Stansted’s Aerozone marks a decade inspiring tomorrow’s aviation professionals

Image courtesy MAG

The dedicated learning hub has become a go-to destination for pupils across Essex, Hertfordshire, Suffolk and beyond, offering hands-on activities that bring aviation to life and highlight the huge range of careers available in the sector.
With a flight simulator, interactive STEM sessions, and spectacular runway views, the Aerozone is all about making learning fun and memorable, while helping young people explore exciting future opportunities.

It also shines a light on the future of flying, with activities exploring sustainable aviation and Stansted’s Jet Zero ambitions. 

The 10-year milestone coincides with the launch of the airport’s new five-year Sustainability Strategy: Creating a Sustainable Future for All – a clear vision and action plan to ensure environmental responsibility and social impact remain at the heart of airport operations.

Gareth Powell, Managing Director at London Stansted, said: “When we launched the Aerozone, the goal was to create a space that would inspire the next generation. Reaching 10 years and over 25,000 visitors, is a huge milestone. Best of all is seeing former visitors now training at Stansted Airport College or even working at the airport. That’s when you know it’s really making a difference.”

Airport colleagues regularly volunteer to share their career journeys at the Aerozone, helping students understand the wide range of opportunities across the airport – from engineers and air traffic controllers to customer service and security roles.

Several students currently studying at Stansted Airport College say their careers were kickstarted by a visit to the Aerozone: “I visited the Aerozone when I was in primary school and I’m now studying Level 3 Aeronautical Engineering at Stansted Airport College. Going to the Aerozone helped me understand the opportunities in aviation – it’s why I came here,” said Jax Pateman, L3 Engineering student.

Zach Robinson, also studying L3 Engineering, added: “I went to the Aerozone when I was at Henham Primary School. It showed me the different jobs you could do at the airport. Now I’m applying for apprenticeships and university.”

Charles Morson, L3 Aviation Operations said: “I was in secondary school at Forest Hall when I went to the Aerozone. We took part in lots of team activities and learnt all about careers in aviation. Visiting the Aerozone definitely influenced my decision to study at Stansted Airport College.” 

Also, Samuel Letchford, L3 Engineering, said: “It was when I visited the Aerozone and watched the aircraft take off and land that I decided I wanted to study engineering. The engines looked so exciting – I needed to know more.”

Victoria Clayden Smith, Head of Centre at Stansted Airport College, said: “So many of our students were first inspired by a visit to the Aerozone. It really sparks something in them. Now we’re seeing those same young people training with us, getting their qualifications, and going on to brilliant careers at the airport.”

To mark the Aerozone’s milestone, Year 2 pupils from Felsted Primary School near Dunmow were invited to a special celebration on Thursday (5th June). The class enjoyed a day of learning and discovery, plus cake, balloons, face painting and a visit from an ice cream van – making the day extra special.

Mrs Muir, Year 2 teacher at Felsted Primary School, said: “Our visit to the Aerozone was the absolute highlight of the term. The children were buzzing with excitement from the moment we arrived and loved every minute, especially getting to see the planes up close after learning about the history of flight in class. The 10th birthday celebrations made the day even more special, it’s one they’ll remember for a long time.”

Avery, aged 7, said: “I loved seeing all the planes take off and trying on the uniforms – that was so cool. And the cake and ice cream were really yummy.”

Frank, also 7, said: “The balloons and ice cream were fun but my favourite bit was getting to spray the hose with the airport firefighters – that was amazing.”

As London Stansted continues to grow, the Aerozone team is already planning the next chapter, including new tech, updated sustainability resources and expanded outreach to even more schools and communities.