Children can get a taste of aviation Saturday when the Experimental Aviation Association sponsors its annual International Young Eagles Day program at the Monroe Airport.The event, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., features free plane rides for children ages 8 to 17. Young Eagles Day is designed to increase interest in aviation among youth. Dick Knapinski, of the local EAA chapter, said studies show children are five times more likely to pursue a career in aviation if they participate in the Young Eagles program.

Capt. Chesley Sullenberger and First Officer Jeff Skiles from US Airways Flight 1549, which crash-landed in the Hudson River in January 2009, are co-chairmen of the Young Eagles program.In addition to the free flights to children, there will be displays of a National Guard helicopter and a World War II-vintage C-46 plane. Parental or guardian permission is required for children to take the flights.Monroe Airport is at 3900 Paul J. Helms Drive. For information about the Young Eagles program, check www.youngeagles.org.