ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – You might have notice a lot of airplanes in flight in Rochester Saturday morning. As it turns out, they were carrying precious cargo.

The Young Eagles Rally was held at the Rochester International Airport and more than 150 youth were invited to take a free ride on a general aviation airplane. A total of 16 pilots donated their time and experience to give the kids A 15 minute ride.

“I’m not expecting them to become pilots have a lifelong dream but just realize there’s a lot you can do in Aviation and invest in it,” Young Eagles Coordinator Jim Owens said.

The event offered the kids an opportunity to learn more about aviation and take in the sights and sounds of the airplanes.

“I never have the chance to fly over Rochester and see how beautiful the city really is even though I live in and see it every single day,” attendee Mira Schrandt said.

After the kids completed their ride, they received a certificate and an aviation education scholarship if they decide to go into the field come college.