Flyability Challenge - Falcon 2

BGFC members Gillian Stewart, Christine Bell and Lee Balthoazor helped the Royal Aeronautical Society Programme Falcon 2 team deliver a Flyability Challenge Glider simulator. aimed at schools and colleges designing and building a motion flight simulator to be used for special needs and disabled young people to enable them to experience the fun of 'flying'. 

Gillian spotted the glider simulator at Shenington Gliding Club was being disposed of when they closed, and asked if it was wanted by the RAeS. Christine helped bring it over to be stored until it could be re-commissioned. Apprentices from Marshall Aerospace refurbished it under the guidance of Paul Howard from the BGA and installed some features to help those with disabilities 'Glidability' was launched at Duxford Air Show. Lee attended the Duxford show to support the launch team.

In the picturesque setting of Duxford, on 16-17 July, aviation enthusiasts gathered under the open skies to witness the spectacle of the Battle of Britain Airshow. Among the soaring historic aircraft and aerobatic displays, the Falcon 2 team unveiled the Flyability Challenge Glider simulator.

The aim of the Flyability Challenge within the Falcon 2 programme is to provide an accessible experience through physically adapting a glider and developing a simulator which encompasses all abilities. The project was a celebration of innovation and accessibility.