Flying Report 17 Jun 23

It was hard work for the tuggies on a hot and v humid day and with little lift to take advantage of, it was also a quick turn round at the launch point. 

It was a delight to see so many of our young students out on the airfield.  However, it was just a pity that the start was delayed by rain, but it was whilst it was raining that we discovered a good use for the bus!. 

And given the rain, it wasn’t until 11:15 that we achieved the first launch.  A change in wind direction as the day progressed added further delays as we changed r’way on three occasions!

We welcomed Shawbury based Dylan for a first flight and placed him in the capable hands of the Vicar – no need to panic then!  The Vicar is to be congratulated on having a decent haircut at long past and all courtesy, no doubt, of the collection plate.

We also welcomed Shawbury based George for his first visit.  George had flown previously at Cranwell and we look forward to seeing soon another solo pilot.

Whilst all this proper flying stuff was going on, Army REME Jack regaled the enthralled RAF lads with tales of daring do in the front line of active service in the Wolverhampton Bongo’s Bingo.  The upcoming Night Of The Divas on 23 June is worth a trip (apparently!).  

Taking advantage of the MEF scholarship scheme our current group of students are making fantastic progress.  Here’s Glenn in the MEF assigned R35 executing a great first landing on grass.

So whilst we were flying, helos from RAF Shawbury were taking part in the Fly Past at the end of Trooping of the Colour in London and we took a welcome pause in the afternoon whilst a 4-ship flight returned home. For the pedants, we know that there are 3 in one image and 5 in another!

Following a check flight towards the end of the flying day, it was super to see Jack convert to the Astir.  Great work indeed Jack and yet more competition for a seat in the Concrete Swan

For the last flight of the day Will Dean took new member Chris Greenhalgh on a site check and they managed to get into lift.  Chris, a former Myndie, is well on the way to his BI rating and it will be great to have you on board. 

Finally, we were intrigued by Will Dean’s preps for an attempt to fly whilst seated backward in R66 and we’ll provide an update later - but only if successful!

Valete. K13 (R38) has been sold. A replacement K13 (R46) will feature soon.