Supporting TEAM UK's journey to Invictus Games 2023
Category: AirTanker Released: 07 September 2023
Today, 7 September 2023, AirTanker are delighted to have transported TEAM UK, along with their friends and family, to Invictus Games 2023 in Dusseldorf.
Earlier this year we were approached by the Ministry of Defence and the Royal British Legion (RBL) to support TEAM UK, made up of 59 serving and veteran military personnel, travelling to and from Invictus Games 2023, along with their friends and family. Without hesitation, we worked directly with the Royal British Legion and set out to make this happen.
Inspired by all the brave individuals competing in the games, we committed to providing their transport to and from Dusseldorf, free of charge. To do this, we collaborated with our service partners who were also happy to offer their contribution: thank you to the Ministry of Defence for providing the fuel and waiving landing fees on return at RAF Brize Norton; and to Birmingham Airport for waiving their landing fees and passenger taxes.
Our aircraft, G-VYGK, departed RAF Brize Norton this morning and landed at Birmingham Airport ready to welcome TEAM UK onboard for their journey to Dusseldorf. Our AirTanker Flight Deck and Cabin Crew are delighted to have played a part in TEAM UK’s participation in the Invictus Games.
Image: Showing all Team UK Invictus Games competitors. Crown Copyright.
Mark Alexander, AirTanker CEO, said:
“AirTanker is incredibly proud to support the Royal British Legion and contribute to fly Team UK and their families from the UK to Dusseldorf to compete in the Invictus Games 2023.
“It is truly inspiring to see such courageous individuals overcome their challenges and change lives in the process. Flying Team UK to the Invictus Games is just one step in their inspiring journey, and we’re honoured to have been part of it. We wish all competitors the very best in the games, and in their continuing recovery and rehabilitation.”
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:
"As the Invictus Games kicks off in Dusseldorf, we are reminded of the resilience and determination of our wounded, injured and sick veterans and service personnel. The Games enables them to continue their recovery while benefitting from the team spirit and togetherness of the Armed Forces community.
The sense of unity, commitment and resilience demonstrated by Team UK inspires us all, and I wish them the best of luck on their Invictus Games journey."
AirTanker will be watching TEAM UK's progress in the games with great anticipation and look forward to bringing the team back home to Birmingham later this month.