A new round of funding worth £810,000 has been launched to help young people break into the aviation industry.
The latest funding will support 16 organisations across the UK, from Cornwall to Newcastle.
The money will help create more opportunities for young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to explore careers in aviation.
Since its inception, the ‘Reach for the Sky’ programme has awarded £2.3 million and reached over 100,000 people nationwide.
The scheme supports young people who might not have considered aviation before, offering them valuable hands-on experiences and mentorship.
It includes everything from workshops to taster days and interactive events, designed to ignite passion for aviation at an early age.
With the air transport sector contributing £20 billion to the UK economy, growing the workforce is vital for future prosperity.
By opening doors for more young people to pursue careers as pilots, navigators, and controllers, the UK can secure long-term economic growth.
Aviation Minister Mike Kane said:
“We are breaking down barriers to opportunity, helping young people realise their dreams and pursue careers in aviation.”
The scheme also aligns with the Government’s broader ambition to increase aviation capacity, particularly at Heathrow, and to boost the number of UK-based aviation jobs.
SaxonAir, one of the recipients of the funding, is already making strides with its INSPIRE programme.
The initiative has been delivering tailored aviation activities for young children at West Earlham Infant School in Norwich, sparking enthusiasm for the sector among pupils.
HR and Wellbeing Coordinator at SaxonAir, Hannah Colledge, said:
“With support from the Reach for the Sky funding, we can extend our reach, ensuring young people from all backgrounds experience aviation.”
One parent, Graham from Norwich, shared his son’s excitement after attending one of SaxonAir’s events:
“His ambition is to be a pilot, but this event opened his eyes to other aviation roles.”
The funding also supports Educators & Employers, which connects students with aviation professionals to help them discover career paths in the sector.
Josh, a pupil at Ealing Fields High School in London, recalled:
“I’ve wanted to be a pilot for a long time.
“The event made a big impact on me and I even visited a flight simulator.”
Sophie Jones from the Civil Aviation Authority added:
“It’s essential for young people to join the industry as innovation and growth continues.
“The Reach for the Sky programme inspires the next generation of aviation professionals.”
The programme is funded by the Department for Transport and aims to ensure the UK remains a leader in aviation and aerospace.
By fostering a diverse and inclusive aviation workforce, the Reach for the Sky scheme helps the UK continue to innovate and grow in this vital sector.
