After 35 years in the cockpit, retired airline pilot and charity volunteer Owen Wright is preparing for a different kind of flight.

On 14 June, the 81-year-old from Hythe will swap his captain’s seat for a parachute harness as he takes on a skydiving challenge to raise vital funds for his local Air Ambulance charity – a cause that’s been close to his heart for almost 15 years.

Giving back to the community

“When I retired, my wife warned me not to become a grumpy old man,” Owen recalls.

So when a Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance volunteer delivered a talk to his local group, Owen was inspired to join the team.

Since then, Owen has become a familiar face at the charity – helping around the office, attending community events and delivering talks to inspire others.

“It’s a cause I’ve become really passionate about.”

“That first talk made me want to get involved, and I’ve looked forward to it every week since. Everyone is so welcoming – I’d absolutely recommend volunteering to anyone.”

Owen has already surpassed his £1,000 target and shows no signs of slowing down.

“I’d been thinking about it for my 80th, but now I’m 81 and finally doing it,” he says.

“My sons think I’ve lost my marbles, but they know it’s for a great cause. Everyone’s been incredibly supportive – particularly when I tell them about the appeal to relocate our Airbase.

“It’s a really exciting time for the charity. This appeal will help make the service more efficient and have an even bigger impact across the region.

“When you need us, we’ll be there – so I hope you’ll be there for us, too.”

Support Owen today by visiting his JustGiving page.