Meet EAA Young Eagles Chairman Harrison Ford

You might recognize Harrison Ford from his numerous movie roles, like Indiana Jones from the Temple of Doom or CIA Agent Jack Ryan in Clear and Present Danger or the president in Air Force One, but Harrison Ford is also an experienced pilot and Chairman of the EAA Young Eagles program.

Since Young Eagles began in 1992, there have been three Chairmen. All are active pilots and have flown Young Eagles. The first chairman (1992- 1994) was Academy-Award winning actor Cliff Robertson. Mr. Robertson was followed as Chairman by Gen. Chuck Yeager (1994 – 2003). Of course Gen. Yeager is known as a famous test and combat pilot and the first person to fly faster than the speed of sound. Now, Harrison Ford has taken over for Gen. Yeager.

“It’s daunting to step into General Yeager’s shoes, but aviation is about learning new skills and the satisfaction that comes with practicing them and doing better,” Mr. Ford said upon accepting the position.

Mr. Ford earned his pilot’s certificate in 1996 and joined EAA. Since then he has also earned a several additional ratings including seaplane, rotorcraft (helicopters) and an instrument rating. He also owns several aircraft including a deHavilland Beaver and Bell helicopter.

“Young Eagles gives kids a view of the world they’ve never seen before,” Ford said. “Each Young Eagle flight is an opportunity to excite kids by sharing a passion for flight and to show them that they, too, can learn the skills to participate in aviation.”

As Chairman, Mr. Ford promotes the EAA Young Eagles program when possible and plans to attend the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Fly-In. Mr. Ford has flown more than 280 Young Eagles since becoming involved in the program in 2001.

For More Information

Ford Named Young Eagles Chariman

Read Harrison’s Bio

Cliff Robertson

Gen. Chuck Yeager