The Need to Continue Diversity in Aviation Unites Community to save Historic African American Flight School and Enhance Youth Programs  

Metropolitan Aviation Presents the “Keeping the Tuskegee Aviation Dream Alive Fundraising Luncheon”  

Metropolitan Washington, DC – (May 2009) More than 200 aviation professionals, civic leaders, businesses and flight enthusiasts will join forces at the Keeping the Tuskegee Aviation Dream Alive Fundraising Luncheon, sponsored by Metropolitan Aviation, Inc. The luncheon will be held at the National Golf Club at Tantallon in Fort Washington, MD from 11:30-3:30 on Saturday, June 27, 2009. This collaboration was formed to continue Metropolitan Aviation Inc.’s mission in providing exposure to youth, especially those least fortunate and underserved, to careers in the aviation industry. Graduates of this program have become certified pilots, air traffic controllers, A/P mechanics and have also pursued other related fields. Individual tickets are priced at $65.00 and corporate sponsorships are available. A portion of the proceeds will benefit disadvantaged youth programs to expose youth to flying and aviation careers.  

The luncheon will feature Angie Reese-Hawkins, President/CEO of the Metropolitan Washington YMCA, as the Mistress of Ceremonies. In addition to her commitment to YMCA youth programs, Ms. Hawkins and the YMCA has supported the “Let’s Go Up to the 21st Century Youth and Aviation Program.” According to Richard Jones, retired FAA Air Traffic Control Supervisor and Executive Director of Let’s Go Up to the 21st Century, “it is only through programs such as the Metropolitan Aviation flying club, Tuskegee Airman Youth and aviation program and Aviation Career Education (ACE) Camps that we will be able to ensure minority participation in these technical career fields.” Although minorities represent about 12 percent of the U.S. workforce, less than 5 percent are aviation professionals. The Keeping the Tuskegee Aviation Dream Alive Fundraising Luncheon will also highlight the achievements of accomplished aviation professionals. Honored guests include Col. George London and Col. Charles McGee, Retired U.S. Air Force pilots. In an effort to maintain continuous support of aspiring African American aviation professionals, the Keeping the Aviation Dream Alive committee, which includes Metropolitan Aviation staff, retired pilots, flight students and community volunteers, is soliciting the support of the entire Washington metropolitan community to show their support by attending the luncheon or by making a donation. For more information about the fundraising effort, contact Herbert H. Jones, III at 703-780-9979 or 703-403-4637. Metropolitan Aviation, Inc. is an African-American owned and operated company dedicated to fulfilling the legacy of its founders, who include veterans of the world renowned Tuskegee Airmen. Incorporated and based in the State of Maryland since 1986, Metropolitan Aviation, Inc. continues the proud tradition of introducing African Americans and underserved communities to flight through education and certified flight instruction. Alumni of its programs serve among the elite pilots in our nation’s commercial fleets.