Special to the WJH
The “Thrill of the First Flight” program returns to the Waycross-Ware County Airport Saturday, April 12 to provide airplane rides for youth.
Pilots affiliated with the non-profit organization based in Savannah will give youths in third grade through high school the opportunity to experience flight during the 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. event at the airport, 3098 Keen Drive.
Spots are limited and those interested must register in advance at eventbright.com.
A parent or guardian can search events in Waycross on April 12 to find the link and register the youth. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
In addition to the flights, simulators will be available for those who wish to experience a “flight” while remaining on the ground. Along with the pilots presenting the rides, professionals will be on hand to discuss preparation for a career in aviation such as air traffic control, reservations, along with aircraft and airport maintenance.
Those in attendance also will have the opportunity to register to win up to 16 hours of flight instruction. The award is partially funded through a gift from Mrs. Mary Marshburn, whose late husband, Matt, was a staunch believer aviation could be a source of outreach for under-served youth.
Matt Marshburn worked extensively in corporate aviation with Gulfstream, Signature Flight support, and NetJets. Details for registration are available at firstflightga.org with the deadline at 6 p.m. April 28.
A light lunch will be provided for the youth. For more information, call John Ratcliff at (315) 585-0642 or email [email protected].
