Pilot dreams take off through aviation bursary

Monday 02 September 2019

Youngsters with dreams of being pilots have received free flying lessons through Specsavers Aviation.

Prospective young pilots were offered the chance to apply for a bursary, which included 10 hours of free flying training.

Noah Purdue, 16, was awarded the bursary, allowing him to take a significant step on the road toward becoming a fully qualified pilot. 

“It feels incredible to have won the bursary. It was such a surprise, and I feel very proud to be the winner," he said. 

“The support of the bursary will help primarily with my progression through the Private Pilot License syllabus, and ultimately will aid me on my path towards becoming a commercial pilot. It will enable me to do my first solo flight sometime this year, and in fact, without the support of this bursary, I would have had to wait much longer to begin pilot training.

“The mentor support from the Specsavers' pilots has been great. Not only have I had help from them with the aviation side of the bursary, but they have also given feedback on my performance during the selection process, something which is much appreciated as it will help me with future pilot interviews."

Runner-up, Alex Robert, received two hours of flying training, while a 45-minute trial lesson was awarded to Kya Bullock.  For the first year ever, an additional hour of flying was also awarded to Luke Malcic due to the high standard of ability. All training was provided by Guernsey Flying Training in a four-seater Piper Warrior aircraft. 

Specsavers Captain Adam Bright said: ‘I think that the bursary is a fantastic opportunity for someone who’s always wanted to become a commercial pilot, as it will help them on their way to become one. The mentorship we provide as part of the prize can be very valuable during the commercial training process. It’s really great to inspire and support local budding pilots, everyone in the team is passionate about it."

Pictured top: Noah Purdue and Captain Adam Bright.