29 April 2013
The disability and aviation charity, Flying Scholarships for Disabled People (FSDP) has announced it will be funding a group of nine new pilots when its latest round of training begins in summer 2013.
The pilot training, which is completely charity funded, aims to change the candidate’s lives, all of whom are disabled, through the medium of flight. During some 30 years of activity it has provided training for over 400 pilots, many of which achieved solo flight, and some of which have gone on to self fund their own full private pilot licence.
The nine applicants, chosen from a pre-selected group of 24 candidates underwent a three day selection process at the Aircrew Selection Centre at RAF Cranwell. The challenging process includes an aircraft assessment during which applicants have to carry out an external inspection of a light aircraft, appraisal of the candidate’s physical ability to access the aircraft, and evaluation of their ability to operate the aircraft controls safely.
The FSDP funding covers the costs of the pilot training in addition to accommodation and services needed throughout the duration of the course. The courses run through the summer.
For further information about the charity, visit <a href=’http://www.fsfdp.org.uk’ target=’_blank’>www.fsfdp.org.uk</a>
