Children and young people facing illness, disability, SEND, bereavement or other difficult circumstances are being offered the chance to experience a British Airways Airbus A350 simulator at Gloucestershire Airport.
The free event will take place at the airport in Staverton on Wednesday 28 October 2026. It is being organised by fly2help, a Gloucestershire aviation charity based at the airport, through its Air Smiles programme.
Places are limited, and the charity is inviting families, schools and organisations supporting children and young people to put forward potential participants. The experience is intended to give those facing challenging circumstances something positive and memorable to look forward to.
How the simulator experience will work
Participants will be able to step into the world of aviation using the British Airways Airbus A350 simulator when it visits Gloucestershire Airport. The event is designed to create a special day for children, young people and their families at their local airport.
Air Smiles uses aviation to create positive experiences for families dealing with difficult circumstances. Fly2help says the programme is focused on creating happy memories and building confidence, while giving families time together centred on an enjoyable experience.
“We are incredibly excited to be able to offer this opportunity to local children and young people. Having a British Airways Airbus A350 simulator here at Gloucestershire Airport is something very special, and we would love to make sure these places reach families who could really benefit from having something exciting and positive to look forward to.”
Carly Bauert, charity manager at fly2help, said the charity particularly wanted the available places to reach families who could benefit from the experience.
Who can apply for a place
Families interested in being considered are encouraged to contact fly2help and provide a little information about the child or young person, including their age and the challenges they have faced.
The charity is also asking schools, SEND organisations, family support services and community groups across Gloucestershire to share the opportunity with families they believe may benefit.
“Our Air Smiles programme is all about creating happy memories, building confidence and giving children and their families a day where the focus is simply on having a wonderful experience together.”
There is no charge for the places, but the number available is limited. The event details are:
- Date: Wednesday 28 October 2026
- Location: Gloucestershire Airport, Staverton
- Experience: British Airways Airbus A350 simulator
- Cost: Free, subject to limited availability
