New flying school Kurusha takes off at Thruxton airfield

The school, named Kurusha - derived from the Swahili word for "to fly - officially opened its doors in the first week of August.

The launch marks the revival of flight training at Thruxton, which has been dormant since November when the previous school, Vantage Aviation, ceased operations.

Kurusha, led by Captain Nick Gribble, aims to create a more accessible and community-focused environment for flight training.

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The launch event, held on Sunday, August 4, saw a promising turnout with around 25 attendees (Image: Kurusha)

Unlike its predecessor, which primarily focused on commercial pilot training, Kurusha is offering private pilot training with a strong emphasis on cultivating a club-like atmosphere.

"We're not running it to make a big profit but just to have a flying school at Thruxton," said Capt Gribble, who is also the chief instructor and owner of the school.

"It's got the same instructors and examiners as before, but we're trying to make it more friendly and focused on general aviation."

He added that the school is looking to provide quality training while fostering a sense of community among local pilots.

Kurusha's mission is clear: to offer a welcoming space where both seasoned pilots and newcomers can learn, share experiences, and enjoy the art of flying.

For now, Kurusha is operating with a single aircraft - a Piper PA-28, which is ideal for the type of training the school aims to provide.

The Piper PA-28 at Kurusha Flying School & Club  

Capt Gribble, who has extensive experience as a flight instructor since 1989, said that while there may be plans to expand the fleet in the future, the immediate focus is on maintaining a close-knit, club-like environment where pilots can train and hire aircraft on a self-fly basis.

The new owner of the Thruxton circuit and airfield has also assured residents that he will not be building houses on the track and instead plans to make huge improvements to the popular venue.

Racer and businessman Alex Thistlethwayte took over the circuit on May 1 after Henry Pelham decided to put it up for sale in 2023.

"He is committed to improving both the airfield and the track, and his enthusiasm and drive have allowed us to start up afresh, using the same instructors as were there previously but a very different organisation and ethos," Capt Gribble added.

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"We've got a steady trickle of people coming through and looking now, so things are beginning to start."

The launch event, held on Sunday, August 4, saw a promising turnout with around 25 attendees.

Interest in the school has steadily grown, with more than 50 individuals expressing interest in joining the club.