09/06/2026
Congratulations to all the team, and in particular to Booker members Alex Philips and coach Graham Saw.
British Aerobatics is pleased to announce the final pilot selection for the British team that will represent Great Britain at the 2026 World Advanced Glider Aerobatic Championships (WAGAC), to be held in Fayence, France.
The selected pilots are:
• Neil Oakley (Team Captain)
• Laura Martin
• Alex Phillips
• Dan Weston
• Elliot Cox
Neil Oakley, Laura Martin and Alex Phillips retain their places from the current national team, while Dan Weston and Elliot Cox have been promoted from the British Aerobatics Development Squad following an exceptional year of progress and commitment. Toby Jones continues in the role of team manager.
Team selection was based on a combination of factors, including each pilot’s contribution to the wider development of the squad over the past 12 months, dedication to training and progression, and strong competitive performances at the recent Saltby Open Aerobatic Championships.
The final selection reflects not only flying performance, but also the collaborative culture that has become central to the British team programme. Pilots have collectively invested significant time in coaching, mentoring, judging support, training camps, and helping strengthen the foundations of UK glider aerobatics.
Team Captain Neil Oakley said: “The standard across the entire squad this year has been incredibly strong. What stands out about this group is not just flying ability, but the commitment every pilot has shown to helping develop the team as a whole. The progress made over the last year has been huge, and the Saltby Open demonstrated just how competitive this team can be heading into WAGAC 2026.”
Preparation for the championships will continue throughout the summer with a series of intensive training camps, coaching flights and competition practice, as the team builds towards representing Great Britain on the world stage.
British Aerobatics would also like to thank and recognise The Aerobatics Foundation (TAF), and the wider Development Squad and coaching team – Graham Saw, Guy Westgate and Paul Conran, whose continued effort, support and professionalism have played a major role in the programme’s success.
Further updates, team news and ways to support the British team can be found via British Aerobatics and the team's social media channels.
Gliding
CIVA
FAI - World Air Sports Federation
British Glider Aerobatic Team
