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The UK government has announced a new £750,000 ($1 million) investment aimed at helping disadvantaged young people pursue careers as pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals.
The funding forms part of the fourth round of the Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund, a government initiative designed to remove barriers that prevent underrepresented groups from accessing careers in the aviation sector. The fund particularly targets disadvantaged youths, including those from ethnic minority backgrounds, and supports efforts to raise awareness and provide direct pathways into aviation careers.
Eligible organisations can use the funding for a variety of outreach and educational activities, including career events, mentorship programs, hands-on demonstrations, and collaborations with schools and universities.
To date, the Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund has provided £2.5 million ($3.3 million) to 40 organisations and has reached over 100,000 young people across the UK.
“This builds on the government’s promise to secure the long-term success of aviation by growing the workforce of the future,” a UK government spokesperson said. “It will also break down the barriers which prevent people from joining the industry, including limited access to education, financial constraints and lack of exposure to career options.”
Applications for the latest funding round are open until 12 September 2025. Submissions will be reviewed by a panel including representatives from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which also oversees the administration of the fund.
Aviation Minister Mike Kane emphasised the broader goals of the initiative, stating: “This is exactly what this government is all about – breaking down barriers to opportunity so that everyone, no matter their background, has a decent shot at getting a good career and building a good life.”
He added: “This funding will enable organisations like The King’s Trust to support disadvantaged young people into aviation careers, while helping the sector grow and deliver the pilots, engineers and technicians of the future.”
The investment is aligned with the UK’s Plan for Change, a broader strategy to support job creation and long-term growth in key sectors across the country.
