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Human Powered Flight Club takes to the air

18 February 2003

UCL Union's Human Powered Flight Club got off the ground in 2002 when student Aleksi Halkola (Maths 2002) became airborne in the 'Steam Boat Willy' hovercraft.

The pedal-operated craft was built by members of the club and received a standing ovation when it went on display at the Royal Aeronautical Society. It was originally built in conjunction with the Wimpenny family, in honour of Professor John Wimpenny who held the world distance record for human powered flight from 1961 to 1972.

With a gift from the family and the purchase of some parts, the club was able to gain full ownership of the craft and is now working on a lateral propulsion system to enable forwards, reverse and turning motion.

New members are always welcome to the club and no previous experience is necessary.