“Papa Blu" is the Chicago Department of Aviation's one-of-a-kind community outreach vehicle. This 36-foot mobile classroom brings the world of aviation directly to Chicago's 77 community areas and beyond. Year-round, the bright blue bus sparks curiosity in young minds, connects students with career pathways, and introduces professionals and entrepreneurs to business opportunities in the aviation industry. Wherever it rolls, Papa Blu delivers inspiration, education, and access to the future of aviation.
Among the most popular features of the ADA-compliant bus are two flight simulators that provide a hands-on aviation tutorial to people of all ages. With assistance from CDA Workforce Development staff members, children and adults receive an interactive experience of what it is like to pilot a plane. The simulators aren't just fun for kids — they captivate entire families. Inside the bus, visitors can also explore aviation-themed games and activity books designed to spark curiosity and excitement about flight.
For students and young professionals, Papa Blu has resources that advertise for CDA job openings and internships, as well as connections to aviation training programs. For Chicago entrepreneurs who may be interested in operating concessions or bidding for contracts at Chicago's airports, the bus provides a wide range of information and resources that can offer technical assistance, including how to become certified, how to respond to RFPs, and general information on the procurement process.
The CDA's first community outreach bus, “Big Blu," was unveiled in 2022, and has since made appearances at dozens of local events.