The Vision of Free to Fly is to create learning communities of local entrepreneurs that build and operate small utility bush aircraft in regions of limited transportation infrastructure. Aviation offers a simple and dynamic approach to teaching math, physics, manufacturing, engineering and business while creating job opportunities. The introduction of inexpensive aircraft with certified local pilot/mechanics provides transportation options and widens the scope of local resources needing better access to health care, patrol, agriculture and economic development.

Problem

Education and vocational training for youth creating jobs and aviation mechanical and piloting skills. Economic development for isolated local communities.

Solution

Aviation training centers teach students how to assemble and operate efficient low cost aircraft that provide a training platform for flight training and local flight support for community projects, farming, search and rescue, patrol, etc.

Example

Local aviation training centers build bush aircraft Students learn to fly and maintain aircraft built. Flying club and local schools collaborate with electronic learning modules and live academics for training. Manufacturing aircraft are sold or used in flying cooperatives within the local community and support the enterprise providing revenue from sales and leasing. Non profit school receives licensing fees from manufacturing profits to support programs and mission. Program becomes self supporting after 2 years. Provides aircraft, pilots and trained mechanics.

Marketplace

Aircraft have been available only to home builders. FAA recently defined new parameters for Light/Sport standardizing the industry in preparation for manufacturing. Zenith factory builds these aircraft in the US costing $100,000. Aircraft can be built for half the price while students gain competency in aviation design, operation, engineering and manufacturing.