Mark Long Trust supports the last JACs of the year
Thanks to the generous support of the Mark Long Trust, more young disabled people have had the opportunity to experience the world of aviation first-hand through Aerobility’s final Junior Aviation Courses (JAC) of the year. Beth Long, Trustee Secretary of the Mark Long Trust said “We believe that aviation can open doors, build confidence and show young people that there really are no limits to what they can achieve. It is wonderful to see the impact these Junior Aviation Courses have on young disabled people, giving them the opportunity to experience flight, discover new possibilities and, most importantly, believe in themselves.”
With one course held at Aerobility Site FlyNqy Pilot Training based at Cornwall Airport Newquay, and another held at Aerobility HQ Blackbushe Airport, both saw the great summer of 2026 to a close. The week for the Blackbushe participants was packed with opportunities to learn, fly and discover in an accessible, and friendly environment. They began by learning the fundamentals of flight before putting their new knowledge into practice, planning their own navigation flight. They then took to the skies with Aerobility instructors Chris and Rich, flying down to the South Coast — with even a visit to the beach along the way!
The group also got a behind-the-scenes visit to Bombardier at London Biggin Hill Airport, touring its impressive facilities. A visit to Aerobility’s friends at Fly A Spitfire provided another fascinating insight into the industry, before they headed home with a camera roll full of pictures and a mind full of possibilities.
The group watch an aeroplane take off at Blackbushe Airport
Flying a navigation after planning it as a group
Our partners Flynqy Pilot Training welcomed 3 JAC participants for the first time. This course was also a resounding success and saw many staff and volunteers come together to ensure the participants got the most out of their time spent there. The participants were able to take their new knowledge to the skies as they experienced flight for the first time and they optimised their time on the ground by using the virtual flight simulator.
“The Junior Aviation Course was an incredible opportunity for young people to be introduced to the world of aviation over a three-day course, and it was a privilege to offer this from Cornwall Airport Newquay for the first time this year.” Said Zara Dinnacombe, Director of Flynqy Pilot Training. “It was fantastic to watch the group grow in both confidence and knowledge throughout the course, whilst making new friends and connections along the way. Everyone left with huge smiles, new skills and a real sense of achievement, as well as a deeper understanding of the many opportunities within aviation. Many of this year’s participants have already returned for further experiences with Aerobility, which is fantastic to see, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they progress on their individual journeys.”
This incredible course would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our friends at Mark Long Trust. Their generous financial support enables us to continue to provide these valuable opportunities to deserving young disabled people.
“We are incredibly proud to support Aerobility and to help make these experiences possible. Seeing the enthusiasm, confidence and excitement of the participants reminds us exactly why we do what we do.” said Beth Long. “Together, we have ignited imaginations, inspired ambitions and left them reaching for the skies.”
Want to find out about the next Junior Aviation Course? Follow Aerobility on social media and sign up to our newsletter for the latest application information, coming soon in 2027!
The JAC Blackbushe group planned a flight to the coast and even managed a beach trip!
Cockpit view of a JAC participant landing at Cornwall Airport Newquay
The JAC Blackbushe group visiting Bombardier at London Biggin Hill Airport