King Schools, the flight instruction empire founded by John and Martha King, announced a pair of initiatives aimed at increasing the pilot population and enhancing the sense of community among those within it this week at the Sun ’n’ Fun Fly-In in Lakeland, Fla. A free eBook, So You Want to Learn to Fly, introduced at the show, covers all aspects of attaining a pilot’s license, written in a fun and easy-to-read style. The book is available through the King Schools website and iTunes book store.

“So many people have a dream of learning to fly, but don’t know where to get started,” said John King. “We wanted to ensure that no one is held back from pursuing their dreams simply because they don't have the right guide to help them through the process."

The company also introduced a new online community intended as a virtual gathering spot for pilots and aspiring aviators, filled with flight-training news, videos, safety information and pilot forums such as “Key Your Mic,” where questions can be posted and answered. “The forum is monitored by King pilots and CFIs, so you can count on the quality of advice you get there,” said Martha King.