Va events aim to introduce women to aviation

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Organizers of a series of events are hoping to introduce women and girls to aviation.

The “Women Can Fly” events are set for May and June at various airports in Virginia, including an event Saturday at Lynchburg Regional Airport.

Officials said events held last year introduced more than 370 women and girls to aviation.

The Virginia Department of Aviation says that women make up only 6 percent of the U. S. pilot population. Organizers say bringing more women into aviation is vital to the industry.

Those in attendance can see aircraft on display, talk with pilots and attend sessions on how planes fly, how to become a pilot and other topics. Those who sign up ahead of time also can receive a free introductory flight in a general aviation aircraft.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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