Sponsored by EAA Chapter 80
In loving memory of James “Jim” Allen Beyer (January 20, 1974 – June 7, 2025) — a dedicated aviator, mentor, and lifelong champion of flight — EAA Chapter 80 is honored to offer the Jim Beyer Memorial Tailwheel Scholarship. Jim was a passionate pilot with more than three decades in aviation, a respected mentor in the general aviation community, and a guiding force behind efforts to inspire and support future aviators. His calm professionalism, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to helping others realize their dreams of flying continue to uplift all who love the sky.
The Jim Beyer Memorial Tailwheel Scholarship provides up to $1,500 toward training for a tailwheel endorsement, helping qualified pilots expand their skills and embrace the rich tradition of classic aircraft flying.
Scholarship Overview
- Award Amount: Up to $1,500 toward tailwheel training
- Sponsor: EAA Chapter 80
- Purpose: To honor Jim’s legacy by supporting pilots pursuing advanced aircraft handling skills and enriching their aviation experience
Application Window
- Opens: February 15th
- Closes: March 15th
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria:
- Hold a current FAA Private Pilot SEL Certificate (or higher rating)
- Have a current flight review per FAA regulations
- Be current on landings as Pilot in Command (PIC)
- Be a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
This scholarship celebrates Jim’s commitment to safety, education, and the joy of flight — a tribute that helps future aviators take the next step in their aviation journey. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated commitment to responsible flying and eagerness to grow as pilots within the EAA community and beyond.
Terms & Conditions
- The Jim Beyer Memorial Tailwheel Scholarship is administered by EAA Chapter 80.• The scholarship provides up to $1,500 to be used solely for tailwheel endorsement training.
- Funds will be disbursed directly to the flight instructor or flight school, or reimbursedupon submission of acceptable documentation, at the discretion of EAA Chapter 80.
- The selected recipient must complete all training no later than December 31, 2026. Unused funds after this date will be forfeited.
- The recipient must maintain eligibility requirements throughout the training period.
- The scholarship is non-transferable and may not be exchanged for cash or other training.
- EAA Chapter 80 reserves the right to withhold or revoke the scholarship if requirements are not met or if training is discontinued.
- By accepting the scholarship, the recipient agrees to allow EAA Chapter 80 to use their name and likeness for scholarship recognition and promotional purposes.
This scholarship is administered by EAA Chapter 80 in accordance with EAA chapter scholarship guidelines. Selection is conducted by a designated committee using documented evaluation criteria. Scholarship funds are restricted to flight training use and are disbursed directly to the training provider or reimbursed upon submission of approved documentation.
About Jim Beyer – A Legacy of Flight & Mentorship
James “Jim” Allen Beyer was a passionate aviator whose love of flying was matched only by his commitment to helping others grow in aviation. With more than three decades immersed in the aviation community, Jim embodied the spirit of grassroots general aviation — flying for the joy of it, the challenge of it, and the camaraderie it creates.
Jim was known as a steady, thoughtful pilot and a generous mentor. He believed deeply in continuous learning, sound airmanship, and passing along hard-earned knowledge to fellow pilots. Whether through formal instruction or informal hangar talk, Jim took pride in encouraging others to stretch their skills, fly safely, and stay curious.
Tailwheel flying reflected much of what Jim valued most: discipline, finesse, respect for fundamentals, and a strong connection to aviation’s roots. This scholarship honors Jim’s legacy by supporting pilots who share those values and who seek to grow not only as aviators, but as members of the broader aviation community.