Gloucestershire teenager takes to the skies (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Gloucestershire teenager takes to the skies

11:00am Sunday 5th February 2012 in News By Ian Craig

A TEENAGER from Gloucestershire celebrated his birthday by becoming one of the youngest ever pilots to carry out a solo helicopter flight.

Ollie Chadwick, who had his first helicopter lesson at 12 years old, celebrated his 16th birthday on January 26 with his first solo flight at Gloucestershire Airport.

The Cheltenham College student was given the chance to fly two helicopters, one with a jet turbine and the other with a piston engine.

After his flight, Ollie, who is thought to be the youngest pilot to carry out a solo flight in a jet turbine helicopter, said being solely responsible for the helicopters was a “great feeling”.

"I was mesmerised by helicopters from an early age, so the opportunity of learning to fly has been fantastic,” he added.

"These are both super helicopters and really rewarding to fly.

"Everyone at Gloucestershire Airport and my school has been very supportive." Gloucestershire Airport head of operations Darren Lewington said he was impressed by Ollie’s achievement.

"Completing a first solo flight is a big achievement for any student pilot, but doing it twice, and at such a young age, is a massive achievement," he added. "I have no doubt that Ollie has a very bright future ahead of him.”