LETTER FROM THE SQUADRON - 2008
This is my final letter from the Squadron as the Officer Commanding.
Since my last newsletter we have welcomed a total of 7 RN/RAF and the final 3 IAF courses to begin their training as fast-jet pilots. Of the 33 RAF, 7 RN and 1 RM students the majority have graduated to Tactical Weapons Training on 19 Squadron, 3 have been creamed off to remain here as instructors, 1 will instruct on the Tucano at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and, sadly, 2 students have been withdrawn from fast-jet training.
As I am sure you are aware, in the past we have sent students to the NATO Flying Training Course in Canada. This programme is now coming to a close and the final graduation will take place on 18 April this year. Flight Lieutenant Mike “Chikey" Child, our 2007 Display Pilot will be one of the 4 graduates.
Another programme also closed for us on 1 February when we graduated our final Indian Air Force course. Since the scheme began on 31 January 2005 we have seen 63 IAF pilots train on 208 Squadron with very few failures. Indeed, due to its success an additional course of 6 of their Squadron Leader QFIs spent time with us and learned a great deal about how our QFIs work and teach. These young men have proved to be fine ambassadors for their country and flying with them has been interesting. The last course leaves 19 Squadron on 22 May and a Hangar Party will see them on their way.
However, our contact with the sub-continent has not ended as we are involved in the ferrying of new Hawk 132 aircraft to Bidar. This is a tremendous opportunity for our QFIs, in particular our Creamies, to fly a fast-let trail, spend a few days in India and fly back business class (at BAE Systems expense!).
The 2007 Display Season was a great success and Chikey was instrumental in ensuring the good name of 208 Squadron was seen in over 50 displays both at home and abroad. As you know, Chikey won the Wright Jubilee Aerobatic Trophy when he gained his Public Display Authority at RAFC Cranwell. He finished his season at the Southport Air Show and hands the reins to Flight Lieutenant Dave "Horse" Davies (no pun intended). Sadly, due to funding issues this could be the last time we undertake such a display season. A great pity not only for us but for the Royal Air Force and the millions of people that enjoy watching the Service at its best. Horse, together with Flight Lieutenant Chris Lyndon-Smith, has been short listed for Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team membership. The list contained 4 recent Squadron members, 2 of whom have flown as our Display Pilot. We wish them all every success in their endeavour to loin what is acknowledged as the finest display team in aviation.
