Tips for submitting a complete application

As our foundation enters our scholarship cycle, applications are starting to arrive.

We offer the following tips to ensure that your completed application is accepted.  

1. Follow the directions fully and completely in the application instructions.  We do not accept applications electronically.  If you sent one in electronically it was rejected.  

2. Follow the instructions completely.  We’ve included all information that is required to submit a complete application.   Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

3. Common errors: 
   1. Not including two letters of recommendation.
   2. Not indicating whether you’re transcripts from your school are included with the application or will be mailed in.   Some schools will not provide transcripts of grades directly to the student, in such case, your application is put in a pile and it remain there until your grade transcripts arrive.  Once the application is considered complete it will be accepted.
   3. Sending you application without the proper amount of postage.  (Your application arrives POSTAGE DUE)

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is pleased to present our 2024 scholarship recipients!   Amid the many applications that we received this year, the selection committee determined that these recipients demonstrated desire, motivation and determination, in addition to their many achievements, aligned with our foundation’s goal to financially support aspiring young aviators in pursuit of a Private Pilot rating.

 Five aspiring pilots from across the United States were selected:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation Announces the 2024 Scholarship Recipients

William Smith, 16, of Sanford, FL received a scholarship in the amount of $3000 from the Lyons Aviation Foundation.

Kelly Lloyd, 17, of Lamoni, IA received a scholarship in the amount of $1500 from the Lyons Aviation Foundation.

Kaydn Cole, 18, of Farmington, MO received a scholarship in the amount of $1500 from the Lyons Aviation Foundation.

Zach Fradella, 16, of Plainview, NY received a scholarship in the amount of $1500 from the Lyons Aviation Foundation.

Dashiell Chen, 17, of N. Bellmore, NY received a scholarship in the amount of $1500 from the Lyons Aviation Foundation.

Soaring Beyond the Sky: Life Lessons Learned in the Cockpit

Introduction:

The life of a pilot is one that transcends the boundaries of ordinary existence. As they navigate the vast expanse of the sky, pilots encounter challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound reflection. Beyond the technical skills and aeronautical knowledge, the cockpit becomes a classroom where valuable lessons about life are learned. In this essay, we will explore the profound insights and wisdom that pilots gain throughout their careers, delving into the realms of courage, discipline, adaptability, and mindfulness.

1. Courage in the Face of Adversity:

Pilots are constantly exposed to situations that demand unwavering courage. They learn to manage fear and remain composed during critical moments, knowing that their actions can determine the safety and well-being of passengers and crew. Through extensive training and experience, pilots discover that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. This crucial lesson extends beyond the cockpit, teaching pilots to face challenges in life with resilience and fortitude.

2. Discipline and Attention to Detail:

Safety is paramount in aviation, and pilots understand the importance of discipline and attention to detail. They meticulously follow checklists, adhere to regulations, and perform thorough pre-flight inspections. This level of discipline instills a mindset of excellence and precision. Pilots recognize that even the smallest oversight can have significant consequences. Transferring this lesson to life, they understand that success often hinges on discipline, attention to detail, and the willingness to go the extra mile.

3. Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment:

The skies are an ever-changing canvas, and pilots must adapt swiftly to varying conditions. From weather changes to mechanical issues, they are trained to assess situations, make quick decisions, and adjust their flight plans accordingly. The ability to remain flexible and adaptable serves as a valuable lesson in life as well. Pilots understand that unexpected circumstances are inevitable, and embracing change is key to navigating the unpredictable currents of existence.

4. Effective Communication and Teamwork:

Pilots are part of a broader aviation ecosystem, where effective communication and teamwork are vital. They collaborate with air traffic controllers, crew members, and ground personnel to ensure safe and efficient operations. Pilots learn the significance of clear, concise communication and the value of listening actively. These lessons extend to their personal lives, teaching them to communicate effectively with loved ones, colleagues, and friends, fostering stronger relationships and minimizing misunderstandings.

5. Risk Assessment and Decision-Making:

The cockpit is a dynamic environment where pilots face constant decision-making scenarios. They evaluate risks, analyze available information, and make split-second choices that impact the trajectory of their flights. Pilots learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and ensuring safety. This skill translates to life’s challenges, enabling them to make informed decisions and assess potential risks in various aspects of their personal and professional lives.

6. Humility and Continuous Learning:

Pilots understand that learning is a lifelong journey. They remain humble, acknowledging that no matter how experienced they become, there is always more to discover. Pilots embrace ongoing training, seek mentorship, and study aviation advancements to stay at the forefront of their field. This humility translates into their attitude toward life, as they recognize that personal growth requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and remain open-minded.

7. Mindfulness and Appreciation for the Present:

Amidst the exhilaration of flight, pilots experience moments of tranquility and serenity. As they soar above the world, they gain a profound sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment. Pilots learn to savor the beauty of nature, the majesty of the skies, and the awe-inspiring perspective of the world below. This awareness of the present carries over into their daily lives

Milestones Reached!

Emily Gardner, a 2022 LAF scholarship recipient, recently reached a few milestones on her way to obtain her private pilot certificate.
She accomplished her first solo flight along with her solo cross country flight. All necessary to satisfy the requirements to obtain a FAA private pilot certificate.  She shared with the foundation this great news on her Road to Wings.

In the aviation industry there are a handful of milestones that every pilot looks forward to. Once you begin flight training, the first one of these is your first solo flight. But how do you celebrate such a big accomplishment?

There are two main ways of celebrating a pilot’s first solo flight in the industry. One tradition includes cutting the back of the pilot’s shirt off to symbolize cutting the end of the student “riding the instructor’s coattails.”

In the early days of flying, there were no high-tech radios, microphones, it was common practice for instructors to pull on a student’s shirttails to get their attention. Once the student was aware of this, the instructor would then be able to shout commands and advice in their ear, reducing the chance for crucial information to be misheard or overlooked.

To mark a successful first solo flight, instructors would thus remove the shirttails of a student upon completion of their first solo. This symbolic gesture indicated to everyone that the student is able to fly without any hands-on instruction, hence they no longer have any need for their shirttails.

Another tradition is to being “dunked”.  In Emily’s case the Aviate Academy used their pool to dunk her.  You can she she’s soaked in the following picture.    This is a very visually symbolic way to celebrate, and it leaves the pilot with a keepsake to look at in the future.  Ironically, the traditional 1st Solo Dunking Tradition into the pool was conducted one at a time for safety purposes.  (so history says). Additionally, history says this tradition was often practiced in the UK.  It involves a bucket of cold water being thrown over a new solo pilot, soaking them and signifying their baptism into the world of independent flying.

The sky’s the limit!  Always follow your dreams!

About The Lyons Aviation Foundation:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non profit private foundation that exists to support and encourage the next generation of pilots and aviators through offering financial scholarships to deserving young persons who are pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate. The Lyons family has been involved in and maintained a history of aviation-related careers for over 65 years.  The Lyons Aviation Foundation story started with Rolf C. Lyons, when he entered military service at the age of 17, enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955, with his sons later following in his footsteps. This foundation was born out of a desire to give back to the aviation community and the future pilots, mechanics, and engineers working in the field by providing an opportunity to those that might not otherwise have the means to pursue aviation as a career path.  This foundation is a living tribute to a family story and its ties to aviation, military service, and one another.  More information can be found at www.lyonsaviation.org.

“A Helping Hand on the Road to Wings”

The Lyons Aviation Foundation’s  2022 top recipient, Luna Mattke, reached an important milestone recently:

Completing her first solo flight.  The flight took place at Felts Field (KSFF).  Her instructor joined her at the start of the flight, to complete a few landings. He then stepped out of the cockpit and allowed Luna to solo, accomplishing a stop and go, a go around, and a full stop!  Solo flights build so much confidence on the Road to Wings. Luna very much appreciates the support from all those who donated to The Lyons Aviation Foundation, which directly is supporting her financially in her flight training and in her pursuit of of her private pilot certificate.

About The Lyons Aviation Foundation:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non profit private foundation that exists to support and encourage the next generation of pilots and aviators through offering financial scholarships to deserving young persons who are pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate. The Lyons family has been involved in and maintained a history of aviation-related careers for over 65 years.  The Lyons Aviation Foundation story started with Rolf C. Lyons, when he entered military service at the age of 17, enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955, with his sons later following in his footsteps. This foundation was born out of a desire to give back to the aviation community and the future pilots, mechanics, and engineers working in the field by providing an opportunity to those that might not otherwise have the means to pursue aviation as a career path.  This foundation is a living tribute to a family story and its ties to aviation, military service, and one another.  More information can be found at www.lyonsaviation.org.

“A Helping Hand on the Road to Wings”