For the last eleven years, Cotswold Airport has held the ‘Aviation Scholars’ programme which gives the opportunity for eight 15- to 18-year-olds to gain some invaluable flying experience and knowledge. The week-long course, held in August, provides fully funded simulator experiences and four hours of flying with a flight school. Industry professionals from leading aviation companies, such as ‘ZeroAvia’ and ‘Vertical Aerospace’, deliver talks on the future of sustainable aviation powered by hydrogen or electricity. Airport firefighting and air traffic control operations are also included in the course itinerary, equipping the scholars with a well-rounded learning experience.
Without funding, many of these experiences would be inaccessible due to the significant cost barriers that prevent young people from considering a career in aviation.
The programme also provides career talks and information, which are more relevant today than ever before. The IATA predicts that 489,000 additional pilots will be needed between now and 2040 to meet the demand in the post pandemic climate. This means enthusiastic young individuals are highly sought after and these courses are helping them become the future generation of aviators.
For those who are interested in similar opportunities, or even for previous Aviation Scholars, continuing your journey is possible in many ways. For example, many airlines run cadet programmes that offer fully or partially funded routes to becoming an airline pilot, such as the British Airways’ Speedbird Academy.
With amazing opportunities such as those provided by Cotswold Airport and professional academies, it is more than likely that Aviation Scholar participants could be flying you and me in the near future.
Joe is a 3rd year Zoology student at the University of Bristol who has had a life long passion for aviation. He has a particular interest in commercial flying and hopes to join the British Airways Speedbird Academy when he graduates.