5 things to do at Saturday's Aviation Education Day at South Bend International Airport

SOUTH BEND — The public is invited to a take a free behind-the-scenes glimpse at different aspects of aviation from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at South Bend International Airport .

The airport and Corporate Wings will host the sixth annual Aviation Education Day at the Studebaker Hangar just west of the main terminal at 4817 Lincoln Way West. The event is free and open to the public.

More information and the full event description can be found here . Activities include:

Airfield tours, drone demonstrations and safety equipment

The event includes many family-friendly activities, resources, and more. Event highlights include airfield tours, two drone demonstrations by 19-year-old drone pilot Brady Ornat, Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) demonstrations, commercial and general aviation aircraft displays, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) displays.

Virtual reality and actual reality explorations

Attendees will be able to board a SkyWest Airlines aircraft, and a variety of other aircraft will be exhibited. Virtual reality simulated experiences will be offered, and various aviation industry representatives will be present for the career fair and exhibition.

Scouting merit badges

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from all councils will have the opportunity to earn their Aviation Merit Badge. Scouts must be accompanied by a troop leader, parent, or guardian and should arrive at 9 a.m. They will have a separate entrance from the general public. If all of the requirements are not completed during the duration of the event, arrangements for completion can be made by reaching out to the council for a merit badge counselor at a later time.

First-time flights for children

A limited number of Young Eagles introductory flights will be available for children ages 8-17 on a first come, first served basis. Registration, along with a parent/guardian signature, is required at check-in.

Food and free parking

Food and beverages will be for sale, and parking in the airport's long-term lot will be validated the day of the event.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: 5 things to do at Saturday's Aviation Education Day at South Bend International Airport