Our Flyers’ Experiences
Ethan
It was always his dream to fly with the RAF, but after he was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and Postural Tachycardia Syndrome in 2017 he had to give up on that. His symptoms flared in 2020 and due to that and COVID lockdowns he withdrew and gave up on school. But he has now started college and had his first flight with Aerobility in September. He's a different teenager altogether now, he's got hope for a potential future as a pilot and, it's changed his whole outlook on life.
Mark
“I was medically discharged from the Navy in 2004 (aged 23 years) with severe back and neck injuries following a powerboat crash whilst in service and have been in pain every day since. Two years ago, my back gave out and I temporarily lost the use of my legs - I have always been very active and self-reliant, so this was a huge blow.”
Christian
Christian has always been ambitious. Following complications at birth Christian was born with physical disabilities, unfortunately these complications have proved difficult for Christian throughout his life, especially proving difficult when looking for work in the fields of aviation and automotive.
Clive
Clive says:
“I have had a passion for aviation all my life and was in the Air Cadets with a view to joining the RAF. I broke my neck in a motorcycle accident aged 17 though, and despite recovering enough to walk with crutches, life and a job in radio put the flying on hold until a late 40s mid-life crisis and an internet search led to Aerobility. Learning to fly has been amazing and challenging and despite a frustrating 9-month break in training for Winter and Covid, going solo in October (2020) was undoubtedly one of the best experiences of my life. I couldn’t do this without the support of Aerobility and once we can fly again, I am keener than ever to continue my training towards hopefully a PPL.”
Bradley
Bradley Brockies, flew solo for the first in August 2020. In doing so, he became the youngest student to fly solo through the charity. Bradley, who has autism, said:
“I’m hugely proud of achieving my aim of flying solo on my 16th Birthday and thank Aerobility for all the help and support they have given me in helping me achieve my dream. After school, I want work in the aviation industry and hope to become a pilot.”