The British Disabled Flying Association’s Mission to Make Aviation Accessible

For many disabled individuals, the idea of flying an aircraft may seem out of reach. However, the British Disabled Flying Association (BDFA), a registered charity, is committed to making aviation accessible to people with a range of disabilities. Flying offers a unique combination of challenges and exhilaration, empowering individuals by pushing both mental and physical boundaries.???

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The BDFA provides opportunities for disabled individuals to experience aviation in various ways, including:???

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• Connecting individuals with accessible aircraft and aviation organisations, such as flying schools and gliding clubs across the UK.???

• Offering affordable flying experiences for disabled pilots through subsidised costs.???

• Developing and implementing aircraft adaptations to accommodate different disabilities.???

• Providing expert advice and guidance to aspiring pilots with disabilities.???

• Collaborating with government bodies and aviation regulators to improve accessibility within the industry.???

• Supporting past recipients of the Flying Scholarships for the disabled programme.???

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Flying is one of the few activities where disabled individuals can participate on an equal footing with able-bodied pilots. Learning to fly not only builds confidence and self-esteem but also provides rehabilitation benefits, offering individuals the chance to push their personal limits and achieve remarkable goals.???

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To make this vision a reality, the BDFA operates two specially modified aircraft; those are a Bulldog and a Cherokee both adapted to accommodate disabled pilots. The Cherokee is equipped with hand controls and a wide walkway, while the Bulldog features a hoist system to assist individuals with limited mobility. These aircraft are stationed at Lasham Aerodrome in Hampshire but regularly travel to local airfields across the UK for Flying Days, allowing members to experience the joy of flight with the assistance of experienced volunteers.???

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Through continuous engagement with EU aviation and medical regulators, the BDFA has played a crucial role in enabling individuals with physical disabilities to obtain both private and commercial pilot licenses, further expanding opportunities within the aviation sector. Historically, membership fees and fundraising efforts have allowed the BDFA to subsidise flying costs, making aviation more accessible to disabled individuals and encouraging more people to explore the possibilities of flight.???

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At Brookfield Aviation International, we recognise the importance of making aviation an inclusive industry for all. As a global leader in aviation recruitment and professional development, we applaud the BDFA’s mission to break down barriers and create opportunities for disabled pilots. Through our extensive network and expertise in aviation recruitment, we remain committed to fostering a diverse and accessible aviation industry that empowers individuals to achieve their dreams.?

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