Charity’s new chief flying instructor is cleared for take-off
A YATELEY-BASED flying charity for disabled people has a new lead pilot at the controls.
Aerobility has appointed former RAF pilot Al Rosser as its new chief flying instructor and service delivery director.
The charity says it 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.
In a statement, Aerobility said Mr Rosser’s aviation career began when he joined the Royal Air Force straight from school, and he went on to complete three tours on the TriStar with 216 Squadron and one tour as an instructor on the Bulldog at Liverpool
University Air Squadron. He eventually left the RAF to work for Marshall Aerospace, where he flew Hercules aircraft on post-maintenance test flights and taught at the Flying Club.
For the past 15 years he has been predominantly working in business aviation, managing and flying Challengers and PC-12 Aircraft.
Mr Rosser applied for the position at Aerobility because he wanted to make a difference and give back some of his experience. He will be mainly based at the charity’s headquarters at Blackbushe Airport.
The 54-year-old, said: “Having always enjoyed instructing, this seemed like an excellent opportunity to use my skills in a positive way that would benefit the charity.
“I grew up with my mum suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and it left an indelible mark upon the way I speak to and interact with disabled people. I appreciate that everyone has something to give and that a disability never defines anyone. I am looking forward to carrying on the great work already done and seeing it through the next 10 years of development as we grow the charity’s presence across the UK; this will encompass even greater reach to disabled people who would benefit from the magic of flight in their lives.”
Aerobility’s CEO Mike MillerSmith, said: “With his passion for aviation and many years of experience, I know that Al is going to be a fantastic addition to the team.”
A new initiative at the charity will also benefit financially when a group of air traffic controllers embark on a 3,000-mile motorcycle ride from Aberdeen to Gibraltar.
The fundraising quartet will set off on Sunday April 14 partly in aid of Aerobility’s Solidarity Wings Fund, which this year will give three people with disabilities an 18-hour flying scholarship. Half of all the money raised will also be donated to Prostate Cancer UK.
Brian Wheeler, the chief operations officer at Aerobility, said: “As the NATS air traffic controllers gear up for The Big Tour, 24 in 2024, they are not only navigating the roads but also steering change and making a profound impact.
“We are deeply grateful for their decision to support Aerobility’s Solidarity Wings Fund, allowing people with disabilities to experience the transformative joy of flight.
“Their journey not only symbolises the spirit of adventure, but also the power of collective action in driving positive change.”
To find out more about Aerobility, visit Aerobility.com