Targeting disadvantaged youth: The initiative directly aims to lower NEET (not in education, employment, or training) statistics among working-class youth by building industry networks, improving career visibility, and lowering financial entry hurdles. Proven initiatives: Past grant recipients include programs like Fantasy Wings, which utilises immersive technology to expose students to aviation pathways, alongside hands-on STEM workshops and employability support. Aligning workforce growth with industry demandThe funding announcement follows the Farnborough International Airshow and arrives during a period of expanding labour demand across the UK transport infrastructure:Passenger growth: UK airports handled a record 302 million passengers in 2025, with annual demand projected to reach 465 million by 2050. Skilled labour shortages: Skills England forecasts a 24% growth across transport and construction over the next decade, requiring up to 1.8 million additional skilled workers. “Aviation careers should be open to every young person with the ambition and talent to succeed, regardless of background,” said Aviation Minister Keir Mather, emphasising that building a diverse talent pipeline is critical to sustaining long-term sector growth.