Virtual Aviation Experience - anywhere for everyone
Boy flys the virtual PA-28 through some valleys on his home computer.

Boy flys the virtual PA-28 through some valleys on his home computer.

Funded by the UK Government
VAE offers 3 x Free 60 Minute, one to one, Virtual sessions with an instructor, using an online simulator. Keep scrolling to find out more!
"I would like to thank everyone for giving me this opportunity to show that there are no barriers to fly even with a disability and you shouldn't let that stop you" Feedback from a VAE participant.
A screenshot of an approach on the virtual simulator into an Airport in France using Geo-Fs

A screenshot of an approach on the virtual simulator into an Airport in France using Geo-Fs

What? VAE starts on microsoft teams where you meet your instructor for a pre-flight breif before you take to the skies over the internet in the virtual simulator.
Who? Anyone aged 12 or over, living in the UK with a disability is eligible for this course. The experience can be tailored to suit your own goals whether that's to boost your confidence, learn new skills or to kickstart a new career!
How? All you need is a standard computer with microphone and camera with internet access. We do have a range of support equipment available to loan including aircraft joysticks. Specify what you would like to loan in your application.
A screenshot of the aeroplane flying through the french alps in the virtual simulator, Geo-FS

“I LOVED EVERY MINUTE”

“My instructor took time to understand my needs and was quite happy to take things at my speed. It showed me no matter my disability or learning needs, the course was adapted. I had always wished to fly but my accident put a hold to that and this was the best thing to get me thinking again and I hope to go further one day and spread my wings.” - Melissa

The experience introduces participants to the basics of flight, whilst also developing transferable skills such as decision making, problem solving and situational awareness, all of which are handy in life outside the cockpit as well as inside.
An aeroplane flying an approach into an airport in Canada in the virtual simulator, Geo-Fs

The cockpit view of an aeroplane flying an approach into an airport in Canada in the virtual simulator, Geo-Fs

Meet the VAE Instructors
Laura Mayer. I gained my pilot's licence young and then my flying instructor rating. In 2023 I joined aerobility as a VAE instructor and now I manage the whole course.
Matt Smith.. I did gliding with the RAF Air Cadets and became an instructor. I also worked on the Police helicopter for over 30 years. I have my private pilot licence too.