(BIVN) – The science of aviation was celebrated in Hilo on Sunday during ʻImiloa’s 13th birthday pāʻina.

The free family event involved presentations, demonstrations, and simulations – all centered on flying machines. KTA Super Stores was a primary sponsor.

The first presentation of the day was given by pilot and State Senator Kai Kahele, who spoke about his efforts in support of a new Aeronautical Science Program at the University of Hawaiʻi- Hilo. Accoring to the UH website:

The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Sciences will be offered provisionally beginning in Fall 2019 pending completion of WSCUC accreditation. The degree will offer students two different pathways into commercial aviation, a Commercial Professional Pilot Training concentration and a Commercial Aerial Information Technology concentration. Both concentrations share a common core of commercial aviation courses for the first 3 years, coupled with a final year of specialization.

‘Imiloa, part of the University of Hawaii at Hilo, opened its doors on February 20, 2006.