AIR PILOT DEC 2017:AIR PILOT MASTER 29/11/17 09:25 Page 1 AirPilot DEC 2017 ISSUE 24 AIR PILOT DEC 2017:AIR PILOT MASTER 29/11/17 09:25 Page 2

Diary

DECEMBER 2017 7th General Purposes & Finance Committee Cobham House AIR PILOT 14th Carol Service St. Michaels, Cornhill THE HONOURABLE COMPANY OF JANUARY 2018 AIR PILOTS 10th AST/APT meeting Dowgate Hill House incorporating 16th Air Pilots Benevolent Fund AGM RAF Club Air Navigators 18th General Purposes & Finance Committee Dowgate Hill House 18th Court & Election Dinner Cutlers’ Hall

PATRON: His Royal Highness FEBRUARY 2018 The Prince Philip 7th Pilot Aptitude Testing RAF Cranwell Duke of Edinburgh KG KT 8th General Purposes & Finance Committee Dowgate Hill House 20th Luncheon Club RAF Club GRAND MASTER: His Royal Highness The Prince Andrew Duke of York KG GCVO

MASTER: VISITS PROGRAMME Captain C J Spurrier Please see the flyers accompanying this issue of Air Pilot or contact Liveryman David Curgenven at [email protected]. CLERK: These flyers can also be downloaded from the Company's website. Paul J Tacon BA FCIS Please check on the Company website for visits that are to be confirmed.

Incorporated by Royal Charter. A Livery Company of the City of London.

PUBLISHED BY: GOLF CLUB EVENTS The Honourable Company of Air Pilots, Please check on Company website for latest information Cobham House, 9 Warwick Court, Gray’s Inn, London WC1R 5DJ.

EDITOR: Paul Smiddy BA (Eco n), FCA EMAIL: [email protected]

FUNCTION PHOTOGRAPHY: Gerald Sharp Photography View images and order prints on-line. TELEPHONE: 020 8599 5070 EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.sharpphoto.co.uk

PRINTED BY: Printed Solutions Ltd 01494 478870 Except where specifically stated, none of the material in this issue is to be taken as expressing the opinion of the Court of the Company. EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: The copy deadline for the February 2018 edition o f Air Pilot is 1 January 2018.The Cobham House office will close on December 15th. We will move into our new offices on January 2nd 2018.The address is: 14-16 Dowgate Hill House, London EC4R 2SU. Our telephone number remains unchanged Cover photo:Air Chief Marshal Sir Patrick Hine GCB GBE receives the Award of TELEPHONE: 020 7404 4032 Honour from Air Marshal Stu Atha and the Master, Capt. Chris Spurrier. FAX NO: 020 7404 4035 EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.airpilots.org AIR PILOT DEC 2017:AIR PILOT MASTER 29/11/17 09:25 Page 3

A message from your Editor...

(Although it can sometimes be a drawback), one of the key advantages of the internet age is the faster dissemination of information.There can be few areas where this is of greater benefit to mankind than in the publication of flight safety material. Many of us will remember long days in a crew room, weathered in perhaps, passing the hours studying the RAF’s flight safety magazine,Air Clues. In those days it had a Restricted circulation category.To the RAF’s credit, this is now available to all on the web (see https://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/airclues.cfm.) As is usual, the latest issue carries features that should be of interest to all practitioners of aviation.

This issue of Air Pilot carries a short report on our recent visit to the AAIB at Farnborough.This organisation is also a firm believer in rapid and broad publication of flight safety information. Its October monthly bulletin was a classic, if that i s the appropriate word, in containing lessons for pilots of every hue. For the warbird fraternity it featured the investigation into the fatal crash of a P51 (that used to grace the skies over my home), with torque roll / low speed handling, and flying clothing issues.The CFIT (or loss of control in IMC) of a PA30 has universal interest.And finally it included the findings of the very close call at Belfast by a Canadian B737 in July this year which highlights the dangers of incorrect entries into the Flight Management Computer.

As days shorten, and weather issues may prevent flight by us ‘discretionary’ flyers, it behoves us to spend some time absorbing the lessons learned sometimes so painfully by others, and published in timely manner by the RAF and AAIB.

On a lighter note, it was again a pleasure to see a full Great Hall at London’s Guildhall where members and guests could pay tribute to some of the finest airmanship in the world. Paul Smiddy - Editor

Contents

News Round Up ...... 4

New 617 Sqd Dutch Memorial ...... 9

The Master’s Message ...... 10

Gazette ...... 11

Trophies and Awards Banquet ...... 12

From the desk of the DAA ...... 22

“it is OK to ask” ...... 23

Sir Frederick Tymms Memorial Lecture ...... 24

Air Pilots visit to NATS Swanwick ...... 25

The future of UK Airfields ...... 27

RAF Odiham families day ...... 30

Visit to Tangmere Military Aviation Museum . . . .31

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News Round Up RAF BENSON HONOURED hydrographic survey.The high resolution defined at 60,000 square kilometres, and One of our affiliated units, RAF Benson sonar search covered an area in excess of was increased in April 2015 when the was recently presented with the 120,000 square kilometres, also the Tripartite Governments (Malaysia, Stainforth Trophy by ACM Sir Stephen largest ever search or survey of its kind. Australia and the People’s Republic of Hillier, CAS. The trophy is awarded Despite the extraordinary efforts of China) agreed to expand the search area annually to the station deemed to have hundreds of people involved in the to 120,000 square kilometres. The contributed the most to the delivery of search from around the world, the aircraft primary objective of the underwater air power within the Royal Air Force. has not been located. search was to establish whether or not Congratulations! Regardless of the cause of the loss of the debris field of the missing aircraft was MH370, there were no transmissions in the area of seafloor defined by expert received from the ai rcraft after the first 38 analysis of the airc raft’s flight path and minutes of the flight. Systems designed to other information. If a debris field was automatically transmit the aircraft’s located, the search needed to confirm the position including the transponder and debris was MH370 by optical imaging, the aircraft communications addressing and then map the debris field to enable and reporting system failed to transmit planning for a subsequent recovery the aircraft’s position after this time operation. MH370 period. Subsequent analysis of radar and Once underwater search operations The Australian safety agency, the ATSB, satellite communication data revealed the commenced in October 2014, the recently released an interesting summary aircraft had actually continued to fly for a MH370 debris field could potentially of its investigation. further seven hours. Its last position was have been located at any time.A recovery “On 8 March 2014, a Boeing 777 aircraft positively fixed at the northern tip of operation would need to have operated as Malaysia Airli nes flight 370 Sumatra by the surveillance systems commenced as soon as possible after the (MH370) was lost during a flight from operating that night, six hours before it debris field was located and th e Tripartite Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Beijing in ended the flight in the southern Indian governments had agreed on the next the People’s Republic of China carrying Ocean. steps. The ATSB's role was therefore to 12 crew and 227 passengers. The search The challenge which faced those tasked also put in place the arrangements and for the missing aircraft commenced on 8 with the search was to trace the plans necessary for a rapid recovery March 2014 and continued for 1,046 whereabouts of the aircraft using only operation to occur at short notice. days until 17 January 2017 when it was the very limited data that was available. The underwater search applied scientific suspended in accordance with a decision This data consisted of aircraft principles to defining the most probable made by a tripartite of Governments, performance information and satellite area to be searched through modelling being Malaysia,Australia and the People’s communication metadata initially, and the aircraft’s flight path and behaviour at Republic of China. then later during the underwater search, the end of the flight. The flight path The initial surface search and the long-term drift studies to trace the origin modelling was based on unique and subsequent underwater search for the of MH370 debris which had been adrift sophisticated analysis of the metadata missing aircraft have been the largest for more than a year, and in some cases, asso ciated with the periodic automated searches of their type in aviation history. more than two years. The types of data, satellite communications to and from the The 52 days of the surface search and the scientific methods used for its aircraft in the final six hours of the flight. involving aircraft and surface vessels analysis, were never intended to be used The end-of-flight behaviour of the covered an area of several million square to track an aircraft or pin point its final aircraft, when MH370 was considered to kilometres. A sub surface search for the location. have exhausted its fuel, has been analysed aircraft’s underwater locator beacons was On 28 April 2014, the surface search for and simulated. also conducted during the surface search. MH370 coordinated by the Australian In 2015 and 2016, debris from MH370 The underwater search started with a Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) was was found on the shores of Indian Ocean bathymetry survey which continued as concluded and the Australian Transport islands and the east African coastline.The required throughout the underwater Safety Bureau (ATSB) assumed debris yielded significant new insights search and has mapped a total of 710,000 responsibility for conducting the into how and where the aircraft ended its square kilometres of Indian Ocean underwa ter search for the aircraft. The flight. It was establ ished from the debris seafloor, the largest ever single underwater search area was initially that the aircraft was not configured for a

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ditching at the end-of-flight. By studying The mapping of the seafloor in the the loss of Air France flight AF447, in the the drift of the debris and combining search area revealed a challenging terrain South Atlantic Ocean in 2009, and the these results with the analysis of the for the underwater search which used loss of MH370 have led to some satellite communication data and the underwater vehicles operating close to important learn ings related to locating results of the surface and underwater the seafloor.While the deep tow vehicles missing aircraft on flights over deep searches, a specific area of the Indian selected as the primary search method ocean areas. Requirements and systems Ocean was identified which was more proved to be very effective, the seafloor for tracking aircraft have been enhanced likely to be where the aircraft ended the terrain necessitated the use of a rangef o and will continue to be enhanced. Steps flight. search methods including an are being taken to advance other aircraft The understanding of where MH370 autonomous underwater vehicle to systems including emergency locator may be located is better now than it has complete the sonar coverage. transponders and flight recorder locator ever been. The underwater search has The underwater search area was located beacons. eliminated most of the high probability up to 2,800 km west of the coast of The ATSB acknowledges the areas yielded by reconstructing the Western Australia and the prevailing extraordinary efforts of the hundreds of aircraft’s flight path and the debris drift weather conditions in this area for much dedicated professionals from many studies conducted in the past 12 months of the year are challenging. Crews on the organisations in Australia and around the have identified the most likely area with search vessels were working for months world who have contributed their time increasing precision. Re-analysis of at a time in conditions which elevated and efforts unsparingly in the search for satellite imagery taken on 23 March 2014 the operational risks.The ATSB ensured MH370. in an area close to the 7th arc has that these risks to the safety of the search The reasons for the loss of MH370 identified a range of objects which may vessels and their crews wer e carefully cannot be established with certainty until be MH370 debris. This analysis managed. the aircraft is found. It is almost complements the findings of the First At the time the underwater search was inconceivable and certainly societally Principles Review and identifies an area suspended in January 2017, more than unacceptable in the modern aviation era of less than 25,000 square kilometres 120,000 square kilometres of seafloor had with 10 million passengers boarding which has the highest likelihood of been searched and eliminated with a high commercial aircraft every day, for a large containing MH370. degree of confidence. In all, 661 areas of commercial aircraft to be missing and for The ATSB’s role coordinating the interest were identified in the sonar the world not to know with certainty underwater search involved the imagery of the seafloor. Of these areas, 82 what became of the aircraft and those on procurement and management of a range with the most promise were investigated board. of sophisticated and highly technical and eliminated as being related to The ATSB expresses our deepest services. Management of the underwater MH370. Four shipwrecks were identified sympathies to the families of the search was aimed at ensuring high in the area searched. passengers and crew on board MH370. confidence in the acquisition and analysis The intention of this report is to We share your profound and prolonged of the sonar search data so that areas of document the search for MH370, in grief, and deeply regret that we have not the seafloor which had been searched particular, the underwater search been able to locate the aircraft, nor those could be eliminated. A comprehensive including; where the search was 239 souls on board that remain missing.” program was implemented to ensure the conducted (and why), how the search quality of the sonar coverage.A thorough was conducted, the results of the search sonar data review process was used to and the current analysis which defines an LONDON HEMS Trustees for the APBF recently attended ensure areas of potential interest were area where any future underwater search the annual reception for the London Air identified and investigated. should be conducted. The report also Ambulance, which was held at the During the early stages of the includes a safety analysis which is focused Honourable Artillery Company. procurement, careful consideration was on the search rather than on discussing given to the methods available for the range of factors which may have led conducting a large scale search of the to the loss of the aircraft. seafloor.Water depths were known to be The Government of Malaysia is up to 6,000 m with unknown currents conti nuing work on their investigation of and unknown seafloor topography. the facts and circumstances surrounding Search operations would also have to be the loss of MH370 aircraft consistent conducted in poor weather conditions with their obligations as a member State and in a very remote area far from any of ICAO. The Malaysian investigation is land mass. Planning focused on selecting being conducted in accordance with the a safe, efficient and effective method to provisions of ICAO Annex 13, Aircraft search the seafloor in an operation with Accident and Incident Investigation. an indeterminate timeframe. The search, recovery and investigation of

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THE ERIC WINKLE BROWN STATUE of civil servants, entertainers and sporting programme the die was cast. All those AND FLYING SCHOLARSHIPS icons, it seems strange that an aviator of lucky enough to attend were fascinated Upper Freeman Iain Tulloch writes: Winkle´s stature had to make do with a and charmed b y this remarkable airman. CBE. Not many of today´s knights and Unfortunately they were unable to repeat When Capt. Eric Winkle Brown died dames have faced the risks that Winkle the invitation. early last year it was suddenly realised that did in the interests of aeronautical we had lost a very special aviator. There At the outset of the project for a statue in research. So a group of old boys from had been some recent acknowledgement Winkle´s honour only one or two of our Edinburgh University Air Squadron of his achievements such as an honorary members had any experience of decided to do something about it. We doctorate from Edinburgh University, managing a charity, let alone creating and an interview on the 3000th edition were unlikely to achieve the heights of one. Luckily we benefitted from the of Desert Island Discs with KirstyYoung. Nelson´s Column, but the idea of a statue enthusiastic support of the management It was that interview which sparked the to this great naval aviator was born. of Edinburgh Airport Ltd. at the outset. interest of some of the alumni of Where else to put it but at Edinburgh They understood the historical Edinburgh University Air Squadron. We airport which saw the start of his military significance and the strong links with the realised that Winkle was our oldest flying in the Edinburgh University Air Edinburgh community that made the surviving member.A lunch was arranged Unit in 1939. The fact that this was an idea so attractive and the site so obvious. near his home in Copthorne by some RAF unit and his later fame was as a But, however good the idea, the business Squadron members who lived in the naval pilot is irrelevant. What really of raising the money to finance it is the area. By all accounts it was a most matters is that he was born in Leith and real challenge.The concept has to be well enjoyable affair. He appeared aged 96 that like us he was an alumnus of the defined, a sculptor with the capacity to driving a sports car with his partner!. University and the Air Unit. So who are capture the essential qualities of the these old boys and what have they done? Winkle never had the reputation of subject has to be selected, and the being a shrinking violet amongst those Edinburgh UAS was disbanded nearly 50 business of founding a charity needs to who worked with him. Dedicated as he years ago to be amalgamated with other be started.The latter task took far longer was to test flying, his qualities as a staff Scottish UASs. Hence the title of “Old than anticipated, but the trustees were officer were never other than secondary Boys”.There were no flying RAF girls in determined to put everything in place considerations. He retired with the rank those days, much to our disappointment. before making a public appeal for funds. of Captain after over 30 years’ service, Of the trustees for the Eric Brown Fortunately we benefitted from some and an unparalleled record of types memorial appeal only three have been generous pledges before all the boxes flown, carrier landings, and test flights, professional aviators. All of us are ex- were ticked, for which we remain not to mention active war service. RAF but my colleagues had much more extremely grateful. All of the funds Reading between the lines it is probably distinguished militar y careers. My only required for the statue were collected the case that he could be a thorn in the distinction was to be one of two “Fg Off within three months of launching our flesh of authority.That is often the case (RAF retd)” on the Air Force List for appeal. with unusually talented people. But some years. Having just read the As with all projects there were a number Winkle was active and involved for well wonderfully amusing RAF memoir of of concerns expressed in the preliminary over 40 years after retiring from the navy. Anthony Haig- Thomas (Fg Off RAF meetings. Would the trustees be liable if At 95 years old he was still capabfle o retd), Fall Out Roman Catholics and the project failed? Was the budget giving the annual Mountbatten defence Jews, I realise that we were probably on realistic? Had we missed the boat because lecture at his old university.As Chairman the same page! However it is fair to say of delays in founding the charity? Was of the British Helicopter Advisory board that our engine room has been ably this really a charitableenterp rise anyway? in the 70s he was influential in manned by GPs, civil servants, and This last question prompted a new recommending safe practices for the businessmen. dimension to the appeal. All of us had burgeoning helicopter operations in the What everyone has in common is an benefitted from free RAF training in our North Sea. His active support for the abiding love of flying whether or not youth and without exception the trustees preservation of historic naval aircraft was they have kept it up. Many have written acknowledge how much that experience much appreciated. Those who had the about their fond memories of being has helped them in their various careers. privilege of meeting him in his later years introduced to RAF flying training Severe cuts in the RAF defence budget invariably describe a fascinating standards as young UAS students. One of mean that today´s youngsters have only a raconteur with a charming and at times our leading lights lives in the far north fraction of such opportunities.Worse still, sel f-deprecating sense of humour. In itself west of Scotland from where he created the search for employment, however that would be no bad epitaph. the association of Edinburgh UAS good one´s qualifications, is far more But despite the superb flying display in alumni for purely social reasons. When daunting for these youngpeople than it his honour at Yeovilton there seemed to Winkle replied to his invitation to lunch was for us. The building of self- be something missing. In a world where with local EUAS members a couple of confidence and self-reliance is a knighthoods recognise the achievements days after the Desert Island Discs fundamental aspect of preparing for

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employment and also for preparing to fly THE ALL-PARTY PARLIAMENTARY I flew it from the museum at Ta'Qali to solo. So the idea of funding a flying GROUP ON GENERAL AVIATION Luqa in July. There is about 300m of the scholarship/experience scheme in There has been a brief update on the old runway at Ta'Qali that the museum Winkle´s name took hold. Another activities of the APPG. It now consists of has cleared and with the support of the aspect considered was the provision of more than 70 Parliamentary members local authorities, an over-night move flying experience for disabled youngsters. from across all the major parties and both from the museum to the runway, The sheer pleasure they get from this is Houses of Parliament.This includes 7 ex- followe d by an early take-off (before it really uplifting for the provider as well as Cabinet ministers and 11 Privy got too hot...) was completed with the the recipient. We decided that once the Councillors. The full list can be seen at minimum of fuss and disruption. It has statue had been paid for we would go all www.generalaviationappg.uk/parliament been my pleasure to carry out David's out to collect for the flying ary-members/. Type conversion and Tail Wheel Differences training at Luqa this summer scholarship/experience scheme. Having Working Groups are being established in - no easy feat at a busy international reached the fi rst objective we are now the following areas: intent on accomplishing the second. airport. However, a combination of dawn 1) Airfields and Planning related to What is difficult to determine at this sorties - when traffic is minimal - and the Airfields and in close proximity to very positive cooperation from Luqa's stage is how much we can collect. Airfield Another question is how long we can ATC, has enabled us to successfully 2) Airspace and maintaining access for continue collecting, being “old boys”. complete and consolidate his training. The statue is likely to be unveiled in General Aviation Dawn over Valletta i n a Tiger Moth is March or April next year by our Grand 2) Taxation including fairness with VAT something I shall never forget. Master, and we shall certainly continue on Training etc. collecting until then.We have identified a It is currently writing to parties it wishes range of possible awards from disabled to invite into the Working Groups, experience flights, to sponsorship to first in order to show a balanced solo, to sponsorship to PPL.The eventual viewpoint from across the industry. mix will be determined by the funds It recently visited Wycombe Air Park (see available. We are in no position to http://www.generalaviationappg.uk/app administer either the selection or the g-visits-wycombe-air-park/). training of those chosen, but we have identified some suitable service providers. Our Learned Clerk has been 2017 REMEMBRANCE kept in the loop and has been most helpful. So, if the Winkle Brown Flying Scholarship scheme is going to fly, then perhaps the Honourable Company is a good place for us to look for ideas as well as contributions. Both will be very welcome, especially looking to the future when the “old boys” finally hang up their collecting boxes. It would be good to know that having achieved the first The Remembrance service at Yeovilton objective, fresh troops would be prepared was graced by a flypast of the Royal to move on to the second. Navy Historic Flight’s Swordfish W5856 Finally I cannot imagine anyone wanting flanked by a Wildcat. to demolish Winkle´s statue for any reason, political or otherwise. It will be designed to be moved if necessary should MALTA AVIATION MUSEUM EAL need to change its present site. Liveryman Phil Shaw writes: Otherwise it will remain as a permanent I started working with the Malta tribute to one of the world´s greatest test Aviation Museum soon after I arrived pilots in the city of his birth. here a year ago. Th ey are a dynamic Have a look at our website group of volunteers, with a remarkable www.edinburghuas.com/winkle-memorial collection of aeroplanes, most of which and, if you can, put something in the have a direct Maltese connection. Their kitty for the Winkle flying scholarship Chief Engineer, David Polidano, has scheme. We are all volunteers trying to restored this magnificent Tiger Moth to put something back. airworthy condition a few years ago and Photos by Aiden Paul

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LAST FLIGHTS VISIT TO AAIB 17TH OCT 2017 Capt Chris Nicholls , Liveryman and by Past Master Chris Ford be! Our guides through this phase were Master Air Pilot, died in the ill-fated On the afternoon of 17 th October a Mr. Richard Ross, an Engineering Tiger Moth pleasure flight from party of the Company lead by the Master Inspector and Upper Freeman Captain Compton Abbas, along with his 67-year- attended a visit to The AAIB at Emma Truswell, an Ops Inspector. The old passenger, on 26th August. This Farnborough.This visit had been delayed first part of the original visit was fully photograph of Chris in the engine of a for operational reasons from earlier in the covered in a previous edition of Air Pilot, Cathay Pacific Airways A340 was taken year, and we were delighted to be invited but we would like to express our just before his retirement on his 55th back. The 18 members were met and gratitude to the Chief Inspector and his birthday in 2007.A Thanksgiving Service thoroughly briefed by the Chief staff for their time and enthusiasm. The for his life was held on 13th October at Inspector of Accidents (and Upper impartiality with which they conduct Farnham, near Blandford Forum in Freeman) Crispin Orr. Thereafter we investigations and produce subsequent Dorset. were taken on a tour of the Flight Data r eports was apparent throughout the time Recorder labs and thence to the hangers we were there.We hope that the Branch to see the evidence of current continues to thrive, though we had rather investigations. This was a salutary lesson they had fewer investigations to carry in just how dangerous flying can really out.

Fred Marsh, who was awarded our Sword of Honou r in the 2015-6 year, died recently at the ripe age of 92. He was Vice-President and stalwart of the Royal Our affiliated unit, the Aero Club. Fred began Air Racing in University of London Air 1964 and was a founder and Chairman of Squadron setting off for round the Formula Air Racing Association and two of the Lord Mayor’s Show. was British Air Racing Champion for 1972 and twice Winner of the Duke of Edinburgh Formula One Trophy. Fred had also served as the UK Vice President to the Féderation Aeronautique Internationale and was founder and first President of Europe Air Sports in 1988 which Fre d instigated due to concern about the potentially damaging impact of pan European aviation regulations on air sport activities. Europe Air Sports now represents some 680,000 aviators and continues to actively fulfil Fred’s original remit. Fred also founded the Royal Aero Club Trust (where he served as Vice President The Master in procession at the and was a former Chairman) which Guildhall after the election of the looks after the RAeC Memorabilia and year’s new Lord Mayor. Archives.

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New 617 Sqn Dutch Memorial Past Master Arthur Thorning notes: the crew members and thereafter it became the raid is told in detail in Chapter 9f o Dutch family who care for the graves of an a nnual trip. Arthur Thorning’s book ‘The Dambuster Squadron Leader Melvin Young and his On May 17th 1943 the Lancaster AJ-A, Who Cracked the Dam – the Story of Melvin crew (Lancaster AJ-A) are planning a flown by S/L Melvin ‘Dinghy’ Young , ‘Dinghy’Young’ (Pen & Sword, 2008) memorial near where the aircraft was DFC & Bar, was on its return flight from In May 2018 it will be seventy-five years shot down as it returned from the Dams Op Chastise (the Dams raid), and was hit since the Dams Raid and the goal is to raid. I understand that they have raised by flak near Wijk aan Zee.The Lancaster unveil a memorial plaque at Castricum more than half the funds needed but will crashed south of Castricum aan Zee, aan Zee as a permanent homage to the be pleased to receive further donations. with all seven crew members losing their The intention is to unveil the memorial lives, now buried at Bergen General seven crew members. in the second half of May 2018, 75 years Cemetery. Jan and Macy both live Donations to support this worthy cause on. My wife and I intend to be there. nearby, and have lovingly tended the can be made via the website operated by The 617 Squadron Netherlands Aircrew graves for many years. Jan van Dalen and Macy Plugge - Memorial Foundation has been The involvement of the crew of AJ-A on www.617sqn-naml.nl . established earlier this year to commemorate all the members of 617 Squadron RAF who have lost their lives since its formation in March 1943. This foundation has been established by Jan van Dalen and his daughter Macy Plugge, both Dutch citizens. Jan has always been interested in WWII and he and his wife took their children to places of interest related to WWII. In 1992 they went for the first time to England visiting museums and old airfields. This became a regular part of their holidays. It was of course inevitable that his two children were also ‘infected’ by their father’s enthusiasm. In particular his daughter (Macy) developed an interest in RAF history at a very young age. Throughout the years Jan collected many books and memorabilia, and when books disappeared from his bookshelf , he knew that his daughter had borrowed them ‘temporarily’. During this time they both started to develop a special interest in Operation Chastise (the Dams Raid), and the crew members of aircraft AJ-A who are buried near their home.Thus 617 Squadron and their exploits became increasingly important in their lives. Macy’s wish to visit RAF Scampton came true in 2001: they visited the airfield and the Petwood Hotel, and also attended the memorial services in Woodhall Spa for the first time. On this occasion they met many

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The Master’s Message Captain Chris Spurrier

I write this shortly before the Trophies join LinkedIn and Twitter, both of which and Awards Banquet because that is I have thus far avoided like the plague, rapidly followed by our departure for the being of an age when communications second stage of our tour of the regions. pretty much went by stagecoach. I’m The schedule certainly looks full – it will sure some of you will have been be a busy trip but interesting. But then, surprised by an invitation to join my the Master’s whole year is always busy. LinkedIn contacts, and you now know We certainly live in interesting times. why. I yet have to discover what to do First the Ryanair debacle and then the with it – I need a ten-year old instructor. collapse of Monarch. The former was an Twit ter will be next. For Powerscourt, sake. The more people who understand astonishing example of mismanagement, there is a dedicated email address – what it is we do and what a wonderful the latter a tragedy for all its employees. [email protected] – experience it is, the fewer there will be Fortunately, the Government had in where you may send any newsworthy who are opposed to general aviation. To place plans to rescue all the Monarch items. achieve that we must start with the very passengers stranded abroad. Ryanair was As ever, I’ve represented the Company at young and that means the promotionf o an entirely different story. Our media some extraordinary events. One of the flying, engineering, and associated career team, guided by Ben Griffiths, was quick highlights was the awards ceremony for paths in both primary and secondary to request comment, and the DAA and I the Livery Companies’ Apprenticeship education. both produced responses to Mr O’Leary’s Scheme, held at Plaisterer’s Hall. It’s I mentioned in my March message that statements. I understand one national covered elsewhere in this edition but I we are working on a partnership with the newspaper has its legal team considering mention it because encouraging and Science Museum, who already have an the implications of some of our opinions assisting young people into aviation is outreach programme. I was privileged to so you may not see them in print. There one of our key aspir ations - this is one be one of a small group hosted by Dame is a revealing interview with a Ryanair example of how we are going about it. FionaWoolf and David Rooney (Curator pil ot on line. Google LBC - Ryanair Those of you who attended the T&A of its ‘Time, Navigation and Transport’ Interview.mp3. Banquet will know that my speech section). We were shown over the This is a good time to emphasise that we hinged on the three pillars of the London Mathematics Gallery, which sounds very now have a PR/Comms team set up Livery: fellowship, stewardship and dry but believe me, it isn’t. The centre with Powerscourt, a leading strategic philanthropy. As a company,we are quite piece is an aeroplane surrounded by communications and reputation strong on fellowship and philanthropy. representations of the airflow around it, management consultancy. The Strategic We’re not bad at stewardship, either. For actually following the patterns derived Plan emphasised the need for us have a many years we have been offering gliding from the Navier-Stokes equations. Those professional communications team to courses, flying scholarships and academic are rather difficult equations describing enhance our visibility and, indeed, that’s bursaries but we must try a little harder. airflow around a moving body, but the something which has always been part of The need to bring young pe ople into architect was also a mathematician! This my vision for the Company. Ben aviation is clear to us all. Not just as gallery is absolutely fascinating and has Griffiths (who works at Powerscourt) professional aviators, although that is proved very popular, especially (and was the aviation corre spondent for the clearly necessary, but also as hobby flyers. improbably, I would have expected) with Daily Mail, and is well versed in aviation That isn’t meant to sound patronising but young people. If you’re in London with matters. Powerscourt already handles PR it’s difficult to find a better word for a spare couple of hours, take a look. It’s for Airbus and BP. Ben has insisted that I those who just enjoy flying for its own well worth it. This co-operation is just LCAS Achievement Ceremony, October beginning, but in the near future we will be seeking volunteers to speak at their local schools. We have also, via the Air Pilots Trust, seed-funded an initiative by Professor Averil MacDonald, who was introduced to us by Assistant Professor Marion Wooldridge. Averil’s work is to persuade youngsters from all backgrounds, most of whom would

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never consider the “difficult” subjects, could take some ATC chaps for a ride Mayor leaves, heralded by trumpets and that they can and should strive to enter they would be very, very grateful. If you with the church bells ringing. It’s all very aviation. Averil has had great success in ever have a spare seat, Pete Dawson, splendid and very British. Paula was other industries including the railways. General Manager London Terminal outside Guildhall waiting for the exit Control, would love to hear from you. I’ve just mentioned “associated career procession when some tourists asked His email is [email protected]. paths”. One of them is Air Traffic what was going on. She persuaded them Control. Past Master Chris Ford In our cosy world of aviation we tend to to stay and watch. They were most arranged a fascinating visit to Swanwick forget that we’re also part of the wider impressed. Ceremony is something we Air Traffic Control Centre, where we City of London Livery. I suspect there do very well in this country and we were generously hosted by the General are many members who don’t realise that Manager, London Terminal Control. it’s the Liverymen who each year elect should be proud of it. Whilst there, one of our number, Captain first, the Sheriffs and then, on Paula and I are about to depart and must Dave Reed, offered to take some Michaelmas day, the new Lord Mayor. get on with the packing. An interesting controllers flying when he has a spare All liverymen may attend the elections exercise since the temperature in seat or two. This was seized with great which are usually followed by lunch, in Wellington is 13 degrees whilst it’s 35 in enthusiasm. It’s a great benefit for air our case at Cutler’s Hall. The Hong Kong. We shall be back in time traffickers to get in the air and Michaelmas Day ceremony is especially for the Carol Service. We wish you all a experience the other side of the coin. At impre ssive, starting with a procession of very, very happy Christmas and a safe, present the only way they see what all Masters, Aldermen and Beadles to a happens at the sharp end is in a rather service at St Lawrence Jewry and then, prosperous and peaceful New Year. unsatisfactory simulator so if anyone after the election, the newly-elected Lord

GAZETTE APPROVED BYTHE COURT 16 NOVEMBER 2017

ADMISSIONS Scholarship Admissions WAIVING OF FEES As Upper Freeman As Freeman Over 40 Years Continuous Membership Colin Stuart BELL Sarah EVANS-BOYD Regmund DARWELL (AUS) John Ralph Alexander GRIME (AUS) Kenneth DAVENPORT (AUS) Matthew Simon HINDES (AUS) As Associate Lyall KLAFFER (AUS) Liam Callum BENNETT Peter Richard HUGHES Patrick PRESTON Roger P hilip MINARDS Jonathan David BRADFORD Stewart Clyde PINNEY (HK) Melissa BROOKS Samuel George GRIFFITH DECEASED Andrew John SCOTT (NZ) Thomas James MARTIN John BATTY Richard SELLERS (AUS) Robert NORRIS Philip BRENTNALL Christopher James SMITH (HK) Mark Nicholas PALMER William CAPE (AUS) Ben ROURKE Mariam DRIESSEN (OS) As Freeman Stanley SPARLING David SHEPHERD Annie HAYNES (AUS) Leo TANG Jeremy THOMPSON (AUS) Michael Timothy HOLLAND Jan HOULBERG ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE COURT RESIGNATIONS Richard James LAKE 16 NOVEMBER 2017 Timothy BAILEY Andrew Robert McKINNIE (AUS) REGRADE To Livery Martin BARRACLOGH Benjamin Alan NELSON (AUS) David Hiu Fung SAMPSON (HK) Craig PENRICE Peter BRADBURY Captain Kevin Michael GREENE Alexander BRAITHWAITE Dr Ian McKENZIE Jessica CURD As Associate Air Commodore Keith DENNISON Lucas DOWD (AUS) Harry James BUTLER James Robin ALEXANDER James LAMBERT Alexander James FRASER Captain Obet MAZINYI Eleanor McBRIEN Chieh-Ling LI (AUS) Captain Lachlan Stuart LAWFORD Steven MILLS (AUS) Captain Michael John ZAYTSOFF Mark MILLER Alex REYNIER Andrew MILNE Thomas Walton RAEBURN To Upper Freeman William MILLER (AUS) Rachelle Krystyna ROGERS Greg MILLER John O’KEEFE (AUS) Toon Jozef Gerardus STORKHORST Mario ROFAIL Nathan Cary THOMPSON (AUS) To Freeman Paul WESTON-JONES Nigel Graham Gerard TOWLER Gilbert DOUGHERTY Jerem ZWART (AUS)

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The Trophies and Awards Banquet Guildhall 26th October 2017 By Assistant Paul Smiddy, Honorary Editor

Our main banquet once again took place WO1 IS Thompson. in the impressive surroundings of the After the Court meeting members and City of London’s Guildhall on October guests proceeded to the champagne 26th. At a meeting of the Court in the reception in the Old Library, with the Crypt beforehand, the Master, Captain Pikemen and Musketeers of the Chris Spurrier, witnessed the clothing of Honourable Artillery Company in their twelve new Liverymen. Captains DC familiar guardian angel role. Although Francis, LS Lawford, and O Mazinyi, they appear nowadays to be a particularly Doctors SJ Waller, and I Mackenzie, and favoured companion for ‘selfies’. Messrs MD Beech, P Trethewey, DJ Our Guest of Honour was Air Marshal Hawkins, K Dennison, MJ Zaytsoff, and Stu Atha CB DSO, representing the JR Alexander were all welcomed into the CDS, ACM Sir Stuart Peach. Other Honourable Company as fellow senior guests included the Masters of the Liverymen. Farmers, Coachmakers, and Master New Liverymen stand to be recognised in the Great Hall The Master also presented Master Air Mariners. Lt Col AM Gilks of the Army Pilot certificates to Capt AH Creighton, Air Corps, Gp Capt Finn Monahan New Liverymen with the Master Mr J Ferraro, and Wg Cdr J Lynch, (Comdt CFS),Wg Cdr A Tano (OC 101 Front row - MD Beech, DC Francis, SJ Waller, Master Air Navigator certificates to Lt Sqn), were the senior UK military the Master, MR Craft, P Trethewey, DJ Hawkins Cdr S Daw, and Wg Cdr DR Herriot, representatives. We were also honoured Rear row - K Dennison, I McKenzie, LS Lawford, and a Master Rear Crew certificate to to have as guests the air attachés of O Mazinyi, MJ Zaytsoff, and JR Alexander

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Canada and the USA. The Beadle,Ted Prior led the Master and senior guests into the Great Hall for dinner. After Grace enunciated in customary style by our Honorary Chaplain, the Venerable RJ Pentland, the Master invited the newly-clothed Liverymen to stand and be recognised. With vigorous music from the London Banqueting Ensemble, and very efficient service by the Guildhall’s catering staff, the meal passed at pace. After the sung Grace, the Loving Cups were circulated, followed by toasts to Her Majesty the Queen, the Royal Family, and the Lord Mayor and the Corporation of the City Paula and the Master greet Liveryman and Mrs Steve Slater of London. The trophies were awarded by AM Stuart Atha. This year the Trophies and Awards Committee was in an unusually generous mood, with three awards (the Sword of Honour, the Master’s Commendation, and the Sir Alan Cobham Memorial Award) all being made twice. Citations can be found on the Company’s website. After the presentations the Master WO 1 IS Thompson & Lt Cdr S Daw Gp Capt A Martin (RAAF) and others addressed the mu ltitude, endorsing the Lord Mayor’s pillars of the Livery movement: Fellowship, Stewardship and a week’s notice. A good job then that national debate”. Full copies of his and Philanthropy.He gave a brief overview of AM Atha is used to acting as his boss’ the Master’s speech can be found on the the Company’s work in apprenticeships, “stunt double”, in his own words! He Company’s website. outreach to the young, and gave us a very well received overview of Afterwards the Stirrup Cup was well encouragement of learning in STEM the RAF’s activities, and looked forward used in the Old Library giving a chance subjects. He noted the achievements of to next year’s centenary celebrations. for many to offer personal our trophy recipients, and proposed the With a deft touch he highlighted the congratulations to the award winners. A toast to our award winners and guests. several areas of mutual interest (eg True multitude than progressed to the We were graced with the presence of Air North and drones). Flattery is always Cowdray Room at the RAF Club Marshal Atha only because the Chief of well received, so the assembly noted where queues slowed down the Defence Staff, ACM Sir Stuart kindly his comments that “On many consumption from Guildhall levels! Peach, had handed him the baton at only issues your voice is louder tha n ours in the

The Master’s speech at Vr The Master Elect congratulates Obet Mazinyi in the AM Stu Atha delivers his deft response watched by company of a Pikeman the Master Coachmaker,Tony Edwards

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The full citations for all the award The Award of Honour The Derry and Richards winners can be found on the Company Memorial Medal website; here follows the abbreviated citations which were read by the Learned Clerk during the presentation of awards at the banquet.

The Award of Honour

John Tribe was awarded a flying Andy Strachan has been the Chief Test scholarship from the RAF in 1954, Pilot of Leonardo Helicopters at Yeovil having previously gained his PPL. for the last 5 years and he is considered However, when he failed the medical the most experienced current Helicopter because of a cold and blocked Eustachian Test Pilot in the country. After joining tubes, he had to alter his aviation career the RAF in 1981, he was selected for path. Instructor Training in 1983 and then Test Five years later he passed out as the top Pilot Training 7 years later. Andy came DH apprentice for that year with an top of his ETPS course in 1990 and his honours degree in Engineering and he final report on leaving the RAF,after a 16 Air Chief Marshal Sir Patrick Hine has headed across the Atlantic for a job at years’ service, described him as an had a long and very distinguished career Cape Canaveral. There then followed a exceptional test pilot with unlimited in aviation and aerospace. He joined the 37 year career in the space programme, potential. RAF at age 18 and flew the Meteor and where he eventually became Chief He then moved to Westlands – now then the Hunter, flying with the world Engineer on the Shuttle Orbiter. He led Leonardo Helicopters (UK) – where he famous aerobatic team, the Black Arrows. the Rockwell team at Kennedy Space is now recognised as the world wide He later flew the Lightning and the Centre on the Challenger investigation subject matter expert on the Merlin Phantom. and returned from retirement for the family of aircraft. Following a number of various senior Columbia investigation in 2003. After 36 years and 10,000 hours airborne command and staff roles, including Vice He is still active at the Ke nnedy Space he is still very active in test flying despite Chief of the Defence Staff and finally centre, continuing a career in aviation his considerable managerial and Commander-in Chief Strike Command, and aerospace spanning 62 years. John administrative workload in his current during which time he was Joint Tribe’s inspirational and highly successful role. Andy Strachan has contributed Commander of all British Forces during career in aviation and aerospace, due significantly to the art and science of the First Gulf War, he retired from the mainly to his own dogged determination British Rotary Wing Test Flying and is a RAF in 1991. A career as a much valued to succeed, is truly deserving of truly worthy recipient of the Derry and adviser to BAe then ensued until his recognition by the award of the Richards Memorial Medal. retirement from this in 1999. Company’s Award of Honour. To this day Sir Paddy, as he is affectionately known, remains actively involved with the aviation world and his sage advice continues to be sought after and valued. In recognition of his considerable contribution to aviation and aerospace over more than 60 years, Air Chief Marshal Sir Patrick Hine is awarded the Award of Honour.

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The John Landymore Trophy He achieved his full Light Aircraft Pilot The Sir Alan Cobham Licence in minimum hours and club Memorial Award record timescales. However, most impressive has been his drive to encourage and mentor other junior ranks to pursue their flying dreams and he has personally invested significant time in guiding others through the scholarship application and training process. For his exceptionally hard work, professionalism and commitment on his scholarship Since assuming the role of co-ordinating This award is for our best PPL course at RAF Brize Norton and helping the Company Visits Programme, David scholarship winner for the year and is this to encourage ambition among his peers, Curgenven has ceaselessly striven to year won by Robert Norris, who SAC Garcha is awarded the Glover expand the involvement of all members completed PPL training with Cambridge of the Company by building upon the Trophy. Aero Club. past portfolio and incorporating a greater From the initial impression that he made variety of visit locations. Over the last few years the Company upon the scholarship selection The Award for Aviation Journalism committee to the approach he adopted Visits programme has gone from strength during his flying training, Robert was Elfan ap Rees is a pilot who has more to strength under David’s able guidance exemplary. than 90 types in his logbook. He began and now regularly features 18-20 visits As a result of his personal qualities and his aviation career in 1961 in the each year, involving some 300-350 members, and enhancing the good name professional, competent approach to Technical Publications Department of flying demonstrated during his training and reputation of the Company. Westland Helicopters, and later became for a PPL, Robert Norris is awarded the Through David’s careful co-ordination, John Landymore Trophy for 2017. an aviation journalist. the variety of events available always promises something of interest, and his In the 1970s, Elfan began collecting role in ensuring such a superb spread of The Glover Trophy helicopters and components, and with activities cannot be underestimated. extraordinary energy and dedication he In recognition of his commendable has built over 40 years a unique world- service to the Company, David Curgenven is awarded the Sir Alan class museum, showing the next Cobham Memorial Award. generation how Britain once led the world in rotorcraft development. This year he marks 40 years as Editor and The Sir Alan Cobham Publisher of ‘Helicopter International’, Memorial Award For the past three decades, Peter Bird has recognised worldwide as the number one illuminated and inscribed every intelligence source for the helicopter certificate that the Company has industry. This is probably the longest produced and awarded. That represents over a thousand certificates of various Senior Aircraftman Aaron Garcha was continuous editorship of any aviation awarded a RAF Charitable Trust Junior types, many of which have included magazine under the same publisher. For Ranks Pilot Scholarship in 2016. hand-painted, colour crests with gold- Training at RAF Brize Norton Flying his longstanding work as an aviation leaf inlay. Of course, Peter has been paid Club, he was a model student and journalist and for his efforts to promote for his work, but he has only ever charged a minimal fee which can only absolute credit to his rank and trade. and preserve rotary aviation within UK, Documenting his training on social ever have barely covered his costs – other Elfan ap Rees is awarded the Air Pilots’ media, he has proven to be an inspiration calligraphers are astounded when they to many other junior ranks. Award for Aviation Journalism. hear how little he has charged for this

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service for many years. The Australian Bi-Centennial Award that provides effective preparation for a Peter retired from his teaching profession career in commercial aviation. a number of years ago, but has recently Having logged over 35,000 hours, the also had to reduce his time and role as a vast majority of which are flight talented and dedicated calligrapher. For instruction, Piers has always taken a his enduring dedication of time, and personal interest in each student and commitment of effort, in over 30 years tailored their training to their personal service to the Company,way beyond any requirements, finances and abilities. It is paid recompense for his work, Peter Bird this personal care that really marks out is awarded the Sir Alan Cobham Piers. Held in high esteem by his peers, Memorial Award. and in recognition of a long and Bas Scheffers is a private pilot, aircraft successful career delivering the highest owner, and the developer of Australia’s standards of flight instruction and the The Grand Master’s gratitude of thousands of students, Piers Australian Medal most utilised Electronic Flight Bag and navigation service - Oz Runways. Smerdon is awarded the Pike Trophy. Oz Runways was developed as an App for phones or tablets, eliminating ‘out-of- The Master’s Commendation date’ charts and improving pilot preparation, and is now a fixture for many pilots, airlines and agencies throughout Australia, including the Australian Defence Force. Bas has personally flown more than 36 Angel The RAAF’s Aerobatic Team, the Flight medical missions using the App Roulettes, recent ly celebrated 45 years of and it is now used by many other pilots formation aerobatic display flying across servicing the medical and welfare needs Australia and the Asia Pacific region. of people living in remote parts of Australia. The Roulettes Team was formed from Rosella Bjornson knew from early on RAAF Central Flying School staff in Bas Scheffers is recognised for his that she would become a pilot, despite 1970 in order to perform at the 1971 meritorious contribution to aviation being told by a careers counsellor that it RAAF Golden Jubilee celebrations. safety through his innovation in the wouldn’t happen ‘because she was a girl’. Since then the Roulettes has made a development of the Oz Runways App significant contribution to the aviation and his charitable Angel Flight activities In 1964, she took her first flying lesson community in Australia through its by the award of the Australian Bi- and, by 1969 Rosella had earned her commitment to the performance and Centennial Award. Instructor Rating, and by 1973 had continued development of formation accumulated 3,500 hours, an air transport aerobatic displays. The Pike Trophy rating, and a multi-engine in strument The team is not able to be here tonight rating. In 1973, Transair offered her the but is represented by Gp Capt Martin, choice of Captain of a Twin Otter or Air Advisor at the Australian High First Officer on the F28 jet, and she Commission. In recognition of their became the first woman to be a First meritorious contribution to aviation in Officer on a commercial jet in North Australia, the Roulettes aerobatic team is America. awarded the Grand Master’s Australian However, when she became pregnant, Medal. she lost her medical and had to take leave Piers Smerdon has had a long career in of absence from Transair as there was no flying instruction, mentoring and maternity leave by right at that time. She advising hundreds of pilots through their eventually returned to the flight deck, early careers. His own career has spanned and converted to the B737, before instructing in the UK, USA and Saudi changing airlines to Air Canada where, in Arabia and he is currently the CFI at 1990, she became the first Canadian Command PilotTraining,an organisation woman Captain.

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Through her professional attitude, quiet Record for auto gyros, and on 8 art of display flying, Brian Smith is example, and irrepressible good humour November 2015, she achieved the record awarded the Hanna Trophy. Captain Rosella Bjornson made being an of 27,556 feet. The campaign was self- airline pilot a career option for women in financed, and she flew with a limited The Johnston Memorial Trophy Canada and beyond. She is accordingly supply of oxygen in an open cockpit awarded the Master’s Commendation. with just a windscreen, layered clothing and some electrical heating to protect from the elements. Lack of space and The Master’s Commendation disposable load meant that flight tests of Lt Col Kevin Hall singularly built the F- this unproven variant of the autogyro had 35 depot flight testing capability at Hill to be done without a parachute. AFB from the ground up. Starting in 2013, he single-handedly masterminded Donatella achieved this World Altitude planning, training, and operations for all Record with limited resources and, thre e variants of the F-35. He paved the facing substantial risks, she displayed way for and flew the first F-35A at Hill determination, courage and resolution, AFB and has checked the airworthiness, demonstrating great professional including the first flight of each variant, engineering and aviation acumen. She is Air operations have been the mainstay of on every F-35 passing through the flight deserving of recognition for her UK remote scientific field work in testing facility. outstanding achievement and is Antarctica for over 50 years, permitting accordingly awarded the Myles In the past year alone he has flown 45 extensive scientific campaigns that could Bickerton Trophy. elevated risk check flights and flawlessly only have been achieved by mixing all handled 13 major systems failures and the modern resources of tactical airborne emergencies. His ability as an expert test The Hanna Trophy logistics support. pilot, master integrator, and problem The BAS Air Unit’s aircraft are solver has made a remarkable impact at maintained in Canada during winter and the test depot and forg ed the future of F- ferry to and from Rothera, the UK’s 35 operations. This contribution of airbase on the Antarctic peninsula, each indispensable leadership and skill in year. From Rothera, pilots regularly building a world class depot capability is remain with their aircraft at significant recognised by the award of the Master’s distances from their base, for several days, Commendation. supporting a team of scientists. Exceptional pilot skills, good airmanship and outstanding teamwork makes The Myles Bickerton Trophy possible access to the most inaccessible of Brian Smith is one of the best known science targets. and respected display pilots. He joined The British Antarctic Survey Air Unit is the Old Flying Machine Company,based recognised for its invaluable support to at Duxford, in 1986, and was very much Britain’s scientific survey programmes in a trusted and right-hand man to the the Antarc tic for over 50 years, and legendary Ray Hanna. outstanding performance in the operation of airborne systems, by the Alongside OFMC, Brian also flies with award of the Johnson Memorial Trophy. the other private collections based at Duxford and elsewhere in the UK, and proudly continues to display historic aircraft in the true Hanna tradition. A master of the air as a display pilot, he flies Donatella Ricci is the NH 90 helicopter with flair and passion, and a lot of ability. Programme Manager for Leonardo With over 27,000 hours and type-ratings Helicopters in Italy who, in her leisure varying from the Jumbo to the Spitfire, time, is an ultralight and autogyro pilot he is sought after for advice and he is and flying instructor. In early 2015, she began a campaign to very much seen as a master of his craft. achieve a new FAI World Altitude For his outstanding contribution to the

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The Sword of Honour earlier this year, but these events marked which has previously only been available the coming of age of NPAS as a critical via various disparate sources, is now national asset. In the case of the available to the pilot from one single Westminster attack, the first aircraft was source. tasked from Redhill and was overhead SkyDemon has equipped today’s pilot within 6 minutes of the request with better than ever for the safe planning and subsequent aircraft, from multiple bases, conduct of flight. In recognition of its relieving on scene until the situation practical contribution to the safer stabilised. Likew ise, for the most recent operation of aircraft, SkyDemon is attack in Manchester, NPAS aircraft awarded the Sir James Martin Award. maintained a constant presence for the first 9 hours of the operations. The Master's Medal Stephen Grey established the Fighter In 2016, NPAS aircraft were called-out Collection at Duxford over 25 years ago. over 28,000 times, delivering 18,000 At that time Stephen’s aim was to collect flying hours. Coordinated police an example of every single Allied fighter aviation operations on this scale would aircraft that had flown in the Second not have previously been possible World War and, from the list of aircraft without the existence of a national currently in the Fighter Collection, organisation. For its outstanding Stephen has achieved a great deal towards contribution within the sphere of that early dream and has also expanded General Aviation, the National Police Air his collection beyond its original aim. Servi ce is awarded the Sword of Honour. The Flying Legends two-day annual air display at Duxford, recog nized as one of The Sir James Martin Award Last year, after landing at a location in the premier air displays in the world, is Africa, an RAF C130J aircraft, with 5 testimony to the contribution Stephen tonnes of dangerous goods on board, has made in bringing vintage fighters and caught fire when the brakes on the right- other similar aircraft from both this hand side overheated and ignited. The country and overseas to the public for captain ordered an evacuation and Flt Sgt the appreciation and admiration of all. Rowlands ensured that all crew and In recognition of his enormous passengers had disembarked safely before contribution to the United Kingdom’s proceeding to exit himself. Realising air display industry, Stephen Grey is that the fire presented a serious risk to awarded the Sword of Honour. the dangerous cargo that was still on In today’s increasingly crowded and board, with significant danger of aircraft complex airspace, minimising loss and risk to life, Flt Sgt Rowlands The Sword of Honour infringements and ensuring the safe took the decision to place himself at conduct of flight by the GA sector has serious personal risk and fight the fire been greatly aided by the combination of that was threatening to get out of popular technology and flight control. information, as demonstrated by With the assistance of airfield fire SkyDemon. services, the fire was brought under SkyDemon has sought, by working with control, but Flt Sgt Rowlands’ swift the pilot community, to provide a actions were instrumental in saving the comprehensive capability to plan and aircraft and explosive cargo and conduct flights for those without the protecting the passengers. benefit of a flight operations department. Through his courageous action, the The National Police Air Service was The sourcing and presentation of data extent of the fire was limited to the conceived in 2007 although national covering mapping, terrain, NOTAMS, brakes and wheels, allowing the aircraft operational coverage was only achieved flight plans, weather, airfield data and to return to operations after only 48 in September 2016. more in a useable way has greatly aided hours of repair. For his bravery, All will be familiar with the terrorist safe planning and conduct of flight selflessness and decisive action, Flt Sgt attacks in Westminster and Manchester within the GA sector. Information Rowlands is awarded the Master’s Medal.

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The Master's Medal The Central Flying School Trophy The Grand Master’s Commendation

In July last year, Commander Matthew With a 32-year RAF career as a Commander ‘Bertie’ Vigrass joined the Grindon was Captain of a Gazelle technician, crewman, navigator, pilot and Royal Navy at the age of 19, with the helicopter from MOD Boscombe Down. aircrew instructor,Wg Cdr Harry Palmer firm objective of wanting to be a pilot. When a Yak-52, also operating from was the ideal candidate for the crucial In 1942, after pilot training, and extensive Boscombe, transmitted a ‘Mayday’, he appointment as Chief Flying Instructor l and-based carrier landing practice, he and his co-pilot heard the crew’s at the Defence Helicopter Flying School. joined HMS Illustrious, off Madagascar, intention to make a forced landing and He has been the champion of the tri- flying the Swordfish, and he remained went to their assistance, subsequently Service flying training approach, and has with Illustrious throughout the war. finding theYak crashed in a remote field. personally cemented the School’s world- After the war, Bertie continued with the Landing nearby, Cdr Grindon found the renowned reputation. As the transition RNVR and was given command of a front seat pilot had been thrown clear to the new UK Military Flying Training Seafire squadron, and later, in 1954, was from the aircraft and appeared lifeless. System has approached, the sheer scale of awarded the OBE for services to Unabl e to open the canopy and with the the portfolio that Wg Cdr Palmer has aviation. other pilot’s injuries and damage to the somehow managed to juggle is Bertie then devoted his energy to the aircraft trapping him, Cdr Grindon staggering. next generation: for 20 years, he was immediately instructed his co-pilot to Wg Cdr Palmer is an exceptional Controller of Operations of the Naval get airborne to report over the radio and individual. His combination of Gliding Scholarship Course programme request urgent medical support and experience, calm nature and focussed of the FAAOA Aviation Scholarship cutting gear. interaction has ensured success and Trust. Bertie was instrumental in Realising the site’s remoteness, he also perfectly positioned the Defence permitting this scheme to continue after instructed his co-pilot to use the Helicopter Flying School for transition, budget cuts restricted the RN’s ability to Gazelle’s position to signal the crash site while his inspiring leadership has support it, by raising funds each year and then to hover-taxi and guide protected the School's world-class from corporate and individual sponsors, responders to the aircraft. Once output. Wg Cdr Harry Palmer is thus ensuring that up to 40 young people emergency services were on site, he accordingly awarded the Central Flying each year had this gliding opportunity. returned to Boscom be, assisting them to School Trophy. Cdr Bertie Vigrass, a courageous aviator manage the event and subsequent and truly dedicated supporter of naval actions. aviation, is a worthy recipient of the Cdr Grindon’s reactions kept a severely Grand Master’s Commendation. injured pilot conscious and permitted a timely rescue operation. For his immediate and probably life-saving actions, Cdr Matthew Grindon is awarded the Master’s Medal.

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The Cumberbatch Trophy The Brackley Memorial Trophy stuck at full throttle and unresponsive to throttle adjustments. With his low fuel state, the decision was made to divert to the nearest coalition- controlled airfield, which lay deep within hostile territory. The only way Capt Shipp could control the speed of the aircraft was by keeping a constant tight turn and high G-force, while the other aircraft of the pair led the diversion to an unfamiliar airfield. Eventually, after 30 minutes of relentless high-G flying, Capt Shipp was able to shut down the aircraft's Since 1965, 40 Sqn RNZAF has been only engine to permit a safe landing. flying C130 missions to Scott Base, near Fighting through the disorientation and McMurdo Sound in Antarctica, fatigue induced by the continuous high- Since 2004, there has not been a single providing strategic support to the New G, he was able flawlessly to glide the naval aircraft accident involving loss of Zealand and United States Antarctic aircraft to a safe landing. life, and the number of aircraft accidents programmes. Capt Shipp's professionalism saved a per se has reduced to previously unheard The operations have normally comprised valuable USAF asset and prevented of levels. There are many factors 10-12 flights annually from New possible civilian casualties in the event of underlying this welcome reduction, but Zeala nd onto an ice runway during the an uncontrolled crash. He is a deserving significant among them is Cdr Fitter’s summer months. Sound operational recipient of the Grand Master’s Medal. outstanding and persistent commitment techniques have been developed to to promotion of aviation safety and maintain reliable operational capabilities learning from lessons identified. The Hugh Gordon-Burge Memorial in ground temperatures as low as -42ºC. Award In 2003, after 19 years’ flying experience Since 2010 the Squadron’s B757s have spanning embarked operations and also been approved to operate effectively instruction, Commander Fitter began his into the region. ‘safety career’. In 2005, he was appointed The fact that the RAAF, RAF,Air New Officer in Command of the RN’s Flight Zealand and other agencies all seek Safety and Accident Investigation Centre, advice from 40 Squadron when before becoming Cdr Air at RNAS contemplating and planning Antarctic Culdrose where, to date, he retains the missions is testament to the unit’s proven record as the longest serving skills, expe rience, reputation and effective Commander Air in Culdrose’s seventy- development of air transport operational year history. techniques and capabilities into this In 2012, he returned to the RN Flight frontier zone. Flight Lieutenant Kinsler was Captain of Safety Centre where he has been Represented tonight by the CO,Wg Cdr a C130-J Hercules recovering to RAF instrumental in the development and Andy Scott, 40 Squadron’s 50-year Brize Norton on instruments when, at introduction of the pan-Defence milestone of skilful operations into the approximately 5,000 feet there was a Aviation Error Management System. Antarctic, and its spotless safety record failure of both inertial navigation units Cdr Fitter’s outstanding contribution to over those five decades, is recognised by and Standby Attitude Indicator, leaving RN aviation safety is undoubtedly the award of the Brackley Memorial him with only Standby Air Speed worthy of recognition through the award Trophy. Indicator,Altimeter and E2 Compass. of the Cumberbatch Trophy. At night and in poor visibility, with The Grand Master’s Medal neither real nor artificial horizons avai lable, the aircraft rapidly began to In September last year, Capt Matthew enter an unusual position, accelerating by Shipp was flying an F-16 on operations 30 knots and descending by 500 feet. in the Middle East when, during a Demonstrating exceptional awareness, Flt scheduled air refuelling, he heard a loud Lt Kinsler quickly diagnosed entry into a ‘pop’ and realised that the aircraft was spiral dive and, crucially,by unloading the

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control column, he avoided entry into an mountain side, the crew courageously a counterweight to the higher one, unrecoverable position. Then noticing elected to proceed with her rescue. cutting the lower climber free could ground lights illuminating a faint horizon At Langdale Fell, the aircraft entered remove the security for the upper against the cloud, and able to use this as cloud and had to hover-taxi up the an attitude reference, he skilfully mountainside, following a small pathway, climber and, conversely, if they cut the recovered to straight and level flight. He to the casualty’s location. In fading light, upper climber free, the lower climber declared a MAYDAY and with guidance, the crew successfully accomplished a could fall. Furthermore, the lower, initiated a climb and transit north, very challenging stretcher recovery from eventually conducting a visual let down under an overhang in a confined area suspended climber was not moving and and safe recovery to RAF Coningsby. with the aircraft rotor tips only metres appeared to be badly injured. Taking Innate flying ability was all that had stood from the surrounding crags. The crew great care, they ascertain ed the higher between the crew and an unrecoveraebl were then compelled to hover-taxi using position. His exceptional awareness, night vision aids in low visibility down climber appeared to be secure. The impeccable captaincy and raw handling the mountainside into Great Langdale helicopter was positioned 1000 feet ability undoubtedly prevented an Valley before being able to climb and above the base of the gully, abeam the accident over a densely-populated area. transit to Preston Hospital. R912 then For his distinguished and exceptional returned to Humberside, after a six and a lower climber, and the Winchman flying skill, Flt Lt Karl Kinsler is awarded half hour rescue operation. deployed to the steep, near vertical slope. the Hugh Gordon-Burge Memorial Throughout the rescue, the crew In order to reach this position, the aircraft Award. demonstrated the highest levels of had to hover with the tips of the rotor professionalism, commitment and blades approximately 10 feet from the The Prince Philip Helicopter dedication to the task and bravery that Rescue Award exceeds expectation and is deserving of rock face. With very little margin for recogn ition by the award of the Prince error, the Winchman lost contact with Philip Helicopter Rescue Award. the rock face several times but he remained calm and persevered to reach The Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue Award the climber. Once recovered to the aircraft, the Winchman and Winch Operator provided effective CPR to the unresponsive casualty. On completion of this, R951 was positioned above the

In October 2015, Coastguard ‘Rescue higher casualty, again in very close 912’ was tasked for the immediate proximity to the rock face, where the extraction of a 24 year-old female hill Winchman successfully cut the second walker who had fallen down a 40m rock face located on Langdale Fell. climber free from ropes.With no further Due to very low cloud and poor In February last year, Coastguard Search casualties reported, R951 then returned visibility, two unsuccessful attempts at and Rescue helicopter, Rescue 951, was to base, having undoubtedly saved the low level were made to enter the hills to involved in a very challenging rescue of lives of both climbers. the south of the Lake District region, two avalanched climbers in Northern before a refuel and eventual arrival at Scotland. Arriving on scene, R951 was Despite the severe technical difficulties Ambleside MRT in only marginal able to ferry several mountain rescue and circumstances of this highly exposed visibility, two hours forty minutes after team personnel to the site and then and hostile rescue situation, the Crew of departure. The on-scene weather joined in the search. conditions were reported as 50m Eventually, at about 1000 feet above the R951 demonstrated the highest levels of visibility, calm winds and fading light avalanche, a climber was spotted hanggin skill, crew co-operation, professionalism levels. Given the life-threatening nature on two ropes with another climber and bravery and are accordingly awarded of the casualty’s injuries and the sitting on a small ledge approximately likelihood that she would not survive a 150 feet higher up. With the possibility the Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue protracted stretchered walk off the that the suspended climber was acting as Award.

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by the Navigator. From the Desk of the Today most commercial aircraft do not have fluxgate sensors to find Magnetic Director Aviation Affairs North but rather apply a factor to the Liveryman John Turner True North that they get from the INS to create a synthetic Magnetic North. In Brexit continues to concentrate minds common ground and common interest other words, True is the principle but there are encouraging signs in other on commercial and economic aspects. heading reference and the aircraft areas. changes its principle reference to display FLY TRUE a calculated synthetic Magnetic heading BrExit At the beginning of the year, I to the crew. The variation table that the The general mood, supported by mentioned that we had contacted the aircraft uses to calculate Synthetic comments from senior CAA managers, Royal Institute of Navigation (RIN), as Magnetic Heading is sometimes appears increasingly to be acceptance that well as Transport Canada and other contained in firmware and sometimes in continued UK membership of EASA is regulators, in a bid to move forward the software. Firmware does not get updated the only viable route for the future. All transition global aviation away from as regularly as software; different that is needed now is overt political (and Magnetic to a TRUE North reference equipment on the same aircraft may use general public) acceptance of continued system; the alignment of poles at present different variation look-up tables, as can influence by the European Court of makes this an excellent time to do so two different aircraft. The result is that Justice that would arbitrate on any (and ironically, we would be catching up two aircraft flying the same displayed disputes relating to EASA oversight. wit h the Master Mariners who made the magnetic track can be diverging or Interestingly, today’s UK newspapers transition many years ago). converging, but if both used and flew the revealed yet more facets of the UK-EU Our True North Working Group (WG), same true track they would really be relationship and interdependencies: immensely assisted by the RIN, has been following parallel paths. We can identify First the airline BMI, that currently has spreading the idea that change would be accidents related to erroneously derived 50% of its routes within the UK, has timely (because of the current and magnetic reference, and some readers announced that it will shift focus to predicted positions of the magnetic may remember that an airline had to establish a wider network within other pole), and would offer real safety, and restrict which aircraft it used on certain EU Member States. It says this decision (over the longer term) economic routes when their database validity is not Brexit-related but simply because it benefits. Clearly, it is the safety factor expired. We have a Q&A sheet that makes good commercial sense to that has our keenest interest. By way of explains the benefits in more detail but compete in an EU market of 500 million background, compasses showing there is not space to replicate that in this people rather than 60 million UK Magnetic North have served aviation issue. market. Even so, BMI suggests that well for over a hundred years; their Despite initial resistance within ICAO implementing this change may include a advantages include lightness and and other international and national joint-venture or similar type of simplicity and the disadvantages were bodies, our message that it would be safer arrangement with an existing EU easily compensated for when operating at for all commercial air craft to switch to operator (that holds an EU Operating low or medium latitudes. However, the True, has been gathering pace, further Licence) to ensure BMI’s continued disadvantages were more apparent when supported by our Master’s annual tour to ability to operate within the EU operating nearer the magnetic poles our regions. In respect of the Master’s regardless of the Brexit. where the lines of magnetic force have a tour, we are probably unique amongst Equally revealing is the Association of greater vertical component and a smaller aviation organisations because each British travel Agents (ABTA) report, horizontal component. region arranges meetings for our Master “Travelling together - The value of UK Mariners, however, have been using the to meet senior representatives or officials outbound travel.” This repeats UK True North reference for many years from within their regulatory authorities. government (Office of National Statistics now as naval ships, and latterly merchant This year Chris Spurrier carried our Travel Trends 2016) data that shows UK ones too, have long had a direct True message and briefing material on the outbound travellers spent €25.4 billion Heading readout from their Sperry benefits of a switch to True North. A in the other member states, €7.9 billions Gyrocompasses which align themselves combination of his advocacy and on- of which was spent in Spain alone. In to True North using the interaction of going WG activity has resulted in a new terms of impact, that equates to tourism gyroscopic forces with the rotation of the appreciation of the issues, with ICAO, by UK outbound travellers sustaining earth, and thus have no magnetic input IATA, Nav Canada (who already operate directly over 380,000 jobs and a further whatsoever. Sperry Gyrocompasses were on True in their northern territories) and 486,000 supply chain jobs and over heavy, and they also had some errors at Pacific region organisations coming on- 440,000 businesses across the EU. When high speed, especially on easterly or side. Initial discussion is no longer met these wider economic impacts are westerly headings. Aviators had to wait by disagreement and a list of the logistic accounted for, the aggregate economic for INS before they had a good True difficulties that a switch would entail but benefit to the other EU Member states North display, though astronavigation more likely to elicit a response of, ‘why from UK outbound tourism amounts to always worked from True North and wouldn't we’ or ‘why haven’t we done it €37.4 billion which highlights the clear courses were then adjusted to magnetic already’!

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Changes at an international level always simply for improved employment flight crew (cabin and flight deck) in due take time but we will continue to conditions. course. influence wherever we can. Separately, Aberdeen University in This link to academia may well prove Scotland has written to thank us for the useful for similar future projects. FATIGUE support we have provided to their Our Fatigue Working Group continues research on the impact of nutrition on to investigate the core issues and explore flight crew fatigue. They are now CONCLUSION how we can most effectively gain traction analysing all the information our Although major change takes time, we on the topic. This is an issue that members provided. In due course, this conflates working practice and safety so it should lead to an app that will provide have made small inroads on True North is important that we find a way of flight crew with science-based and on fatigue, and will continue to seek progressing the message without being nutritional advice attuned to their the full scope of improvements that are immediately dismissed, or becoming individual roster, so our efforts and needed. Brexit will introduce changes associated with a Trade Union canvassing expertise will benefit all commercial more quickly!

“It is OK to ask” Taking the Livery in the Honourable Company By Warden Nick Goodwyn

There are few mysteries in life but it has There are many significant aspects to individual with information on their been heard that ‘taking the Livery’ is one being a Liveryman of one of the City achievements together with notes on of them so allow me this opportunity to companies: Liverymen of the various their current or future contribution to dispel some of that myth for you and at Companies form the electoral roll of the Company is extremely useful to the the same time ask for your help. 'Common Hall' and are therefore eligible Livery Committee. The Livery is, of course, at the very heart to vote in the Election of Sheriffs and to Once the Livery has been offered to a of the Company's existence as a Livery attend the Election of the Lord Mayor. Freeman, they must first apply for the Company. In many of the City of In line with the accepted traditional 'Freedom of the City' (if an individual is London Livery Companies, the manner in which most Livery not already 'Free of the City'). This is a membership comprises largely, even Companies in the City of London ceremony that takes place in the solely, of Liverymen. However, many of conduct their affairs, the Air Pilots has a Chamberlain's Court at Guildhall and is the companies founded in comparatively formal Livery Committee, consisting of attended in person; it is a wonderful more recent times often have a base the three Wardens (not including the tradition, and an enjoyable occasion for membership of Freemen with only a Master Elect) and its remit is to select a which many bring family and friends. list of candidates to be proposed to the select core of Liverymen. The Air Pilots Then there is the payment of the Livery Court. It is for the Court to decide from has a large base membership worldwide Fine - this is a one-off payment to the the list of candidates presented to it of circa 2200, of which (currently) Company of a fee at a level agreed by the whether the individual Freemen should approximately 570 are Liverymen. Court. A Freeman becomes a Liveryman be offered the Livery. The importance of the Livery to the on the day the 'Fine' is paid. Thereafter, Any Freeman of the Company (note: Company in the City of London is that a the Liveryman needs to be 'clothed with 'Freeman' includes 'Upper Freemasn') i Liveryman is able to stand for election to the Livery' at a Court meeting prior to eligible for nomination to become a one of the Company dinners held during the Court as an Assistant, and Liveryman. A Freeman may be the year, which is when one is publicly subsequently from there, for election as a nominated by somebody else within the recognised as a Liveryman, entered in the Warden, and ultimately by progression to Company, be 'selected' by the Livery Livery Roll, and presented with a Livery become Master. It would be hoped that Committee, or importantly, may Badge. many members would aspire to such nominate themselves for consideration. high acclaim, however the Livery is also Where someone is put forward by fellow As the lifeblood of the Company, we are an important way of recognising Freemen, then ideally this should be actively seeking nominations for taking achievement, talent and also for done without the prior knowledge of the the Livery and so we need your help. You acknowledging those who do so much, Freeman concerned. The Committee may know of a most worthy candidate, or often without fanfare, but without whom needs to receive a letter or email you may be such a candidate; whichever, we, as a membership driven and requesting that the Freeman be it is OK to ask and be proud to receive voluntary organisation would not be able considered and why the individual the Livery of the Air Pilots and perhaps, to function as a ‘working’ Livery should be c onsidered worthy of receiving who knows, in due course serve on the Company and professional body. the Livery. A brief background of the Livery Committee yourself.

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Sir Frederick Tymms Memorial lecture 27 September 2017 Air Marshal Greg Bagwell CB CBE (RAF Rtd): Air Power Today and Tomorrow By Liveryman Alan Jackson

Air Marshal Bagwell, a Tornado pilot, Bagwell observed that surface-to-air retired from the Royal Air Force in 2016, missile technology is developing faster having most recently served as Deputy than aircraft. It is essential to keep up Commander Operations at Air with the actual threats, whilst staying Command. He is now president of the within budget. He noted that Syrian air Air Power Association, and in that defences, for example, are both dense and capacity (and personally) is keen to find effective. He also observed that when he without the aircraft aboard, to be joined as many opportunities as possible to joined the air force, the high technology by them when in theatre. broaden the debate about air power. was all at work; now it seems all to be at Delivering the 2017 Tymms lecture, he home! The sophistication of personal We must learn to be smart in the addressed a large audience in the Bill computing devices has a good deal in application of the new tools. As an aside, Boeing lecture theatre at Hamilton common with computing in the F-35. he noted a feature of the F-35 about which there may perhaps be mixed Place; an audience which included, Moving on from current operations, Air feelings among members; if the aircraft among the distinguished guests, the Marshal Bagwell noted that air power is senses a problem while in the hover, its masters of many fellow livery companies. not just about blowing things up. He pilot is ejected automatically. One Noting that “fighter pilots make movies; reflected on the recent relief operations wonders who has written the code to bomber pilots make history” he reflected in the Caribbean, following hurricanes manage that operation! Addressing the on the long RAF service of the Panavia Irma and Marie, in which UK forces had Tornado; now more than forty years been extensively a nd swiftly involved, financial challenges to the defence since its first flight, and still performing at with RAF transport aircraft deployed budget of the F-35 purchase, given the high intensity in Op Shader, over Iraq from the UK and helicopters deployed reduced value of sterling relative to the and Syria. The public generally may be both from the pre-positioned RFA dollar, he expected that the spending unaware that the United Kingdom is Mounts Bay,and later from HMS Ocean. profile would ‘go to the right’. This currently contributing about 1,350 More generally, he noted that our air would have at least some advantages.The personnel to the defeat of Daesh; a systems are of good quality, if not great dollar price of the aircraft should fascinati ng chart revealed our presence quantity. continue to fall as production increases; and later aircraft will have a more on the ground not just at Akrotiri, but Turning to future air systems, the air developed software suite, avoiding the also in Turkey, Jordan, central Iraq, marshal said that stealth is not the main cost of the complex upgrading of earlier Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar. We are all benefit of F-35; its sensors are. He likened deliveries to a more capable standard. aware of the RAF’s strike role, but UK its role to that of the ‘quarterback’ in forces are also active in intelligence, American football; leading the offensive Moving on to discuss the use of remotely surveillance, and reconnaissance; the team and calling the play. Possessed of piloted air systems, Air Marshal Bagwell training of Iraqi and (vetted) Syrian superb sensors, and forming an observe d that their operators are highly forces; commanding ships in the Gulf; intelligence hub, it outperforms the E-3 capable and well informed about the and working in joint headquarters. He Sentry; and if a number are airborne, it battlefield. They are perhaps better commented that we had forgotten one of provides redundancy in these capabilities. equipped, with teams of three (pilot, the principles of war in the earliest stage One key to operating the aircraft sensor operator, and mission intelligence of the fight against Daesh: we should effectively will be to find a way of co-ordinator) to judge when weapons have interdicted their supply lines. He making the intelligence available fast to should be released than their colleagues also observed that at the current pace of third and fourth generation systems in in a Tornado or Typhoon cockpit. It is operations, it would be easy to drop our the air and on the ground. He warned desirable that their use be better entire war stock of air-launched that, because of the initially tiny force of understood by the wider public; they are munitions in a year. F-35s that we will be able to field, we certainly not ‘killer robots’. As to our In the broader context, Air Marshal must expect to see the carriers deployed ISTAR capabilities more generally, he

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said that the Royal Air Force has the best beyond the existing facilities provided by potential need for a decision to shoot constellation of platforms outside the 100 Squadron and private industry needs down an airliner believed to be involved United States Air Force; but they would study. Turning to the generation of in a terrorist attack here in the United not survive in contested airspace, for goodwill overseas, both for the country Kingdom; or the shooting down of a example in a war above the Baltic. In and the air force, he noted the important Syrian aircraft believed to be enroute to those circumstances, we would be highly role of overseas tours by the Red Arrows attack Akrotiri.The will to act is as big a dependent on space assets; but we have - Asia-Pacific in 2016, and the recent problem as the capacity to attack. On the very few of those. A serious concern tour of the Middle East. Finally, he defence budget ‘black hole’, he thought would be the fear, in the absence of an emphasised how much the country and that cuts to readiness are more likely than adequate flow of live intelligence, of a the Royal Air Force owe to its people; big cuts in numbers. resultant reduction in the nuclear they and their achievements are not Altogether a fascinating lecture by a threshold. sufficiently celebrated. skilful, open, highly experienced and Drawing to a close, our lecturer touched Several important matters emerged in forthright speaker. The smart use of our on a number of other matters. Future air questions. Among these, Air Marshal necessarily limited assets, the significance combat training, a key issue, would be a Bagwell commented on the difficulties of relevant training, and the need to challenge.The simulation of a real test for which might arise in the relationship celebrate the RAF’s people should be in the F-35 would be difficult. The between air force commanders and all our minds. Next year’sTymms lecturer provision of realistic airborne aggressors ministers in a crisis; for example, the will have a tough act to follow!

Air Pilots visit to NATS, Swanwick, 10th October 2017 By Assistant Prof. Marion Wooldridge

On 10th October 2017, a party from the for a very welcome cup of coffee and a Honourable Company of Air Pilots briefing from Peter Dawson. He gave us visited NATS at Swanwick, by kind an overview of the work of NATS with invitation of Peter Dawson (General plenty of facts and figures.A highlight for Manager - Terminal Control). Swanwick me was several fascinating videos is a centre providing air traffic control showing the aggregated movements of services 24/7, 365 days per year, so is flights over the UK as they build up always 'live'. Because of this, numbers through the day - a very visual and visiting at any one time are limited and colourful demonstration of the daily the group was divided into two, half NATS workload. AQUILA Air Traffic Management visiting in the morning, half in the We learned that NATS is owned by a Services (www.aquila-atms.com) and afternoon, and all meeting up for a Public Private Partnership which other support is based. There is another convivial lunch in the Swanwick includes many of the major airlines restaurant - plus the traditional group operating in the UK, and organised as NATS centre at Prestwick, and NATS photograph.Your writer was a part of the two companies; NATS en route plc, controllers can also be found in Gibraltar, morning visit. together with NATS Services Ltd. It is plus nine Spanish ATC centres (as The Swanwick site is around 20 years old responsible for movements in the FerroNATS, a consortium with Ferrovial now, but still an impressive and attractive London and Scottish FIRs, and the Servicios), and many military sites. place to work, with plenty of trees, Shanwick Oceanic Control Area, a Swanwick itself deals with over 5800 outside seating areas, and a very large car sizeable chunk of the North Atlantic. flights per day (a typical day of park - but even at 9.30 in the morning it Together these areas comprise around movements was shown in one of those was hard to find a space! We learned later 11% of European air space, and deal with amazing videos mentioned earlier), and that there are 700 controllers based at approximately 25% of European air Prestwick copes with more than 3700. Swanwick, plus all the necessary support traffic. In the 2016/17 year, NATS dealt Swanwick is also responsible for staff. with 2.45 million flights, and is expecting Heathrow Approach (although not the We were met on arrival in reception by more growth in the current year. Tower), with around 1300 flights per day Roger Marsh, a deputy general manager, Swanwick is not the only NATS site; its going into Heathrow alone.The amount and after passing through airport-style HQ is at Whitely, quite close to of controlled airspace has grown hugely security, were taken to the briefing room Swanwick, where training, engineering, in the UK since 1953, and is still getting

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busier. In particular the London TMA is brought in over the period from developed by NATS and Leidos large, complex, and congested. Not November through to June 2018, but of (formerly Lockheed-Martin), and is a surprisingly the subject of infringements course work cannot just stop while the global first. Another technology-enabled came up, and how much disruption they changeover takes place, which makes it a and computer driven system, the can cause; the margins to which complex operation. separation between arrivals is adjusted to Heathrow Approach works are very Each area within the control centre is maintain the time ‘equivalent’ to the tight. Drones can also cause problems, again subdivided into sectors, and each distance separation required in a and there are around 6 reports per week. sector has a tactical controller takin g care headwind of 5-7 knots, safely reducing Deliberate drone operations near airports of direct and immediate control and the approach separation in strong are illegal, and we were told that at least communications, and a planner, who is headwind conditions and allowing more one has resulted in the perpetrator being responsible for airspace capacity efficient runway use. On our tour, we arrested and eventually jailed. To management (ACM) forward viewing were shown the computer output emphasise the density of inbound and planning. Their remit is to try and demonstrating the difference this actually movements in the south east, we were smooth out the peaks and troughs in the made to the separation between aircraft then treated to another brilliant video, day using, for example, the Traffic Load on approach to Heathrow, by toggling this time of the daily flight movements Prediction Device, which is a graphical between time and distance separation. into the London airports; with 6 runways depiction of the expected load, based on The underlying principle is based on there are around 3000 movements, but global flight plan models, and which we wake vortex measurement data of more despite that over 98% experience no were shown during the tour. They also than 150,000 Heathrow flights across all ATC-related delay. utilise information on the jet stream in aircraft types which use the airport, and Peter also outlined a number of recent their plann ing; as many of you will know, which shows that as the headwind technological initiatives which are being the most efficient Atlantic tracks both component increases, the wake vortex developed to assist in managing this west and eastbound vary depending decreases at a faster rate. increase in complexity and traffic upon its position and strength. Interestingly, despite the vital work and numbers, some of which were explained An integral part of effective forward fascinating technology within NATS further on t he fascinating tour which planning is the project known as LAMP which we saw, we were told that followed. (the London Airspace Management recruitment of suitable trainees is This very informative tour of the control Programme), the first phase of which currently quite difficult, perhaps because centre was led by Brian Wheeler who, went live in February 2016, and which is of increased opportunities in other parts like Roger Marsh, is also a deputy due for full roll out by 2023. This uses of the world, and that the young people general manager. The control centre technological and modelling typically applying are generally less comprises two main areas, Area Control, developments to improve flight planning aviation aware than they might have been andTerminal Control, plus an RAF Unit, and thus efficiency, saving fuel, reducing in the past, seeing the world of aviation and the D&D (Distress and Diversion) CO2 emissions, noise and time in the more as a career opportunity rather than cell. Clearly, this is a permanently ‘live’ hold. Mechanisms which can be a passion. area, so we were split into even smaller employed include, for example, climbing Following our tour, we returned to groups, to reduce noise levels on our to higher altitudes more quickly, or reception to meet our afternoon walk round. throttling back over the Atlantic to delay colleagues, and after the usual group One imminent technological advance at arrival, specific measures available being photograph, were all shown to the Swa nwick is the migration from using identified by the sophisticated modelling restaurant, where the menu was very paper strips representing each aircraft employed. varied. This writer had no complaintns o under control over to the electronic One particularly interesting change is quality either. There was plenty to talk flight progress strip, ExCDS (Extended now in operation at Heathrow - Time about over lunch before thanking our Computer Display System). This will be Based Separation. It was jointly hosts and taking our leave.

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The Future of UK Airfields - a RAeS symposium Industry-wide consensus on need for protective action By Liveryman (and CEO of the LAA) Steve Slater

It is often said that if you want ten first jet airliner the Comet, our area has the CAA and between 400 and 500 different opinions on any subject, you contributed towards aviation in a manner unlicensed flying sites. put nine pilots in a room. Not only are that few other places can boast”. Pete Stratten, CEO of the British Gliding you guaranteed that each will have his or Today though, Shapps drew attention to Association talked of the challenges her own opinion, by the time the the fact that the only thing carrying the posed to sport flying by the commercial discussions have finished, at least one will name Comet is a local bus service and weight behind property developers, as have changed their mind! there is not one operational airfield in the well as the CAA’s failure to control However, I am delighted to report that immediate area. Shapps did, though, offer properly the unfettered, unmanaged and the conference on The Future of UK good news in his work to develop greater frequently unnecessary, expansion of Airfields held at the Royal Aeronautical interest in aviation within the House of controlled airspace. Pauline Vahey, Society on 24th October, bucked that Commons. He pointed out that the All- representing the UK Aircraft Owners trend. It brought together individuals Party Parliamentary Aviation Group, and Pilots Association, spoke on how the from across UK aviation from cabinet launched earlier this year, now has 70 wide range of ‘alphabet organisations’ ministers and MPs, to air transport and members from across all areas o f politics. representing individual GA sectors is airfield operators, pilots, engineers and Many organisations including the Air committed to working together to speak administrators, with a particular emphasis Pilots are already contributing advice, with a more unified voice, while Charles on the oft-overlooked General Aviation offering an exciting new opportunity for Henry of the General Aviation Awareness sector. The over-riding message from a direct advocacy to decision makers. Council demonstrated just such an day of high-powered and informative The next speaker, Lord Callanan*, approach; with 16 different organisations, presentations is the clear importance and Aviation Minister at the Department of including the LAA, BGA and AOPA commitment of all areas of aviation to Transport, recognised the value of working together to present airfield work together to ensure that the nation’s General Aviation, as well as that of planning guidance both at a local level network of airfields, large and small, is Commercial Air Transport. He pointed and up to Ministerial level in the maintained and developed, despite the to the 2015 research commissioned by Department of Communities and Local current backdrop of p ressures in both the DfT which demonstrates that the GA Government, which handles planning property acquisition for housing and the sector generates in excess of £3 billion strategy issues. reduced number of operational licensed for the UK economy each year. He also Perhaps some of this advocacy is already airfields. announced the imminent appointment bearing fruit.At the conference were two The day started with an introduction by of an “Airfields Champion” to work with differe nt consortia which are presenting conference chairman Laurie Price the DfT to focus departmental attention plans to Welwyn and Hatfield Council FRAeS, whose own c.v. contains on airfields that are at risk due to (in Grant Shapp’s own constituency) for amongst other things, a prime role in inappropriate development. Watch this the prospective reopening of the once- reducing unnecessary CAA regulation as space. highly popular Panshanger aerodrome; the chair of the Government appointed Personally, I was honoured, wearing my whilst Raoul Witherall of FlyPlymouth panel that drove forward the GA Red ‘hat’ as CEO of the Light Aircraft spoke of his organisation’s work in Tape Challenge. The first main speaker Association, to be invited to join a developing a business case for the was the man who created that initiative, number of sister organisations in reopening and development of Plymouth Grant Shapps MP and pilot, who may reminding the audience of the scale of Airport; it is still owned by the local have courted recent controversy in the GA sector, and that not all aviation is authority but was closed and Parliament, but remains a passionate and ‘heavy metal’. In fact, while CAT sector ‘mothballed’ by the leaseholders, an powerful advocate for the aviation operates about 900 aircraft and uses 25 aggressive property development industry in the UK. airports, the GA fleet exceeds 21,000 company, in 2011. Shapps’ address covered a lot of ground, aircraft, including helicopters, gliders, Most notably,Witherall is not an aviation starting with his own constituency where microlights and balloons, flown by more enthusiast, but a successful businessman. he commented “Welwyn Hatfield has than 32,000 pilots in activities including His approach in developing a clear, long- been responsible for some of the most emergency and medical services, business term business strategy based on remarkable aviation achievements. From travel, pilot training for future airline developing the city’s currently severely the Mosquito, then the world's fastest recruitment, as well as sport flying.They restricted transportation links, has proved plane, to the development of the globe's use around 140 aerodromes licensed by critical to the airfield’s future. Since the

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airport’s closure at least three major working alongside co-residents of the a prime point of contact between the international businesses have moved their associated development park on the Department and the CAA, in particular airfield to develop their other core investments away from Plymouth, with for General Aviation. the lack of connectivity being a major business in designing start-of-the-art factor in their decisions. wind turbines. Kirby reinforced his Minister’s Discussions also focused on how While hardly needing runways for their recognition of the value of aviation and important to business it is to maintain own activities, Philip Tarry, director of airfields and the value of maintaining a remote aerial vehicle developer Halo both a network of airfields across the strategic network of airfields across the UK. 96% of city pairs served by general Industries, looked ahead to the greater UK. Andy also confirmed that we can and business aviation flights have no integration of ‘drone’ activities into those scheduled flight connections. Within of future airport operations and the look out in the future for further GA general aviation too, airfield diversity is specific training operations which may network research and ‘thematic result, possibly providing an added equally important. A larger regional engagement’ such as round table events. income stream to aid sustainability. airport may host business jets, but may Meanwhile Steve Pozerskis, a former Rest assured the Air Pilots will be a part not encourage light aircraft or flying gliding scholarship winner and active of them, working to continue to training, while smaller aerodromes, pilot as well as a senior executive of which cannot handle larger business advocate members’ interests. property consultancy Bruton Knowles, aircraft, contribute equally strongly to amalgamated his knowledge in both areas *Editor’s note: Having held the post for only regional connectivity,but also in terms of to offer ideas on how smaller airfields in four months, Lord Callanan left the local amenity, offering a greater diversity particular can be developed to offer a of aviation activity, including flying Department the week after this symposium; financially sustainable longer-term future training and access to sport aviation. his replacement is Baroness Sugg . One hopes with mixed use development, rather than That diversity was also discussed by John just a short-term ‘fast buck’ of housing the Department’s commitment to General Haffenden, an aviation consultant and development with loss of the airfield Aviation remains the same. former m anager of London Brighton resource. (Shoreham) Airport, who highlighted the One parallel which Steve raised was By the Editor need for wider income streams for between many smaller airfields and golf airports, including mixed use business courses, which have an aging and often One of the many UK airfields developments taking advantage of the gently declining membership, are asset- currently under threat of connectivity offered, and raising the level rich in terms of land, but cash poor. redevelopment for housing is (and income) of the humble aerodrome (Sound familiar?). He discussed the Redhill. I recently dropped in (by café to make it both a profit-centre, and planning concept of ‘Enabling car) merely to have lunch and view a valuable social amenity to encourage Development’; initially created to the level of activity. I was pleasantly yet more visitors to the airfield and into safeguard historic properties in large surprised on both counts. The local closer contact with aviation. grounds, but equally capable of allowing Diversity remained the theme with Dave planning on the periphery of an airfield, helimed operation was busy; the local Stanbridge MRAeS speaking of his unlocking funds to allow more attractive police helicopter flew in and out; company,Swift Aircraft, and their plans to facilities to be developed in the core site. flying training and other GA activity develop a new British light aircraft at the After a series of ‘workshop’ exercises, to was plentiful. There must have been former RAF Coltishall in Norfolk. The sharpen post-luncheon wits, the final around fifty fellow diners enjoying company plans to take advantage of the address of the day was given by Andy the excellent cuisine and facilities of 3km long runway of the former Kirby. His official title is Secondary the aerodrome’s café. This on a Lightning and Jaguar base for flight Legislation Manager at the Department mediocre Autumn midweek day. testing of their new design, as well as forTransport, but he is known to many as A long list of tenants at Redhill A busy café

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Panshanger showing the surrounding housing development from previous encroachment

By the Editor country. However, the airfield was As a result of local pressure, space has Panshanger aerodrome was forced to already well embedded with the now been allocated for an close just over three years ago in local community, with many events aerodrome in the local plan due for September 2014. However it is now such as the Panshanger Revival Day, review by the Planning Inspectorate. the subject of a vigorous revival an annu al fireworks event and However, current proposals do not attempt by the local community, YoungAviator Days that inspired old appear to indicate that the council named Project Phoenix. and young. It was noted as a boost and developer are committed to provide a sustainable airfield for the It was home to the North London to the local economy, and was used community. Flying School, whose just over by apprentices from the University 15,000 members made it one of the of Hertfordshire’s engineering most popular flying schools in the faculty.

By popular request (the Editor can assure you his arm was heavily twisted on this), this picture is included - upholding the Company’s name in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show, accompanied by Past Master Chris Ford, and Warden John Towell. The procession was also accompanied by 5 camels (with riders, naturally). If you have never witnessed this extraordinary annual event, it is well worth seeing.

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RAF Odiham Families Day Fly-in 2017 By Assistant John Denyer

Kate and I were fortunate enough to get set off to explore the sights.As well as the quite sporty tactical departures and through the ballot for aircraft wishing to usual entertainments, funfair, stalls, etc approaches! common to any families’ day, there was fly-in to RAF Odiham families’ day on At 1715 the display was over and it was an impressive collection of visiting 24 August. We had chosen to bring the time to depart. Somehow, I managed to Chipmunk from the Farnborough Aero aircraft. These included Piper Cubs, end up first in the long queue of Club.A mere 7 nm and 5 minutes flying Austers and Chipmunks, a Pitts Special, departing aircraft, and once I had time away, we were almost certainly the Isaacs Spitfire and a trio of Gazelle decoded the RAF air traffic jargon to shortest inbound flight. Helicopters to name a few. Aircraft that stood out for me were the beautiful “Follow the hedgehog” (i.e. the follow- Having lived within 6 miles of Odiham Hornet Moth, Beech 18, and Dragonfly. me vehicle) we led a growing fline o for most of the last 40 years, and flown Other more unusual types were the departing aircraft. As I turned left after Chipmunks from Farnborough for 34 of Helio Courier, Fairchild Argus and Sia take-off for the short flight back to them, it was great to at last land myself at Marchetti. Farnborough, Kate looked over her the airfield. I have driven past it, The afternoon flying display included a overflown it, cycled round it, flown in shoulder and counted 18 aircraft holding Folland Gnat, Typhoon, Pitts, Scout , flight trials from it, and occasionally got for departure behind us.When we drove Gazelle and Wasp helicopters, the frustrated with it over their low level home past Odiham later having put the BBMF’s Griffon-engined Spitfire, Tutor, Chipmunk to bed, the stragglers were night-flying in the early hours! Pitts Special, a nd of course a Chinook.As still leaving! So, a great day out, and a real Once we had booked in we grabbed a well as the display flying, Chinooks and privilege to be able to visit this important coffee in the 27 Sqn crew room (27 Sqn Lynx helicopters were busy giving joy- looked after the visiting pilots rides to families throughout the day, and busy local RAF base. particularly well throughout the day) we treating them to what looked like some

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Visit to Tangmere Military Aviation Museum & Boultbee Flight Academy Monday 25th September 2017 By Liveryman Ron Weidner

A group of sixteen Air Pilots and their Hurricane squadrons, now supplemented guests gathered, rather appropriately, in by Blenheim night-fighters, were to play the NAAFI Tea Rooms at the Tangmere such an important part. Military Aviation Museum near As a mark of the intensity of air Chichester,West Sussex, prior to the first operations around this tim e, Tangmere of two visits that members were to make squadrons were credited with a total of that day, organised by Past Master Chris 187 enemy aircraft destroyed, 87 Ford. probables and 107 damaged in August With the guided tour of the museum due 1940 alone. With the Battle of Britain “If only I had been born 30 (or is that 20!) years to begin at 1030, his advance notice that over, the station now acquired the earlier” – Past Master Chris Ford the booking list for the limited number Spitfires; the man appointed in March The museum has a fascinating selection of available slots on the Lightning F3 1941 to command the first Spitfire wing of aircraft on display, from a replica of simulator opened at 1000, had the there was one Douglas Bader, at least K5054 (the Vickers Supermarine Type desired eff ect of ensuring the prompt until he was shot down in August 1941. 300, aka the first prototype Spitfire), attendance of visiting members! Tangmere was home to many other along with a Mk 1 Hurricane, Meteor We were welcomed to the museum by aircraft during the later war years, F4, and English Electric Lightning. two of its volunteers, Trevor and Mike, including the Lysanders operating night Completing the jet stable are a Harrier, who gave us a brief introductory talk flights in support of the SOE into Sea Harrier, SeaVixen, SeaVampire and a about the history of RAF Tangmere, occupied France, and the Typhoons Phantom. before our guided tour around the many employed on strafing and bombing Last, but by no means least, there are two aircraft, static displays, and wartime missions on targets of opportunity. Hawker Hunters on display, one of memorabilia on display. After the war,Tangmere was the base for which, an F5, was seen being admired Construction of the airfield started in the RAF High Speed Flight. On 7th with great nostalgia by Upper Freeman 1917 - too late for the First World War, September 1946 Group Captain Teddy David Simmonds who flew Hunters out but Tangmere rose to prominence in the Donaldson set a new World Airspeed of Tangmere during his RAF service. inter-war years, in part at least due to the Record of 616 mph in a Meteor IV,and The Lightning simulator, as expected, formation flying displays provided by its Tangmere was also the base when proved extremely popular, and our resident squadrons at air shows Hawker’s Chief Test Pilot, Neville Duke, thanks must go to the volunteer throughout the UK and Europe. established a new record of 727 mph in a instructor, David, who cheerfully took Entertaining as the displays by Hunter exactly seven years later. visitor after visitor on a quick circuit in Gamecocks, Siskins and then later However, with the withdrawal of Fighter the simulator. Hawker Furys must have been, it is Command’s last Hunter squadron in June As well as the aircraft displays, there are fortunate that these biplanes had been 1958, the writing was on the wall for many fascinating and varied display s and replaced by Hurricanes in time for the Tangmere and the station finally closed vignettes of service and war life, with Battle of Britain in which the station’s in October 1970. tributes to the SOE,ATA, Fleet Air Arm,

Tangmere’s Hunter provoked nostalgia for some RR232 – Boultbee’s gorgeous Mk IX Spitfire

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Boultbee’s Chippie The Harvard

USAAF,and Archie McIndoe, that could solo standard; although for most of us, present, alongside a privately owned, have kept us interested all day; however unless we win the lottery, this will have single-seat Mk IX Spitfire (RR232). there was a second visit to attend and so, to remain a cherished pipe dream. If you After admiring both aircraft at length after thanking our hosts, Company do win the lottery, not only can BFA from the outside, and having taken great Members made their way to Goodwood provide the conversion course, they can care to empty our pockets of any loose help you buy, manage and maintain your airfield. objects, Matt Jones was kind enough to own aircraft! On arrival at Goodwood’s Boultbee allow members to sit in the cockpit of Flight Academy, we were welcomed by The roster of BFA pilots and instructors, RR232. Charles Osborne, Director of Sales and as you might expect, contains some This was a first for me and the highlight Marketing, accompanied by MD & Chief highly experienced warbird pilots and of my day. Sat in the cockpit of that Pilot Matt Jones, and Director of some very familiar names, including at Spitfire, with the canopy closed, my Operations Tim Granshaw. After an least one Past Master who is often to be admiration rose for all those young men, excellent finger buffet lunch in their found in a ME109 on summer weekends. who in the Summer of 1940 also briefing room we were briefed about After the briefing, it was into the climbed into a Spitfire for the first time. Boultbee and their operations. immaculate BFA hangar and a chance for All too soon, it was time to climb out of Based at Goodwood’s Hangar 8, it is the a close up look at these iconic aircraft. RR232 - with more difficulty and less first organisation to be approved by the There were no P-51 Mustangs in the UK Civil Aviation Authority to conduct hangar on the day of our visit, as they elegance than I would have wished - and passenger flights in a Spitfire; its twoTR9 were still at Duxford following an air make way for another member.This was two-seat Spitfires operate on weekdays show the previous Saturday,but there was the end of our enthralling visit, and after between April and November. In a Chipmunk and a Harvard, both used in the customary thanks to our hosts, we addition, the organisation can also training roles by BFA. dispersed. provide a Spitfire, Mustang or Yak-3 for However all eyes were drawn to the two It was probably just a coincidence, but on fly-pasts and air shows. Spitfires present. The two-seat TR9 the way home I stopped and bought a Spitfire SM520 owned by BFA, was The passenger flights operate mainly lottery ticket! from Goodwood, with Duxford used on Alan Jackson believes the Spitfire fits quite well…. occasion. However, the Academy also takes its aircraft on tour for a couple of weeks each year, and operates passenger flights out of Exeter and Cumbernauld in an effort to reach aviation fans away from the South of England. For those with deeper pockets, a formation flight with another Spitfire, a Mk IX single-seater, RR232, can be arranged, or even a fighter appreciation day with both TR9 Spitfires (SM520 and PV202) scrambling to intercept an inbound ME109 Buchon. Perhaps most interestingly, BFA also provides a full Spitfire conversion course, ground school and flying training, up to

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