August 19 marks National Aviation Day in the United States – a holiday established in 1939 to honor the growth and advancements in aviation. For the third year in a row, Envoy teamed up with AirlineGeeks and Avenger Flight Group (AFG) to invite a few lucky aviation enthusiasts to take flight in our full-motion flight simulators (SIMs).

Aviation fans from all over the country eagerly entered for a shot at this unique opportunity. From hundreds of entries, twelve lucky winners were chosen to participate in this exclusive event – some traveling from as far as Utah, Washington, Kentucky and California.

Winners were divided into groups of four and each group spent about an hour in the SIMs, taking turns in the “flight deck” under the instruction of Envoy Check Airman Captain Dennis Long.

“I love any opportunity to connect with and encourage aspiring aviators,” said Dennis. “This is the third year I’ve had the privilege of participating, and it’s always rewarding to see the excitement when the SIM takes off.”

Beyond the thrill of the simulators, participants also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the AFG facility and received valuable career advice from Envoy Talent Acquisition Recruiter Dakota Carpenter, First Officer Mitch McKie and Air Operations Recruitment Manager Kipp Swannie. To round out the day, guests were treated to a catered lunch courtesy of Envoy and refreshing snow cones provided by AFG.

This year’s National Aviation Day celebration was about more than time in the flight deck – it was a chance to inspire, connect and celebrate aviation. A special thank you to AirlineGeeks and Avenger Flight Group for helping us create another unforgettable event, and to all who traveled from near and far to join us!