Prestwick man, 89, relives air career on flight simulator

Former aircraft engineer David Auld, 89, was joined by his wife Jean for the amazing experience at Ascent Aviation in Linwood.

David, who lives at the Queens Care Home in Prestwick, used to travel the world through his work for Air Canada, and was able to take the virtual controls of several iconic aircraft on the trip down memory lane.

David was joined by his wife Jean on the experience (Image: Speed Comms)

David’s extraordinary journey back to the skies was made possible through the generosity of the care home’s beautician, Claire Kirkby, who gifted a special voucher, which was due to expire, to the facility.

The team at Ascent Aviation recreated a near-perfect simulation of a Boeing jumbo jet which had taken David to New York, Toronto and Rome, while he was also able to 'fly' a TriStar airliner, a mainstay of mid- to long-distance air travel around the world in the 1970s and 1980s.

He was even able to 'fly' to Toronto, where his daughter lives, to pay her a virtual visit.

At the end of his flight, David received a flight certificate, commemorating the incredible day.  

The 89-year-old was even able to 'fly' to pay a virtual visit to his daughter in Canada (Image: Speed Comms)

Tracey Jones, a support worker at Queens Care Home,  who helped to organise the day said:  “It was amazing to support David to take part in this aviation stimulation, which was an incredible experience for both himself and Jean.

“Our team are passionate about enriching our residents’ lives, especially through activities like these, which are so important to give our residents a sense of continuity and achievement.” 

Smiling from ear to ear, David added: “It was terrific!”

The former aircraft engineer used to travel the world through his work for Air Canada (Image: Speed Comms)

Queens Care Home, which is run by not-for-profit provider, Sanctuary Care, provides residential, dementia, nursing, palliative and respite care breaks.