
Step
1: Getting There.
Travel to RAF Cosford was provided, very kindly, by 29F (Rugby)
Squadron who picked up the cadets and accompanying staff early on the
Saturday morning but just as they departed there was a loud thunder
clap throwing doubt on the ability to get up in the air but luckily
the weather held off and didn't impede their activity.
Step
2: Briefing and Training.
On arrival at No 8 AEF the cadets were briefed on the schedule for
the day and then proceeded to undertake basic parachute and
evacuation procedure training. Cadets all have to practice and
demonstrate understanding on how to use the parachute
Step
3: Getting Fitted with Kit.
Each cadet is then taken through to the kitting room where they are
fitted with a flying suit, parachute, helmet and gloves and they
await the call for their flight.
Step
4: Crossing the Apron.
When the aircraft and pilots are ready, cadets are lead out across
the parking area to get fitted into the aircraft alongside their
instructor pilots. Some cadets need additional padding to make sure
they are fitted correctly!
Step
5: Taxi and Take-Off.
Once all the checks have been done, the canopy is closed and the
pilot can begin to taxi towards the main runway where they can start
the take-off procedures. Up in the air, the cadets are taught basic
handling techniques, taking control themselves to feel the effect of
the control column before handing back to the pilot who may
demonstrate a few aerobatic manoeuvres depending on the weather.

All six cadets had such an amazing day
with those completing their first flight receiving a certificate for
their achievements. They all learnt new skills, developed their cadet
experience further and made new friends from the other squadrons who
where there.
Thanks for Civilian Instructor Mr Dan Saxton who accompanied the cadets for the day and took all the photographs - for more images, please check out the Squadron Facebook Page.
Thanks for Civilian Instructor Mr Dan Saxton who accompanied the cadets for the day and took all the photographs - for more images, please check out the Squadron Facebook Page.