With the selection process for its 2017 CPL (Helicopter) Scholarship Programme underway, UK-based Helicentre Aviation Academy has introduced a further prize fund of £60,000, consisting of three part-funded scholarships worth £10,000 each, and £30,000 of awards to be given to promising applicants to complete their training and further their careers.

Head of training, captain Sarah Bowen says: “The standard of this year's applicants has been so incredibly high we've taken the decision to create these new part-funded scholarships and awards in order to recognise and reward the hard work and determination that has been demonstrated by our applicants.

“The current Scholarship Programme awards just one fully funded CPL(H) to a lucky winner. However, due to the shortage of industry pilots and knowing funding is the major career stumbling block for the majority of people, we've launched this scheme in order to create an affordable route to becoming a professional commercial helicopter pilot for an increasing number of people. We're passionate about investing in the future and this is one way we can invest in future flight crews.”

Applications are open until 31 December for the 2018 programme.