Sophomore Brody Ricks operates a 1953 Cessna 195 on April 16, 2023. Photo used with permission from William Nelson.

As the plane speeds up and all three wheels leave the ground, Brody Ricks takes flight. 

“I’ve been flying for about four years now.  Aviation has always sparked my interest since I was young,” said sophomore Brody Ricks.

Brody attends flight school two days a week at Currituck County Regional Airport. At school, he learns different maneuvers and how to navigate air traffic. He flies with instructor William Nelson, who is a certified flight instructor and manager of the airport. In the air, Brody’s instructor quizzes him on different aspects of flying. 

“Flight school requires a lot of math and calculations,” said Brody. 

Flight school also requires a lot of time, dedication and money for Brody. 

“I hope to sign a contract with Delta Airlines, they will compensate me for all of my flight school costs,” said Brody. “Once I get all my ratings, like my commercial rating, I would like to fly with Delta.” 

Brody currently operates on a variety of private aircraft and awaits to officially receive his private pilot license at 17 years old.

“I mainly operate a 1946 J-3 Piper Cub, but I also fly a variety of different aircraft like a Baron B55 twin,” said Brody. 

In addition to flying, Brody also plays varsity golf for Ocean Lakes. He has qualified for regionals in the two years he’s played for the school. Like flying, golf also gained his interest at a young age.

“I’ve been playing golf since I was about four; golf has always been a sport for me to relax and take control, just like flying an aircraft,” said Brody.