AviCom 2023

The Patriots Point Flight Academy is proud to host the inaugural AviCom. Formed by the South Carolina Aviation High School Alliance, AviCom is a statewide competition for students in aviation and aerospace programs. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, January 31, and Wednesday, February 1, 2023, onboard the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier.

The first-of-its-kind competition will include simulated flight missions in Patriots Point’s state-of-the-art flight simulator, airman knowledge and aircraft identification tests, mission briefings, and professional development workshops. Those participating in the competition will experience Operation Overnight, where guests sleep aboard the USS Yorktown in the same bunks as sailors in World War II. Students will compete for a grand prize $1,000 flight training scholarship. Teams will also vie for first, second, and third place prizes totaling over $1,500 in gift cards and trophies.

Hands-on teacher activities include analysis and lesson plan development based on primary documents from the Patriots Point Collection of a WWII Corsair pilot that can be taken back to their classroom. This backstage pass to the Museum’s archives will include a certificate of completion towards renewal credits.

“The Flight Academy’s state-of-the-art technology and historical scenery makes for a truly unique educational experience. We’re honored to provide a place where students engage their skills to the highest of their ability at a competitive level.” - Ned Forney, Patriots Point Flight Academy Project Manager

The South Carolina Aeronautics Commission and Greenville Technical Charter High School are also partners in the competition.