‘Vinny’ Helps Kids Learn About Planes

The hangar doors slid open and out rolled “Vinny,” a purple and orange airplane billed by Van Nuys airport officials as the Southland’s first kid-proof, kid-friendly educational airplane.

With the Monroe High School Band from North Hills blaring the National Anthem in the background, about 50 kids from Latona Avenue Elementary School in Montecito Heights waved American flags and cheered Vinny’s introduction.

Vinny will offer a hands-on learning experience to thousands of children who tour the airport each year, said Van Nuys Airport Manager Ronald Kochevar.

“We are extremely excited to offer children the opportunity to explore the world of aviation in a completely safe and friendly environment,” Kochevar said. “It will be nice to have it where kids can touch it as much as they want and some can even get in the cockpit and play with the controls.”

Modeled after the cartoon character found in Van Nuys Airport’s coloring books, Vinny’s components are labeled with white letters, indicating the cockpit, propeller, landing gear and aileron.

Having only 53 hours of flight time, the experimental two-seat Firefly aircraft was donated by the North Valley Occupational Center Aircraft Mechanics School on condition that it never be flown again, Kochevar said.

Today, the only things keeping Vinny from getting airborne are a pilot and an engine.

After the roll-out ceremony, the children got a chance to examine the airplane up close.

“It’s cool and looks really neat,” said Junior Aguila, 7. “I like the inside controls and the outside colors.”

Vinny will be available for children and adults participating in the airport’s free guided tour program. Tours are available at 9:30 and 11 a.m. on weekdays and occasional Saturdays to groups of 15 or more. Reservations can be made by calling (818) 785-8838.