22 April 2025
What a difference a hoist makes: one year after flying charity Aerobility and Lydd Aero Club got together, almost 100 flights enabling disabled participants to experience flight have taken place.
“It marks a transformative shift in how people living with disabilities in the Kent and East Sussex areas experience aviation,” said a joint statement from the partners.
Leonie, a flyer from East Sussex, said, “I was thrilled to be in the air and find life in my new passion for aviation. It has made a big difference to my day-to-day life. It has given me hope to become more independent in the things that I do.
“When I fly, it makes me feel free. I have grown in confidence and hope to keep doing so. I have booked future lessons with Lydd with Aerobility, giving me lots to look forward to.”
Pilot with a limb difference! Photo: Aerobility
Derek Levy, who lives with a limb difference, added, “Since flying at Lydd, my confidence has increased significantly. I consider the relative freedom of the Lydd airspace a considerable benefit for a less experienced pilot looking to build the skills.
“There’s also an abundance of distinctive landmarks around Lydd that makes navigation relatively straightforward.”
Hoist training at Lydd with Aerobility. Photo: Aerobility
The integration of a hoist system that assists wheelchair users in boarding and disembarking aircraft has been a key highlight, offering an unprecedented level of access to aviation for those who once thought such an experience was out of reach.
This system allows for a smooth and secure transfer to the aircraft overcoming the physical barriers that typically prevent those with mobility challenges from participating in flight experiences.
Aerobility and Lydd Aero Club have trained volunteers and staff on its proper use, ensuring all operations are safe, dignified and as comfortable as possible for every participant.
Bill Vidal, chairman of Lydd Aero Club, said, “A year working with Aerobility has been an eye opener and a delight.
“We thought we were familiar with the great work that Aerobility does in our industry but after completing 100 flights for this new partnership involving men and women with a myriad of disabilities, we are humbled by the experience and less complacent about our own good fortune.
“It has been and will continue to be a pleasure and a source of pride to be associated with Aerobility and hope their well-deserved flight call sign, ‘ABLE’, will become commonplace in General Aviation.”
Both Aerobility and Lydd Aero Club are committed to expanding their impact further. Plans are already in place to offer more regular flights, increase volunteer recruitment, and enhance their outreach to engage more of the local community.
