Member Article

Fledgling new flying school takes off at Durham

Durham Aerosports, a new flying school business, has been launched by enthusiasts Perry Reid and Lawrence Bell.

Based at Durham Tees Valley Airport, the pair said that Durham Tees Valley is the ‘perfect location’ for their operation.

The enterprising pair’s arrival is another boost for the airport’s drive, launched earlier this year, to attract more General Aviation business.

As well as offering the chance to learn to fly and gain a pilots’ licence for under £3,500, Durham Aerosports will also be providing a range of trial flight options starting at £70, using their Ikarus C42 Bravo aircraft which, whilst classed as a microlight, is very similar in appearance to a traditional light plane.

Perry Reid, Durham Aerosports managing director, said:“I began learning to fly whilst home from my offshore engineering job, became totally immersed in it and, after discussing things with Lawrence who was my instructor at the time, we decided to set up the school.

“I am an engineer by trade so I will be looking after the maintenance side of the business—currently I am involved in advanced engine courses with the possibility of developing a maintenance facility as part of the business.”

Lawrence Bell, chief flying instructor and operations manager, who has been working as an instructor since 2010, said: We chose the Ikarus C42 Bravo because it is a great aircraft for flight training—easy to handle, with the best equipment you can get and a range in excess of 500 miles.

“Having chosen the best aircraft we then wanted the best location and were delighted when Durham Tees Valley announced their drive to expand General Aviation activities. It is the perfect location for training with great facilities and full air traffic control.

“In addition we have been able to base the business in the heart of the airport—using two rooms in the recently opened office suite in the terminal.”

Shaun Woods, airport manager, said: “Expanding General Aviation business is a central element of our development plans at Durham Tees Valley—and it is working. In January we announced new tariffs offering savings for both aircraft based at the airport and visiting flyers. As a result seven aircraft have permanently relocated to the airport with more in the pipeline.

“We’ve been delighted to work with Perry and Lawrence in getting the business up and running and wish them all success.”

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