ABOVE: Selma Gage will learn to fly in a Tiger Moth, getting 75% of her PPL funded through the scholarship

The 2022 Sir Geoffrey de Havilland Flying Scholarship has been awarded to Selma Gage. The award is given to young people of up to thirty years of age who have not previously been given any such bursary, and it covers 75% of the cost of a Private Pilot Licence. All the flying for the scholarship takes place at the Cambridge Flying Group, which has been providing vintage aircraft training for sixty-nine years.

The bursary is sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers. Announcing the winner, the Coachmakers Aerospace Awards Committee commented: ‘this year’s award has been made to a young lady who has already immersed herself in learning the theory subjects of learning to fly and of vintage aerospace. Selma has recently completed many of the PPL theory exams and this award will help her achieve her career goals and support vintage aviation activities.’

Gage, who already works in aviation, said: “First of all a massive thanks to the Coachmakers for this great opportunity! I have always had a passion for aviation but never thought it would be possible for me to get my pilot’s licence. When I first heard about the Sir Geoffrey de Havilland Flying Scholarship, I sent in an application straight away as it’s such a great opportunity and learning to fly in an icon like the Tiger Moth is truly unique. I would highly recommend any young vintage flight enthusiast out there to look it up and send in an application next year.”

Image: Howard Cook