Air show stunt pilot inspires children to pursue aviation careers

ROME, Georgia(WDEF) – The Wings over North Georgia Air show in Rome is always a big event for families to enjoy and learn about aviation. But it’s also a special time for one pilot to inspire children to consider aviation careers.

Every year, stunt pilot John Klatt delivers an amazing performance at air shows around the country. But the Wings Over North Georgia Air Show is always personal for Klatt.

"Coming back to this air show year after year is an honor for me. Because it’s about giving back to the community," Klatt said

Friday morning while most pilots were grounded by fog, Klatt gave back to the community by taking the time to teach more than 100 Air Force Junior ROTC kids about the world of aviation. His goal was to inspire the children to become future aviators.

"If I can connect with one kids this weekend, it makes the weekend worthwhile. Just one kids that’s inspired and maybe wants to pursue his or her dreams; it’s worth while coming here this weekend," Klatt said.

"It really interest me. Even if I don’t become a pilot, it can be be a hobby and I really like it. It’s cool," Air Force Junior ROTC member Flower Rangel.

"It really makes you think twice about what you would be missing if you didn’t enter a career in aerospace," said Air Force Junior ROTC member Kaiwan Therash.

"If they set there mind to it and if they set goals and make smart choices; the sky is the limit," Klatt said.

Klatt along with many other stunt pilots; including the Air Force Thunderbirds can be seen at the air show this weekend.