Warrenton-Fauquier Airport was bustling with excitement for its annual Women Can Fly event on Saturday, June 4. The day served as the first opportunity for many to be introduced to aviation and the many career pathways available.
The inaugural flying event, which was launched in 2013 in Virginia is co-sponsored by the Ninety-Nines Inc. (International Organization of Women Pilots). A total of 184 people received free flights from 27 pilots who volunteered for the event. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore various static aircraft displays and participate in a Women Can Build activity to learn about aircraft construction and maintenance.
“The event went incredibly well, and it was thanks to all of the hard work, time, and resources that each of the volunteers contributed,” Coordinator Sarah Patten said. “We were able to make it a good day for a lot of people, and most importantly, everyone stayed safe.”
The Virginia Department of Aviation was on hand at the event with its ICON A5 Introduction to Flight Team. Public Relations and Education Manager Betty Wilson provided information about scholarships as well as other opportunities to pursue aviation. Public Relations and Education Coordinator David Halstead spoke with attendees while they were seated in the ICON A5 aircraft and explained the flight controls and how airplanes fly.
There will be another Women Can Fly event at Hampton Roads Executive Airport on Saturday, June 11. The event will take place rain or shine from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Complimentary flights will be available for all girls and women who have registered. Women pilots in the military will also be available to talk about the military experience of flight.
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