Averett University Aeronautics reveals new plane at Aviation Day celebration

DANVILLE, Va. (WDBJ) - Averett University’s Aeronautics Department celebrated its annual Aviation Day with students, alumni, and their families on Friday.

Pilots who fly all over the globe came back down to their stomping grounds for the special occasion and spoke to students about how to take off into the world of flight in the aviation industry.

“When prospective students are starting out, a lot of them don’t know much about the industry,” said Travis Williams, Averett chief flight instructor. “There’s so many intricacies, but it’s all those other details that our alumni can help them with.”

“It’s one of those industries where, sadly, it’s who you know, and we have such a good network here,” said Erin Hayes, Averett junior in Aviation Business. “That way, I can talk to them about their experiences and how I can follow in their footsteps. I don’t think if I was at a bigger university, I would have that opportunity.”

During the ceremony, Averett’s newest plane made a grand entrance, a Piper Seminole Twin Engine Airplane.

The addition comes after seeing an elevation in enrollment, rising from around 45 students in 2005 to 120 students today.

“I think the word has gotten out that there’s a demand in the industry, whether it’s for pilots or mechanics. I think Averett’s name recognition has gotten out there over the last 15 or 20 years, as well. So, I think that’s what’s spawned that growth,” added Williams.

Sam Gibson, a junior in high school, says he can picture himself attending Averett’s flight school after seeing what’s in store.

“The idea of flying a lot just seems really cool,” said Gibson. “Being a pilot seems like a good career I want to do. So, I just thought I’d check it out, see what they have to offer, and it’s looking pretty good.”

They say they will continue to add new planes to the fleet as the aeronautics program grows.