Additional government funding worth £750,000 has been committed to encourage young people to consider a career in aviation.
The funding is part of the Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund, first announced last year and designed to break down barriers for those who have previously struggled to get a foothold in the industry.
It targets those schemes which provide an entry point for people from underprivileged backgrounds or under-represented groups.
The scheme is one strand of the government’s ‘Generation Aviation’ initiative, which aims to support the industry by delivering sustainable aviation and growing the economy.
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The extra funding will be allocated to a variety of outreach programmes and events across the UK to educate young people about the opportunities available in the sector.
The Department for Transport will also be working with the Civil Aviation Authority to deliver the programme, building on outreach programmes such as a virtual work experience scheme to encourage the uptake of STEM subjects.
The CAA will work with hopefuls through its STEM team allocating the funding among the winning applicants.
Aviation minister Baroness Vere, unveiling the fresh funding during a visit to Norwich airport, said: “I want the aviation sector to be an inclusive and inviting one, and I am committed to ensuring that young people have opportunities to pursue rewarding careers in this sector.
“This investment is crucial to help make the UK the best place in the world for aviation and grow the economy, with a diverse workforce that can effectively address challenges today and in the future.
“The government is dedicated to working with the industry to ensure that jobs in the aviation sector are accessible to everyone.”
Norwich airport managing director Richard Pace added: “From the use of sustainable fuels to the electrification of aircraft, it’s vital that we have the skills for the future.
“This announcement from the minister will be warmly welcomed by the industry and help inspire the next generation about careers in aviation.”
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