Burley teenager Callum earns his wings (From Ilkley Gazette)
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Burley teenager Callum earns his wings
1:12pm Friday 2nd November 2012 in Local news
Air cadet Callum Parker, 16, has gained his flying wings
Burley-in-Wharfedale teenager Callum Parker has gained his flying wings at the age of 16.
The 1224 Wharfedale Squadron Air Training Corps cadet learned to become a pilot after completing a part-time scholarship at 642 Volunteer Gliding Squadron based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse.
Callum, currently studying four A Levels at St Mary’s School in Menston, is hoping for a career as commercial airline pilot.
He said: “I’ve always wanted to be a pilot since I was seven years old; this is the first step to a career in aviation.
“Going solo was a big thing for me, and I am really pleased.”
After a number of weekends of ground school and ten hours’ intensive flying training, the course culminated with a solo flight in a powered glider.
The scholarship is available to all air cadets aged 16 or older. Courses run throughout the year and are free of charge to those selected.
The Wharfedale group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at Ashlands Road in Ilkley.
E-mail adj.1224@aircadets.org for further information.
