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Flying
Once enrolled, Air Experience Flying (AEF) is available to all cadets. In the ATC, all cadets fly in the Tutor twin seat aircraft.
Every cadet is thoroughly briefed how to operate the parachute and what
to do in the event of an emergency.
All cadets fly with experienced pilots, most of them ex-RAF. The cadets
will learn the basics of flying and what effect moving the controls has
on the aircraft. They will also follow the pilots actions when more difficult
maneuvers are executed.
On a cadets first flight they will normally only fly straight and level, but in all cases they will take control of the aircraft and fly it under guidance from the pilot. After this, cadets may wish to do aerobatics. Although not flying the aircraft themselves, they will follow the pilot on the control column and rudder pedals seeing and feeling what happens.
Cadets also have the opportunity to fly in RAF operational aircraft, for example a Chinook, VC10, Dominie, Griffin. There may also be the opportunity to fly in fast jets such as Tornados or Harriers.
Those
cadets wishing to proceed with their flying training may also apply for
a Flying Scholarship which is partly sponsored by the RAF. Completion
of this can lead towards a Private Pilots License.
Gliding
Cadets attend regular gliding slots at 612 Volunteer Gliding School based at Dalton Barracks near Abingdon. We currently glide in Grob 109b Vigilant powered gliders.
Cadets may also get the oportunity to fly in Viking winch launched gliders as well from other VGS's.
Cadets that attend are put through a comprehensive training programme. This starts with Gliding Induction Course (GIC) 1 - learning the basics! Cadets can then progress through to GIC 2 and GIC 3.
Cadets can also be allocated a Gliding Scholarship which builds on the skills learnt previously and finishes with a solo circuit around the airfield.
Those cadets who show particular aptitude may be selected to attend an Advanced Gliding Training course and can also go on to instruct at the VGS.