Three Houston Teenagers to Participate in US Navy Summer Flight Program

HOUSTON (KIAH) – Three teenagers from the Houston area, Vilius Bagdzevicius from Memorial High School, Andy Chang Stephen F. Austin High School in Sugarland, and Leanna Johnson from Dayton High School are embarking on a remarkable journey this summer. They will participate in an intensive eight-week U.S. Navy Summer Flight Academy aviation program at Delaware State University, June 9-August 2. Their goal is to obtain their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) private pilot license upon completion of the program.

Bagdzevicius, Chang and Johnson are part of a prestigious group of 28 high-achieving 11th and 12th grade students across the country chosen for this popular initiative. Launched in 2021 by the Commander of the Naval Air Forces (CNAF), the program aims to broaden exposure to Naval Aviation. Through partnerships with various universities, the Navy provides comprehensive flight training to students free of charge, covering expenses totaling approximately $28,000 per participant. After completing the program, each student not only earns their private pilot certification, but also earns five college credits.

Funded by the Department of the Navy, the Summer Flight Academy targets students engaged in the Navy and Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, consistent with STEM principles. This initiative, endorsed by the Office of Naval Research’s Naval STEM Coordination Office, highlights the Navy’s commitment to investing in STEM education, outreach and workforce initiatives.

Tamara Graham, Deputy Director and Program Manager of the CNAF Flight Academy, highlights the program’s mission to inspire and introduce exceptional young talents from diverse communities to career prospects in naval aviation. She said Bagdzevicius, Chang and Johnson illustrate remarkable potential and the Navy proudly supports their journey in this field.

During the eight-week program, each student will participate in rigorous aviation courses totaling a minimum of 32 classroom hours.

Additionally, they will complete more than 40 hours of flight training, flying either a Vulcanair V.10 single-engine aircraft or a Piper Warrior (PA-28). As part of the certification process, each student will complete 17 hours of solo flying, to further solidify their aviation skills and knowledge.