Breaking barriers to the flight deck: £750k fund to inspire future aviators
The UK government is injecting an additional £750,000 into a national initiative designed to inspire and prepare young people from underrepresented backgrounds for careers in aviation.
The latest round of the Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund, launched today, invites organisations to apply for support in delivering outreach and educational programmes that open up pathways into the industry. Applications will remain open until 12 September 2025.
This new funding, led by the Department for Transport and administered by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, takes the total fund to over £3 million since its inception.
Fund reaches more than 100,000 young people
So far, more than 100,000 young people across the country have benefited from the initiative, with grants awarded to over 40 organisations.
The initiative aims to tackle the barriers many young people face when considering careers in aviation, such as financial limitations, lack of awareness or access to role models in the sector.
The government sees the fund as central to securing a future pipeline of pilots, engineers and other aviation specialists.
Mike Kane, minister for aviation, said: “This is exactly what this government is all about – breaking down barriers to opportunity so that everyone, no matter their background, has a decent shot at getting a good career and building a good life.
“This funding will enable organisations like The King’s Trust to reach out to disadvantaged kids and support them into careers in aviation.
“It also delivers on our promise to help the sector grow, by delivering the pilots, engineers and technicians of the future, boosting jobs and growth across the country as part of the Plan for Change.”
‘Inspiring people across the UK’
Sophie Jones, STEM Sponsor at the CAA, added: “As the aviation regulator, we are dedicated to inspiring the next generation who will take the sector forward.
“The Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund helps reach people making the first step.
“By reaching and empowering diverse communities and creating a lasting impact, we are inspiring young people across the UK to explore exciting careers in aviation.”
Full details on how to apply for the fund can be found via the Department for Transport or the UK Civil Aviation Authority websites. Applications close on 12 September 2025.
