Signature Aircraft Engineering, Oxford is supporting 'Flying Scholarships for the Disabled' by completely rebuilding the engine of Polly Vacher's Piper Dakota in preparation for her second Wings Around the World trip.

Vacher will depart in May 2003 from Birmingham International Airport for a second solo circumnavigation of the world. An extreme test of endurance for both pilot and aircraft, the route is via the North and South Poles and has never before been undertaken solo in a single-engine light aircraft.

Signature Aircraft Engineering Oxford completely stripped the Dakota's Lycoming 6 cylinder engine, replacing many of its parts. "We service several hundred engines every year, many of which are full overhauls to factory rebuild specification," said Steve Jones, managing director.

"The team has worked extremely hard and I have the highest possible confidence in this rebuild, as I do in all the work we carry out at Oxford."

The aircraft also underwent a repaint in black and orange at the Oxford facility. Orange will increase visibility while flying across the snow and ice landscapes of the Poles and the black paint on the upper wing surfaces, cockpit and engine cowling will help to conserve heat when flying at sub-zero temperatures.

“I wouldn’t be human if I wasn’t nervous,” said Polly Vacher. “But we have been meticulous in the preparation for this trip. Now the engine has been rebuilt at Oxford, I know it is in excellent condition and I will be supported wherever I go.”

Flying Scholarships for the Disabled is a scheme whereby, through the mental and physical challenges of learning to fly a light aircraft, disabled people can rebuild their confidence and self-esteem. Personal sponsors are invited to have their name on the wing to ‘Fly the Pole with Polly’ for a donation of £25 to the charity. Information on how to do this can be found on www.worldwings.org