One week on from RAF Cosford Airshow 2026, Air Recruit Bradley’s glider display continues to showcase a route for the next generation to take their first steps into aviation.
Air Recruit Brad, 22, from Scotton, joined the Royal Air Force in November 2024 and is currently undertaking a Level 3 Aircraft Maintenance Technician apprenticeship at RAF Cosford. On completion, he hopes to be posted to either a fast jet or multi‑engine aircraft squadron.
His passion for aviation began at just three years old, visiting RAF Coningsby with his family to watch the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, often dressed in his red flight suit. He began gliding in 2018 and flew solo in January 2019, long before gaining a driving licence. Since then, he has achieved cross‑country qualifications, a cloud flying endorsement, and is now a Basic Instructor at RAF Shawbury Gliding Club, supported by the RAF Gliding & Soaring Association.
At this year’s airshow, AR Brad delivered an accomplished aerobatic display to a crowd of 55,000, demonstrating the capability of unpowered flight.
“To have been selected as the 2026 glider aerobatic display pilot for RAF Cosford Airshow has been such a humbling privilege. It still feels surreal—this is a dream you have as a kid, and you never think you’re going to live it.”
Air Recruit Bradley
Brad hopes his display will inspire others to consider gliding, whether as a route into a STEM career or simply the opportunity to learn to fly. Through initiatives such as the RAF Gliding & Soaring Association’s Go Solo Scheme, Junior Ranks are supported to achieve their first solo flight.
