Pilot began training a year ago before first solo flight, aged 82

JAMES HAMILTON

everything I imagined. You only feel your emotions after you have done it, you are too occupied during the flight.

“I have achieved what I wanted to do.”

Although he has completed his first solo flight in an Ikarus microlight, Mr Luke has no intention of trying to fly other planes as the licence is too expensive.

Mr Luke retired from being the head of Scottish operations for Atco Lawnmowers in the 1990s.

And after moving to a smaller home two years ago he found himself with enough time and

Great-grandfather David Luke, with his instructor Graham McNally, at Strathaven Airfield where he learned to fly.

money to try out his lifelong dream.

Graham McNally, from Strathaven Airfield, said: “He has done well for his age, and he’s a lot better than a lot of younger guys.

“It is like driving, some people are just more switched on and learn quickly.

“It’s quite unusual, you don’t get many people that age that learn to fly.”

Mr Luke has three daughters, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

His wife, Margaret Catherine, died aged 80.

Mr Luke added: “I’ve

not really made up my mind of what to do next.

“I don’t see anything coming out the end of it, it’s just something to keep busy with.”

Mr Luke has also started flying model aircraft to fill up his time since he lost his wife.

The world’s oldest active pilot is Ernie Smith, aged 99. He first got a licence in 1946.