Achieving New Heights: Awarded the Air League’s 5-Hour Flying Scholarship
Embarking on a journey to the skies is a dream shared by many, but only a fortunate few get the opportunity to turn that dream into reality. This year the Air League received over 700 applications for their flying and gliding scholarship. I am thrilled to share that I have been one of the lucky ones to be awarded the prestigious 5-Hour Flying Scholarship by the Air League.
Being awarded the 5-Hour Flying Scholarship by the Air League is truly humbling. For an individual from a low-income background I truly appreciate the cost of even a single flying lesson. I’ve worked since the age of 13 and currently balance three jobs to fund my dream. It fills me with joy knowing that the Air League is transforming lives of thousands. This will truly make a difference.
The Air League is a British aviation organisation that promotes and supports aviation and aerospace activities — particularly those from BAME, low-income or less privileged backgrounds. It was founded in 1909 and aims to inspire young people to pursue careers in the aviation industry.
Over the past decade, over £2 million worth of scholarships have been honoured. In 2023, over £180,000 awards were allocated across a total of 107 scholarships. These were through a combination of flying scholarships (66), gliding (27), drone (8) and engineering scholarships (6). In terms of the demographic – 31% of awardees were female. Just under the age of 18 and 47% were 18-25.
One in three of awardees were from ethnic or minority background. And 50% of awardee parents were not university educated. I fall into both these categories – and for someone speaking from experience I can’t begin to explain the impact Air League will have on years to come for most if not all of us awardees.
To read the article released by the Air League – click here.
This scholarship program provides young, aspiring aviators with the chance to take to the skies and gain hands-on experience in piloting an aircraft. The training includes the practical flying experience element of it. It provides a valuable opportunity for individuals who are interested in aviation but may not have the means or resources to pursue flying lessons on their own. This scholarship is a testament to the Air League’s commitment to make flight training accessible to individuals who would otherwise not have the financial means to pursue their dream of becoming a pilot.
“Our scholarships aim to assist in breaking down the barriers of entry to the aviation industry”
– Ben Harris, Scholarship Programme and Operations Manager at the Air League.
The Air League’s commitment to fostering the next generation of aviators is commendable, and I am grateful for the opportunity they have given me. I look forward to continuing my journey in the skies and inspiring others to reach for the clouds.
Taken from Air Leagues website –
“The Air League aims to inspire, enable, and support the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals from any background across the United Kingdom.” - Air League, UK
On behalf of the scholars and I -Thank You Air League for seeing potential in me. This opportunity will help me to finally begin pursuing a career in aviation. I look forward to paying this forward and inspiring others into this great world we call aviation.
I look forward to documenting my flying experience and FINALLY creating an official flying blog!
Thank you.
Warmest Regards,
Mubashar Yasin, The Proficient Airman.