passionate, skilled, and ready to take on new challenges. With their infectious enthusiasm and boundless potential, these junior pilots are ensuring that the future of RC flying is brighter than ever.