Lakewood Airport on Cedarbridge Avenue has launched an initiative to offer educational tours to local school groups, aiming to spark interest in aviation among youngsters. These guided tours come with conditions for adequate adult supervision to ensure a safe and informative experience for the students.
Kevin McKenzie, the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at Lakewood Airport, elaborated on the tour activities. “We don’t allow anyone to touch the airplanes but we will get close to the aircraft and answer all questions concerning the various items visible on the exterior of the aircraft,” McKenzie said. During the tour, he guides the group past club planes secured on the ramp, explaining unique features like why each plane is ‘tied down’ to prevent being carried away by strong winds.
In addition to general aircraft knowledge, the tour aims to educate students on the unique characteristics of specific planes housed at the Lakewood Airport. This includes features like the twin tail on an Ercoupe and the reverse slant on a Mooney’s tail. The tours are interactive, with guides available to answer any questions the students may have.
McKenzie expressed hope that these tours would not only educate but inspire. “Hopefully, we may inspire a yearning for aviation in our youth and possibly in adults as well,” he said.
For schools interested in scheduling a tour, Kevin McKenzie, the On-site manager, can be reached at 732-363-6400 between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to discuss availability and convenient times for both the schools and the airport staff.