A YOUNG aspiring pilot has been taking to the skies thanks to a scholarship scheme.

Andrew Callaghan of Verwood won one of the Air League’s 12-hour powered flying scholarships in April this year and leapt at the chance to put his budding piloting skills to test.

The flying took place at Booker Aviation in High Wycombe on a Cessna 152, progressing through the basics of flight and safety procedures and tackling the more complicated circuit procedure in London’s Aerospace.

"Although it was challenging at times, it gave me a taste of what a real-world airport is like, and more importantly has assisted me in becoming a safer, more aware pilot," said Andrew.

"Now, with 12 hours towards my EASA Private Pilot’s Licence, I feel more determined than ever to fulfil my commercial airline pilot ambition."

Andrew is off to the University of Bath to read Spanish and Italian this year, but he plans to save up funds to continue flying at Booker as well as Dorset's own Compton Abbas Airfield when his workload allows.

"I’m very grateful for the multitude of opportunities that the Air League has given me, without which I wouldn’t be the pilot I am today," he said.

"In addition to the flying scholarship, I attended the young aviators' dinner at the RAF Club in Piccadilly, at which I was able to connect with Royal Air Force and commercial airline pilots from British Airways and Easyjet."

Find out more about the Air League at airleague.co.uk