Aviation Futures: Opening the Door to the World of Flight

Aviation Futures is the Urban Aviators Society’s flagship introductory program that gives young people their first real look into the world of aviation. Through discovery flights, hands-on learning, and exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences, students gain exposure to aviation careers, build confidence, and begin imagining themselves in the cockpit, tower, or hangar.

What is Aviation Futures?

Aviation Futures provides youth with rare access to real aviation environments and professionals. From sitting in the pilot’s seat during a discovery flight to exploring airport operations up close, participants experience aviation in a way most students never do.

Program highlights include:

Discovery Flights: Students take to the skies with certified flight instructors for an unforgettable first flight.
Airport & Control Tower Tours: Behind-the-scenes exploration of airport operations, air traffic control, fire/rescue, and aviation maintenance.
Industry Career Exposure: Direct interaction with pilots, air traffic controllers, mechanics, drone professionals, and airport staff.
Hands-On Aviation Activities: STEM and aviation-based activities that build technical curiosity and foundational knowledge.
Career Exploration: Insight into diverse aviation pathways, from piloting to engineering, drones, maintenance, and airport operations.

Who It’s For

Aviation Futures is ideal for:

Youth and young adults of all ages
Students curious about aviation, pilots, drones, or engineering
Young people who benefit from hands-on learning
Youth from underrepresented or underserved communities seeking access to aviation
Families looking for meaningful, high-impact learning opportunities
No prior experience is needed, just curiosity and interest.

Eligibility Requirements

Participants must:

Have a parent/guardian complete program consent forms
Commit to attending scheduled program dates
Demonstrate interest in aviation, STEM, or hands-on learning
Be willing to follow all aviation safety guidelines

Schedule & Program Cadence

Aviation Futures typically operates in seasonal cohorts throughout the year. A typical Aviation Futures cycle includes:

1 Discovery Flight Day (weather dependent)
1 Airport Operations Tour
1 Air Traffic Control/Technical Operations Visit
1 Aviation STEM Workshop or Interactive Session
Access to ongoing events, pilot talks, and opportunities

Program schedules may vary based on partner availability, weather, and airport operations.

What Students Gain

Aviation Futures delivers measurable outcomes that support career exploration, confidence building, and early workforce readiness. Participants leave with:

First flight experience with a certified instructor
Understanding of aviation careers, including piloting, maintenance, drones, ATC, engineering, and airport operations
Hands-on STEM learning experiences
Increased confidence and curiosity
Mentorship and exposure to aviation professionals
Early preparation for programs like Wings of Tomorrow or Droneworks

For many students, Aviation Futures is the moment they truly believe they can become a pilot, engineer, or aviation professional.

Credentials & Pathways

While Aviation Futures is an introductory program, it prepares students for additional opportunities such as:

Wings of Tomorrow (Flight Training Program)
Droneworks Workforce Development (FAA Part 107 Certification)
AeroSTEAM Workshops
Aviation scholarships
Local high school aviation/STEM programs
College aviation pathways

Students also receive a Program Participation Certificate recognizing their completion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need any flying experience to join?
A: Not at all! This program is designed for beginners who want to learn about aviation in a fun and supportive environment.

Q: How do discovery flights work?
A: Students fly alongside a certified instructor in a real aircraft, learning basic flight maneuvers while safely guided by a professional.

Q: What does the program cost?
A: Program costs vary depending on the number of sessions and flight opportunities.

Q: Are the tours and flights safe?
A: Yes, safety is our top priority. All activities are conducted by certified instructors, at licensed facilities, and with approved partners.

Q: Can parents or educators join the tours?
A: Yes! Parents, guardians, and educators are welcome to attend as chaperones or observers.

Your support makes programs like Aviation Futures possible. With your help, we can provide discovery flights, airport tours, mentorship, and foundational aviation education to youth from communities that need it most.

Donate Now >