Visit To The Airport Shows Girl Scouts The Sky Isn't The Limit

HARRISON, NY — Six local Daisy Girl Scouts got a rare glimpse behind the scenes at the airport and got the inside scoop from role models who are helping to chart a course for the next generation to soar.

This month, Million Air Westchester Airport and Women in Aviation teamed up to host six young aviation enthusiasts to tour its fixed-based operator (FBO) and hangar. The girls were taught about the aircrafts, hangar maintenance, the responsibilities of the valet team and how to become a pilot. The troops had the opportunity to connect with other girls and professional women excited about aviation.

At the end of the day, the troop earned their "Aviation Fun Patch."

“As a Board Member of Women in Aviation and a leader in our Million Air Westchester location — I absolutely feel a responsibility to young women who might be interested in a field where females are underrepresented," Million Air Lauren Rones-Payne told Patch. "I was welcomed as a newcomer to this industry later in life, and I am spreading that same message - every opportunity is available to these young girls we take around our facility - from line service all the way to chief pilot, women are advancing and excelling at each step. I am proud of what we have achieved and will always share that experience with anyone coming through our door."

The Girl Scouts Daisy program is designed to help girls in kindergarten and first grade build social skills, keep them active and provide stability so they can have fun and "become their best selves." The organization has long been known for its commitment to challenging stereotypes by providing girls of all ages with unique, interactive and engaging programs.

With the help of Women in Aviation, they introduced the new Aviation Fun Badge for Girl Scouts to enhance youth outreach efforts and aviation learning programs to help future flyers spread their wings.