For RAF Air Cadet Luana Sasarman, an Air League Flying Scholarship has helped turn an ambition to become a pilot into real flying experience and put her within touching distance of her Private Pilot Licence. She is one of 10 cadets awarded Air League scholarships this year, funded by the Air Cadet Charity. Here's how she got on:

Taking on the Scholarship

Hi, I’m Luana, a second‑year student at the University of Bristol, and this year I took on the Air League 12‑hour Flying Scholarship for the second time. I’m working towards my PPL, and this year I’ve flown with ACS Flying School in Perth and South Warwickshire Flying School in Wellesbourne. I’ve made it all the way to the Navigation stage now, with just a few bits left before I can start Solo Nav. It's been an incredible time, and I've learned so much.

What I enjoyed most

My favourite part this year has definitely been doing more spinning practice and learning about the dangers of flying into cloud during Instrument Flying. Recovering from a spin gives you the biggest adrenaline rush ever - your reactions have to be fast, and when you get it right, it feels amazing.

"Wherever life takes me, the RAF or elsewhere, flying will always be part of my future."
Luana Sasarman

What surprised me

I was honestly shocked by how confusing it is to fly into cloud. The moment you lose sight of the horizon; your body completely lies to you about what the aircraft is doing. You have to trust the instruments 100%, which feels strange at first but is such an important skill.

The biggest thing I learned

This year, I really focused on learning how to make a full flight plan. There’s so much to think about- weight and balance, headings, fuel calculations, and loads more. It was a lot to take in, but I actually loved it, and I’m excited to keep practising until I can do it perfectly.

Favourite memory or highlight

One of my favourite moments was when my instructor told me to close my eyes and try to fly straight. After just twenty seconds, I’d drifted into almost a 20‑degree turn without realising. It was such a good reminder of how much you rely on the horizon and landmarks - and how quickly things can change when you don’t have them.

What I found challenging and how I overcame it

The theory exams were definitely my biggest challenge this year, especially Operational Procedures. I just wasn’t getting it at first. But after chatting with instructors and other students working toward their PPL or ATPL, I found some great online practice resources. After lots of revision, I passed with 91%, which felt incredible.

How this opportunity influenced my future ambitions

This scholarship has pushed me so much closer to my dream. I’m now only 0.3 hours away from hitting 30 hours - that’s already 75% of the way to my PPL! Knowing I’m this close makes me even more determined to qualify as a pilot as soon as I can.

How the Scholarship changed my confidence and skills

Flying in two different places this year really boosted my confidence. I had to adapt to different landing approaches and new environments, which made me a much more flexible pilot. I’ve also met so many amazing, passionate people and learned from brilliant instructors. It’s made me feel sure that, wherever life takes me, the RAF or elsewhere, flying will always be part of my future.

"This scholarship has pushed me so much closer to my dream."
Luana Sasarman

What I want to do next

Next, I want to finish my Modern Languages degree while continuing my PPL theory and enjoying my time on the University Air Squadron. During my year abroad, I’m hoping to book flying hours in the countries I’ll be living in: Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, Mauritius and Italy. When I’m back, I plan to apply for what I hope will be my final Air League scholarship and finally complete my PPL.

Could I have taken part without funding support?

Honestly, no. I come from a modest background, and opportunities like this would have been really hard for my family to support. That’s why I’m so grateful to my sponsors; their help has made it possible for me to take my first real steps toward becoming a qualified pilot. I’ll always be thankful for that.

What I’d say to another cadet thinking about applying

Apply. Seriously. Even if you’re not sure you’re the “perfect” candidate, if you love flying or even just dream about it, go for it. You never know where it might lead - and it could be the start of something amazing.

Written by Luana Sasarman.

Luana’s story shows what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to pursue their ambitions and turn a passion for flying into real skills, experience and a path towards their future.

Air Cadet Charity: Investing in Air Cadets to Dream. Dare. Do.

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