Clerk’s notes – October 2025

National Aviation Month: Celebrating the skies and the UK’s role in aviation history

Every November, National Aviation Month takes flight as a celebration of the achievements, innovations, and cultural impact of aviation across the globe. While the observance is most prominent in the US – commemorating milestones such as the Wright brothers’ first powered flight in December 1903 – it resonates far beyond American borders.

Fortuitously relevant, we all know that the Coachmakers celebrates our significant contribution to young people in the aerospace sector at the Aerospace Industry Dinner on 13th November. Many Coachmakers have played a leading role in shaping the UK’s contribution to global aviation during the past century, including developing national identity, improving defence, commerce, and expanding technological advancement. Linked to our celebration this month, I wanted to reflect on the UK’s rich aviation heritage and its ongoing contributions to the global aerospace industry.

National Aviation Month was established to honour the pioneers of flight, recognise the importance of aviation in modern society, and inspire future generations to explore careers in aerospace. It typically includes educational events, museum exhibitions, air shows, and tributes to aviation legends – the latter as we do with our awards.

The month also serves as a reminder of how aviation connects people, cultures, and economies, shrinking the world and expanding possibilities.

The UK’s aviation legacy

The UK’s aviation story began in the early 20th century, not long after the Wright brothers’ breakthrough. British engineer Sir George Cayley, often called the father of aviation, laid the groundwork for modern aerodynamics as early as the 1800s. His work inspired generations of inventors and engineers.
In 1909, Louis Blériot made the first flight across the English Channel, landing in Dover and proving that international air travel was possible. This event captured the imagination of the British public and marked the beginning of the UK’s fascination with flight.

During World War I, aviation became a critical component of military strategy. The UK developed aircraft for reconnaissance, combat, and bombing missions. The Royal Flying Corps, which later became the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1918, was the world’s first independent air force.

World War II saw even greater innovation. British aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane played decisive roles in the Battle of Britain, defending the nation against the Luftwaffe. The bravery of RAF pilots – immortalized as “The Few” by Winston Churchill – became a symbol of national resilience.

After the war, the UK transitioned from military dominance to commercial aviation leadership. The de Havilland Comet, introduced in 1952, was the world’s first commercial jet airliner. Though it faced early setbacks, it paved the way for modern jet travel.

British Airways, formed in 1974, became a global icon of luxury and efficiency. The UK also partnered with France to develop the Concorde, the supersonic passenger jet that redefined speed and elegance in air travel. Though retired in 2003, Concorde remains a symbol of Anglo-French engineering excellence.

Today, the UK remains a major player in the aerospace industry. Companies such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, and Airbus UK are leaders in aircraft design, engine manufacturing, and defence technology.

• Rolls-Royce produces some of the world’s most advanced jet engines, powering aircraft from Boeing and Airbus.
• BAE Systems is a key contributor to military aviation, including the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 Lightning II.
• Airbus UK, with facilities in Filton and Broughton, designs and manufactures wings for Airbus aircraft used worldwide.

The UK also invests heavily in aviation research, sustainability, and innovation. Initiatives such as FlyZero and the Jet Zero Council aim to develop zero-emission aircraft and reduce the environmental impact of flying.

The cultural impact of aviation in the UK

Aviation has shaped British culture in countless ways. From wartime heroism to holiday travel, flight is woven into the national narrative.

• Airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick are gateways to the world and symbols of global connectivity.
• Air shows such as the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough International Airshow attract thousands of visitors and showcase cutting-edge technology.
• Media and literature often romanticize flight, from Biggles’ books to films such as Battle of Britain and The Dam Busters.

Even in everyday life, aviation influences how Britons see the world – whether it’s a family holiday abroad, a business trip, or watching the Red Arrows perform at a summer festival.

As National Aviation Month looks to the future, the UK is poised to lead in sustainable aviation, space exploration, and advanced air mobility.

• Electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft are being developed to reduce carbon emissions.
• Urban air mobility projects envision air taxis and drone delivery systems.
• The UK Space Agency supports satellite launches and spaceflight research, expanding the definition of aviation beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

With its blend of tradition and innovation, the UK remains a vital part of the global aviation story.

National Aviation Month is a time to celebrate the wonder of flight and the people who make it possible. For the UK, it’s also a moment to honour a legacy of courage, creativity, and collaboration. From the early days of Sir George Cayley to the cutting-edge technologies of today, the UK has helped shape the skies – and continues to soar into the future.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a student dreaming of flight, or simply someone who marvels at the miracle of air travel, November is the perfect time to look up and appreciate the incredible journey of aviation and for those attending the Aerospace Dinner a moment to celebrate and reflect on the young people the Coachmakers has helped over the many decades we have been influencing British Aviation with our awards, bursaries and scholarships. This year will be no different.

During my research I found some interesting facts that even the most gifted aero-buff may not know:

• Less than 10 people witnessed the first powered flight by the Wright Brothers on 17th December 1903.
• The distance flown by the Wright Brothers that day (about 120ft) was less than the wingspan of today’s Boeing 747 – which is about 210ft.
• Charles Lindbergh was the first pilot to fly solo and non-stop across the Atlantic on 20th May 1927.
• On the fifth anniversary of Lindbergh’s flight, Amelia Earhart made the same journey across the Atlantic – becoming the first woman and only person since Lindbergh to make the solo, non-stop flight.
• Harriet Quimby was the first American woman to earn a pilot’s licence in 1911.
• A year earlier, French aviator Raymonde de Laroche was the first woman in the world to have a pilot’s licence.
• The first African American woman to earn a pilot’s licence was Willa Brown in 1939.
• The pilot and co-pilot on a flight are not allowed to eat the same meal.
• KLM (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij), a Dutch airline, is the longest running airline under its original name.
• Aircraft use the same navigation lights as water vessels – a red light on the left wing (port), and a green light on the right wing (starboard).
• In 1996, the Concorde set the record flying time from New York to London – making the journey in only 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 59 seconds and traveling at speeds of up to 1,354mph. Concorde would later be retired in 2003.
• Although 80% of people have a fear of flying (aerophobia) only 5% of the world’s population have been on an aeroplane.
• An average of 10,000 planes are in the sky at any one time carrying roughly 1 million passengers.
• The Boeing 747 has roughly six million parts – that’s a lot of pieces to keep track of and maintain.

Company events

Christmas with the Coachmakers – Thursday 11th December 2025

A carol celebration to warm the soul

Step into the heart of Christmas with the Coachmakers at St James Garlickhythe Carol Service — a magical evening of music, joy, and festive cheer.

Thursday 11th December 2025, from 5:00pm at the historic and beautifully adorned St James Garlickhythe Church.

Join us beneath twinkling lights and soaring arches for a jubilant celebration of the season. Raise your voice in beloved carols, soak in the sounds of live festive music, and let the spirit of Christmas wrap around you like a warm winter coat.

Mulled wine steaming and spiced to perfection, festive treats to delight every palate, and rousing choruses and heartwarming harmonies.

Whether you’re a seasoned singer or simply love the glow of candlelight and community, this is an evening to remember. Bring friends, family, and your best festive spirit – let’s make this Christmas sparkle together.

A celebration of joy, tradition, community and fellowship awaits.

Tickets will go on sale shortly via the website.

We will also be drawing the Christmas JP100 and staging a cash prize draw on the night but, more importantly, there will be the opportunity to place gifts around the tree for those less fortunate.

City events

St Paul’s Cathedral Service of Remembrance

Liverymen are invited to attend the City of London Livery Companies’ Service of Remembrance at St Paul’s Cathedral, EC4M 8AD, followed by the laying of wreaths at The Royal Exchange and lunch in the Guildhall.

Sunday 9th November 2025
09.45-13.00

The Worshipful Company of Fruiterers is co-ordinating the event, which follows the Livery Committee’s Garden of Remembrance service for all Livery Companies, which happens on the preceding Monday 3rd November.

To register your interest, please contact the Clerk. Consorts and guests are also very welcome in unticketed seats.