A team of Air Traffic Controllers is to embark on a 3000-mile motorcycle ride from Aberdeen to Gibraltar to raise money for Aerobility and Prostate Cancer UK.
The riders, Wayne Clarke from Aberdeen Airport and Richard Fell, Shaun Bellairs-Wray and
Harvey McVicar from Swanwick Centre, will visit all 24 National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and NATS Solutions Air Traffic Control Units across Europe.
‘The Big Tour, 24 in 2024’ will set off from Aberdeen on Sunday April 14 and arrive in Gibraltar on Thursday April 25. They will then depart Gibraltar for the UK on April 26, arriving back in Portsmouth on the evening of April 29, and finishing the ride on the April 30 at NATS Whiteley.
The team has chosen to support Aerobility, a charity which changes lives by allowing anyone, with any disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight.
The organisation provides access to modified light aircraft and equipment, giving every disabled person the unique chance to spread their wings. And this year a new initiative, Solidarity Wings, will give three people with disabilities an 18-hour flying scholarship with Aerobility.
“As the NATS Air Traffic Controllers gear up for 'The Big Tour, 24 in 2024,' they are not only navigating the roads but also steering change and making a profound impact,” said Brian Wheeler, the Chief Operations Officer at Aerobility.
“We are deeply grateful for their decision to support Aerobility's Solidarity Wings Fund, allowing people with disabilities to experience the transformative joy of flight.
“Their journey not only symbolises the spirit of adventure but also the power of collective action in driving positive change. We look forward to following their epic adventure and celebrating the impact of their efforts on both Aerobility and Prostate Cancer UK."
Prostate Cancer UK is also a chosen charity of great personal significance to Wayne and the Aberdeen Control Tower Staff, as an ex-staff member from the unit passed away in May 2023 from the disease.
To find out more or to donate go to https://www.24in24.co.uk/