A charity that promotes accessible aviation will operate passenger flights from Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) for the first time since the airport's closure in 2022. Aerobility, which has supported individuals with diverse disabilities through adapted flying experiences for over 30 years, plans to run flights from 26 to 29 May at the site of the former RAF Finningley.
The flights are aimed at allowing people with physical, sensory, and neurodiverse conditions to experience the joy and empowerment of flying. According to CEO Mike Miller-Smith, "We give disabled people the chance to fly aircrafts, to take control and see the world from a new perspective." Miller-Smith, a former commercial pilot diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, shared his passion for making aviation inclusive, highlighting innovations like hand controls and hoists that support individuals with disabilities.
Neil Tucker, who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident, reflected on how Aerobility transformed his life, saying, "Having a disability does mean that your life is limited in many ways, but in the air, it's absolutely liberating." Since its founding, more than 10,000 people have been able to pilot aircraft or participate in ground-based activities, underscoring the charity's extensive impact.
The upcoming flights will provide 50 spots for individuals seeking accessible aviation experiences. This event symbolizes a significant step toward restoring regular passenger operations at DSA, which has been closed for nearly two years. Local authorities anticipate full passenger service resumption by Easter 2028. Christian Foster of FlyDoncaster Ltd expressed enthusiasm about this initiative, emphasizing the importance of inclusiveness in aviation and community outreach.
