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Interest in aviation takes flight

One day last fall, a freight driver called the main number at Tallulah Falls School to find out where to deliver a flight simulator. 

After being bounced around a bit, the call landed with Mrs. Lowry in the Boarding Office. 

She quickly cleared up the mystery – the specialty item belonged not in a classroom but to TFS senior Seagan McKibben. 

A birthday gift from his father shipped from Washington State, the package arrived and quickly saw heavy use by the aspiring aviator. 

McKibben’s dream to fly is shared by several Tallulah Falls School students, the majority of whom are planning to pursue aviation as a career path through application to a military academy or colleges or universities with ROTC programs. 

McKibben’s first-choice college is the University of Michigan where he plans to enroll in the ROTC program. 

Thanks to McKibben, an aviation club, believed to be the first in school history, is now in motion.

While most of the members aim to experience flight as a pilot, some joined the club to learn more about the field in general. Tower operation, engineering and other related areas are on the table for exploration, McKibben says. 

Accompanied by a dorm counselor, McKibben flies locally at the Habersham County Airport. So far, he has 30 hours of flight time. 

A recent field trip introduced Mirko Radic of Serbia to his first sky-based adventure through the local Young Eagles program, which sponsors free flights for youth ages 8-17. 

“My life goal since I was seven years old was to become a professional commercial airline pilot,”  Radic said. “I decided to chase my dreams and come to the United States. I knew if I came to the U.S., I would have so many options that would help me reach my dream. As soon as I got accepted into TFS, I started doing research on how to position myself correctly when it comes to the education for becoming a pilot.”

Club members will also explore the building and flying of remote-controlled model airplanes and other educational activities. 

Short term, McKibben wants to establish the club on a solid foundation and long-term, he hopes the club will thrive beyond his leadership.