I Learned About Flying From That: Seizing Control

Steven Davis

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 09:09 PM ET

Verified

** To see more of Barry Ross' aviation art, go
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Key Takeaways:

During a Young Eagles flight, a pilot faced a critical near-stall situation when a panicked 12-year-old co-pilot unexpectedly grabbed the yoke during takeoff, forcing the pilot to physically intervene and struggle to regain control just above the ground.
This incident prompted the pilot to implement new safety protocols, requiring co-pilots to hold their shoulder belts during takeoff and landing to prevent interference, and realizing that providing physical tasks is more effective than verbal reassurance for panicked individuals.
The experience underscored the importance of anticipating unexpected passenger reactions and discussing such serious incidents with the children involved (and "flagging" them for other pilots) to ensure they understand the gravity of their actions, while still encouraging their continued participation in aviation.

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I keep my Cherokee at Ramona Airport (KRNM) in Southern California and am actively involved with other pilots there in an organization that offers introductory flights to youngsters through a program called Young Eagles. It is a very worthwhile program that offers kids ages 8 to 17 the opportunity of a free introductory flight along with exposure to the aviation community and, ultimately, the joy of flying.

I have flown about 150 kids since I joined the Young Eagles. One of the selfish joys of flying kids is seeing their thrill and excitement about the entire process, from walk-around preflight to buttoning up and getting in the air.