FSDP Scholars at Blackbushe

Aerobility have just finished hosting Flying Scholarship’s for Disabled People (FSDP) two scholars Sylvia Wheeler and Mary Doyle. They were awarded twenty hours of tuition, and have spent the last three weeks learning to fly with us here at Blackbushe. Both ladies showed great promise and we hope they had a good time with us, Aerobility certainly enjoyed providing their instruction.

Mary decided to spend some extra time with us once she had completed her quota, and was rewarded for her extra effort with a first solo on her last day. Instructor Mike Owen takes up the story:

On the last day of Marys 3 week scholarship the wind changed so that runway 07R was in use – all her previous circuit training was on 25L. So Mary was initially thrown off her previous day’s excellent circuit standard by the new right hand view, but soon got into it.

After a good morning's work we had one last check circuit which went well. Then Mary was happy to try so off she went.

View from the tower was that she did a great circuit and a good landing. The photo shows her smile - well done Mary - congratulations.

And so say all of us, we look forward to welcoming you back to complete your PPL.

Aerobility Ballooning Weekend at Enham Alamein

Aerobility recently held its first Ballooning Weekend, and thanks to some reasonable weather it was considered a great success. In all, five flights were completed, in what is known as a ‘duo chair’. Everyone joined in for some early starts and much was learnt. Unfortunately, the wind was a little too strong for some planned tethered flights, but that didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits. We now feel that the concept of teaching disabled people to fly has been proven, so the next step is to secure funding for next year.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Brian Jones and the crews for donating their time and equipment, and to Chandra McGowan and the staff at Enham who ensured that the accommodation and food was delivered in an efficient and friendly manner. What a great atmosphere (not forgetting the specially backed cake).

The last word goes to participant flyer Graham Mann “It has certainly boosted my self-confidence, as I feel like I can take on the World now.”