YOUNG pilot Corey Loader wishes one day rules will change and allow his to go for a licence to fly. But Corey refuses to let this stop him from taking to the skies.
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The 17-year-old continues to setting a sky-high example for what people with autism are capable of achieving.
Corey has been learning to fly for almost three years, taking up the challenge for the physical activity component for badges towards his Queen’s Scout Award.
In the process, flying has completely changed his life and helped him out of a dark time.
Corey had been struggling with depression after his companion animal, a beaded dragon died. Corey’s mum Coral Loader said Corey did not feel like he was good at anything.
The Loaders contacted Air Scouts to help find someone who might be willing to show Corey how to fly and achieve his badge mission. He started with an instructor in Lethbridge and has not looked back.
“It’s good,” Corey told The Courier. “I learn the buttons, controls and signals.”
Corey can also do take-offs, landings, climbing, descent and turns in the plane. He is good at pre-flight preparations and practical theory, a compulsory part of earning his badge.
This includes learning about how to read weather conditions, stick to a flight plan, and knowing how to read maps, compasses and air traffic commands.
Corey has low muscle tone, which means his body tires quicker than others, and trying many sports can be hard but flying suits him.
The feeling of being up in the air, soaring over the region is hard for Corey to describe but he definitely loves it. Corey saves up his pocket money to pay for his own flights.
Ms Loader said instructors have encouraged Corey to keep flying because they think he makes a really good pilot. The venturer’s determination is also impressing the Ballarat Specialist School community.
“The kids and mainly parents are inspired by Corey as he shows them hope and the ability to follow your dreams,” Ms Loader said.
She is proud too, even if nervous watching Corey fly.
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