Aviation and the Trail to Eagle
Aviation is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Aviation Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Aviation. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Define 'aircraft.' Describe some kinds and uses of aircraft today.
- b.Explain the operation of piston, turboprop, and jet engines.
- c.Describe the major components and flight control surfaces of an airplane.
- 2
Do the following:
- a.Explain how an airfoil generates lift and how drag and gravity affect flight.
- b.Explain the roles of the four forces of flight.
- c.Demonstrate how the three flight control surfaces operate.
- 3
Explain the operation and uses of at least five flight instruments.
- 4
Discuss the purposes and functions of various kinds of airports.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in aviation.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Aviation Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Aviation, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Aviation is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 11 Aviation requirements for you.
Aviation Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Aviation merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Aviation is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Aviation merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Aviation in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Aviation merit badge?
Aviation is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Aviation can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Aviation merit badge have?
Aviation has 5 main requirements with 6 sub-requirements, for 11 items in total.
