Embraer, together with philanthropist Fabio Alexander, announced this week at the NBAA convention that it will provide a Phenom 100 business jet to Barrington Irving’s Experience Aviation educational program for use as a flying classroom. Irving will fly the jet around the world while engaging students via live video feed and encouraging them to pursue education in science, technology, engineering and math. Students also will learn about history, geography, weather and culture. The project will reach more than one million students around the world, according to Embraer.
Embraer said its commitment to education and its involvement with Experience Aviation will include continuing support as Irving utilizes the aircraft for his flying classroom and ultimately the global flight in 2013. Irving first flew around the world in 2007, in 97 days, becoming the youngest person, at 23, and the first African American pilot to complete the trip solo. “This is a great example of how business aircraft are used to advance our society and enhance quality of life around the world,” said Ernest Edwards, president of Embraer Executive Jets. “[These aircraft] can inspire and excite our emerging generations and motivate them to pursue a future in STEM disciplines.”
