ICON A5 Visits Lawson Marriott Elementary

The ICON A5 Introduction to Flight Team traveled to Lawson Marriott Elementary School on Thursday, April 28 to teach students about aviation and introduce careers in the field.

A total of 56 students from third and sixth grade participated in the ICON A5 program and had a hands on learning experience inside the aircraft. The visit connected with the third grade students’ lessons on Amelia Earhart and an exploring flight unit. Sixth grade students have been learning about a variety of careers and discussed the many career pathways in aviation.

“The exposure that this experience brings to our students offers them a new avenue to explore for future careers or trades in aviation,” Coordinator Jessica Harris said. “The ICON A5 Introduction to Flight Team did an incredible job getting kids excited about careers in aviation and flight concepts.”

Transportation Operator and Presenter Kim Anderson drove the transit van that is connected to the ICON A5 trailer and helped setup the display at Lawson Marriott Elementary. PR and Education Coordinator David Halstead led the presentation and explained the flight controls while each student was seated in the aircraft. Halstead discussed how airplanes fly and answered questions from the students and teachers.

PR and Education Manager Betty Wilson talked with the students following their time in the ICON A5 about what they learned and the many careers available in aviation. The DOAV staff provided wooden balsa airplanes for the students and aviation calendars for teachers and staff.

The ICON A5 is an amphibious light sport aircraft that the DOAV PR and Education Team take across the Commonwealth of Virginia to educate youth about aviation. For more information on how to get this free program to your school or local airport, email Betty Wilson.