Durham Tees Valley airport’s drive to become a major General Aviation centre will be given a boost next week with the opening of a new microlight flying school
Microlight flying instructor Gordon Wilson believes that, with its excellent facilities and positive support from the airport’s management, Durham Tees Valley is the ideal place to establish his business, which will offer training for students to gain their National Private Pilot’s Licence…and also provide trial flights for anyone wanting to try their hand at one of the most exciting flying experiences.
North Easterner Gordon has 15 years’ experience flying microlights and has been a trainer for the past six years. His interest in flying developed after he was forced to give up his career as a diver as a result of suffering decompression sickness whilst on a training exercise with the Army in Cyprus.
Says Gordon “Interest in microlights has grown enormously over recent years—there are over 4,000 registered with the Civil Aviation Authority. Modern microlights are strong certified aircraft which offer the exhilaration of an open-air cockpit and amazing 360 degree views.
“To gain a pilot licence students need to undertake at least 25 hours’ flying, with at least 10 hours solo, at least two cross-country flights and five theoretical tests. Of course, a trial microlight flight can also make a great gift and for anyone making an early booking we will be offering an extra half-hours’ flying time free of charge. I am also investigating the possibility of providing flights for people with disabilities.
“I am very grateful for all the help I have received from the airport in planning to set up the flying school and I am looking forward to offering local people the chance to discover the unique experience which microlight flying can offer.”
Adds Airport Manager Shaun Woods “We are delighted to welcome Gordon to Durham Tees Valley, underlining our commitment to attract all types of General Aviation activity and our growing leisure flying choices with him joining Durham Tees Flight Training and Skydive St George.
“This latest arrival follows the recent announcement of the new GA tariffs, offering excellent value fees for both new based operators and visiting aircraft, together with monthly parking tariffs and improvements such as pre-booked landing cards.
“Already we are attracting considerable interest from flyers who recognise that we have a lot to offer, including a good weather record, experienced and friendly air traffic services, instrument approach facilities, with multi-use hangar space available immediately and the potential to rapidly provide bespoke new-build hangars if required.
Details of flights available with Gordon Wilson Microlights can be found on the website www.gwmicrolights.co.uk, by telephoning 07462325225 or emailing gordon@gwmicrolights.co.uk.
By Durham Tees Valley Airport
29th January 2015