Young Eagles Pilot Safety & Qualification
Raising the standard through shared experience, focused training, and a commitment to safe, rewarding Young Eagles flights.
Building on a Gold Standard
EAA Chapter 129 has earned recognition locally and from EAA National in Oshkosh as a Gold-level chapter. From Ray Scholar successes and high school STEM outreach to Young Eagles rallies and Honor Flights, our volunteers have accomplished a tremendous amount.
Now, the chapter is bringing that same energy to pilot development through the Safety Stand-Up initiative.
Training Designed for Our Pilots
The Safety Stand-Up program augments our IMC and VMC Club meetings with specialized ground and flight training provided by Chapter 129 instructors.
We are also documenting clear expectations for programs such as Young Eagles and Honor Flights so they remain challenging, educational, safe, and fun for participants and volunteers alike.
Young Eagles Rally Focus Areas
The first Safety Stand-Up activity examined Chapter 129 Young Eagles rally practices and connected EAA National requirements with lessons learned during our local operations.
Ramp Management
Improve spacing between aircraft and coordinate movement to protect participants during loading, unloading, and engine starts.
Escort Procedures
Use two-deep leadership, maintain positive control of participants, and keep families clear of the danger area in front of operating aircraft.
Pattern Discipline
Strengthen spacing, communication, and predictable operations during high-volume rallies at Bloomington and Pontiac.
Earn Your Stripes and Your Polo
The Standards Team has developed a Young Eagles Training Profile for Chapter 129 pilots. Completion is not mandatory, but every Young Eagles pilot is strongly encouraged to participate.
Pilots who complete the training will be recognized on the ramp with an official EAA Chapter 129 Young Eagles Pilot polo shirt.
There is only one way to get one: earn it. The chapter plans to expand this training approach to Honor Flight pilots and observers as well.
Interested in a Flight Review?
Pilots who would like to schedule a flight review or discuss the Young Eagles Training Profile can submit a request below.
Your request will be routed privately to the Chapter 129 training coordinators.
Request a Flight ReviewMay 9, 2026 VMC Club Meeting
The initiative launched during the May 9 VMC Club meeting with a Safety Stand-Up focused on Young Eagles pilot qualification and rally excellence.
The work continues through pilot training, shared standards, and ongoing learning throughout the 2026 flying season.
Let's Raise the Bar Together
As pilots, we are lifelong learners who are always working to become better. By training together, sharing what we have learned, and holding ourselves to a high standard, we can provide safer and more meaningful flights for every Young Eagle.
