Handiflight Switzerland

Unfortunately the weather in Switzerland last week was not great and we were unable to fly our aircraft over to Gruyere as planned. Mike Miller-Smith and Roger Dickson took part by road and Trish Amess was able to find a commercial flight. Despite the lack of flying it was great to catch up with our European friends. In addition this year we were lucky enough to get to know some of the new invited country representatives such as USA, Australia, New Zealand, Poland and Sweden. It was also great to see our fellow UK representatives from Walking on Air with gliding instructor and Aerobility member Steve Derwin.

Highlights included the meeting with the FAI General Secretary and developing the beginnings of a global information network for disabled aviators. Jet Man Yves Rossy thrilled as he talked us through the development and what it is like to fly his incredible jet powered wing.

Thanks as ever to Daniel and Sarah Ramseier for their tireless and effective organisation, to the Aero club of Gruyere and to all the volunteers and sponsors including the event's main supporter Breitling. Roll on July 2013!

Aerobility Office Closure 17th July – 24th July

Aerobility will be represented at the Fourth International Disabled Pilots Fly-In to be held in Gruyere Switzerland. As a result, the office will be closed for the period 17th to 24th July. We hope to be on top of outstanding issues before we close, but invariably there will be short delays in our response for the next week, for which we apologise. Rest assured we will work hard to clear any backlog as soon as we can after the 24th. For those flying during this week, any last minute changes will be communicated to you direct by your instructor.

Thank you for your understanding.

Pictures from the Mobility Roadshow

Stop Press –The Aerobility stand is stealing the show, the simulator and the balloon basket are certainly attracting the crowds with lots of subsequent trial flight and membership interest.

Watch the slideshow..

Aerobility exhibits at The Mobility Roadshow

Aerobility is delighted to be appearing as an exhibitor at The Mobility Roadshow.

The Mobility Roadshow (www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk) held at the East of England Showground in Peterborough on the 30^th June, 1^st and 2^nd July is a showcase of mobility and lifestyle products and services. The event is organised by the registered charity Mobility Choice which was established in February 1998 by the Department of Transport.

The aim of The Mobility Roadshow is to give anyone with a mobility problem - drivers, passengers, adults and children- the chance to see what is available to help solve that problem and most importantly to try out and evaluate the options. Exhibitors include many of the major motor manufacturers, plus vehicle adaptation and conversion specialists, mobility aids manufacturers, information and advice services, charities, mobile insurance specialists, clothing companies, plus sports, travel and leisure options.

Visitors to the Aerobility stand in the main hall will be able to try for themselves two exciting developments:

• Flight Simulator

For the first time, Aerobility, in conjunction with the Virtual Flight Centre, will be providing a full flight simulator enabling people to get a feel for what it is really like to fly one of Aerobility’s aircraft. Any visitor who can transfer to the cockpit will be able to try their hand at ‘Flying’ a Piper PA28. The simulator will be complete with a hand control for those not able to use their legs. A transfer board and hoist will be available to assist access if required.

• Accessible Balloon Basket

In the near future, Aerobility hope to be providing, what for them, is a completely new venture; Hot Air Ballooning. Our friends at Lindstrand Balloons have made available their Panoramic Basket especially designed to take wheelchair users and allow them an unparallel view through special Perspex sides. Visitors to the Aerobility stand can try the basket for size; let us know their views, and register their interest.

Mike Miller-Smith, CEO of Aerobility said:

“Aerobility has chosen The Mobility Roadshow to announce that it will shortly be operating an additional aircraft which can carry heavier disability equipment such as electric wheelchairs and a portable hoist. This gives every participant, whatever their disability, the chance to fly to new destinations and participate fully in touring flights alongside other more physically able aviators.”