The Dowagiac Airport, Chapter 1028 of the Experimental Aircraft Association will host its annual Young Eagles Program, where free airplane rides will be given by local pilots to children and young adults ages 8 to 17.

The program will start at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 1, at the Dowagiac Municipal Airport. No reservation is necessary but a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign a flight permission and release.

Youngsters with special needs are welcome and advance notification is appreciated by calling (269) 591-0054.

Founded in 1992, the EAA’s national Young Eagles program has dedicated nearly 25 years to giving youth ages 8–17 their first free ride in an airplane.

It’s the only program of its kind, with the sole mission to introduce and inspire youth in the world of aviation.

Today, the Young Eagles program has flown nearly 2 million children with the help of EAA’s network of volunteer pilots and ground volunteers.