Pilot stories

Shane’s flight

Shane (35), has an incomplete Spinal Chord Injury (SCI), affecting his function in his arms, legs and chore strength. As a wheelchair-user and accessible experience enthusiast, Shane actively seeks opportunities to access his community and take up new adventures.

Shane joined Wheelies with Wings in 2019. He always wanted to fly airplanes but thought it was impossible due to his injury.

After a few quick lessons, it wasn’t long before Shane was ‘wheels up’ and soaring over .

“Learning to fly was one of the best experiences of my life.”

Shane’s biggest takeaway was learning to track accurately across the ground with a crosswind blowing.

“Knowing I can’t walk anywhere but, I can fly anywhere opens a whole new world of adventure for me. If you want to learn to fly, take it up – and go on a holiday.”

Next up for Shane is getting his pilot’s license, and he’s looking into acquiring his own plane so he can fly anywhere in Australia – they sky is the limit, literally!

Jasmin’s flight

Jasmin joined Wheelies with Wings in 2015.

Jasmin is no stranger to flight. As a little girl Jasmin enjoyed joy flights. At 12 she flew in a 737 simulator, and by 14 she was flying a glider.

”Since I was 10 years old I dreamt of learning to fly and my ultimate goal is to become a commercial pilot.”

Jasmin gained her first 13 hours in the air with Wheelies, learning how to take off and land.

“More than just learning to fly, I met some great people. The encouragement and support from everyone involved helped me continue my dream of learning to fly.”

Since Wheelies, Jasmin went on to finish her pilots training at Lilydale Flying School and gaining her Recreational Pilot’s Licence with a constant speed endorsement.

Next up for Jasmin – training towards her Private Pilot’s Licence with an aspiration of a Commercial Pilot’s Licence.

Her ultimate goal – becoming a Flight Instructor to teach others to fly and pass on her love of aviation.