Mr Burns Takes to the Skies with LVI pupil, Alex!

A chance to explore aviation through Stonar's Flying Club has led to an extraordinary achievement for Lower Sixth pupil Alex F, who recently became one of the youngest people in the UK to gain his National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL).

Alex earned his licence on his 17th birthday in April – the earliest age at which it is possible to qualify – after beginning his flying journey through the British Young Pilots (BYP) after-school club introduced at Stonar. 

His achievement follows another major milestone reached last summer, when Alex completed his first solo flight. Alongside his practical training, he has successfully passed key pilot theory examinations in Air Law, Aircraft Technical and Navigation, demonstrating the commitment, discipline and determination required to become a qualified pilot.

To thank Mr Burns for introducing him to the world of aviation, Alex recently invited him to take to the skies from Wadswick Airfield in an aircraft that Alex piloted himself. 

Mr Burns said: "Watching Alex develop from a pupil with an interest in flying to a fully qualified pilot has been incredibly rewarding. His dedication, focus and maturity have been outstanding throughout, and having the opportunity to fly with him was a very proud moment."

The Stonar Flying Club was established to give pupils a unique opportunity to explore aviation through structured ground school lessons and practical flight training with qualified British Young Pilots instructors. Pupils gain hands-on experience in real aircraft and can choose to work towards their own civilian Pilot's Licence. Find out more here.