SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Flying a plane is a rare experience, and recently, a local group provided kids in our community with the opportunity to become pilots for a day.
Operation Kid Forward, a local organization serving underprivileged youth, gave kids an opportunity to see the Coastal Empire from new heights.
“Introducing young people to the world of aviation can be significant. This exposure might inspire them to think, ‘Wow, I want to become a pilot,’” said Nisha Giustino, the Founder of Operation Kid Forward.
Marlon Knight from the Chatham County Youth Intercept Program added, “Our aim is to encourage these children to expand their horizons. They aren’t even aware of many career opportunities that are available.”
Many were nervous but also determined to try something new. For Mason Byrd, he used his nerves as fuel. He took on the challenge of being pilot for the day, flying over spots like downtown Savannah.
“When he said if I wanted to steer a little bit, when I said yes, my adrenaline started pumping and then I got a little nervous,” Mason said.
He continued, “I would definitely do this again. it’s one of the things where you think it’s scary, but then you’re like, ‘oh, my gosh, I like this so much.”
Nylah made sure stayed safe, taking us over Hilton Head and Tybee Islands.
“My first time I wanted to fly, but I’m not going to lie, I was kind of scared,” Nylah said. Then this year I had the guts. So, I ended up just doing it and I actually did like it. overall, I think I would like flying.”
Fly Corps Aviation Chief Instructor Laurie McCord said, “I hope that it sparks a lifetime passion or love of aviation and even if they don’t walk away with that, I hope that they walk away learning something feeling just inspired about life in general.”
Howard has a piece of advice for anyone who is nervous about flying.
“Just don’t look down,” Howard said. “If you don’t want to do that, just try to enjoy it as much as you can.”
Operation Kid Forward has more plans in the works for kids across the community. Visit their website to learn how you can support their mission.
