The Mark Long Trust gives disadvantaged individuals the wings to fly – building confidence through aviation experiences.
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Supporting disadvantaged individuals to experience the joy of flight.
Of the approximately 50,000 CAA pilot licence holders in the UK, fewer than 0.5% are disabled individuals. Everyday activities many take for granted—accessing buildings, using transport, pursuing careers—present constant challenges for disabled people. Aviation has been even more inaccessible. Yet with adaptive technology and specialised instruction, disabled individuals can not only learn to fly but excel at it, proving the sky has no limits.
Flying offers profound mental health benefits—freedom, achievement, and equality that transforms lives. "Taking control of an aircraft gave me back control of my life. My disability didn't define what I could achieve—the sky became my freedom." We help disabled individuals experience this transformative power, building independence and limitless possibilities.
The Mark Long Trust proudly supports Flying Scholarships for Disabled People (FSDP), a pioneering charity that has been transforming lives through aviation since 1983. FSDP's mission aligns perfectly with ours: to empower disabled individuals by providing access to life-changing flying experiences and training. Through their scholarship programme, FSDP offers disabled people aged 18 and over the opportunity to gain up to 20 hours of flying tuition, ground school training, and the chance to work towards a Private Pilot's Licence—all costs covered except travel. Together, we share the belief that disability should never be a barrier to achieving your dreams. Your donations help us support individuals to access these transformative FSDP scholarships, breaking down barriers and opening up the skies to those who have been told they can't fly.
The Mark Long Trust proudly supports Aerobility, a UK charity that changes lives by supporting people with disabilities to experience the magic and wonder of flight. Based at Blackbushe Airport in Hampshire, Aerobility provides access to modified light aircraft and specialised equipment, giving every disabled person the unique chance to spread their wings. Beyond flight experiences, the charity provides education and advocacy, helping disabled people to work within the aviation sector. Whether it's a first flight for someone who never thought they could fly, or training towards a pilot's licence, Aerobility makes aviation accessible to all. Your donations help us support individuals to access these transformative experiences with Aerobility.
The Mark Long Trust proudly supports fly2help, a Gloucestershire-based aviation charity that brings joy and respite to families going through challenging times. Through their bespoke Air Smiles Days, fly2help creates unforgettable aviation experiences for families and small groups, offering a welcome break from difficult circumstances. Their Aim High Programme inspires bright futures for young aviation enthusiasts, helping to open doors into the aviation and aerospace sector for the next generation. Run by passionate aviation professionals, fly2help shares our belief in the transformative power of flight. Your donations help us support individuals and families to access these uplifting experiences with fly2help.
The Mark Long Trust was established in memory of Squadron Leader Mark Long, a passionate aviator tragically killed in a Spitfire crash at RAF Coningsby on 25 May 2024. Mark believed in the power of flight to inspire and uplift.
Our mission is to empower disabled individuals by providing them with opportunities to experience aviation. We aim to break down barriers and foster a community where everyone, regardless of physical ability, can share in the wonder of flight.
Inspired by Mark's dedication and love for flying, the trust works to fund adaptive flying experiences, support specialised training, and raise awareness for Flying Scholarships for Disabled People (FSDP).
We are deeply grateful to these organisations that support and raise funds and awareness for the Mark Long Trust, helping us provide life-changing aviation experiences for disadvantaged individuals.
Rolls Royce
ADHD360
RAF Typhoon Display Team
Runway 25
Worshipful Company of Builders Merchants
Rouge Patches
These individuals advocate for and support the Mark Long Trust in our mission.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, KCB OBE DFC MA RAF
The 4* professional head of the RAF and a neighbour and friend of Mark from when they were based at RAF Cottesmore together.
Arthur Williams
Arthur Williams is a British television presenter, former Royal Marines Commando and a passionate aviator.
A gift in your will can help us continue Mark's mission to make aviation accessible for disabled individuals for generations to come.
Including a charity in your will is straightforward. You'll need our full legal name:
Mark Long Trust (Charity Registration No: 1214617)
We recommend seeking independent legal advice when writing or updating your will. No pressure - take your time to consider what feels right for you and your family.
