THE world's first and only amputee aerobatic display team hope to be performing at this year's Bournemouth Air Festival.
Team Phoenix, comprised of two pilots – both below the knee amputees – have been in talks with festival organisers about taking to the skies at the 2021 event.
And for lead pilot Mike Wildeman, a Bournemouth appearance will be extra special – as he was born and bred in the town.
Mike and fellow pilot Alan Robinson fly The Super Yak 52, a Russian prop trainer aircraft powered by a 400 horsepower engine which is capable of 230mph.
Mike Wildeman and Alan Robinson
Both pilots have a forces background.
Mike, who for the last 25 years has been an airline commander with Virgin Atlantic Airways, flew with the RAF and the Belgian Air Force.
"I was a pilot in the first Gulf War, flying C-130 tactical transport planes," he said. "My next job was with the Belgian government and I was in lots of difficult places in Africa.
"Quite uniquely, I flew the first aircraft in and the last aircraft out of Kigali during the genocide in Rwanda."
Meanwhile, Alan – who is currently an engineer with the RAF – was selected to be the first amputee pilot to solo fly a Spitfire since the legendary Sir Douglas Bader.
The team is hoping confirmation of a Bournemouth Air Festival appearance could be made soon.
Team Phoenix in action
Team Phoenix is also is talks with the organisers of The Invictus Games.
They plan to display at the opening ceremony in The Hague next year.
Kirsty Ginman, Team Phoenix spokesman said: "Our pilots are ex and current serving military personnel, have seen combat around the world and are single leg amputees.
"They aim to compete against able bodied aerobatic display teams, this has never been done before.
"The teams mission is to inspire disabled and able bodied people to overcome major personal challenges and achieve incredible things.
"Team Phoenix embodies the fighting spirit of wounded serving and ex-service personnel showcasing what can be achieved if you believe in yourself."
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