UK government expands aviation careers programme

The UK government has launched the latest phase of its Reach for the Sky initiative, providing £810,000 in funding to 16 organisations across the country to inspire young people to pursue careers in aviation.

This investment is part of a broader £2.3 million effort aimed at securing the industry’s future workforce and driving long-term economic growth.

Now in its third funding round, Reach for the Sky has already helped 37 outreach programmes engage with 100,000 people nationwide.

The initiative focusses on breaking down barriers for young people—particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds—by offering hands-on experiences, mentorship, and educational resources that highlight career opportunities in aviation, from piloting and air traffic control to engineering and navigation.

This year’s funding recipients include SaxonAir, The King’s Trust, and Employers and Educators, among others.

SaxonAir, a returning participant, has been instrumental in offering scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and aviation-focused events.

One of its key programmes, INSPIRE, in collaboration with Business in the Community (BITC), is designed to foster inclusion in aviation from an early age.

Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, said: “As part of our Plan for Change, we are breaking down barriers to opportunity so that every young person has the chance to pursue their dreams.

“Programmes like Reach for the Sky turn ambition into reality, helping to inspire young people and introducing them to the benefits of a career in the skies.  I look forward to seeing the achievements of the next generation of aviators.”