FIVE RAF PERSONNEL based at Coningsby have their ‘eyes on the skies’ after being awarded places on an exciting scheme that promotes flying.
AS1 (T) Alex Cann and AS1 Harrison Reilly have been awarded places on the Junior Ranks Officers Pilot Scholarship Scheme (JROPSS) This scheme gives 15 hours of flying training, to allow students to potentially reach ‘solo’ stage.
Three people, including AS1 Rosie Parr, have been successful on the Introductory Flight Scholarship (IFS). This initiative gives a one hour ‘taster’ of flying; experience shows that in subsequent years personnel who have taken part in IFS can successfully go on to the full JROPSS scheme.
Both schemes are funded by the RAF Charitable Trust as part of its remit to promote the Royal Air Force and to inspire young people to fulfil their potential in air, space and technology.
The successful candidates were given the good news by Group Captain Andy Chisholm, Commander Typhoon Air Wing.
"I vividly remember the day I went solo for the first time, I’m delighted to be able to meet some of our junior ranks who will now also have the opportunity to achieve that milestone, a fitting reward for their efforts. I’d also like to express my sincere thanks to the RAF Charitable Trust, whose enduring support of the scheme has allowed so many of our young people the opportunity to learn to fly."
AS1 Parr said,
"I’m delighted to get the opportunity to experience flying, not just for myself, but also for how it will increase my appreciation of aviation, and then in turn, what we do as an air force."
AS1 Reilly said
"I was able to do some flying in a glider when I was at RAF Cosford. I really enjoyed that experience so I’m looking forward to getting back in the air again, to have the opportunity to fly in a powered aircraft."
