Transfer student Kris Hansen enrolled at the University aspiring to earn a major in finance and harboring a passion for flying.

Surprisingly, on a campus as large as the University’s, Hansen, a junior from Fullerton, Calif., crossed paths with two other aviation enthusiasts.

Reid Columbia, a University graduate who now works with the Georgia Flight Academy, and Jim Bolton, a sophomore from Johnson City, Tenn., took action and decided to reinstate the Flying Club of UGA for the third time, with the help of faculty adviser William Bender.

A year later, with the advisement of Bender, Hansen and Bolton continue to hold leadership roles as president and vice president.

The 50-member organization, in spite of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, continues to stay active on and off the ground.

“General aviation is actually safer now,” Bender said. “Terrorists are less likely to hop onto a two seater than a jet liner, anyway.”

Consisting of mainly private pilots, the club did not experience as many regulations as commercial aviation.

“The big setback is money. Although this is a problem, it is not cause enough for (flying enthusiasts) not enjoying their hobby,” Bolton said.

Members receive discounted training and aircraft rental from the Georgia Flight Academy and, for other expenses, they either work summers or have help from parents.

If the students have any problems other than finances, they can talk with Bender.

Bender said although he is not a certified flight instructor, he still is able to relate to the students through the listserv, club meetings and other activities.

For any skeptics who require more reasons to join, the purpose of the club is to educate, offer opportunities to fly to different shows, meet other enthusiasts and above all else to have fun, Bolton said.

Students interested in further information can e-mail Kris Hansen at instig8@uga.edu or look up the club on the internet at (www.uga.edu/flyingdawgs).

For those who want to become involved, meetings are held at the Tate Student Center every other Wednesday at 7 p.m.