Youth Aviation Summer Camp lands at Travis Published May 1, 2012 By Kymberley Wayne 60th Force Support Squadron Marketing TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 60th Force Support Squadron will introduce its first Youth Aviation Summer Camp. Doors to the world of aviation and aeronautics will be open to youth ages 9 to 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Travis Aero Club in Rio Vista. This one-day camp includes hands-on activities using real aircraft. Registered participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the in-air sites while flying 20 minutes with a professional pilot. For an additional fee, parents can participate in the flight with their child. The agenda also includes safety training, pre-flight preparation exercises, an aerodynamic paper airplane contest, complimentary lunch, unique survivor photo and a kite flying experience. The purpose of the Youth Aviation Summer Camp is to create interest in aviation, inspire potential future pilots and demonstrate the relevance of strong math, science and English skills needed for a successful aviation career. "Youth participants will learn what creates lift, how an aircraft is controlled, how an airport works, how aircraft are powered and the many career opportunities available in the aviation field," said Chris Latham, Aero Club activity manager. "We wanted to create a summer camp that would have an 'epic' or 'cool' factor. Therefore, we threw out past agendas and created something new and exciting. There will be no simulators at this camp; only a real flying experience that takes place near the controls of the aircraft." One of the camp's highlights will be a paper airplane aerodynamic contest. Each participant will have the opportunity to create one of 15 unique paper crafts. After each child has introduced his or her flying creation, the aerodynamics contest will begin and medals will be awarded to the five paper planes that fly the longest distance. The adventure continues with the kite flying experience, which will take place while each child awaits a turn for their 20-minute air flight. After receiving a new kite, participants will be coached with instructions and techniques on flying kites. "With encouragement and volunteer assistance, we expect to see several kites flying at one time," Latham said. "This will be an experience these kids will not forget." Registration for the Youth Aviation Summer Camp is currently open at www.TravisAeroClub.com. The $59 price is limited to the first 25 people that register. "Parents have already started registering their kids online and the summer camp will probably fill up quickly," Latham said. "We can always find a way to accommodate more participants but the price will definitely increase. This is a new and exciting opportunity so you may want to reserve your space quickly." The Travis Aero Club is located at 3000 Baumann Road in Rio Vista. The telephone number is (707) 374-0081.