Young Eagles take flight at St. Joseph airport

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (KQTV) -- On Saturday morning, Chapter 1479 XP Skyriders organized the Young Eagles Free Airplane Rides, inviting children for introductory flights at Rosecrans Memorial Airport.

The Experimental Aircraft Association sponsored the event, giving children ages 8 to 17 the chance to fly over St. Joseph.

Marcus Tyrrell, event coordinator and chapter president, led the rally.

"We do these twice a year," Tyrrell said. "Typically one in the late spring, and then we do one in autumn."

Flights lasted 15 to 30 minutes, following Highway 36 and passing the Shoppes at North Village in St. Joseph.

"The flight was amazing," Young Eagle Adalynn Paxton said. "When we took off, it was a little nerve-racking. But when we got in the air, it was so fun."

In three hours, nearly 50 children had the chance to fly around the city.