Aerobility launches brand new programme Aspire-Ability

Aerobility is proud to launch Aspire Ability, a new and exciting programme powered by flight, designed to accelerate the aspirations of young people with disabilities. With 100 places available across the country, this four-part programme has been carefully curated to help participants gain unique aviation-based experiences, building confidence, and creating strong foundations for their future lives and careers.

 “Aspire is a truly unique aviation powered programme for disabled young people.” said Mike Miller-Smith, CEO of Aerobility. “Launching this at NAIDEX and sharing this opportunity with the disability community is very exciting.”

This course harnesses the power of aviation to support people aged between 12–18 through a variety of different experiences. Participants are encouraged to follow the natural flow of the course, beginning with a Virtual Aviation Experience which can be taken from the comfort of their own home. This is where an instructor joins the participant via video call and an online flight simulator, introducing flying training in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The next step for Aspire participants will be to take their virtual skills and apply them in a real cockpit. Aerobility currently operates from four UK bases where Aspire students can take to the skies in an accessible, adapted aircraft with an experienced instructor, allowing them to experience the magic of flight first-hand. Taking control of a real aeroplane drives an innate sense of focus and freedom, something that will stay with the participants far beyond the cockpit.

The journey continues with exclusive site visits to aviation organisations near the Aerobility bases. These visits will provide an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at real aviation companies and the diverse careers that power the industry. By showcasing the breadth of opportunities available, Aspire-Ability aims to highlight that aviation offers far more than just the role of a pilot. It also reinforces an important message: a more inclusive industry, one that actively welcomes and supports disabled talent, creates a stronger and more innovative workplace for all.

To round off the experience and ensure Aspire participants feel prepared for their futures, they will also have the chance to join a virtual online career talk hosted by aviation professionals. Participants will hear about the speakers’ personal journeys within the industry and will be invited to interact with them during a Q&A session, ensuring they get the most out of their time on the call.

This programme has been made possible by the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority’s Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund, which supports outreach projects contributing to the Generation Aviation programme.

Sophie Jones, Head of Customer Experience at the CAA and STEM sponsor said “We are delighted to be working with Aerobility through the Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund, supporting their innovative programme. It’s a fantastic initiative that champions inclusion and opportunity, and we’re proud to support it as part of the challenge fund.”

With 100 fully-funded places available on the programme, Aspire-Ability is expected to be highly sought after. However, Aerobility wants to reassure all applicants that no prior experience is required. All that’s needed is curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. From there, Aerobility will provide the support and opportunities to help participants discover what they are capable of, inspiring the next generation of aviation inclusion and talent.