An ambitious mission to raise £100,000 for a cancer charity by flying around Britain has been dramatically grounded before it could even take off. The pilot behind the fundraiser, who is also a social media influencer, claims his airline employer has pulled the plug, citing a baffling bureaucratic row.
The aviator, known as Pilot Raffy to his online followers, had meticulously planned a solo flight in a light aircraft. His goal was to loop the entire coastline of the United Kingdom, all in aid of the esteemed Macmillan Cancer Support.
Dream Flight Becomes Bureaucratic Nightmare
In an emotional video posted to his social media, Raffy explained that his employer, Wizz Air, revoked its permission for the charitable endeavour. The airline reportedly took issue with his use of the title 'Wizz Air Pilot' in his initial fundraising announcements, despite him being a current first officer for the company.
"They said I was bringing the company into disrepute," a devastated Raffy explained to his followers. He insists his intentions were purely altruistic and that he had followed all internal procedures, even receiving initial verbal approval from a manager.
Public Backlash and Support
The decision has triggered a wave of support for the pilot and criticism towards the airline. Followers and supporters have flooded social media, expressing their disbelief that a company would halt such a positive initiative for a major UK charity.
Many have pointed out the immense positive publicity the challenge could have generated for Wizz Air, now turned into a significant public relations setback. The fundraiser had already garnered thousands of pounds in pledges from well-wishers inspired by his ambitious goal.
What's Next for the Grounded Fundraiser?
For now, the flight is officially cancelled. Raffy has stated he is heartbroken but remains determined to find a way to support Macmillan Cancer Support. The charity itself has expressed disappointment over the situation.
Wizz Air has yet to make a comprehensive public statement on the matter, leaving many questions unanswered about their internal policies regarding employees' charitable work.
