Worcester’s Youth Can Take Flight at Discovery Weekend

Wednesday, August 08, 2012

Jennifer Roy, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

13-year old Hunter Haynes of Worcester

Thirteen year old Hunter Haynes of Webster wants to be President of the United States someday. He knows it’s a tough job, which is why he’s getting involved in activities and interests that will help him achieve his goal. He hopes to become a pilot in the Navy to begin his road to the White House, and last summer he signed up for the Worcester Regional Flight Academy’s Discovery Weekend to start his journey.

“It’s everything and more”, says Hunter.

Discovery Weekend was created by William, Debra and George Charles Allen, owners of the Worcester Regional Flight Academy, to introduce flight to the city’s youth in a fun and exciting way.

“Discovery Weekend is an amazing experience which gives young adults a very unique perspective of the world,” explains George, Founding Director of the Flight Academy. “During the weekend we introduce students to the real-life applications beyond the classroom lessons effectively connecting math, science, physics, history, and technology to the basics of flight. Additionally, guest speakers from various sectors of the industry spend time showing our students the endless opportunities available to them.”

Hunter signed up for the Discovery Weekend when his mom suggested he join. He was interested in airplanes at an early age and had the chance to fly a plane in the program. This was a highlight not only for Hunter, but his father David who joined him on his maiden voyage.

“My other son, Camden and I were able to go on Hunter’s first flight, which was truly amazing for us as a family," David said. "To get the kid behind the wheel of an airplane is amazing. The instructor took us up then gave the controls over to Hunter. I never imagined myself in a plane so small, but it was one of the best experiences of my life."

Hunter agrees and says, while he was nervous at first, he eventually relaxed and enjoyed it.

“It’s one thing to have fun on a flight simulator, but when you’re actually flying the plane, you have to be serious," Hunter said. "I was squeezing the controls so tight I thought I would bend the metal. I eventually relaxed and it was so cool!”

In addition to the hands on experience, Hunter also learned about the history of flight and the mechanics of certain planes, among other aviation topics during classroom instruction.

“The night before, I researched the history of airplanes and brought in a folder of information, and when the instructor talked about each plane, I took that paper out and used my highlighter," Hunter said.

Hunter was so inspired by his experience at Discovery Weekend he joined a local division of the United States Air Force Auxiliary - Civil Air Patrol (CAP), located at the Worcester Regional Airport. The CAP has three missions: aerospace education, cadet program and emergency services, all of which interest Hunter. CAP instructors work directly with the students.

“Involving cadets today in our aviation programs brings together aviation enthusiasts in Worcester to create a network and welcoming community for young adults who share a similar passion,” George said.

Discovery Weekend will be in its fourth season, and Hunter has already signed up again this year. David says he’s proud of his son, and plans to be a speaker in August. Meanwhile, Hunter will be on hand to help other students entering the program for the first time. He encourages prospective pilots with these words of wisdom,

“If you can fly a plane, passing your driver’s test will be easy!”

Aspiring pilots can learn more about Discovery Weekend here.