Start Your Aviation Career
The Young Eagles programme could be the start of your lifelong aviation adventure! Starting in early 2026, each month, we'll be hosting events giving 14–18 year-olds hands-on flying and aviation-related experiences. Join us to discover the diverse, exciting careers available to motivated individuals in aviation. Our monthly programme includes:
- Introductory flights in one of our aircraft
- Tours of the apron and fire service
- Getting up close with Air NZ aircraft
- Q&A sessions with aviation professionals
- Introduction to radio and law
FAQs
The Young Eagles program is a monthly aviation experience for young people aged 14-18. It includes introductory flights, airport tours, and educational sessions with aviation professionals to inspire the next generation of aviators.
Young Eagles is open to anyone aged 14-18 years old. No prior aviation experience is required - just enthusiasm and curiosity about flying and aviation careers.
Young Eagles provides a structure for young people to learn about aviation. This includes meeting other like-minded young people, along with adults and aviation professionals. Exposure to these people will help you child develop social skills as well as learn and experience the range of activities available in the aviation environment.
There will be a charge for your introductory flight, and a $70 registration fee which includes a polo shirt, logbook card, Young Eagles badge, membership card and lanyard.
Young Eagles events are held monthly at Kerikeri Airport (Bay of Islands Airport). Events typically take place on Saturday mornings. Check our website or contact us for specific dates and times.
Yes, all participants under 18 require signed parental consent forms before participating in any Young Eagles activities, especially flights. Forms will be downloadedable from our website or can be completed at the first event.
Our YE program is run by qualified pilots who hold current medical certificates and have been police-vetted in the preceding five years. Our pilots have been approved by the club's Chief Flying Instructor to take Young Eagles flying. The flights are conducted carefully and well within the safety envelope for the pilots and the aircraft. All flights are weather-dependent, so if the weather is not good enough for the flight to be conducted safely and comfortably it will be postponed to a better day.
We recommend maths, physics, and English. During flight, it's important to be to able to make quick calculations, as well as be able to speak clearly and be understood.