Aerobility has announced its new Spirit of Aviation Challenge to support disabled people who might find self-isolation during the Covid-19 crisis tougher than most of us.

Open to anyone, the challenge is to build, launch and film a plane at home before uploading it to Aerobility’s open Facebook Group, ‘Spirit of Aviation’, using #FLYAEROBILITY.  For some, this may be a paper plane, while for others it may get more technical, however the aircraft must be made from  everyday materials found at home and all planes will be judged equally by Aerobility’s panel of experts for their ability in the air as well as their style and design.

The winner will get the chance to fly in a light aircraft with Squadron Leader Martin Pert, Team Leader of The Red Arrows while the winning plane will be showcased at Aerobility’s Headquarters in Blackbushe, Hampshire.

This is an ideal opportunity for the aviation industry to get behind the UK’s leading disabled flying charity, to help them get through these difficult times and to remain able to support the UK’s disabled flying community. Companies can invite their staff to get involved and can support the charity directly with much needed donations.

To help those taking part in the challenge, Aerobility provides an information pack which includes the basics of aerodynamics and schematics for different types of paper planes. There will also be ongoing daily content for continued learning and entertainment through Aerobility’s social media channels.

By uploading videos of the planes during construction, testing and flight phases, friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues can follow their progress and get involved with the challenge while still practicing social distancing.  They can also contribute to the charity by sponsoring the plane they’re following at  https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/flyaerobility. If you’re unable to build an aircraft you can still support this very worthy aviation charity by donating on the same Just Giving page.

Says Mike Miller-Smith, Chief Executive, Aerobility:

“Aerobility brings the magic of flying to anyone with any disability and we’re working hard to continue these services during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“But we do need the public’s help to support our disabled flyers during this period of extended isolation. So please give whatever you can by donating via JustGiving. Your friends and family can show their support for your aircraft by donating and leaving a message too.”

For more information about how to get involved and to download a pack click here: https://www.aerobility.com/thespiritofaviation. Entries are open until June 30^th.

About Aerobility 

Founded in 1993, registered aviation charity Aerobility offers disabled people the opportunity to fly and participate in aviation-based activities. Aerobility’s specially adapted light aircraft fly from various airfields around the UK and every year support over 10000 people with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, mental health conditions and sensory impairments, including wounded sick and injured service personnel. Participants are supported to learn to fly, increase independence and gain employment in aviation. Headquartered at Blackbushe in Hampshire, the charity currently operates a fleet of five aircraft. As well as flying, the charity also holds ground-based training sessions, an Aviation Club for young enthusiasts, simulator days and other activities for the disabled community to get involved in. For more information please visit www.aerobility.com

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