Flying first for tetraplegic pilot

Pilot Alex Barr: 'Half the time I am terrified'

A man paralysed in a diving accident 16 years ago has qualified as the UK's first tetraplegic pilot.

Alex Barr, from Llandudno, has passed his private licence in his own plane which he helped to adapt himself.

He is now offering his plane to anyone else who want to take to the skies and has to use a modified aircraft.

The 36-year-old who is paralysed from the chest down, flies his plane with a specially-adapted seat and controls.

Just to leave my wheelchair on the ground and to have three-dimensional freedom, it's like suddenly being set free Alex Barr

"I have always wanted to fly since a child," said Mr Barr.

"I am absolutely ecstatic. It really is a childhood dream finally realised."

"I have always wanted to fly, when I broke my neck I thought that has put paid to that."

Mr Barr, a driving assessment centre manager, pursued his dream because he believed a plane could be adapted.

"After speaking to the right people they told me it could be done technically and we have done it," he said.

His final tests at Otherton Airfield in Staffordshire at the weekend, included several take-offs and landings and examination of his overall flying ability.

Mr Barr will now be able to fly into Europe having qualified for his National Private Pilot's Licence, a permit which has only been operating for 18 months.

"Just to leave my wheelchair on the ground and have three-dimensional freedom, it's like suddenly being set free," said Mr Barr.

He has limited use his arms and hands and can push his wheelchair, but his disability limits his mobility.

Flying instructor Paul Tarplee said Alex had to put in extra work to gain his licence - as so did everyone around him.

'Big achievement'

"He is a very capable pilot," said the instructor.

"It is a big achievement for anyone, disabled or not."

The final tests at the weekend were a tense time for Alex's wife Louise and their two children Chris and Kelly.

"We have seen a lot of airfields but I'm glad it's done now, we are very proud," said Mrs Barr afterwards.

Her husband now intends to notch up a few more hours solo in the air before taking his family up with him.

A former top-class amateur boxer, Mr Barr has experienced some nervous moments before, but he says being in control of a plane is an awesome experience.

"Half the time I am terrified - but it is a healthy fear. You are concentrating so much it's hard to take in the splendid scenery - with flying your mouth is as dry as a bone," he said.