Sean D. Tucker, aerobatic champion and legendary air show performer, has taken over the honorary chairmanship of the EAA’s Young Eagles program. He replaces Chesley Sullenberger and Jeff Skiles, the airline pilots known for ditching an A320 in the Hudson River after losing both engines. “It’s my second full-time job,” Tucker said. “That’s how committed I am to this legacy.” Tucker said he will spread the word about Young Eagles as he flies on the air show circuit, and also will make personal visits to EAA chapters to take kids flying. “I love sharing the magic of flight,” he said. “It’s uplifting, inspiring, empowering.”
The Young Eagles program was launched in 1992, and so far has taken 1.8 million kids for a free introductory flight. Young Eagles have flown in more than 90 countries, by more than 42,000 volunteer pilots. The honorary chairman post was previously held by Cliff Robertson, Chuck Yeager, and Harrison Ford.
