While few areas of the economy have been left untouched by the pandemic, aviators have perhaps had it tougher than most. Tom Batchelor learns more about a pioneering charity that is helping those with clipped wings
More than a year after the outbreak of COVID-19 sent shockwaves through the aviation industry, many aircraft remain grounded, and thousands of pilots are out of work.
Airlines have weathered previous storms, from the September 11 attacks to the 2008 economic crisis, but none have been as devastating as the current turmoil in terms of job losses. Redundant pilots face a series of unique challenges. Not only are they often in a significant amount of debt – with some training routes costing well above £100,000 – but many also face additional and ongoing costs associated with maintaining their qualifications. Failure to keep up training or flying hours can result in licences lapsing.
