London, 10th June: On Tuesday 8th June, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh, patron of The Air League, hosted the League’s Annual Reception in the prestigious surroundings of St James’s Palace where around 100 certificates and badges were awarded to youngsters who had completed powered flying, gliding and engineering scholarships administered by the Air League Educational Trust (ALET). The evening also recognised a number of aviation professionals who have made outstanding contributions, notably Wing Commander Michael Douglas and Air Commodore Ian R W Stewart for their services to the Air Cadet Organisation, and to the British Gliding Team for winning the European Championships in 2009. The Jeffrey Quill Medal for outstanding contribution to the development of air-mindedness in Britain’s youth went to recently-retired Director of the RAF Museum, Dr Michael Fopp, while The Air League Gold Medal went to Tony Edwards for his outstanding services to the causes of the Air League over many years.

The Air League’s Annual Reception, is one of the key events in the Air League’s calendar and is an excellent opportunity for both sponsors and recipients of the scholarships and bursaries to meet one-another. In 2010, over 100 flying scholarships and bursaries were made available through ALET, a number which has grown year on year and is down to the generous support from organisations such as Cobham plc, Thales, Airbus UK, Marshall Aerospace and the Swire Charitable Trust.

Speaking at the reception, Andrew Brookes, Director of The Air League said: ‘To have such commendable aviators at the reception is inspirational for those youngsters keen to pursue a career in aviation’.

‘Thanks to the ALET schemes, there are no financial barriers to experiencing aviation at first hand and enjoying the benefits that it brings in terms of personal development. The skills developed by piloting light aircraft and gliders – self-confidence, improved situational awareness and sound judgement – will equip those who take part in the schemes with skills for life.’

Since it’s foundation in 1909, The Air League has tirelessly supported British leadership in aviation and this effort was formally recognised with the creation of the Air League Educational Trust, a registered charity, in 1968. Flying scholarships and bursaries have been awarded every year since then and many pilots in airlines and the armed forces started their flying careers with the help of an ALET scheme.