Virtual Aviation Experience - anywhere for everyone

The Virtual Aviation Experience is not currently taking applications.

Please re-visit this webpage late summer for an update!

Boy flys the virtual PA-28 through some valleys on his home computer.

Boy flys the virtual PA-28 through some valleys on his home computer.

Funded by the UK Government
VAE offers 3 x Free 60 Minute, one to one, Virtual sessions with an instructor, using an online simulator. Keep scrolling to find out more!
A screenshot of an approach on the virtual simulator into an Airport in France using Geo-Fs

A screenshot of an approach on the virtual simulator into an Airport in France using Geo-Fs

What? VAE starts on microsoft teams where you meet your instructor for a pre-flight breif before you take to the skies over the internet in the virtual simulator.
Who? Anyone aged 12 or over, living in the UK with a disability is eligible for this course. The experience can be tailored to suit your own goals whether that's to boost your confidence, learn new skills or to kickstart a new career!
How? All you need is a standard computer with microphone and camera with internet access. We do have a range of support equipment available to loan including aircraft joysticks. Specify what you would like to loan in your application.
A participant takes part in the course form her hospital bed after recovering from major surgery

A participant takes part in the course in her hospital bed after recovering from major surgery

A participant discusses the flying topics with his instructor before taking to the virtual skies

A participant discusses the flying topics with his instructor before taking to the virtual skies

A screenshot of the aeroplane flying through the french alps in the virtual simulator, Geo-FS

“I LOVED EVERY MINUTE”

“My instructor took time to understand my needs and was quite happy to take things at my speed. It showed me no matter my disability or learning needs, the course was adapted. I had always wished to fly but my accident put a hold to that and this was the best thing to get me thinking again and I hope to go further one day and spread my wings.” - Melissa

The experience introduces participants to the basics of flight, whilst also developing transferable skills such as decision making, problem solving and situational awareness, all of which are handy in life outside the cockpit as well as inside.
An aeroplane flying an approach into an airport in Canada in the virtual simulator, Geo-Fs

The cockpit view of an aeroplane flying an approach into an airport in Canada in the virtual simulator, Geo-Fs

Meet the VAE Instructors
Laura Mayer. I gained my pilot's licence young and then my flying instructor rating. In 2023 I joined aerobility as a VAE instructor and now I manage the whole course.
Mike Mcclelland

The V.A.E Library

useful links to help you get the most out of your experience

Matt Smith.. I did gliding with the RAF Air Cadets and became an instructor. I also worked on the Police helicopter for over 30 years. I have my private pilot licence too.
Neil Janke