Who can apply
If you are a veteran of the UK Armed Forces and have been medically discharged from the Armed Services due to injury or illness then you are eligible to apply by emailing a personal statement to applications@wings4warriors.org.uk.
Please include information about your life before the military as well as your career in HM Forces. We'll also need to know about how you were injured/became ill, what your physical/psychological symptoms are (if any) and why you want to become a pilot.
We consider each application on a case-by-case basis. However, naturally, some injuries will be more restrictive than others.
Please do speak to us to find out, however, as you may be surprised.
Desirable characteristics
- Personal responsibility
- Motivation and commitment
- Logical reasoning and ability to function under pressure
- Communication skills
Frequently asked questions
Currently, beneficiaries are able to complete their Private Pilot's Licences at their local flight school before attending Skyborne Academy, Gloucester for the commercial training phase.
Typically students can expect to be training for between 12-18 months, some of which will be completed at your local flying school. Total time will depend on your individual aptitude, commitment and the weather.
Although we are not able to fly every day (due to weather etc) we expect students to be in the classroom for theory training/self-study Monday-Friday 0900-1700, with weekends off. We also grant a minimum of 3 weeks leave per year, with full consideration given to all requests made via our formal process.
You will sit 9 theory exams during phase 1 (Private Pilot's Licence), followed by an additional 14 exams during phase 2 (ATPL theory). Classroom sessions are instructor-led initially and progressive in intensity, working over time towards becoming student-led with instructor/specialist support provided when required. Topics include: Human Performance and Limitations, Radio Navigation, General Navigation, Aircraft General Knowledge (Airframes and Systems, Instrumentation), VFR/IFR Communications, Meteorology, Air Law, Flight Planning, Principles of Flight, Operational Procedures, Mass and Balance, and Performance.
WFW student pilots can expect to fly between 185-200 hours during their training with us, across three modular stages: Private Pilot's Licence — a minimum of 45 hours flight training, of which 25 hours must be dual instruction and 10 hours solo, including a solo cross-country flight of at least 100nm stopping at two aerodromes en-route, plus a practical skills test. Hour building — up to 110 hours flown as pilot in command, building experience (often flying friends and family and exploring new airspace), some with instructors to keep skills honed. Commercial Pilot's Course — a minimum of 30 hours instruction including 10 hours night flying, plus a commercial skills test.
This is not an easy course, and some people do not pass. That said, if you're prepared to work hard and commit 100%, then we will do the same for you.
Although the charity does network on behalf of new graduates, finding that first job can be tricky. We can provide you with the skills and training, but for many new pilots this is only the beginning. Be prepared to travel, work hard and start at the bottom, and you'll be on the right track. We'll make you into the best pilot we can, but the rest is down to you.
