Aviation Influence (AVi) will bring its flagship youth outreach program, Take FLIGHT with AVi, to Delaware next month. The free aviation and STEAM event will take place Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Wilmington Airport (ILG), supported by Atlantic Aviation, the Delaware River and Bay Authority, and presenting partners Black Women in Aviation and the Delaware Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. Organizers expect more than 1,200 attendees.
The event highlights aviation pioneer Jamail Larkins, who became the youngest American to solo a powered aircraft at age 14, and later served as the first FAA Ambassador for Aviation & Space Education. Larkins has performed nationwide airshows and founded AviationStart, a scholarship resource for aspiring aviation professionals.
Returning as emcees are Lyndse Costabile, co-founder of AVi and pilot of the nonprofit’s mission aircraft Lady Liberty, and Samantha Mitchell, founder of Black Women in Aviation and the first female Aircraft Maintenance Technician for Air Jamaica.
Organizers say the day will feature interactive STEAM activities, a sectional chart scavenger hunt, paper airplane competitions, and static aircraft displays. Visitors will also see historic flyovers, take part in photo experiences, and hear from guest authors and aviation influencers. Lunch, giveaways, and raffle prizes will be provided, along with a digital silent auction opening a week before the event.
“We are proud to host this year’s Take FLIGHT with AVi in partnership with Atlantic Aviation,” said Ben Clendaniel, Director of Airport Operations. “The mission of familiarizing young people with the world of aviation is so important and will hopefully inspire the next generation to pursue their dreams.”
Brad Snyder, Chief Instructor at flyGATEWAY Aviation Institute, said the program aligns with his organization’s mission: “This event provides the kind of experiences that spark young people’s interest in aviation. It’s a perfect fit with our goal to deliver accessible, innovative flight training.”
Advance registration is required at www.aviationinfluence.org; no walk-ins will be admitted. Youth ages 8 to 17 are encouraged to attend, and group registration is available for schools, scout troops, and homeschool organizations by emailing [email protected].
AVi is seeking to raise $28,750 to keep the event free of charge, with donations and sponsorships supporting future scholarships. Sponsorship and exhibitor information is available at aviationinfluence.org/september-event-ilg.
?
