Pilot’s practical idea takes flight

A former airline pilot has turned decades of industry experience into a new product for people on the move.

Gosforth-based Gary Day has launched AeroCup, an insulated stainless-steel travel cup developed after nearly five decades working in commercial aviation. 

Following a 48-year career with British Airways, including 30 years as a Boeing 777 captain, he turned his experience of in-flight challenges into a practical new venture.

Designed initially for pilots, AeroCup features a twin-walled stainless-steel body to keep drinks hot for hours, paired with a distinctive Aroma Lid that opens and closes with a twist. 

Gary said: “When you hit patches of turbulence while drinking tea or coffee, the liquid can spill up through the lid and burn your mouth, soil your white uniform shirt or even damage the flight deck electrics with spilt liquid. 

“It’s a small thing, but when you fly long-haul for decades, you realise the solution just doesn’t exist. 

“So, I decided to design one.”

The design allows users to enjoy the full aroma and flavour of hot drinks while reducing the risks associated with open cups or conventional sip lids.

Gary added: “With the AromaLid, it feels like drinking from an open cup, but with complete safety.

“Aroma is a huge part of taste, and most travel lids block it. 

“This solves that problem while preventing spills, even in turbulence.”

After extensive research and multiple prototypes, the product has found an audience beyond aviation. 

Orders have been shipped to countries including the USA, Canada and across Europe, with growing demand from commuters, drivers and office workers. 

The cup can also be personalised with laser engraving, broadening its appeal as an everyday essential.

Gary added: “It’s amazing to see the word spreading. 

“I’ve advertised in a few aviation magazines, but honestly, most of it is pilots recommending the cup to other pilots. 

“Word of mouth has been incredible.

“I’ve flown thousands of hours in my career, and I’ve spent hundreds of hours designing the cup. 

“It’s now literally taking off and is now on course to climb to new heights.”

Customers can order the AeroCup directly from Gary’s website: www.aero-cup.co.uk

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