THE launch of a new microlight flying school is a boost to an airport's aim of becoming a major general aviation centre, bosses say.

Microlight flying instructor Gordon Wilson has opened the school at Durham Tees Valley Airport (DTVA).

The business will offer training for students to gain their national private pilot’s licence and provide trial flights for anyone wanting to try their hand at microlight flying.

Mr Wilson has 15 years’ experience flying microlights and has been a trainer for the past six years. His interest in flying developed after he was forced to give up his career as a diver as a result of suffering decompression sickness while on a training exercise with the Army in Cyprus.

He said: “Interest in microlights has grown enormously over recent years - there are over 4,000 registered with the Civil Aviation Authority.

"Modern microlights are strong certified aircraft which offer the exhilaration of an open-air cockpit and amazing 360 degree views.

“To gain a pilot licence students need to undertake at least 25 hours’ flying, with at least 10 hours solo, at least two cross-country flights and five theoretical tests."

Mr Wilson said he was looking at the possibility of providing flights for people with disabilities.

The new business was welcomed to the airport by DTVA manager.

He said: “This underlines our commitment to attract all types of general aviation activity and our growing leisure flying choices with him joining Durham Tees Flight Training and Skydive St George.

“This latest arrival follows the recent announcement of the new GA tariffs, offering excellent value fees for both new based operators and visiting aircraft, together with monthly parking tariffs and improvements such as pre-booked landing cards."

For more details on the new flying school, visit gwmicrolights.co.uk