Nine of the near 800 air cadets who helped at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), which took place at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire have become the first cadets to get a closer look at the Airbus A400M military transport aircraft.

The multi-national four engine turboprop aircraft is set to be the Royal Air Forces future airlifter and was making its UK air show debut. As a kind gesture Airbus Military invited a small number of cadets to go along and inspect the latest in cutting-edge aircraft.

After looking around the exterior of the aircraft and viewing the eight bladed propellers on the huge turboprop engines, cadets made their way to the interior. Within the hold of the A400M were 18 tonnes of flight-test equipment, which displayed to the cadets the sheer size and weight of cargo that the awe-inspiring aircraft was capable of holding.

Before making their way out, the cadets were allowed to see the flight deck with its advanced electronic displays and fighter-like side stick controllers.

The group of cadets and their escorting staff were very grateful to Airbus for allowing access to A400M at such an early stage in its development. After departing the aircraft it was clear to see that the cadets and staff were blown away by the size and presence of the latest creation in aviation.

The tour of the A400M proved to be an exciting experience for all involved and the aircraft itself is sure to be an exciting edition to the next generation of aircraft in the RAF’s fleet.