A Blackbushe-based flying school is set to attempt an ambitious 24-hour aviation challenge this summer, aiming to visit 130 airfields in a single day while raising funds for historic aviation charities.
AirFirst Blackbushe School of Flying, run by Emma and her mother, will take on the “Beyond the Record” challenge on 17–18 June. The attempt informally targets the current Guinness World Record of 118 airfields in 24 hours, pushing the limits of endurance flying, logistics and planning.
However, organiser Emma says the effort is about more than breaking records.
“The charities we’re supporting don’t just preserve old aircraft – they preserve stories, sacrifice and history that must never be forgotten,” said Emma.
“They keep alive the spirit of aviation’s greatest era and ensure generations understand what was given for the freedoms we enjoy today.
“We’ll be flying against the clock, battling fatigue, weather and logistics – but none of that compares to what those before us endured. This is our way of giving back.”
Keep an eye out for Emma’s aircraft this summer
Funds raised will support three UK aviation charities: the Kent Battle of Britain Museum, the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre — currently restoring Avro Lancaster “Just Jane” — and Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome which faces ongoing funding pressures.
Contribute to the fund-raising here
