AIR PILOT FEB 2018:AIR PILOT MASTER 23/1/18 09:58 Page 1 2 AirPilot FEB 2018 ISSUE 25 AIR PILOT FEB 2018:AIR PILOT MASTER 23/1/18 09:58 Page 2

Diary

FEBRUARY 2018 7th Pilot Aptitude Testing RAF Cranwell AIR PILOT 8th General Purposes & Finance Committee Dowgate Hill House THE HONOURABLE 12th Ladies visit Goldsmiths’ Hall COMPANY OF 20th Luncheon Club RAF Club AIR PILOTS incorporating MARCH 2018 Air Navigators 1st General Purposes & Finance Committee Cutlers’ Hall 1st Court Cutlers’ Hall PATRON: 12th Company AGM Merchant Taylors’ Hall His Royal Highness 16th United Guilds Service St Paul’s Cathedral The Prince Philip 22nd Instructors’Working Group Dowgate Hill House Duke of Edinburgh KG KT

GRAND MASTER: APRIL 2018 His Royal Highness 1st RAF Centenary Service St Clement Danes The Prince Andrew 10th Court Lunch with the Poulters Cutlers’ Hall Duke of York KG GCVO 12th General Purposes & Finance Committee Cutlers’ Hall 14th Pilot Careers Live Heathrow MASTER: 18th AST/APT Dowgate Hill House Captain C J Spurrier 19th Air Pilots Benevolent Fund Dowgate Hill House 20th RAF Centenary Banquet Guildhall CLERK: 25th Luncheon Club RAF Club Paul J Tacon BA FCIS 25th Cobham Lecture TBC

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

PUBLISHED BY: VISITS PROGRAMME The Honourable Company of Air Pilots, Please see the flyers accompanying this issue of Air Pilot or contact Liveryman David Dowgate Hill House, 14-16 Dowgate Hill, Curgenven at [email protected]. London EC4R 2SU. These flyers can also be downloaded from the Company's website. EDITOR: Please check on the Company website for visits that are to be confirmed. Paul Smiddy BA (Econ), FCA EMAIL: [email protected]

FUNCTION PHOTOGRAPHY: Gerald Sharp Photography GOLF CLUB EVENTS View images and order prints on-line. Please check on Company website for latest information 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 April 2018 edition of Air Pilot is 1 March 2018. The address is: 14-16 Dowgate Hill House, London EC4R 2SU. Our telephone number remains unchanged TELEPHONE: 020 7404 4032 Cover photo:A new PC21 of the RAAF,courtesy of Wing Commander Roland FAX NO: 020 7404 4035 Morscheck, OC CFS, RAAF. EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.airpilots.org AIR PILOT FEB 2018:AIR PILOT MASTER 23/1/18 09:58 Page 3

A message from your Editor... All businesses, and indeed industries, find it easier to maximise returns for stakeholders if they operate in a known environment, where risks can be minimised.That is not to overlook the small number of companies that actively seek areas of rapid and disruptive change to exploit resulting profit opportunities.

Sadly we seem to be in an era where the UK Government much prefers to kick the can down the road when faced by a difficult decision.The choice of location of a new for the South East is a case in point. Defence procurement is replete with examples. In this issue Andrew Roberts outlines the issues created by the Nimrod MRA4 cancellation and the procurement of its later partial substitute, the Poseidon.The latest Strategic Defence and Security Review was announced in July 2017 (packaged as a review of the 2015 Review!), with the intention to publish findings before the end of 2017.Various very serious cuts to the country’s military capability were floated in the Autumn, no doubt to test the national mood. There was a high degree of push-back on these both from MPs, including those with military experience, and retired senior officers.Yet at the time of writing the indication is that the review has been split; whilst we may expect the Security element soon, the Defence half has been deferred sine die.

The Government published “Beyond the Horizon - the future of UK aviation”, coincidentally also in July 2017.This was a “call for evidence” document, and an attempt to create (or at least start the creation of) an intellectual framework for decisions affecting the industry. Or, in its own words, to “set out the aviation policy-making for 2050 and beyond”. The intention of its timetable is that “A final Aviation Strategy will then be published by the end of 2018.” Clearly the over-riding issue in the back of politicians’ minds is the long overdue decision on London’s Third Runway. No doubt it is exercising the minds of many mandarins too.The document is pleasingly passenger-centric; it is also voter-centric in that the environmental impact of the industry’s recent and future growth is very front of mind. It is a sadness to this writer that General Aviation was deemed worthy of only one paragraph in an 86 page document! AOPA, in tempered tones, has made its views known about this disparity.

Perhaps my eyesight is not what it was, but I have never noticed any long grass in Whitehall. Nonetheless there seems to be plenty around when our Government seeks to defer a tricky decision.The postponement of difficult decisions by the Government is harmful for the health of our defence and aviation industries; it severely hampers decision-making in the senior echelons of the Armed Forces, and reduces their effectiveness. Ultimately it is bad value for the taxpayer. Paul Smiddy - Editor

Contents

News Round Up ...... 4

The Master’s Message ...... 6

Gazette ...... 7

The Master’s Tour Part 2 ...... 8

A Message from the Support Unit ...... 12

From the Desk of the DAA ...... 13

Scholarships and Bursaries 2017 ...... 14

Duncan Simpson ...... 24

Air Pilots Benevolent Fund ...... 27

Maritime Patrol ...... 28

Company Visit to RAF Benson ...... 31

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News Round Up CAA HEAD RYANAIR OP RUMAN The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Since the last edition of this magazine, Our visit to RAF Benson (see page 31) has announced the appointment of the low-cost airline (under duress) has highlighted the work of the UK’s armed Richard Moriarty as its new Chief reversed its previous policy on non- forces in relief work after the Autumn’s Executive. He will succeed Andrew recognition of aircrew trade unions. hurricanes in the Caribbean. Another of Haines, whose term of office will expire our affiliated units, HMS Ocean, was also in the Summer. heavily involved in this operation. The Master received a comprehensive Richard re-joined the CAA in 2016 as summary from the ship’s commander, Group Director of Consumers and Captain Robert Pedre. Markets and Deputy Chief Executive. Having been deployed from its UK base Prior to joining he was the Chief as flagship for the Commander, Standing Executive at the Legal Services Board, NATO Maritime Group 2 in the which oversees the legal profession in Mediterranean, Ocean was diverted at and Wales. Source: Bernstein short notice to make good speed to the We look forward to working with Mr. Caribbean following Hurricane Irma. Moriarty. She stopped at Gibraltar for a hurried replenishment of disaster relief goods – OFFICE MOVE during a 38 hour stay at Gib, more than ALL PARTY PARLIAMENTARY As mentioned in the Clerk’s December 270 tonnes were loaded in 24 hours. She GROUP ON AVIATION - UPDATE e-newsletter and the December Air Pilot, arrived off Tortola at dawn on 22 There are now 83 parliamentary the Company’s main headquarters has September, with the region having just members – including 7 former Cabinet moved. The move from the old offices suffered another hurricane – Maria.The Ministers, 12 Privy Councillors and one has gone very smoothly and the crew of Ocean conducted 12 days of current party leader in this group – one Company is now based at Dowgate Hill Humanitarian and Disaster Relief of the largest in the current Parliament. House in the City of London. The office Operations in the BVI, Anguilla, The list of members can be found at email and telephone numbers remain the Dominica and Turks & Caicos. In some www.generalaviationappg.uk/parliament same, although, at the time of writing 253 flying hours, 1081 people were ary-members. there have been some problems with the moved as well as the freight. The telecoms supplier; the postal address is The group recently met with the embarked squadron of Royal Marines Dowgate Hill House, 14-16 Dowgate Secretary of State for Transport, Rt Hon conducted almost 200 landing craft Hill, London EC4R 2SU. Chris Grayling MP, and set out its launches and recoveries. The ship also evacuated 39 vulnerable British priorities.The urgent need to maintain a nationals, giving life-saving treatment to strategic network of General Aviation PROJECT PEGASUS one. airfields was top of the agenda. This is a Home Office campaign The Chairman, the Rt Hon Grant coordinating Border Force, National It is particularly poignant that this Shapps MP, sent a follow-up letter Crime Agency and Police initiatives to sterling effort was followed by news in January that the British Government is in to the Secretary of State, increase vigilance in and around the UK’s negotiations to sell HMS Ocean to the which can be viewed at GA airfields. Members of the GA Brazilian Government for a reported http://www.generalaviationappg.uk/par community are encouraged to be alert to £84m. The vessel was commissioned in liamentary-group-on-general-aviation- unusual or suspicious activity on and 1998, and received a comprehensive refit reiterates-calls-for-action-from- around airfields and report it using the as recently as 2014 for a reported cost of transport-secretary/ confidential Crimestoppers free phone line 0800 555 111. Flying club officials £65m. HMS Ocean, an impressive The group gave the Secretary of State a and aerodrome operators may wish to amphibious platform, will not be directly deadline of 14th February 2018 for his download all the campaign materials replaced. This will all leave the UK responses, and was reassured by him that military with no significant seaborne air including posters, leaflets and social he recognises the problems General power until the QE class carriers are media graphics. Aviation faces. commissioned (and receive their aircraft).

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HMS Ocean (in the Gulf)

Loading disaster relief supplies at Gibraltar

Wildcat Flight 216 is welcomed back Post-disaster reconstruction by the Ship’s Company – Wildcat & Chinook in operation to RNASYeovilton with nary a B&Q in sight Chinook disembarks civilians

The human side of military operations

LAST FLIGHTS Capt Phil Brentnall died since our last issue.There was a comprehensive obituary in the Telegraph. Phil, as a flight commander on 218 squadron, was in charge of the Sterling force’s “window” dropping operations on D Day. He then progressed to Ruhr bombing in Lancasters, and graduated to BOAC after the war. Heavily involved in flight safety at BOAC/BA, he was awarded the Company’s Cumberbatch Trophy in 1979. A tribute to Past Master Duncan Simpson can be found on page 24.

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The Master’s Message Captain Chris Spurrier

Welcome to my last message to you as overseen by a small group tasked to Master. I write this in early January. ensure that the premises are suitable, Christmas has gone, turkey and the last affordable, and will last us into the future. mince pies eaten, New Year’s resolutions When I began my the Mastership last made and forgotten, and the post- March my prime objective was to resolve Christmas diet just beginning. This year the premises question. My preferred the diet is to be more strictly observed option proved unobtainable. I am, than usual since our tour of the regions though, very pleased that we are in a has resulted in a wardrobe shrinkage position where we finally have control of crisis. And she who controls the food our own home. I had hoped to complete supply has some rather strong ideas about the process during my year but that has wardrobe shrinkage. Ah well, salad for not proved possible. That, of course, will supper again. now be under the stewardship of the next We returned from our tour of New Master. Zealand,Australia and Hong Kong just in There are some events between now and time for the annual Carol Service and the AGM to which I am very much informal supper. That is always a joy and, looking forward. Paula and I have been to me, signals the beginning of invited to present awards at the dinner Christmas. Most of the other things we for the Dawn to Dusk Competition. have done since my last message are Many of you will be aware of this but for covered in the account of the Master’s those who haven’t come across it, the The Master and Paula celebrate Christmas in style tour. There remains, though, one of the Dawn to Dusk Competition requires most important events in the competitors to fly a self-set challenge in an Assistant. It was fascinating to learn Honourable Company’s history for the an aircraft of their own choice. They may how the Honourable Company – last eighteen or so years. We have moved choose their own date to complete the GAPAN as it then was – is governed, and house. Some time ago I wrote to you all, flight between, obviously, dawn and dusk I felt it was a great privilege to be a small explaining the reasons behind the move. on the same day. The objective is to part in that process. For any Liveryman The Air Safety Trust – through which we encourage the most interesting who has an interest and the time, I held shares in the company 9 Warwick employment of a flying machine within cannot recommend too strongly that you Court Limited – requested that the the limits of competent airmanship, and consider standing for election next year. building be offered for sale. Shortly to demonstrate the capabilities of pilot Which really brings me to the point before Christmas the period for offers and machine in a day's flying, in terms of where I must look back at the events of closed and we were pleased to learn that furthering some original and this extraordinary year. In my first a very satisfactory offer had been made praiseworthy objective. Our Patron, Master’s Message I wrote of my and accepted. In the meantime our HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of ambitions for my term of office. There Learned Clerk, Paul Tacon, had arranged Edinburgh, was instrumental in setting for our belongings to be removed from has been progress in most, but not all. As up the competition and was involved in Cobham House. Some were put into stated, we have moved the premises the judging until very recently. storage, some high-value items, such as problem forward but not completed the our silverware, were taken to Cutler’s Secondly, I look forward to the election transition, and that is a disappointment. Hall and the bits we need to continue in of a new Warden at the January Court We have started initiatives to promote business were moved to new temporary meeting. This is always an exciting time, STEM subjects among young people, premises on Dowgate Hill, near Mansion not least for the successful candidate, with both the Science Museum and House. This is a suite of serviced offices, since he or she is expected to progress to through a schools initiative advocated by not large but sufficient for our needs the Mastership. We have four Assistants Assistant Marion Wooldridge. Under the until we can find a property to purchase. standing and, when you read this, you guidance of Warden Malcolm White the The move was completed just before the will know the result. Whatever the Strategic Working Group has produced Christmas break. Once the sale of outcome, I wish the new Warden a happy the new Strategic Plan. With the help of Cobham House is complete and the and successful period in office. There Upper Freeman Dai Whittingham money received we shall commence the will, too, be new Assistants joining the legislation to outlaw laser strikes against search for a new building. That will be Court. I well remember my first year as aircraft, and in fact all transport, was

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introduced; this was lost with the detail is essential in keeping me – and the else has done the work. It’s a very good prorogation of Parliament, but has now whole Honourable ship – on a steady system if you happen to be the Master. been re-introduced. Our DAA, John course. In this he has been ably assisted Before I finish I must also publicly thank Turner, has been busy on many fronts, by Ruth, Angie, James and Anna. I my wife, Paula. She has offered including the dangers of drones, although cannot thank them enough for their help unstinting support, even during the times the problem is yet to be properly and forbearance when I’ve asked yet when I’ve stamped my feet. Paula has resolved. That particular horse is well another silly question. If you doubt their smiled through far too many visits to and truly out of the stable. expertise and their value, just look at the aviation museums - and (usually) way in which they manage our two On the broader front our charities have collected me from the station from yet showcase events, the Livery Dinner and continued their work, assisting those in another late train. She has organised the T&A. I have frequently been told need and funding scholarships, gliding visits for the wives and partners of that our events are among the best courses and academic bursaries. Past members, and has been an inspiration at organised in the City. And the T&A, of Master Roger Gault has worked hard to times when inspiration was sadly lacking course, depends on Past Master Rick promote aviation apprenticeships and, in - even if it just meant pouring me Peacock-Edwards and his committee to October, I was very pleased to present a another gin and tonic. (With luck, that assess the award recipients. certificate to one of our apprentices. The paragraph was sufficiently generous to Livery Schools Link has flourished, with I hope you have noticed in that qualify me for some salad dressing on the paragraph the sheer number of those Assistant Rick Thomas, Warden John lettuce leaf mentioned in paragraph one). Towell and Upper Freeman Zoe Gell who have helped during the year. There Being your Master has been a privilege I playing a huge part, aided by Assistant are many more: the members in the shall not forget and a pleasure that could Dacre Watson, who is gently easing away Regions; the unsung volunteers; the from his previous, leading role there. committees of our societies; and all those not possibly be bettered. In my first Liveryman David Curgenven and his who attend our visits, dinners and other Master’s Message I said that one of my team produced another round of events. Being your Master has been ambitions was for you, the members, to fascinating visits, and gave me immense rather like an orchestral conductor. I said enjoy the year. That was and remains my help in organising the Master’s Garden what I would like to happen, persuaded, most important ambition. I hope that in Party at Charlton Park. And of course, cajoled, occasionally stamped my feet and some small way I achieved it. My thanks overseeing all, we have our Learned waved my arms about a lot. And at the for allowing me to serve you. Clerk, whose expertise and attention to end I get all the applause whilst everyone

GAZETTE APPROVED BYTHE COURT 18 JANUARY 2018

ADMISSIONS ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE COURT RESIGNATIONS As Upper Freeman 18 JANUARY 2018 Stephen George COLLYER Jonathan BREEZE REGRADE Alan Robert EVANS Sean COYNE William Paul HARWOOD (AUS) To Livery Richard GALBRAITH David Anthony HUGHES (HK) Robert Martin LIMB Paul Edward Mervyn JONES (HK) Adam JANICKI Steven MONK Martin JEZARD Alan WRIGLEY To Upper Freeman William PERRINS Stephen SMARTT As Freeman Ian ROBINSON David MOORMAN Mark PERRY Ian SHEPPARD DECEASED Clare WALKER Peter BARKER As Associate Udhana Tesala ABEYSEKERA (AUS) Harvey CRUSH Noah BECKMANN (AUS) John D’ARCY Hanif GREENWOOD David MARTIN FORFEIT ALL BENEFITS Maika LY (AUS) Simon Peter WILLIAMS Duncan SIMPSON Patrick McHAFFEY

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The Master’s Tour - Part 2 Captain Chris Spurrier

Having completed the first part of the deputy. Throughout the tour, the same tour in August, as described in the topics were discussed everywhere. UAVs, October edition, we now moved on to laser pointers, and loss of control, plus my New Zealand,Australia and Hong Kong. current subject to push, replacement of Paula and I left on the Saturday evening Magnetic North by True North. following the Trophies and Awards Hereinafter these will be called “the usual Banquet. With memories of the post topics”. Other subjects discussed horn gallop still ringing in our ears, we were scheduled to fly to Wellington, via included air display regulation after the Hong Kong and Auckland. It was a Shoreham accident, the review by the delight to find that the Captain on our Ministry of Transport of the Civil Cathay flight to Hong Kong was Aviation Act 1990, fatigue management, Assistant Jonathan Legat - aviation can be progress with and resourcing of rule- a very small world. In Hong Kong we making, and their about-to-be-released Chris near Auckand transferred to Air New Zealand for the Sector Risk Profile for Part 135 second and third sectors, arriving in Operations. Graeme also spoke of the Wellington in surprisingly good new funding model, where the CAA is condition. A taxi took us to the Wellington Club (highly recommended 88% funded by the users. This has as a place to stay), where we were met by reduced their income, and has affected Liveryman Leslie Brown and left to resourcing, especially in the context of recover. rule-making. Moving on to the The following day we had free time to Transport Accident Investigation visit the magnificent Te Papa museum, Commission, we met Tim Burfoot, Chief with its excellent Gallipoli exhibition Investigator and General Manager of and the world’s largest giant squid Investigation Services, and some of his (honest), followed by lunch on the colleagues. In New Zealand this harbour front, and a trip on the funicular Commission covers all forms of transport to the heights above the City. That accident, and it was interesting to hear evening we met Bill Bennett, Chairman their views on how trained investigators of the New Zealand Region, who was also staying in the Club and who, with could cover air accidents as well as those, Leslie, was to accompany me to our say, on the railway. Clearly specialist business meetings. knowledge is required for the technical That was the calm before a busy day with parts of each investigation but the first, the New Zealand CAA, with investigative procedure is the same. Graeme Harris, the Director and his Topics discussed were recreational drug Mike Cleaver with a wooden wombat

Aldinga Paula wanted to bring him home The tram

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taking, and accidents, helicopter safety, presented Andy with the Brackley training facility which reminded me very current investigations, the Commission's Memorial Trophy at the T & A and this much of the old College of Air Training "Watch List", and the level of resourcing was an opportunity to present it again, on at Hamble. It has a very impressive and staffing. their own territory. We were given an success rate, trains pilots for many Far A brief pause allowed the three of us to excellent lunch, followed by a tour of the East and Australian airlines, and is an regain breath before meeting Pauline Squadron and a briefing on their role, a Australian government approved facility. Lamb, Chief Operating Officer and visit to one of their C-130s (much I was surprised to learn, though, that acting CEO of Airways, the local nostalgia, moist eyes etc), and another licences obtained in Australia cannot equivalent of NATS. Pauline explained visit, this time to a 757 modified for easily be imported into EASA. That the new Southern Sky control concept Antarctic operations. There was also an evening we attended the South Australia for division of airspace control. New opportunity for me to demonstrate lack formal dinner, where I was pleased to re- Zealand is responsible for a vast area of of recency (44 years) in a C-130 present the Australian Bi-Centennial ocean and of the Antarctic. Pauline also simulator - or perhaps it was just my Award to Bas Sheffers on behalf of his Oz explained her concerns over control of natural incompetence… All too soon it Runways electronic flight bag. And the increasing number of tourist was time to leave and drive to an hotel at then, the following day, to Aldinga for helicopter flights to the New Zealand Auckland airport (once more via Bill’s their air day. I had known there was to glaciers, particularly with regard to the home for another of Marlene’s excellent be a spot landing competition - but not commercial pressure on pilots to fly in teas). We were to depart very early next having landed a light aeroplane for many marginal weather. This needs cross- morning. years I had expected to be excused. Well, department negotiation with the A very comfortable flight on an Air New I didn’t bend the aeroplane…. A very Ministry of Tourism. We discussed the Zealand Dreamliner took us to Adelaide, convivial day,with an excellent barbecue. possible replacement of Magnetic North where we were met by Rob Moore, who Steve Nelson took me for a ride in his with True as a heading reference, the heads the South Australia (SA) working RV7 (a lovely aeroplane to fly), and Mike impact of Brexit and, perhaps unique to group of the Australian Region, and Hanell flew both me and Paula in his New Zealand, the resilience of the ATC Roger Lang and Jan Hoopman, with beautiful Chipmunk. I have a structure to disruption following an whom we were to stay. A brief pause to photograph of Paula with one of the earthquake. view the Vickers Vimy, which made the biggest smiles I can remember. Then it That evening a reception at the first official flight from the UK to was time to bid farewell to Rob, Roger Wellington Club, hosted by Leslie Brown Australia in 1919, and then on to Roger and Jan, as our friends from Port Elliott and Bill Bennett, gave us a further and Jan’s house on the beachfront. nearby had invited us to stay, so we were opportunity to meet many of these Roger and Jan’s hospitality was taken for two days croquet and people again, together with Air Vice outstanding. The following day Rob, sightseeing before they delivered us to Marshal Tony Davies, Chief of the Roger and I visited Cobham Aviation at the airport for our flight to Canberra. RNZAF, and Air Cdr Darryn Webb (his Adelaide airport. That is now an Canberra - the Australian Capital Air Component Commander). There immense organisation, running many Territory – was where we were met by were also many local members present. I aspects of aviation world-wide. Search Mike Cleaver and Pete Norford. After a hope they will forgive me for not listing and Rescue, maritime surveillance, meal together in our hotel we were left them all but it was an absolute pleasure defence training, civil transport, to unpack before business started the for Paula and for me to meet everyone. helicopter operations, and aircraft following day with visits to the head of At this stage there is a break in the formal servicing and modification, are just some the RAAF,Air Marshal Leo Davies (not proceedings. We had built into our of those I can remember. We were related to AVM Tony Davies of the schedule a few days for sightseeing as we mightily impressed their repair and RNZAF,but an interesting coincidence), had not been to New Zealand before. servicing hangar. After lunch we and Shane Carmody, CEO of the Civil We hired a car and drove north, initially progressed to the Aviation Museum, Aviation Safety Authority. A wide- with Bill as our guide, who showed us where we were joined by Upper ranging discussion with AM Davies points of interest on our way to Freeman Captain Steve Nelson, whose included the usual topics plus Auckland. Here he and his wife Marlene impressive knowledge of the exhibits was recruitment, outsourcing of services, and gave us tea before launching us solo up a joy. I sat in a DHC-4 Caribou, a type the RAAF’s current and planned fleet. clockwise around the island to Keri Keri, Steve used to fly, and also an F-111. Their F35 order list is impressive. With near the Bay of Islands, then back down From one extreme…. The museum itself CASA, as ever, we covered the usual the east coast, eventually meeting Bill is just superb. There were even bits to topics. The following day Mike took us again at RNZAF Whenuapai. Here we interest Paula. sightseeing to the National Arboretum, met AVMTony Davies again and also Wg On the following day we visited Flight the Tidinbilla wildlife reserve, and the Cdr Andy Scott, the CO of 40Sqn. I had Training Adelaide, a first-class flying NASA Deep Space Communications

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Brisbane. Brisbane was hosting an unfortunate cricket match, which will receive no further comment. The Chairman and Secretary of the Queensland working group,Tony Alder with his wife Meg and John Howie with Gael, met us at the airport and delivered us to the United Services Club. On the following day we visited the flight training facility of Boeing Australia, where Ed Field, its manager, together with Leighton Carr, showed us their virtual reality development facility. The demonstration of docking a spacecraft with the Spacelab Royal Flying Doctor Service was simply awesome. And then on to the facility. This was followed by a superb time to unpack before finding a meal. Royal Flying Doctor Service, where we barbecue kindly provided by Pete and Then a night’s sleep before a 9 am visit to met their Chief Pilot, Shane Lawrey. This Janie Norford, where we met many the RAAF Museum at Point Cook - a is a unique and very necessary service members from the Canberra area. fascinating, first-class museum. Point with absolutely dedicated people. We were shown their latest aircraft and the OnThursday we managed a visit to Mark Cook itself was the first RAAF Central modifications which enable casualties to Hughes, Deputy Director of Air Services, Flying School, and is now a designated be loaded quickly and efficiently. The JimWolfe, General Manager of AirTraffic heritage site. It was amusing to find the day finished with a formal dinner at the Policy at the Department of old married quarters, built along Queensland Club, where I presented the Infrastructure and Nat Nagy, Executive Harmony Avenue. No further comment. Master’s Australian Regional Award to Director of the Air Transport Safety The museum trip was necessarily short. George Lloyd, always known as Peter. Board. Discussions were, as ever, wide The RAAF had sent a King Air to take Now 97 years old, Peter is a role model ranging, and included the proposal for a us across to the current CFS base and it for many. There were also awards of a new airport at Sydney and airspace would have been most impolite to keep scholarship certificate to Ben Nelson changes around the NASA facility near our private aeroplane waiting! Some and an Aviation Studies Award to Canberra. That afternoon we were forty minutes later we were met by Wg Anthony Hill. The formal parts of the privileged to tour the Australian War Cdr Arnie Morscheck, CO of CFS, on visit over, on Sunday Tony and John took Memorial with Mike and Pete, and to the tarmac at East Sale. The main reason us to lunch at a rather splendid winery, stay for the very moving Last Post for the visit was to present the Grand followed by a tour of John’s spectacular ceremony, which is performed there Master’s Australian Medal to the model railway. The next day it was on to daily. Rouletttes, the RAAF aerobatic team. A very well-deserved award, presented after Hong Kong. Friday,and time to move on. Mike drove a buffet lunch. This was followed by a Hong Kong was much changed since us to the Historic Aircraft Restoration tour of the base, including briefings on Paula and I were last there, but still a Society Museum nearWollongong. Here the new RAAF academy now under vibrant, exciting and colourful city. Local we met Liveryman and former Chairman construction, the RAAF pilot Chairman Tin Yun Lam with Locky of the Australian Region, Sandy Howard. recruitment scheme and the introduction Lawford and their wives, Veronica and Sandy gave us a first-class tour of the of their new trainer, the Pilatus P21. Debbie, were to be our hosts for the visit, museum before we waved goodbye to Having successfully crashed the P21 although Locky unfortunately was Mike. Sandy drove us on to Sydney, simulator, we made good our escape and required to work on some days. Tin took where we were to stay two nights with were flown back to Point Cook. The me to the Cathay City facility, where I old RAF friends before an excellent following day Mike drove us to a demonstrated my very rusty skills in a lunch with our members in Sydney. member’s lunch at the Royal Victoria B747-400 series 8 simulator. Paula After lunch it was a rapid drive to the Aero Club at Moorabbin. Over 100 joined us for lunch before a short trip airport to catch a flight to Melbourne, years old, this is one of Australia’s oldest across to the Government Flying where we were once more met by Mike flying schools. Returning to Sanctuary Services, where the Controller, Michael Cleaver. A drive to our accommodation, Lakes, we managed nine holes of golf Chan, briefed us on their work. Their thoughtfully arranged for us at the before a final dinner with Mike. The fixed-wing fleet is tasked with long range Sanctuary Lakes Golf Resort, gave us just following morning we departed for patrol and SAR work, whilst their

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helicopters are employed in SAR, invest in what I saw as an omen. the great friendship which our hosts,Tin casualty evacuation, and in deploying Everyone, that is, except Paula who andVeronica, Locky and Debbie, and Ian police and special forces teams in anti- backed another horse. Which won. Fogarty had extended to us. Toasts over, terrorist operations. At the conclusion of Sometimes my wife worries me. Loving Cup passed, and speeches made, our visit a sundown sightseeing tour in The following morning Tin and I were we returned to the hotel and prepared one of their EC 551 helicopters returned taken to meet Raymond Ng, the for our flight home. In good time for the us to Wan Chai. That produced another Assistant Director-General of the Civil Carol Service and Christmas. ear-to-ear grin from Paula. On the Aviation Department and Michael Lau, It was good to see the ways in which the following day we visited the Hong Kong Chief of Flight Standards. An interesting various groups are moving. Whilst one Observatory, where the Director, Shun discussion, which again was far-ranging or two are experiencing what we hope Chi-ming, known as C-M, explained and included their search for a new head are temporary recruitment problems, their work in met forecasting, with of their Accident Investigation Branch others are flourishing. In particular Rob especial emphasis on typhoons, and also following, I understand, a re- Moore has been performing wonders in the aviation weather at Hong Kong organisation. We then moved on to their recruiting new, younger members in Airport, where their work on forecasting AirTraffic Control centre. Very similar to South Australia. Mike Cleaver has turbulence, both terrain- and wake- our Swanwick, it covers a large area of worked tirelessly to promote the induced, was fascinating. Sharon, the ocean and can face challenging Honourable Company and hopes to Assistant Director, gave us a tour of their conditions, especially during the typhoon initiate a group in Western Australia. museum and then of the public weather season. I was intrigued to learn that each Mike drove many hundreds of kilometres forecast broadcasting room, where, with of the light fittings in the control room in shepherding us around. Bill Bennett is coaching from presenter Sandy Man- has one white and one yellow lamp. trying very hard to reinvigorate the New Zealand Region, whilst the Hong Kong kuen, Paula and I were able to Their relative intensity is controlled Region is flourishing, with a very active demonstrate our aptitude – or, in my through the day to mimic a circadian social side. There is no way in which we case, lack of it – as an on-screen rhythm. This, we were told, reduces can thank everyone we met for their forecaster. C-M then hosted us to a controller fatigue. Back to the hotel for hospitality, their generosity and their magnificent and very memorable lunch. another brief rest, before an evening tram friendship. It really was quite A brief rest in the afternoon preceded a ride through the City. With, of course, outstanding. Paula and I were, and visit to the Happy Valley Races. I read the occasional glass of wine. Then a free remain, very, very grateful. with some excitement that, in the second day before our final event of the tour, the race, a horse called London Master was formal dinner at the Aviation Club. This running and persuaded everyone to was a special evening, not least because of 40 Sqn

Government Flying Service Hong Kong

Paula forecasts a strong tailwind for the flight home

Admiring a croc

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And Finally, a Message from the Support Unit… By the Master’s Consort, Paula Spurrier

What a fantastic year this has been, and if First Chipmunk ride I were to list all the wonderful places visited, and the people along the way, then I shall end up with something the length of War and Peace. The dinner at the Mansion House in March was a spectacular affair, with all the pomp and ceremony one would expect, but some of the special days have been quite simple. I loved the Service at St. Bartholomew the Great when the incense burning reduced the visibility to around ten yards, the guided walk of City Churches organized by the Plumbers and Constructors, and the Pewterers’ Annual Exhibition turned out to be the ideal visited the Te Papa Museum with its upmarket shopping. A memorable few venue to purchase some gifts ready for fascinating exhibition on the Gallipoli days with visits to the Hong Kong our overseas tours. The Garden Party at Campaign. The following day whilst Observatory, racing at HappyValley, rides Buckingham Palace, the Annual Service Chris was at a meeting I spent the on the Star Ferry and a helicopter ride at St. Paul’s, the 101 Sqn Centenary morning at Zealandia, a predator-proof courtesy of the Government Flying Parade at RAF Brize Norton. Small ecosanctuary, which (according to their Services. brochure) is home to some of the world’s world that it is, the OC’s wife and our Closer to home, I have very much most extraordinary animals. Part of the son Ed were in the Southampton enjoyed arranging ladies’ visits during the University Air Squadron together. plan was to have a bit of a holiday in NZ so over the course of the next few days, year. In June we visited the Chelsea Then, the overseas tours. What a treat. we covered 1600 kilometres from Physic Garden and in October the In August we visited Washington DC, Wellington up to the Bay of Islands and Charterhouse. On both days we were Montreal and Vancouver, none of which back to Auckland for lunch with 40 blessed with good weather apart from a I had visited before. The Smithsonian Squadron at RNZAF Whenuapai. very light shower at Chelsea which Museums in Washington cover a vast area Australia was next on the list. Adelaide, certainly didn’t dampen our spirits. I have but there was only time to visit one Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and loved these days - meeting up with old which, surprise, surprise, was the Aviation Brisbane. Chris has covered it in detail, friends, and always delighted to see new Museum but all the more interesting so I should just mention that everywhere faces. There’s just one left on the when we had one guide dedicated for we were looked after by the most calendar which is Goldsmiths’ Hall in we three visitors. Our visit to Montreal thoughtful and entertaining hosts. When February and I have been busy trying out coincided with the Rogers Cup Tennis Chris was busy I took myself off to Art all the pubs/restaurants in the area for Tournament and the hotel was full of Galleries and other museums. We had lunch after the tour. Well, someone has tennis players and their entourage but, time to stay with friends in Adelaide and to do it! despite hanging around in the lobby, I Sydney. I mustn’t forget to mention my It has been a pleasure and a huge failed to see anyone I recognised. first ever ride in a Chipmunk at Aldinga privilege to be the Master’s Consort and Vancouver is a beautiful city and our – so exciting! In Brisbane we stayed at hotel overlooked the float plane the United Services Club which, like the it’s certainly a year I shall never forget. terminal. It was easy to spend lots of Wellington Club, has so much history. time on the balcony watching them take Time spent looking at the pictures and off and land. Even better when we flew Paula leads the ladies around the photos which adorn the walls gives an Chelsea Physic Garden in one on a day trip toVancouver Island! insight into the history of the area. A Two days after the Trophies and Awards busy few days which ended with a lovely which, as always, was one of the lunch at the Sirromet Winery with our highlights of the year, we set off on the new friends, John, Gael, Tony & Meg. second leg of the tour. New Zealand, Hong Kong next. Phew. I haven’t been Australia and Hong Kong. This was my to Hong Kong for thirty odd years. first visit to New Zealand and what a Some things haven’t changed. That beautiful island it is. We started in distinctive smell in Wan Chai Market Wellington at The Wellington Club and and, within a few yards, some very

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Everyone is responsible for air safety. This means telling others the things that From the Desk of the happened to you, or relating the times Director Aviation Affairs you got things wrong (but got away with Liveryman John Turner it) so that others can learn from them. As an inexperienced pilot, I 2017 was the safest year ever with zero modern air travel. was clear that I would not be able to accidents and zero passenger deaths in We must not ignore 10 fatal accidents1 in (make and) survive all the mistakes to commercial jet passenger operations1. 2017 that are split equally between which pilots are prone - so I needed to President Trump tweets this was because commercial cargo and commercial learn from and avoid others’ mistakes. In he had been "very strict" on passenger (propeller aircraft) flights, and those days (over 40 years ago) there was "commercial aviation", but those more resulted in 44 crew and passenger time to sit in the crew room and read knowledgeable suggest it is more likely a fatalities, and (in a single accident) about all the incidents and accidents statistical fluke and that neither another 35 killed on the ground. The occurring on my particular aircraft type. regulation (nor strictness) can really numbers are miniscule when compared Today, aviation organisations should eliminate human error. On the other with the global number of flights each pride themselves on the ability of their hand, training in Human Factors can year, but we still cannot afford to ignore pilot to raise reports without fear of help everyone working in aircraft design, any lessons they may offer; all occurred retribution and in the interests of manufacture, maintenance, ground crew, to crews that had departed in expectation improving safety; a high number of flight crew or company management, to of a safe flight, as we all do each time we reports is a good thing, because that understand when we humans are most fly. allows management to understand where susceptible to make errors, and what the potential safety fractures are, what form that error may take. Having The quality and quantity of information must be done to fix them, and to accomplished the 2017 zero accident available on each accident varies, as you monitor the effectiveness of any fix. It milestone, what we need in aviation now might expect, from ‘was involved in an does require organisations to operate is more understanding, not more accident’ in the Africa bush, to a well- with a ‘just culture’ that encourages open strictness. Unfortunately, the maxim documented too-high approach leading and honest reporting (does yours?), and that a safe flight needs a “safe aircraft to false ILS glideslope capture, rapid private pilots to be comfortable with operated in a safe environment by a descent under AP, AP reversion to 3 exposing errors and incidents to their safe crew, working to safe procedures, degree descent slope, late go-round wider community (can you?). under safe management” was proved attempt, and impact with rising terrain Everybody is responsible for air safety by the last (as I write) fatal commercial beyond the runway end in Kyrgyzstan; and managers, flight crew, maintainers, passenger jet accident, when that they include a single pilot on his fourth ground handlers and air traffic controllers aircraft ran out of fuel! flight of the day apparently flying into are all part of that ‘everybody.’ mountains above and beyond the We should applaud the efforts of intended destination and another with The public transport safety message,“See everyone that helped achieve the zero- two pilots impacting sharply rising it - Say it - Sorted,”encourages people to accident record of 2017. It will ground just short of the runway in report suspect items; it would also be a undoubtedly have been the result of a challenging weather conditions in Nepal. good mantra to remind us always to number of unreported ‘saves’ by No lessons there? Almost certainly,these report the lower level incidents we professional pilots routinely dealing with are only the tip of an air safety iceberg , experience before someone else has the in-flight technical failures and by others and for each accident similar events are accident. That, together with a refresh of in the operating chain. The media (and likely to have caused 10 serious incidents, some human factors training could be a some in airline management who should 100 incidents and 1,000 minor incidents. good way for us all to get through 2018 know better) often down-play the Our challenge in aviation is to reveal and in good shape. importance of decision making by, and understand all the incidents before the handling skills of, experienced pilots, yet eventual accident. This is not just an it is largely because of those pilots that issue for commercial aviation: General today’s commercial world is as safe as it is. Aviation suffers far higher accident Spectacular pilot ‘saves’, such as the crew numbers (averaging at least one fatal 1Aviation Safety Network statistics based on all of transatlantic flight Air France 66 safely accident each month in the UK alone), worldwide fatal commercial aircraft accidents landing their A380 in Canada after an so there must be a wealth of incident (passenger and cargo flights) involving civil aircraft certified to carry 14 or more passengers. If military uncontained engine failure having left information there from which we could transport aircraft and non-commercial flights of this parts over Greenland, and the Gimli and all learn. Open and honest reporting category are included, total fatalities would be 230 in 24 fatal accidents, which is still the lowest number in Hudson river gliders, do attract media should be the default mode for all pilots, modern aviation history. attention, but are swiftly forgotten amidst professional, leisure, (and drone), because 2 https://www.eurocockpit.be/news/air-safety-see- a media perception of ‘routinely safe’ it benefits everyone. when-iceberg-approaching

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Scholarships & Bursaries 2017 By the Honorary Editor

After the November 16th Court meeting JONATHAN BRADFORD flying further afield and seeing a bit more at Cutlers’ Hall, certificates were of Scotland. On many occasions THE AIR PILOTS BENEVOLENT FUND throughout the navigation phase of presented to the 2017 winners of SCHOLARSHIP scholarships and bursaries. Immediate I started my training at the end of June training I found that weather was a large Past Master Peter Benn stood in for the 2017 at Tayside Aviation in Dundee. I problem, and caused a lot of delays in my Master, who had just started his tour of carried out my training in a Piper training as a result. However, I put this the regions. After receiving their Warrior (PA-28-161). On my first day I time to good use, studying for exams and certificates the winners were greeted met my instructor James Whitby, who taking a bit of time to relax as the with acclaim by the Court. Afterwards gave me an introduction to Tayside, and training was very intensive and tiring. they and their families joined Court with good weather that day,I had my first After having spent a week at the UK members for dinner. ever flight in a powered aircraft. Due to Gliding Junior Nationals down in As usual, the winners’ reports below my previous glider flying experience, we Gloucestershire, I was back up at Tayside indicate that their first steps down the completed the first few lessons fairly to complete the last part of my training. aviation road have been a stimulating and quickly as the weather was also on our After a late evening check flight to rewarding experience. side. My instructor and I managed to get Cumbernauld and a flight over the new three flights done each day over the first Queensferry Crossing through the three days! The two days on my first Edinburgh CTR, the next day I got to BEN ROURKE week that I did not fly were used to start do my Qualifying Cross Country. This SIR SEFTON BRANCKER SCHOLARSHIP studying for the nine theory exams. consisted of going through the Leuchars I had the best summer of my life! Having During my second week at Tayside I MATZ and over many areas I have been always wanted to become a pilot, I had completed my first solo. Flying solo was to and flown over in gliders before.After spent the summer training towards the an amazing experience.After completing a final solo navigation flight through the final exam which I am happy to say I my check flight, my instructor got out of Edinburgh CTR in the evening to build managed to pass without any problems, the aircraft and went over to the control up the last of my necessary solo hours, after some fantastic instruction from my tower. It was a great flight, filled with a and the added bonus of completing all instructor John at Crowfield. This mixture of fear and excitement, and my exams, I got the same buzz as I did scholarship has allowed me to gain my everything went well. Having now gone when I finished all my Higher exams. PPL at just 17 years old which is solo in both gliders and powered aircraft, Having finished all the exams, I was something I couldn't have possibly done it was a great feeling to have got that far booked in for my Mock Skills Test with a without the support of the Air Pilots. and be trusted with flying an aircraft on different instructor, which made me very Obtaining this scholarship will make a my own. I also sat three of my nine nervous, and the flight did not go exams, Air Law, Operational Procedures huge impact on my future, in pursuit of a particularly well. However, in a way it and Meteorology in those first two career as an airline pilot. Firstly it will was good that my mock test did not go weeks. After my first solo I completed prove to recruiters that I am passionate so well, as it gave my instructor James an three more solo consolidation flights in and dedicated to the industry. It has also opportunity to review my skills and we the circuit before moving onto boosted me into the modular training had a lot to do in the 2hrs 30 mins navigation. Training at Dundee was routes, with already a substantial block of revision time I had left. We completed fantastic due to the limited amount of training completed on which I hope to both revision flights in one day; they commercial traffic, but a lot of private jets build on in the coming years. on occasions. It was fun to be taxiing out were a massive improvement on my If I had to pick a highlight of my training to the runway in front of a Global mock test which gave me a lot more it would be the solo cross country.Flying Express private jet! confidence going into my General Skills Test. for 150nm to 2 different aerodromes, When sitting my exams, I found that on including an international one in my the one occasion I was too quick to sit it My examiner was one of the commercial case, is testing. Having flown that trip and therefore did not achieve the instructors at Tayside, so I was a little without any problems, it was an required mark to pass, so learning that I nervous, but he was very reassuring. I was indication of how much I had learned should have taken more time to given my route and off I went to plan. and gave me a great deal of confidence consolidate properly the knowledge. Unfortunately, I had to cancel the first for the final parts of my training.The Air However, thanks to the great ground attempt due to weather issues. The next Pilots have been fantastic, and I cannot school team at Tayside I passed it in the day the weather was good, and I passed thank them enough for the support they end. Finally, I reached the point of doing my skills test first time, albeit that the have offered both financially and wisdom solo navigation, it was a lot of fun, flying crosswinds and turbulence on finals were wise. around some of the local area as well as an added complication to the flight.

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When the examiner said that I had I was very delighted to hear that I was introduced himself and we talked about passed, I was ecstatic and couldn’t wait to awarded a place in the PPL Scholarship my previous gliding experience, the tell my parents. Finally, all the hard work 2017. differences between powered and glider had paid off and I now have a PPL - all I chose Phoenix Aviation based in Lee- flight, before flying our first sortie in a before I can drive a car! I made many on-Solent to complete my PPL training Cessna 152, exploring the effects of the new friends, as well as people I already in a Piper PA28. I have been spoiled by controls, climbing, descending and level knew whilst at Tayside and having a PPL the specular views of the South Coast flight before moving on to slow flight, is another step towards applying for the while receiving top quality training from stalling and circuits. The high calibre of degree course at Tayside Aviation. my instructor, who has guided me instruction I received enabled me to In the mean time I look forward to carefully throughout the training to progress swiftly to solo standard and after learning how to become one of the tug develop top notch airmanship, aviation completing my Air Law exam, I flew my pilots at my gliding club, as it will be a knowledge and flying skills. Additionally, first powered solo after just over five great way to both build flying hours and I have had the pleasure to network with hours of instruction. The feeling was gain more flying experience in an other experienced professional pilots as fantastic, and after the obligatory picture, interesting way. well as other aviation enthusiasts. I was introduced to my second instructor, Mehran Molavi. Mehran took I would like to thank the Honourable I was working with the PR team in TAG me for a check flight the next day,before Company of Air Pilots and the Air Pilots during my clearing me to fly solo circuits. The fast Benevolent Fund for supporting me in training, which provided me the unique pace of the training enabled me to achieving a goal I would have otherwise opportunity to fly into Farnborough progress quickly,something which would taken a long time to achieve. airport to meet their CEO and complete not have been possible without the some filming.The video footage was later scholarship! broadcast on the local ITV News. LEO TANG After flying 2 hours in the circuit, I Words cannot express my gratitude to TAG FARNBOROUGH AIRPORT SCHOLARSHIP moved on to flying in the local area.This the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, was good fun, and was an opportunity to Since I was young I have always been an TAG Farnborough Airport, and those practice more general handling. This is ambitious person, continuously looking who supported me along my journey of the first time I felt a sense of freedom, for a challenge and striving to achieve the flying achievements. Without their being able to decide what direction and best of myself. Ever since I have had my generosity,I would not have been able to height I wanted to fly. After I had first flight in the Grob Tutor with the come close to what I have achieved completed the navigation and CCF when I was 15, my focus has been today. Having benefited from the pinned to conquer the sky. astonishing scheme organised by the meteorology exams, I moved onto the I have set out to pursue my dream, Honourable Company of Air Pilots, I am navigation exercises. The first dual started by graduating with a Masters looking forward to the day when I can navigation route we flew was Henley- degree in Aerospace Engineering at the contribute to this great cause and assist on-Thames, Greenham Common, Grove University of Bristol. Shortly after future generations of talented and and back to Wycombe.This was followed university I had worked as an aircraft motivated young pilots. by another dual navigation exercise, this structure engineer specialising in wing time to the North of Wycombe, before design, which provided me with the finally flying a random navigation and a financial basis to start my flight training LIAM BENNETT diversion. Next, I flew these two in gliders with Bristol and GRAYBURN SCHOLARSHIP navigation exercises solo - giving me 2 Gloucestershire Gliding Club based in It all started with an application. I was hours solo cross-country time. Nympsfield. I have enjoyed every made aware of the scholarship by a I was finally ready to fly the dual moment of my gliding career and have previous winner, who has used his PPL qualifying cross country, the 150nm graduated to cross-country flights. to hour build, towing gliders, with the flight, with 2 land aways. Having flown Meanwhile I have started working at intention of going onto a CPL. I was numerous glider cross country flights NATS, which has exposed me to the invited to an interview at Cobham solo, this certainly was different, with the operational side of the aviation industry; House in London and met a few of the focus on accurately staying on track, my aspiration of getting more involved other candidates.We sat the aptitude test precise timekeeping and correct radio with aviation soared. and had a short interview.The next day, procedures. After flying Wycombe - Having researched the cost of a PPL an email popped into my inbox, Peterborough Conington - Wellesbourne course, I realised the next step could only informing me I had been successful. Mountford - Wycombe dual, I was be a fantasy. Until, that is, one day I read After confirming my choice of Booker cleared to fly the route solo. I managed to the poster of the Honourable Company Aviation, based out of Wycombe Air book a Cessna for the following Sunday. of Air Pilots’ PPL scholarship at my Park, I collected my course materials and The weather turned out to be perfect gliding club, which encouraged me to had a tour of the facilities on a rainy mid- (unlike most of this summer), and I submit my application. Through a June day. I had my first lesson a couple arrived early, having pre-planned the competitive selection process and of days later, when I was partnered with route, only needing to add the wind and interview at Cobham House in London, my instructor, Dickie Bird. Dickie to check NOTAMs.After obtaining PPR

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and running through it with the I have many people to thank for the tiltrotor that passed by. instructor, I checked the Cessna out, scholarship, for which I am truly grateful The next major milestone of my PPL filled it to the tabs, booked out, and was for. Firstly, Angie and the Scholarship course was my first solo, after a long day’s on my way. The turnaround at Committee for organising and selecting flying in G-UFCB on August 1st. Conington needed to be fast, a quick me for the scholarship. Booker Aviation, Pushing forward the throttle for take-off, visit to the tower to settle the landing fee and my instructors Mehran Molavi and with no instructor next to me if anything and to get the QXC paper signed, then Dickie Bird, for all their fantastic help went wrong, was an exhilarating feeling, back to the aircraft to dip the tanks, then and instruction. But especially Past and once the nerves had worn off I off to Wellesbourne. Enroute to Master of the Company, Michael couldn’t wait to get up again. As I had Wellesbourne talking to Birmingham Grayburn for funding the scholarship. I already flown the dual nav flights while zone between the outbound was have spoken with the Chief Tug Pilot of waiting for my medical certificate, I was certainly one of the highlights of the the London Gliding Club, who is happy soon able to do so, flying from course! After a 50-minute cruise, I said to coach me through the Sailplane Cambridge up to the Norfolk coast and goodbye to Birmingham zone, did an towing rating and onto being a tug pilot. then again eastwards towards Wattisham. overhead join and was in the café This will facilitate hour building, with It was great to see some new and enjoying a sandwich before I knew it. the intention of continuing my training different places, and to push the Cessna towards an fATPL next year. After flying the QXC my logbook up to cruise at 105kts! Following these I totalled 30 hours, so to build the rest of completed my first land-aways which - the hours, I flew a mixture of solo flights, ROBERT NORRIS despite one minor hiccup with the nose- dual navigation, instrument flying and gear oleo at Conington – went really AIR BP STERLING SCHOLARSHIP other general revision. I was able to visit well. Having always flown with ATC I completed my PPL training over the numerous different airfields, such as from a large airport like Cambridge, it summer of 2017 at Cambridge Aero Sywell, Sandown, and Thruxton, in a was really interesting to visit places with Club based at Marshalls Airport, FIS and Radio services, which definitely variety of different, typically British Cambridge. In late June I arrived to pick give you a lot more responsibility when weather conditions, which helped boost up all of the scholarship material, circuit flying. Everyone that I met at both my confidence greatly. The flight down including theory textbooks for 9 written Sywell and Conington was really to Sandown certainly has to be exams, a sectional chart and nav friendly, not to mention the food was recommended: apart from the fantastic equipment, and after a few delays due to great, so I will definitely be returning service you can receive from weather had my first flight.The aircraft at sometime soon. Farnborough LARS West, the flight over CAC are the Cessna 172SP,a reliable and Portsmouth harbour is absolutely easy aircraft with great visibility due to I had been really lucky for nearly all of stunning. the high wing, a great asset to have when the summer weather-wise, however as After 45 hours I was recommended for the circuit gets busy near the end of the my QXC approached, it seemed that all test by the examiner, Alistair Stevenson, day.The first few lessons of the course are of the slots I booked came with low with whom I’d passed my RT licence, really fun, as you learn the basics of pure clouds and rain, stopping all VFR flying which helped calm my nerves. He flying: climbing, descending and turning, out of Cambridge. However, due to some explained the format, gave me a route to with the instructor taking care of the cancellations and fortunate timing, on plan and told me which Cessna we radio and navigation. At the same time I Saturday 25th August I planned and then would be using.The route was Wycombe began studying for the first theory exam: flew my qualifying cross country flight, a - Tower Farm - Broadway, with a Air Law. Although slightly daunting at 150 mile loop from Cambridge heading diversion to be expected on the last leg. first, all of the information is interesting west towards Northampton, north to After a thorough walk around, we took and overlapped with what I was already Kings Lynn, west to Peterborough and off and started the navigation. The learning in lessons, and there were always then east back towards home, with stops visibility was acceptable but quickly instructors available to help if I had any at Sywell and Conington. The weather improved by the time we were on the last problems. for flying that day was perfect, with no leg for the diversion. The diversion was As I progressed through the course, clouds and air as smooth as glass up to to Holmbeck Farm, I produced a track, covering all general handling from slow above 3000ft, and I even got the chance heading, distance and ETA. Then using flight to stalling, every hour I spent in the to watch the RAFA Blades display team Silverstone racing circuit and Turweston air was amazing fun, culminating with over lunch during my first stop which as landmarks,Wing disused airfield came the chance to practice spinning in the was amazing. As my career goal is to out of the morning haze and the main CAC Extra 200 – a very different aircraft become an airline pilot, it was great to runway pointed directly towards the to the 172! After finishing the exercise, experience planning and flying an small grass airfield of Holmbeck Farm. my instructor Sam showed me some extended route, with all the Happy with the diversion we went on to on the way back to Cambridge complications and decisions required practice the general handling element of - aileron rolls, loops, a barrel roll and stall along the way. the test, before flying 3 circuits and a full turns – thoroughly overcoming my initial After finishing all the solo and dual hours stop. “Congratulations, that was very hesitation towards negative G – and even required for the PPL, theory and FRTOL nice. I’m pleased to say you have passed”. a unique view of a US Air Force Osprey exams, and completing the practice skills

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test, the last remaining requirement was football and unfortunately broke my the weather. Unfortunately the poor the real thing. I was very nervous in the wrist. I ended up in A&E until 3am the British weather had meant a few of my days leading up to it, as it had to be next morning worrying about my booked tests were cancelled as I waited postponed a few times, however I made forthcoming A-levels, whether I would nervously for almost a week to put all my sure I was well prepared, practicing my get a Class 2 medical and if my flying training to the test. On Thursday 28th practice forced-landings the day before scholarship had finished before even September I woke and saw how perfect and planning the route and weight and taking off! The future was painfully the day was for flying, I knew today was balance calculations.When the day finally uncertain and this made me feel very the day. I navigated north, just west of arrived, the visibility was good with clear apprehensive. Shawbury’s Military Air Traffic Zone skies, but a challenging crosswind was Thankfully at the end of my A-levels my (MATZ) to Ellesmere then through the blowing across the runway.We took off at cast was removed and I was able to pass MATZ and got diverted to Bridgnorth. 1045, and flew a navigation section my medical. Before long the navigation part of the eastwards, followed by a diversion, I started training a week after my final test was over and we moved onto general general handling and circuits to finish. I exam covering the basic elements of handling and a few circuits nearing the was very happy with how these went, flight planning and preparation, such as end. My final landing came and I realised and, despite a few bumpy landings in the how to pre-flight a Cessna. During my how quickly 2 1/4 hours had gone. I felt circuits section, I was thrilled to hear that first lesson I was taught how to fly exhausted but accomplished, and was I had passed. straight and level and trim accordingly - extremely relieved when Chris my I cannot wait to do more flying with my which seems very elementary now! examiner informed me I had passed. PPL, and take my parents up on a long- Between flights I completed ground Chris gave me some constructive points deserved thank you flight over school and studied hard for the 9 flight for improvement in the debrief and I Cambridge! Going forward my plan is to examinations.A typical day would see me learnt a handful of things just from this apply to an integrated ATPL course after fly at 0900 and sometimes later in the flight. Ending with a strong sense of university and join an airline and having afternoon.At the end of the second week completion this concluded my amazing a private licence and some experience with 4 exams passed and 10.6 hours summer of flying at Shobdon. going in is sure to help. I am really logged, my first solo milestone arrived. I would like to give a huge thank you to grateful to the Honourable Company of This moment was over in under 10 the Cadogan Charitable Trust for the Air Pilots and Air BP for providing me minutes but will remain vividly with me, PPL funding, the Honourable Company this amazing opportunity and the best and also with my father, who was of Air Pilots for this wonderful summer of my life, and also to all the watching proudly from the control opportunity, and Herefordshire Aero instructors and administrators at tower, for the rest of our lives. I was Club for providing this intensive course Cambridge Aero Club who were always informed before my first solo circuit to with such support from the small on hand to help me out over the past few focus on what was in front of me and not community at the airfield. months, without whom this wouldn’t to look at the empty seat to my right. I have been possible. I would especially like to thank Geraint also found it quite surprising how the my instructor for all the important My sincerest thanks again to Air BP and aircraft handled differently as it was lessons I have learned, the intensive the Honourable Company of Air Pilots lighter with only myself on board. ground school and some very early starts for this scholarship, I would have never Gradually I completed more and more to get airborne! thought 6 months ago that I would have solo time until I flew an hour of circuits. a pilot’s licence and the chance to learn I am greatly looking forward to starting After this part of the training I moved to fly at 18. my night rating, do some differences onto steep turns with 45° bank angle.To training on the 4 seater PA28, and take my great surprise 2 RAF Hercules flew up my family and friends. SAM GRIFFITH directly beneath us which is quite a sight CADOGAN SCHOLARSHIP when you are used to looking up to Tuesday 2nd May started early. I woke at them at a couple of hundred feet.As part STANLEY SPARLING 4am and left Hereford by coach at 0530, of the navigation training I visited AIR PILOTS BENEVOLENT FUND London-bound for my PPL scholarship Kemble, Wellesbourne, and Turweston SCHOLARSHIP interview. Bus delays meant I arrived where we took G-BHAA for a repaint Since childhood, all I have ever wanted with 15 minutes to spare to grab a quick and interior refurbishment. Completing to do was fly, for me the best part of the cup of tea. Later the same week I had an my Qualifying Cross Country (QXC) to family holiday was the flight! I remember email informing me of my successful Leicester then Wellesbourne was a major my first ever flying lesson which was a application. I was thrilled - I couldn’t step forward for me as I planned and Christmas present from my grandparents, wait for my exams to finish and my controlled every aspect of the flight; I felt when I was aged 13.After that first flight summer of flying to begin.Without delay like a true pilot for the first time! my Instructor said to me that it is possible I arranged to meet my flight instructor Nearing the end of September I had to get a Private Pilot's Licence at 17. Geraint at Shobdon Airfield to discuss completed all the 45 hours of my From that moment on I was determined the plan of action for the summer. Later training and was ready for the PPL skills to get my PPL at that age. I started the same day I met a friend to play test.As with any flight it heavily relies on volunteering at Enstone airfield, helping

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out with washing and refuelling aircraft than ever to pursue my dream to become a late start due to bad weather, although as well as cutting the grass - just to be a professional pilot. I would like to say we were able play around with the around aviation! However due to lack of thank you to all the staff at Aeros Flight simulator. After that were put into two fund getting my PPL was still a hurdle for Training, and to the Honourable groups and one group were flying a K-13 me. Company of Air Pilots for this fantastic with Pete as instructor, and the other A friend at airfield who is a professional opportunity. group on a Puchacz with Dave. At the pilot understood my situation and Thank you, I am forever grateful. launch point we were all briefed how to recommended the HCAP PPL launch a glider and other ground tasks. Scholarship to me, I saw it as an excellent On my first launch I was able to follow opportunity that I could not afford to Gliding Scholarships through the controls with my instructor miss. And I'm glad I didn’t miss it, the By way of background, 18 gliding - it was so different from an aero-tow moment I received that email scholarships were awarded in 2017, and that I used to. It felt like a fast and steep congratulating me was a feeling like no they were flown at 3 clubs - London GC roller coaster ride. I was able to do the at Dunstable, Derbyshire and Lancashire other! And I could not wait to finish my top part of the launch on the second day GC at Camp Hill, and Portsmouth Naval AS Level Exams. and the full launch on the third day. GC at Lee-on -Solent. Friday 9th June, the day after my final Once I was airborne Dave showed me exam, I headed to Aeros Gloucester. I around the airfield and the ridge for was introduced to the PA28-161, which AVISHKA DON soaring. This was a great opportunity to is a fantastic trainer for anyone wishing to I was fortunate enough to take a part of practice coordinated turns. I didn’t start learn to fly. I was so happy to be back in the residential gliding course at Derby that well although once I got the idea of the air.The course consisted of 45 hours and Lancashire Gliding Club, thanks to ridge soaring and starting to perform of flight training and 9 theoretical exams. the scholarship that I have been awarded better turns I was able stay up for longer. I quickly passed my Air Law and from Honourable Company of Air Pilots. Another way we used to gain height was Operational Procedures in order to fly The application process was really thermal soaring, although we only found solo. 1st July 2017 was my first solo flight exciting. Receiving the email stating that thermals on the days we had sunny and – a day that will stay with me for the rest I was awarded a scholarship gave me a cloudy weather. When we had enough of my life. great joy in those stressful exam months. height, Dave introduce me to stalls and spins and how to recover from them. At the start of my navigation flying phase As the date neared I did some research Finally, he introduced me to circuits and the weather was poor; however, it was the about the club and their airfield at landing. perfect opportunity to complete all my Camphill, discovering that they only use winches to launch their gliders, which theoretical exams, which I passed first An apprehensive Peter Bailey (donor of a scholarship) made me more excited because most of time. It was a big weight off my shoulders with Assistant Dacre Watson supervising. my glider experience had been on the and now I could focus on doing my Is this a chariot of fire? Qualifying Cross Country. This was the aero-tow. best flight I had ever done. Flying solo On 13th I arrived at the club where across the south of England, the route everyone was very welcoming. My was Gloucester-Cardiff-Halfpenny parents and I were able to have look Green-Gloucester. I really enjoyed flying around the airfield. I was so amazed by solo, knowing that I was the pilot in the landscape and starting to imagine command. I also had a great feeling every how it would look once I am in the air. time I got out the aircraft, thinking "I At 7 pm all the scholarship winners met Landed that!" in the briefing room for a safety brief as Then It was on to the finer details of well as an explanation of the daily flying -preparation for the skills test. I schedule. had a mock test and a brush up flight As we started the week, first day we had before the test itself.The actual test flight Warden John Towell presents certificates to the Camp Hill team was fantastic - I really enjoyed it but by the end I was exhausted. The examiner congratulated me on passing after I put the mixture to idle cut-off and flicked the master off - I had reached my goal of gaining a PPL at 17! The HCAP PPL Scholarship taught me more than just to fly: flight training was full of ups and downs, and developed me as a person. It taught me to believe that you can do anything you want if you put your mind to it. I am more motivated

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JAMES BLACKBOURN Receiving the news that I was fortunate enough to have been selected for a Gliding Scholarship was amazing and August quickly came around. It brought an intense week of gliding at Portsmouth Naval Gliding Club in which I had the pleasure of being with 5 other passionate and enthusiastic students.We had a group of fantastic instructors plus the luxury of glorious sunshine everyday. This was a recipe for an amazing week, and that it Prior to launch at Camp Hill certainly was! The week started with meeting our main Gipsy Moth over tutor Dave who introduced us to Portsmouth Harbour, the Isle of Wight everyone at the club and showed us and the SpinnakerTower with the chance Peter Bailey congratulates his scholarship winners around the airfield and grounds. From to take control and fly the open cockpit then on it was full steam ahead into a 1930 aircraft - fantastic. Living locally safety brief, and getting to know each meant that the chance to take a When not flying, I learnt how to drive a other ready for our first day gliding navigational flight in the Grob 109 self tractor for retrievals. where we would be working as a team. launching motor glider was great. I was We all stayed together at the clubhouse After we put the gliders back to hangar able to see my local area and where I and became part of a great community we all meet up at the bar with the would normally go walking with my by the end of our scholarship. instructors to discuss about the day and family and dog. fill out log books. The first day began at 0645 and that set Gliding above the Solent and having a the precedent for the rest of the week. It was the best time I’ve had in this view over the beaches towards the Isle Of There was a core team of instructors, summer and once again thank you to the Wight was breath-taking and really made including Chris, Graham and Ben who Air Pilots for organising this programme every flight special. I was constantly came in everyday to take us gliding in the really well; and thank you for my learning and everyone agreed that there ASK-21. On the first day to say I was sponsors, Air Pilots’ London schools was so much to take in.We all thrived in excited, but a bit nervous, was an gliding. Finally thank you for all the this environment and shared what we understatement! For my first flight I was members at the Derby and Lancashire had been taught in each flight. aero towed to 2000ft getting a quick go Gliding Club for giving us such great on the controls behind the tug. I then got By the end of the week three of the time! straight into practising gliding straight team, Stephen, Joe and Will had gone and level and making coordinated turns solo, and soon after on the following Wednesday I went up on my own! HOLLY BICKNELL as well as flying the approach into Returning to the club was something Spending the last week at the London landing. By the time I had touched down that I had to do as I loved it too much so Gliding Club has been one of the best I was smiling from ear to ear, and the the following week I spent every gliding experiences of my life so far. Through team all had the same feeling after their day building on what I had learned and this scholarship I have managed to take first flight. to the skies twenty one times and perfect As the days flew by our skill level going properly solo on both aerotow and my gliding skills. I went into the week improved and our love for gliding did winch. hoping to learn new skills as well as also. In addition to the gliding we were The week ended with an awards evening develop my old ones, which is exactly lucky enough to have a chef to help us and buffet for all our family to meet our what I achieved. As well as becoming cook our meals.This meant we could all wonderful instructors and special guests competent flying a glider I worked with eat and talk about the day together at the including the Mayor, Club Chairman many other members of staff getting to dinner table. Every evening we would and the Past Master of the Honourable know the airfield and helping out as invite guests to our meals, whether it be Company Of Air Pilots. I am incredibly much as I could. The accommodation our instructors, club members, current thankful to everyone involved in making that was provided couldn't be faulted. serving pilots, or guests with aviation the Scholarship possible and will carry The rooms were very well looked after based careers for us to learn about their this experience with me for the rest of and the kitchen staff were lovely and journey and what is involved in their my life. It was a truly inspiring week and prepared amazing meals. dream job. I would love to help others in the future I would like to thank the London This made me and the rest of the team come together and enjoy the aviation Gliding Club for having me for the week feel part of a brilliant community and experience that I was lucky enough be a - I couldn't have enjoyed myself that was enforced on the third day.A club part of at Portsmouth Naval Gliding anymore. member, Nigel, came and flew us in his Club.Thank You!

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JOSEPH WILDMAN On the following days I experienced generously offered funding for me do the During August 2017 I was lucky enough many different launches - including course and Dave Howell, the course to be awarded a week of gliding through winch launches which were a lot faster manager. He took really great care of us the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, paced than the aero-tow. One of the during the week and passed on a lot of funded by the Air Safety Trust.This took many highlights of the course was being his knowledge and advice. All of the place at the Portsmouth Naval Gliding taken up by Luke, another instructor, for instructors also did an incredible job Club at Lee-on-the-Solent. From a an extended 45 minute flight.We gained developing our flying skills, they gave up young age it has been my goal to be a considerable height due to strong a lot of their free time and some even pilot. I can even remember thermals - allowing sufficient height to took time off work to instruct on the flying over my house on one of its final fly spectacular aerobatics including loops, Course. I also pass my thanks to Lee flights in 2003. I spent a lot of time stalls, and steep turns.The following day Allinson, and to Nigel Reid, the BA 747 researching scholarships after a post on the entire group were also incredibly Captain for the Gypsy Moth flight. I my Air Cadet squadron’s page, and I was lucky to fly in a vintage 1930 Gypsy would also thank the tug pilots, without keen to try gliding as it was something I Moth, owned by a BA captain - an added them we would not have flown hadn’t experienced before. Before this bonus. Lee, a Flybe Dash 8 Q400 anywhere near as much. Finally, I would scholarship I’d only had three flying Captain, also took me up for two flights like to thank everyone at Portsmouth lessons and never had any exposure to in the Grob 109 motor glider. On the Naval Gliding club, the Chairman and gliding. second of these flights we flew just over the CFI, for their amazing hospitality After I received an email notifying me HMS Queen Elizabeth as the carrier had during the week. that I’d been successful, I was ecstatic and just arrived into port. The course was a week that I will never counted down the days until the start On the fifth day I practiced doing the forget. date arrived.After a short two hour train flight by myself with the instructor journey from Bristol and a rendezvous making no inputs. After doing this I with Stephen, a fellow course member, I practiced a cable break- the release was JOSHUA CLEGG arrived at Daedalus. pulled at 400 feet and we made a swift The week started with arrival at Derbyshire and Lancashire gliding club On the first full day all the course turn back to the airfield and landed on the 13th of August and we got settled members helped get the gliders out of parallel to the runway.The instructor was down and unpacked before a couple of the hangar and we got them swiftly out then happy for me to go solo.This was an hours briefings.The morning after we all to the launch point. Before I knew it was incredible experience - I felt an woke up around 0630 and prepared for time for my first flight. The instructor enormous sense of responsibility flying a breakfast and morning flight briefings. carried out the aero-tow launch and £100,000 glider by myself. I thoroughly handed me control after we had enjoyed the flight.To top off what was an The days were structured the same disconnected from the tug at 2000 feet. amazing week, on the final evening I was throughout the week as the gliding club He showed me the basic controls with lucky to be awarded ‘best pilot’. works off consistency which made sure some upper air work as we had caught a I learned an incredible amount from the everyone knew their roles and how to thermal. From the air the Solent looked course, all of the club members were perform them. Furthermore, the first amazing, and the views of Portsmouth highly knowledgeable and bursting with flight was at c. 0900 and we flew for 8 and the Isle of Wight were spectacular. advice on how to pursue a pilot career. hours each day.The scholarship winners He explained the circuit and the radio I’d like to thank the Honourable were split into two individual groups of 3 calls he was using to communicate with Company of Air Pilots for allowing me and flew 2 different types of gliders, these the tower. After a 20 minute flight I was to experience such an unforgettable being the K13 and the Puchatz. back on the ground and left startled at course that will greatly help me in my Each day the skills of each individual what an amazing flight I had just future aviation career. I would also like to developed as we progressed through experienced. thank the Air Safety Trust who steady flight into stalling and slow flight.

Assistant Tricia Nelmes with Peter & Jill Bailey, and IPM Peter Benn with a gliding scholarship winner at IPM Peter Benn with the proud PPL scholarship Assistant Dacre Watson with Dunstable students Lee-on-Solent winners

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These were all great skills we learned, and and began to practice stalling exercises. I selected and it meant the world to me! progression was brilliant from all flew five times in total and covered all On arrival at the Club I met Maria, who individuals. types of stalls including stalling with a was also on the course, and Andy The groups averaged 3 flights each day wing drop. As you can imagine, after Zuchora who was my gliding instructor. and the weather was amazing with the these exercises I was feeling quite light We then started off the day by having a odd quick rain shower every couple of headed however I thoroughly enjoyed safety briefing, after that we went to the days. Additionally, the HCAP gliding every moment of it. airfield and did a DI (Daily Inspection) scholarship gave me so much experience On Thursday, I also flew five times and on the Glider and towed it over to the and has helped me on my journey to began to handle the top half of the launch point. I then was aero towed to becoming a fast jet pilot in the RAF. I launch. On the second flight, I flew the 4000ft and started learning basic controls cannot thank the Company enough for circuit and lined the glider up with the with the stick and the rudder and trying all it has done and 10 hours flying airfield ready to land. On the last two to find thermals while also looking out experience was such a privilege. flights that day I had the chance to fly a for other aircraft. The weather that day different aircraft, the K13, it was very was good so we had a good number of interesting to see the difference between flights. MATTHEW AMESBURY the way it handled compared to the Unfortunately, on Wednesday 30th of During the last week of the summer Puchacz.The final day arrived and I was holidays I underwent a week’s gliding August it rained from 1100 onwards so feeling quite sad that it was nearly over, course in the Derbyshire and Lancashire we couldn’t do any flying for safety however I was also excited for the day gliding club. I have always wanted to be reasons; we relaxed in our cabin and read ahead. I managed to fly a further four an airline pilot and next year I plan to some of the gliding books our instructor times that day bringing the total flight study aerospace engineering at let us borrow. time up to just under five hours. On that University; I found this scholarship day, I attempted the approach and On Thursday 31st we had a good day of online and thought that it would be an landing three times with assistance from flying due to the weather. In my flights, I amazing experience whilst also helping Dave. On the final flight of the week, was improving my turns and also my co- me with my career plans. I submitted my Dave demonstrated a spin in the glider ordination skills and learning how to application form and hoped to be invited which was great fun. climb in a thermal. I also did my first for the interview. A few weeks later I Over the course of the week I learnt so winch launch which was really amazing received an email inviting me to the as everything happens so quickly! interview in London, I took a day out of much in such a short space of time. It was school and travelled to London with my an incredible experience that will never Friday 1st September sadly arrived and it mum, I felt a little nervous going in as it be forgotten. I would like to say a huge was our last day at the club. We did our was my first interview but after a while I thank you to everyone at the DI’s and began the day with winch was fine. When I received the email to Honourable Company of Air Pilots for launches. After following through the inform me that I had been accepted I was giving me this opportunity, Paul first time and understanding what to do, over the moon. Nicholas for sponsoring my course, the I was allowed to do a winch launch by Derbyshire and Lancashire Gliding club myself. There were mixed emotions as I On the first day of flying we were for accommodating me and Dave Bailey was excited but at the same time I didn’t introduced to our instructor for the for being such a fantastic instructor - want to mess up! I ended up doing a week, David Bailey: he talked us through without any of you this couldn’t have winch launch successfully and that was the various health and safety aspects been made possible. I really am very involved with the airfield, and showed us one of the best experiences I had grateful and know that this opportunity how to move the glider around whilst it throughout the scholarship.We then had will help me for the years to come. was on the ground.We were then shown the sponsors come for lunch with us in the glider that we would fly during the the club house and then present us our certificates. Carrying on with our flights, week, the Puchacz. After this it was time MYLES RICHARDS I practised how to land, and finally did so. to fly! I was the first person to fly that In the last week of August I was on an day, I was walked through the pre-flight intensive gliding course at London I feel as though throughout this course checks and introduced to the aircraft’s Gliding Club at Dunstable. I found this my coordination skills improved controls. In no time, we were ready for opportunity from a website called massively and I have gained so much take-off. We were winch-launched to http://www.slenky.me/shots. Once I experience and knowledge - it has around 1000ft, perfect for me to learn the applied through slenky they sent me the focused me on my dream of becoming basics of controlling the glider.That day I forms for The Honourable Company of an airline pilot. I would like to say a flew four times with an overall flight time Air Pilots, which I filled out and massive thank you to the Honourable about an hour. submitted after making sure it was Company of Air Pilots for giving me the On the second day, I managed to fly perfect. I then went to the interview in once in a lifetime opportunity and Andy twice. During these flights, I learnt about London with my parents. I was a bit for Instructing me, and Maria and ridge soaring whilst perfecting the basic nervous but reassured myself that I would London Gliding Club for having us. I controls of the glider. Midway through be fine since I had prepared for it.A week feel very honoured and I will remember the week I was really enjoying the course later I got the fantastic news that I was this for years to come.

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My gliding scholarship was scheduled to Honourable Company of Air Pilots take place at the London Gliding Club (HCAP) at Portsmouth Naval Gliding (LGC) near Dunstable from 14 – 18 Club (PNGC). August. On arrival at the Club I met I have had an interest in engineering Holly, who had also been awarded a from an early age. Through joining the HCAP scholarship, and our instructor for air cadets, I found that I preferred the the week,Trevor. He assessed how much aeronautical side of engineering and flying we had already done and what to decided on this career path. focus on throughout the week. I was The process of obtaining the scholarship issued with a gliding logbook to record was an exciting but worrying time as I IPM Peter Benn with the Flying Instructor my flights and we were shown the glider applied quite early on so I had to wait a scholarship winners we would use for the week – an ASK-21, while before I heard anything from registration G-CKEJ. HCAP. However, when I received the I had done a couple of previous glider email asking me to attend an interview in flights – one at Lee-on-Solent in an London at their head office I was over ASK-21 and one at RAF Syerston the moon and couldn’t wait for the date during an Air Cadet aerospace camp. to come around. After the interview, I Both of these were using an aero-tow so had about a week’s wait to learn the I knew roughly what to expect. result during which I completed part of On the first day I completed three flights my Gold DofE award.When I found out on aero-tow using a Robin 180 tug that I had received a scholarship I was plane. I spent over an hour in the air that over the moon and couldn’t wait to get IPM Peter Benn with the 2017 Bursary winners day practising general handling, all my forms signed and returned to thermalling, turning, speed control and confirm my place. landing. When I wasn’t flying I helped On the first night at PNGC, we gathered retrieve gliders from the landing area. I around 1700 hours for the safety briefing was very tired by the end of the day! and a view around the K21 gliders that The next day we started using a winch to we would be using for the week. launch the glider. Accelerating from My first flight consisted of an aerotow. stationary to around 80 knots in a few For my first flight, I showed them my seconds was amazing but I soon got used prior knowledge (very little in gliders) so Warden Nick Goodwyn congratulates two of the tyro to it. We used the winch for the rest of they could work out where to start me instructors at the reception the scholarship time and each day with the lessons to make the most of the developed our gliding skills further. We time. During my first flight, we were were very lucky as the weather for the airborne for over 15 minutes and we OLIVER WILLIAMS whole week was good and I was able to managed to get more than halfway over I applied for an Honourable Company of fly every day.Trevor had planned to cover the Solent before having to turn back to Air Pilots gliding scholarship early in spinning and stalling on the final day but have enough height to land back at the 2017. The application form was quite the cloud base was too low.We needed a airfield. straightforward and I was very pleased minimum of 4,000 feet for these As the week progressed we also had a go when I was invited to attend an exercises. at some winch launches which involves interview at the HCAP offices in By the end of the week I had completed the winch driver accelerating the aircraft London. This was the most worrying 20 launches and over 6 hours of gliding. to 60mph in around 3 seconds.They said stage for me but after a minute or two, I The whole scholarship was fantastic and that it was fast but I was never expecting realised I should just relax and be myself. I am incredibly grateful to the Air Safety it to be that fast. The acceleration isn’t far From there on the interview seemed to Trust who kindly financed my HCAP from the acceleration of an F1 car. You go well as we discussed my interests and gliding course at LGC.Trevor was a great then go up at about a 75-degree angle to career plans. I am hoping to study instructor and everyone at Dunstable approximately 1000ft depending on the aeronautical engineering at university, welcomed Holly and I warmly to their weather conditions and the winch and knowing how to fly aircraft will Gliding Club. I hope that I can return to driver’s confidence. definitely help when building them. I LGC again in the future to continue I learned a lot through the week’s course have already built several drones and working towards my first solo flight. from the pre-flight checks to the way the model aircraft so I am learning all the glider functions and navigates the circuit time. I expected to wait a few days to round the airfield. Unfortunately, we lost hear whether I had been awarded a RICK MARTIN a total of a couple of days due to weather gliding scholarship but was delighted to During the summer of 2017, I was and a NOTAM regarding HMS Queen receive an email the very next day to let fortunate enough to successfully obtain a Elizabeth coming into Portsmouth me know that I had been successful. week’s worth of gliding from The Harbour. However, because we couldn’t

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fly we had a morning trip to see the when my instructor Chris, said , "Right, learning the ground school syllabus, and aircraft carrier’s arrival and then are you ready to go on your own?", I was passed all by the end of the summer continued gliding as soon as the not fazed.That moment when I released holiday. Unfortunately the summer was NOTAM ended at 1200. the cable at 1500ft, and I looked over my unsurprisingly very British and I lost I would like to thank the members that shoulder to see Chris not in the back, is many planned hours due to poor assisted us with our week, our something I will hold close to me for the weather, which, as any pilot knows, is an instructors, Dave who took the week to rest of my life. Fortunately, I was able to occupational hazard. But I powered spend time with us and supervise us do another solo on the last day! through the disappointment and 24/7, everyone at HCAP for allowing I met so many influential people at the continued my training. I found the me this opportunity, as well as my club, from Peter Benn to Dave Durston. general handling to be very enjoyable sponsors at The Air Safety Trust to allow I am sure you are quite busy, so I don't and quickly progressed to the circuits. I me to have the funding for this week. want to waste any more of your time. spent many hours perfecting my circuits and became able to rattle off my checks Although I didn’t quite achieve my solo Again Angie, I am truly grateful to in record time, even if my instructor wings I am hoping to achieve them in everyone involved, in making my dream struggled to follow them! I practised a lot due course. The experience is truly job one step closer! of crosswind landings, due to the nature treasured and hopefully one day I will be of the summer wind! able to return as an instructor to allow MELISSA BROOKS others to have the same opportunity I My first solo was invigorating and have had. JACKSON SCHOLARSHIP unexpected - as it is often the instructor’s I was lucky enough to gain the Jackson choice to keep you in the dark about PPL scholarship in 2018. This provided when they plan to leave you alone for the STEPHEN DALY me with the opportunity to learn to fly first time! I now have a painting of the I'm not too sure how to express how at Andrewsfield Airfield, Essex and to exact plane I did it in on my wall! Not grateful I am, but even If I could, words gain my PPL from scratch. I am studying long after my first solo I moved onto the would not justify it. From the most chemistry, maths and physics at A-level, cross countries and very much enjoyed sincere part of me, thank you so much for and have Russell Group University offers landing at new airfields, particularly the giving me this opportunity to meet such to study for a MEng in Aeronautical tarmac runways of large international wonderful people in diverse fields of Engineering. I hope to continue a career airports such as Norwich and Southend, aviation, and also, to share my in aviation engineering and use my however stressful it may be - knowing experiences with five of the nicest people newly gained pilot’s licence to teach there are people waiting to go on holiday I could imagine. others in my spare time, and inspire behind you! I did two solo short cross When I was there, it was easy to take the future young people like myself to start a countries, the first was over the week for granted, but now, since I am career in aviation. Chelmsford area, which I know well home, I truly appreciate the value of the The scholarship has given me an from the ground but was very different course that the Honourable Company of opportunity I never would have from air.The second was towards Ipswich Air Pilots has facilitated for me.The week otherwise had and I am very grateful to and all went to plan, despite very misty taught me to refine various disciplines the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, conditions. However my first solo land- that otherwise would not have been Mr Jackson, and to my instructors at away took an unexpected turn. It had possible. The first one that immediately Andrewsfield for providing me the been many weeks since I had landed at comes to mind is teamwork. There's an resources to do this (and of course to the this particular aerodrome due to old saying that my teacher always recites, wonderful café at Andrewsfield for unsuitable weather and I unfortunately "Coming together is a beginning; providing me with more bowls of cheesy was unable to find this small airfield to keeping together is progress; working chips than I care to count!). start with. I had been relying too much together is success". I cannot find another My training began after my AS level on the feature I expected to see to quote that is as relevant as this, that sums exams in the summer of 2017, balancing identify it and not on my timings! I up the whole week. From getting up in school work and flying for the first few however was very close to it and pretty the morning at 0600, to pulling out the weeks. I flew the Cessna 152 (and despite much just looking the wrong direction! I ASK-21's from the hangar, to holding the being a tiny aircraft, being only 5’2 I still landed successfully and made it back to gliders wings level, we all had to rely on needed a cushion to see over the nose!). Andrewsfield without any issue. My each other to deliver the highest I then spent the whole of my summer second cross country and my qualifying standards of safety. Teamwork interlinks holiday at the airfield, often flying for both went without any problems, having closely with persistence and three hours a day but I really enjoyed it. learnt from my mistake. It wasn’t then determination. I met many interesting people and too long after this that I took my test and There is one profound development in instructors during my many lessons and passed first time! my character, that I believe has exceeded while waiting around for a weather front This has been an amazing experience my expectations, and that is confidence. to pass. I picked up the basic skills that I could only have dreamed of before If someone was to tell me aged eight, that relatively quickly and progressed through I gained the scholarship. I encourage I would be flying solo before I could the early part of the practical syllabus at a anyone interested to apply, and who drive, I wouldn't have believed them. But good pace. When I wasn’t flying I was knows where it could get you!

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Duncan Simpson By the Honorary Editor, Photos via Pat Malone

The full life of Past Master Duncan Duncan was initially engaged on a busy Simpson OBE CEng FIMechE FRAeS, schedule of production test flying of the who died in December, cannot go Hunter, but gradually became more unrecorded. involved in development work, making a Duncan Simpson’s aviation career began significant contribution to the huge when he won a place at the de Havilland success of the Hunter.The advent of the Aeronautical Technical School. revolutionary VSTOL concept added a Progressing from the training workshops whole new dimension to Duncan’s test to the Experimental Department, his flying. He was the third pilot to fly the work included the DH108, the Ghost P1127 and, when it became the Kestrel, Vampire and the later developments of he trained the nine multinational pilots the Mosquito and Hornet. Completing for theTripartite evaluation squadron. He the four-year Aircraft Design Course, conducted extensive experimental flying Duncan became an Associate Fellow of to develop it into the Harrier, and was the Royal Aeronautical Society, winning then fundamental to its successful Celebrating 1m Hawk hours at RAF Valley the prize for the best final year introduction to RAF service, and its Duncan was, naturally, central to the apprentice. This provided an excellent subsequent adoption by the USMC (as development of the two seat Harrier. At grounding for his future test pilot career. the AV8B). that time the complex fuel system of the In 1970, Duncan was promoted to Chief At the end of his apprenticeship he Harrier was prone to Foreign Object Test Pilot at Hawker and, in addition to joined the Royal Air Force, where he blockages, and Duncan endured one on a learned to fly on the Prentice, Harvard, the considerable ongoing development flight from Boscombe whilst at and Meteor, before beginning a tour on of the Harrier, he saw the Hawk through reasonably low level. As hurried relight 222 Sqn flying the Meteor 8. After two from drawing board to first flight in attempts failed, Duncan pointed it to the years his considerable flying skills were 1974. He demonstrated this machine at unpopulated Salisbury Plain; with true recognised, and he was posted to the Day Farnborough just 10 days later, and TP courage he stayed with it as long as Fighter Development Squadron. This delivered the first example to the RAF in unit was involved in the introduction 1976, where it has been in use, as a possible – later drily commenting “a two into RAF service of the new transonic trainer and by the , for over seat Harrier full of fuel is not the best fighters of the early Fifties, operating 36 years. Duncan was made a Fellow of glider” – he trimmed the aircraft to give Sabres, Swifts, Venoms and Hunters; the Red Arrows – prestigious recognition the softest landing possible to save the Duncan presciently chose the Hunter on as ‘Godfather’ of the Hawk. His evidence of what had failed, and only which to specialise. In 1954, Neville contribution to industry continued after ejected at around 100’ (this was the first Duke – then Chief Test Pilot at Hawkers he finished test flying in 1978 when, for use of the Martin Baker Mk 9 seat), – said he urgently needed Duncan as a the next 15 years, he was the Deputy momentarily risking landing in the Hunter test pilot, and so he left the RAF Director of the SBAC. During this time, fireball. At that time, protruding cutter to begin his long association with he was responsible for all its exhibitions, blades beside the seat headbox were Hawker aircraft. including the Farnborough Air Show. thought to be sufficient to punch

Flying his Hawker desk Kitted up for the Meteor in 1952 With the Strathallan Hurricane

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through the Harrier’s thick canopy.This empirical test proved they were not, and Duncan’s neck was broken and his throat badly injured. Upon retirement from Hawker Duncan remained extensively involved in aviation, displaying (and helping to preserve) vintage aircraft such as the Lysander, Sea Fury, Hart and Hurricane PZ865 (the “Last of the Many”). Duncan was an active member of the then Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators, and had a successful year as Master in 2002-3. He was a founder member of the Historic Aircraft Association, and was heavily involved in setting out its principles and objectives. Duncan contributed to the establishment 32 Course Ternhill (DS centre front) of the display pilot register and the display authorisation system eventually adopted by the CAA. He was variously Chairman and a Vice President of the HAA, and offered advice and guidance on a range of issues affecting historic aircraft ownership, restoration, and display flying. Past Master (and HAA Chairman) Wally Epton recalls: “I first met Duncan when he handed over Hurricane PZ865 to us in the BBMF at Coltishall in 1972. Duncan always wanted to know what was happening, and quizzed me periodically on HAA Council matters. Duncan’s wisdom, knowledge and experience have been of great value to me personally over the past 45 years and I feel that it is important to continue the work he began.” The Harrier development team Duncan Simpson’s honours include: the Honourable Company of Air Pilots’ The Harrier team 30 years on Derry and Richards Medal (1971/2), and the Award of Honour (2011); the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air; the OBE; the Air League Founders’ Medal; and the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Alston Medal. There is little doubt Duncan was held in high regard by his peers; he played a central role in the development of Britain’s last military single-seat jets; his wise counsel will be greatly missed by the industry,the Company and the HAA. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday 24th April. Further details will be available in due course. With grateful thanks to Assistant Richie Piper, Past Master Wally Epton, and the HAA.

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With Neville Duke

With Prince Charles in 1972

With his family at Dunsfold August 1967

Receiving the Award of Honour

Flying the P1127 - June 1963

The wrecked Harrier

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months APBF has registered with the The Air Pilots Benevolent Fund information commissioner’s office (ICO) By Warden John Towell under the Data Protection Act. New data The Benevolent Fund was founded in necessarily requires deliberation, there protection legislation, (GDPR 2), will 1937 as a direct result of the actions of are instances where immediate grants come into force in May 2018, and APBF the Guild’s first Master, Air Vice Marshal may be sanctioned. To ensure that will be revising and updating data Sir Sefton Brancker, who was killed in applicants are given the best possible protection and information handling the R101 airship accident. In his will he assistance the Trustees liaise closely with policies and practices before that date. gave all his manuscripts to a friend who BALPA, the RAF Benevolent Fund, APBF has also applied to register for legal passed them on to Lawrie Wingfield, SSAFA, the Royal British Legion, the entity identifier, (LEI), through Quilter then Clerk of the Guild. Royalties from Officers' Association and similar Cheviot our fund manager, to satisfy the Brancker memoirs provided the first organisations. Co-operation such as this capital for the Sir Sefton Brancker ensures that efforts are not duplicated, another regulation coming into force in Memorial Benevolent Fund which was and that the expertise of these full time January 2018.Vacancies for new trustees set up in his memory.The fund was later professional organisations is best utilised. are advertised in Air Pilot magazine and renamed the Guild of Air Pilots TheTrustees can call upon the services of those interested in becoming a trustee Benevolent Fund, and again in February other professionals, such as doctors, to can contact the Chairman to declare an 2012 when the Guild became the assist in the decision making process, thus interest at any time. Prospective APBF Honourable Company, the fund was ensuring that when assistance is given it Trustees are approved by the Court but renamed The Air Pilots Benevolent Fund will be of long-term use to the are appointed by the existing Trustees. (APBF). individual. Grants and loans are and can The company website has more APBF is a registered charity regulated by be made to assist in the rehabilitation of information about the Benevolent Fund, the Charity Commission under the people after accidents, or enable them to and its history. Charities Act 2011. The primary regain licences. objective of the fund is the relief of Anyone in need of help, or knowing of For those who feel generous enough to poverty of current or former commercial someone who could be, is encouraged to make a donation or require information professional Air Pilots or Navigators who apply in the first instance on an relating to bequests in wills, please are British subjects, also Liverymen, Application for Assistance Form to the contact the Treasurer. The support Upper Freemen, or Freemen of the Almoner of the Fund, through the provided by regular giving from Honourable Company of Air Pilots. In Company offices. This form should be members makes a real difference and addition APBF helps with the relief of filled in as comprehensively as possible to helps to change lives for the better. A poverty of their widows and the enable the Trustees to assess the needs of education of orphans. APBF also the individual, and obtain a thorough future appeal for donations from supports the aviation development of understanding of their financial status, Freemen and Liverymen will be young people. The fund provides a and just how the Fund could best help. managed through the Learned Clerk, and bursary at City University, support for For immediate assistance where time has cover all of the company charities. The the Air Pilots Schools Gliding, the Fleet an important bearing on the nature of ebullient Freddie Laker became Air Arm Officers Association gliding the request, one of the Executive Chairman of the Benevolent Fund in scholarships and PPL scholarships. Committee should be contacted through 1968 and set about fund raising. He had Trustees have also made grants to the the Company's offices. some novel ideas including, when London Air Ambulance and the Flying Diligent management of the Fund’s assets airborne in one of Laker Airways’ aircraft, Scholarships for Disabled People charity. has ensured a good return from taking over the PA and extolling the skill The Trustees of the APBF meet quarterly investments, but as with similar to review cases, and to decide future organisations, returns are dependent on of the crew.He then put forward the case expenditure with due regard to funds the global financial situation. There is a for the Fund to the bemused passengers available and the urgency of the request. steady increase in the regulation of whilst encouraging them to donate, with Whilst the granting of assistance financial bodies and charities. In recent some success!

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MARITIME PATROL: narrowing the capability gap by Upper Freeman Andrew Roberts

There has been widespread recognition SDSR 10, it had been reduced to only comparison with the Nimrod MRA4, that SDSR10 effectively reduced the nine aircraft. the maximum flight time of the P-8 is fighting effectiveness of the UK armed Following the grounding of the Nimrod only about 10 hours, giving it a ferry forces by about 30%. While the media MR2 in March 2010 (for in-year range of no more than 4,500 nm, or have understandably focussed primarily budgetary reasons) and the cancellation allowing it to remain on station for on manpower constraints on the Army of the Nimrod MRA4, the UK was left slightly less than five hours at 1,000 nm and Navy, discussion of RAF matters without any MPA in service. The from base. Although the P-8 is fitted beyond questions about the forthcoming decision in SDSR 15 to reinstate the with an air-to-air refuelling system, this is F-35B has been relatively limited. MPA role by acquiring nine P-8s will be incompatible with the probe-and-drogue Nevertheless, unless the Chancellor is reflected in these aircraft being delivered system used in the UK’s A330 Voyager prepared to allocate additional funding to to RAF Lossiemouth between 2019 and tankers! Defence, further cuts for all three 2021. Services are inevitable. MPA TASKS As far as the RAF is concerned, it has RELATIVE PERFORMANCE The nine primary tasks for which MPA generally been assumed that the effects The Nimrod MR 2 had an operational are required are: on the UK’s maritime posture of the flight time of about 8½ hours in a.Protection of the UK's strategic cancellation of the planned nine Nimrod temperate climates, giving it a ferry range deterrent. MRA4 maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) in of some 3,600 nm, or allowing it to SDSR10 have been corrected by the b.Protection of naval forces - in remain on its operational station for particular, the new aircraft carriers. inclusion of nine P-8 Poseidon MPA in about 3½ hours at 1,000 nm from its SDSR 15. In my opinion, this is not the operating base. It was capable of being c.Protection against threats to case, and any reduction in overall MPA refuelled in the air. commercial and other shipping, numbers is of strategic concern. A including counter-piracy. The Nimrod MRA4 had flown over review of the situation may be of interest 1,000 hours on trials before being d.Surveillance of threats to trans- to readers. scrapped. Those trials had confirmed that continental under-sea an un-refuelled MRA4 was capable of communications cables. THE NIMROD flying for well over 15 hours, giving it a e.Operations in areas such as the A total of 46 Nimrod MR1s were built ferry range of over 6,000 nm, or enabling Caribbean in support of counter-drug for the RAF,but by 1985 the MPA force it to remain on station for 10 hours at operations. had been reduced to 33 MR2s. For 1,000 nm from base. With its air-to-air f.Protection of oil rigs and shore various reasons (mainly financial and refuelling system, flight time could have facilities against potential threats, accidents), the force was progressively been extended to 27 hours (the limiting including assistance in counter- further reduced so that by 1999 it stood factor being engine lubrication), terrorism operations. at only 21 aircraft. increasing the maximum ferry range to g.Protection of overseas territories, over 10,000 nm. Meanwhile in 1996 BAe had been including the Falklands. awarded a contract to convert 21 MR2 In terms of sensors and weapons, the h. The gathering of acoustic, electronic airframes to become the Nimrod 2000 operational capabilities of the P-8 and and photographic intelligence. (later renamed Nimrod MRA4). the Nimrod MRA4 are similar. Because However, following a series of defence of technical advances (especially in i. Search and rescue in aid of shipping budget savings measures, the size of the computers) the ASW capability of both and aircraft in distress. planned force was progressively cut; aircraft is significantly greater than that of In tension and hostilities, the two highest immediately prior to cancellation in the Nimrod MR2. However, by priority tasks are likely to be protection

Nimrod MRA4 Nimrod MR2 retirement Nimrod MR2

Nimrod destruction

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of the UK’s national strategic deterrent Table 1 – Comparison of the Sustained Patrol Performances of the Nimrod MR2, and the protection of naval forces - in MRA4 and P-8A particular, the new aircraft carriers. At least one MPA patrol will need to be continuously available in times of tension and hostilities for protection of the strategic deterrent. SDSR10 reduced the number of frigates to only 13. Although the current Type 23 frigates will eventually be replaced by fully anti-submarine capable Type 26 Global Combat Ships, only eight are now planned for the Fleet, the balance being made up of Type 31e frigates which will have only a limited anti-submarine capability. Even allowing for embarked helicopters, the defence in depth against long-range missile-firing submarines 1.The figures in this table are taken from the detailed study,The Sustained Patrol Potential likely to be available to a UK aircraft of a Royal Air Force Fleet of Nine P8A Poseidon for Maritime Patrol, recently undertaken carrier (CVA) group without MPA will by Group Captain Derek Empson, an officer with many years of experience in planning be inadequate. and controlling MPA operations. 2.The Nimrod MR2 figures assume only 70% aircraft availability (as was experienced in The absence of adequate numbers of the latter days of that aircraft). Those for the more modern Nimrod MR4 and P-8 aircraft surface and submarine escorts thus makes assume 85% availability. the need for adequate MPA support that 3.The minimum number of hours on patrol for effective ASW cover is about three hours. much more vital. To provide adequate Asterisks are shown against the number of patrols possible at ranges where less than 3 hours defence in depth, continuous cover by at on patrol would be achieved. least two MPA per CVA will be required. However, additional important tasks, than 600 nm from base (as would have likely to be required to extend MPA such as surface and sub-surface been possible with nine Nimrod range and endurance – as was the case surveillance elsewhere and protection of MRA4s), an additional three P-8s would with the Falklands War, for which an the supply train, are also likely to be be needed – hence the inclusion of the AAR capability was added to the required in tension and hostilities. It is fifth column in Table 1. As shown in the Nimrod. suggested that a minimum of at least one sixth column, a further three P-8s (ie, a The UK’s P-8s will be delivered with the additional MPA patrol would therefore total force of 15) would be required in standard AAR system fitted, as used by be required for such operations. order to achieve the equivalent Nimrod the United States Navy’s P-8s but MR4’s coverage out to 1,400 nm. Only Thus, when the need to protect the UK’s capable of receiving fuel only from the previously planned nine Nimrod strategic deterrent is included, the tankers fitted with the US flying boom MRA4s could have provided effective irreducible number of patrols by UK system. Converting the P-8 to a probe- cover at 2,000 nm from base. MPA needing to be on station and-drogue system, as used by both RAF concurrently, even if only one CVA is and USN fast-jets, would involve deployed at a time, would be four. OVERLAND SURVEILLANCE significant expense. In addition, because MOD may conclude that, once the of lower fuel transfer rates, AAR using MPA FORCE CAPABILITY The number of continuous patrols an Sentinel is withdrawn from service , it this system could be a significant tactical MPA force is able to maintain would be possible for the overland disadvantage during anti-submarine concurrently depends on the distance surveillance role to be covered by operations. from its operating bases at which unmanned platforms. However, it might Unlike those of the French, Spanish and operations are taking place. The be judged more cost-effective to use the Australian A-330 tankers, the UK’sA-330 following table shows the operational P-8 as a multi-mission aircraft (MMA), Voyager tankers are fitted only with coverage which was possible with the rather than as a pure MPA. This could drogues and will thus not be capable of original Nimrod MR2 force of 21 increase operational flexibility in both refuelling RAF P-8s. Like the P-8, both aircraft and compares this with that roles. However, if this option were to be the RAF’s C-17 and Rivet Joint aircraft possible with 9 P-8 Poseidon MPA and 9 pursued, at least three additional P-8s already have receptacles for AAR booms Nimrod MRA4s. The table also shows would be required if assumption of the and, were the UK to purchase F35A’s what a 12 or 15-aircraft P-8 force could overland role is not seriously to prejudice once our CVA requirements have been achieve. maritime operations. met with the F35B (involving 48 out of Clearly, not all patrols would necessarily a planned 138 buy), so would these aircraft. be taking place at the same distance from AAR SUPPORT base. However, it can be seen from this Should maritime operations take place in AAR can be a useful force-multiplier for illustrative table that, to achieve four distant waters (say, in the South Atlantic operations at long range. As was shown continuous patrols at anything greater or Far East), air-to-air refuelling (AAR)is in the late 1980s and early 90s, the AAR

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Poseidon MPA

capability added to the Nimrod for the include overland surveillance a further Falklands War also proved to be three or more aircraft would be required, extraordinarily useful in peacetime (e.g. bringing the total force to at least 15 for intelligence-collecting in the Barents aircraft.The expanded force would better Sea), and was used extensively in provide for contingencies such as losses Afghanistan. Conversion of the UK’s P- through enemy action or accidents - for 8s to a probe-and drogue system would which there is currently no provision. probably not be worth the consequent However, it should be borne in mind that considerable expense and disruption of Boeing’s P-8 production line will close at the contract with Boeing. However, the end of 2022 (for conversion to adding a boom to the UK’s Voyagers production of the latest version of the Nimrod MRA 4 might be a very cost-effective alternative. civil Boeing 737) so that orders for any potential inability of our planned force of additional P-8s would need to be placed by the end of Q2, 2019. only nine P-8s to provide concurrent BOEING P-8 PRODUCTION continuous cover to both the UK From the foregoing it is clear that at least deterrent and other vital tasks, including three additional P-8 aircraft need to be CONCLUSION CVA protection, represents a significant procured to provide the minimum level Of course, additional P-8s and AAR of maritime coverage likely to be capabilities would have to take their place shortfall in our defence capabilities and required of the UK’s MPA force in times alongside the other candidates for should be an important consideration in of tension and hostilities. If the P-8 defence funding at a time of extreme any future adjustment of the Defence force’s roles were to be expanded to financial pressures. However, the Programme.

First MK54 weapons test

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Company visit to RAF Benson 20th November 2017 By the Honorary Editor This was very much an end of season visit, and the seasons let us know so. When your writer rose at pre-sparrows, the rain was lashing down. That and the TAFs ensured that a drive was the only option. Of the six Company members scheduled to fly in to the Oxfordshire base, only one made it, and that in a helicopter – appropriately enough for this centre of the Support Helicopter Force (SHF). So, some four hours later, having pondered the relative danger of driving round a clogged and rain soaked M25 against the comfort of a light aircraft, I just made it for the appointed 0930 meeting time. We were well hosted by Sqn Ldr Tim Smith of 33 Sqn; with 8 years of Puma Sqn Ldr Smith sets the scene experience, there was no doubting his expertise. He outlined the Force Flt Lt Sam Hodgkinson demonstrates the Structure with Benson’s Puma assets inspiration given by his grandfather being held by 33 and 230 Squadrons. The crews of 33 Sqn work on a rotation of five tasks: • Pre-Deployment Training • Op Toral – manning the 3 Pumas at Kabul International Airport in support of UK and NATO personnel • Leave & currency work • ‘R2’ readiness – being on 5 days’ notice to deploy • Exercises The bread and butter workload of the Pumas is the transport of troops and freight, with a payload of 2 tonnes. Less common is the casevac role (up to 6 stretchers). Tim took us through the that Puma crews are still in the line of be a contributory factor to the station airframe’s defence aids suites, and its danger; although we were surprised by winning the StainforthTrophy (see News performance envelope. The Puma Force the relatively small radius of their area of in the last edition).The speed with which is now solely composed of the HC2 operations.The flying tempo for crews in three aircraft, crews, and many support model, introduced in 2013, although it Afghanistan is unsurprisingly much staff were deployed was astonishing – should be said that many of the airframes higher than back in the UK, where hours essentially on task 3 days after the first are converted HC1 models. The main request – and operating in extremely differences are much more powerful have followed the RAF-wide drift downwards. arduous conditions. The speed of engines, and a more capable flight deployment is helped by the fact that the management system. Both made the Given the pressure on all parts of our Puma can be rebuilt in only 4 hours after Puma a more usable asset in the Afghan Armed Forces to justify their continued transhipment by C17. This results in environment. existence, we sensed a degree of rapid global reach carrying the Union The continuing Op Toral role in the justifiable pride in the achievement of Jack, which must surely please the country was explained in detail; given the the Benson team on Op Ruman – the Foreign Office! sustained tempo of operations of the disaster relief operation following the The evolution of the training system to SHF in the last 30 years, it is no surprise recent Caribbean hurricanes. This must

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Varying levels of concentration from the Company members This was the best weather of the day…. viewing a Puma!

MFTS, together with enhancements to heavily on much decision-making, and unit’s spare capacity. Although we noted the Chinook, were outlined. We were there is currently no identified the resource mix seemed biased in favour then handed over to Flt Lt Sam replacement for the Puma and Chinook, of the Chinook – the single Puma Hodgkinson of 28 Sqn, the Puma and or at least none publicly identified. Both simulator is fully utilised. The six sims Chinook OCU. Sam is an extremely stalwarts however have potential for experienced rotary pilot, only recently further upgrades. He is notably have varying levels of visuals, and can be transferred from the RN. He explained comfortable with the very Joint nature of interlinked. The instructors are how his initial motivation to learn to fly the SHF and Joint Helicopter Command unsurprisingly all ex-military QHIs, and came from stories from his grandfather – (and indeed having an ultimate boss we were left in no doubt of the utility of a WW2 RAAF Sunderland pilot. The wearing khaki).We were very grateful to the training given. Indeed one very course at the OCU is nominally 27 Wg Cdr Cormack for giving up so much grateful Dutch pilot had recently weeks’ duration, with students having time, and for his frank responses. Graham confirmed in writing that the emergency previously spend just over a year on Powell presented him with a cheque for rotary training at Shawbury; the OCU the station’s charitable funds as a token of drills he learned in the sweatboxes at operates 5 HC4 Chinooks – the glass our gratitude. Benson had saved his life. cockpit model. Sam noted that it was as Our final port of call was the sim centre, A final wrap-up from Sqn LdrTim Smith well to use aspects of the autopilot at all more properly known as the Tactical completed a fascinating day for lucky times, as without it the aircraft has a Control Centre. Operated by Serco and Company members. tendency to fall over itself.The Chinook CAE, it services also the Chinook force has of course been even more of a from Odiham; there was plenty of workhorse for the SHF (see visit reports evidence of foreign crews soaking up the The impressive sim facility from Odiham in previous editions), with many airframes having 10-12,000 hours! The work rate of the airframes, maintainers, and crews in Op Herrick was outstanding. Sam explained the skillset with which new pilots leave the OCU, and how further expertise is gained on their operational squadron. With the HC4 being an easy aircraft to fly (sadly we had to take Sam’s word on that), the chop rate is gratifyingly low. After lunch in the Sergeants’ Mess, we were fortunate to have a thorough briefing from the Station Commander, Wg Cdr Hamish Cormack. After running through Benson’s illustrious heritage (notably its being the home of PR Spitfires in WW2), and underlining his key objectives,Wg Cdr Cormack ably fielded a barrage of questions. It is clear that the MoD’s lack of funds weighs

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