Eighty six children with special needs from around the Valley of the Sun took to the sky above Phoenix, Arizona as part of a unique program to teach kids about fulfilling their dreams, no matter what the obstacle.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Aeronautics Division was pleased to partner with the Valley’s 1st Annual Challenge Air for Kids & Friends Event held at Cutter Aviation, Deer Valley Airport on Saturday, Feb. 7th to give kids with physical disabilities and serious illnesses the opportunity to take a free 30-minute flight with their families.
“The kids were able to take the controls in the co-pilot seat as part of their adventure,” said Carole Glenn, Aeronautics Division Outreach Coordinator. “It was wonderful to watch all of the kids enjoying the day. All of the thank-yous, smiles and hugs I received, will carry with me the rest of my life!”
Local and out-of-state pilots donated their own planes and fuel and more than 100 local volunteers were on hand to help guide the children and their families through the day’s activities.
After the flight each child received a pilot certificate and wings and a huge celebration upon their return to the hangar in recognition of their accomplishment.
Challenge Air was established in 1993 and is based in Dallas, Texas. It was founded by Rick Amber, a retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot who lost the use of his legs during the Vietnam War when his jet crashed during a landing attempt on the aircraft carrier USS Hancock. After spending several years away from flying, he founded Challenge Air with the belief that “every disabled person should see the world from a different view… out of their wheelchairs and crutches and from the sky.” Mr. Amber died in 1997, but continues to inspire thousands of physically challenged children in 30 states to take to the air and fly.
“This is a life changing event for anyone involved, said Glenn. All of the kids and their families are heroes!”
ADOT was one of several agencies partnering with Challenge Air to provide this experience. Next year’s event is scheduled for February 6, 2010. For more information about Challenge Air for Kids and Friends or to volunteer, visit their website at: www.challengeair.org
