2nd Annual Aviation Inspiration Day Cleared For Takeoff

Editor's note: The following is a press release from Lynda Meeks.

Kids often dream about what they want to be when they grow up. One woman has made it her mission to help young girls dream with their heads in the clouds—literally.

Girls With Wings will host its second annual Aviation Inspiration Day at Fleming Field on Sat., May 26. The event will teach the general public about the different facets of the aviation industry.

Lynda Meeks, the founder of Girls With Wings, hosted the first annual Aviation Inspiration Day in 2011 and saw more than 250 families turn out for the event.

Young girls—grades 1st through 8th—were treated to a presentation where they learned the basics of flying an airplane, as well as Meeks challenging the girls to learn several fundamental scientific principles that keep airplanes in flight.

"Itʼs really fun to see these young girls start out not knowing much about flying, then seeing the lightbulb turn on," Meeks said in a statement. "These girls learn the basics of what it takes to fly a plane. Hopefully many of them go on to explore becoming pilots themselves."

Meeks, a former Army pilot and current commercial pilot, aims to instill self-confidence in future aviators, telling them theyʼre capable of achieving greatness—both on the ground and in the sky.

"Instead of encouraging our girls to keep their feet planted firmly on the ground, I want to inspire them to spread their wings and achieve their dreams," Meeks said. "I tell girls that they donʼt need to wait around for the knight in shining armor. These girls need flight plans, not fairy tales."

The second annual Aviation Inspiration Day is being hosted by the Minnesota Wing of the Commemorative Air Force and is open to the public.

Participating students pay a $5 fee, which gets them into the presentation, as well as an introductory flight above Fleming Field, courtesy of the Young Eagles.

Flights are available depending on the weather; flight seats are limited and presentation attendees are given priority. All others on a first come, first serve basis.

Pre-registration is highly encouraged as sessions are limited to 30 girls each.

Families are welcome and encouraged to explore the CAFʼs museum, tour other on-site facilities and take rides on a vintage firetruck and WWII Jeep.

Lunch will be provided by Wipaire, a manufacturer of airplane floats.