Commemorating One Year of Partnership - Aerobility and Lydd Aero Club's revolutionary collaboration for Disabled Flyers

Thursday 17th April 2025

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A year ago, a partnership between Aerobility; a charity dedicated to enabling disabled individuals to experience the freedom of flight, and Lydd Aero Club; an established Flying Club in Kent, came together in an inspiring collaboration. Now celebrating their first anniversary, this milestone marks not just the union of two dedicated organizations, but a transformative shift in how people living with disabilities in the Kent and East Sussex areas experience aviation.

Almost 100 flights involving disabled participants, have taken to the skies over South East England, flying mostly the Piper PA-28 aircraft from Lydd Airport.    Through this collaboration, Lydd Aero Club has enabled Aerobility to extend its reach and impact, working alongside the highly experienced team at Lydd, to make flying accessible and inclusive to all.

“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.” commented Derek Levy, who lives with a limb difference. “It’s nice to be in the air and just enjoy the experience without untoward risks of airspace restrictions, complex radio work, reporting points etc. There’s also an abundance of distinctive landmarks around Lydd that makes navigation relatively straightforward.”

Leonie, a flyer from East Sussex added: “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.”

Enabling Access to the Skies

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, Lydd Aeroclub’s Chairman commented: “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.

“It has been a pleasure working with Lydd Aero Club and Lydd London Ashford Airport for the past year, enabling Aerobility to make Aviation Accessible to people living with a disability in Kent and the South East region.” said Al Rosser, The Chief Flying Instructor at Aerobility.  “Aerobility is committed to using aviation to help change lives and we really appreciate all the support we have been given whilst establishing our partnership with our newly extended family at Lydd.”

Looking ahead, both Aerobility and Lydd Aeroclub 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.

If you’re inspired by the mission that these two organizations have united on, why not consider supporting the charity yourself? There are numerous ways to get involved, through volunteering, making a donation, or helping with fundraising. Visit this webpage to learn more about how you can contribute to this meaningful cause.  https://www.aerobility.com/fundraise

For more information about the partnership and contact details, visit  Aerobility  and  Lydd Aero Club .

 

Hoist training at Lydd Aero Club

Pilot with a limb difference looks

down in cockpit at his feet on the

rudder pedals

Kent coastline viewed from above

 

About Aerobility

Aerobility is a charity which changes lives by allowing anyone, with any disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight. The organisation provides access to modified light aircraft and equipment, giving every disabled person the unique chance to spread their wings. Find out more about Aerobility by visiting their website:  www.aerobility.com