Northwest Aerospace News February | March 2019 Issue No. 7 | Page 66

O nce in the seat, whether they’re three or 13, with a whoop and a grin, they yank back on the yoke and imagine soaring into the skies. What fun! Sitting with them in the cockpit, we talk them through a climb-out, transitioning to straight and level flight with power adjustments, banking left then right, descent and finally landing — all without leaving the ground. Then with a rudimentary lesson on wing shape, aerodynamics and flight controls, we perform a quick walk-around — inspecting propellers and engine; looking at the wings, their shape and size; allowing them to manipulate the control surfaces so they can see the movement of the ailerons, stabilizer and rudder; and closing out the visit with a “high five” and a smile. 66 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS All involved, whether young or old, pilot or parent — are thrilled! With a hand- shake and a mutual expression of thanks, the PSAAC Air Tour pilots bid adieu and depart for the next town. Children are waiting! Note: While we haven’t counted noses, it’s likely that by the conclusion of a PSAAC Air Tour visiting eight to 10 airports, nearly a thousand young people would have visited the flight line. While we’ll never know how many take the next step toward STEM careers, the Air Tour is an enjoyable and rewarding way to support aviation, aerospace and the workforce of tomorrow in our Pacific Northwest Aerospace Cluster. Northwest Readers SHARE A STORY Have a story to share with our readers? Get in touch with us: [email protected] Melanie S. Jordan PSAAC Member and CEO, PNAA