Askern Cadets are Soaring High
2010-06-10

8 local Askern Air Cadets recently attended RAF Church Fenton for the opportunity to fly in powered aircraft.  The flights allow the cadets to experience flight first hand and also put into practice what they have learnt in the classroom.  This was followed up by a visit to RAF Linton on Ouse, for the chance to go gliding as well.

The cadets all met on a warm and sunny day at Askern Squadron, before travelling to 9 Air Experience Flight, based at RAF Church Fenton.  There they were fitted out in flying suits and given parachutes and helmets, before being led out to the planes for their flights.  The flights, which last about 20-30 minutes, cover all aspects of flying, from the ground check, to navigation and aerobatics, with the cadets given the opportunity to “take control” themselves.  For some of the cadet this was their first even time in the air and an experience they would never forget.  While waiting to fly, some of the cadets were lucky enough to get up close and personnel with an RAF Tuncano.  The plane was being stored at RAF Church Fenton, before joining the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, as part of the 70^th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.  The aeroplane had been painted up in authentic WW2 colours for its new role.

However, while at RAF Church Fenton the cadets received a phone call from RAF Linton on Ouse, home of 642 Volunteer Gliding Squadron.  The squadron had a number of spare gliding slots available that day and was looking for cadets to fill them.  4 of the Askern cadets volunteered to go, so after their flights they were then driven to RAF Linton on Ouse for gliding.

The cadets were again fitted out with flying suits, before getting into the aircraft.  The cadets completed various exercises while in the glider, qualifying them in various aspects of airmanship and aircraft handling.  After gliding the cadets were returned home, to enjoy the rest of the sunny weather.

Pilot Officer Vickie Docherty, of Askern Squadron, said “It was nice to take a number of cadets to Church Fenton to go flying.  They always enjoy it and you can see their smiles a mile away when they get back from their flights.  But to also get to go gliding in the same day was the icing on the cake for some of them.  You couldn’t ask for a better day”.

Askern Squadron is one of many Squadrons around the country which are part of the Air Training Corps. a youth organisation open to anyone aged 13-17, or over 20 for staff.  The Squadron tries to ensure that all cadets get at least one flight per year, as well as giving the cadets a solid grounding in aviation related subjects.  If you are interested in finding out more about Askern Air Cadets visit us as www.askernatc.com  or visit the Cadet Hut, Askern Spa School, Askern on a Tuesday or Friday night.