Ash Does Not Cloud Air Cadets' Flying Dreams

Cadet Matthew Robson (17), student at Queen Elizabeth High School, said "it was an amazing experience, the adrenaline starts pumping when you are pulling several G's doing aerobatics such as barrel rolls! I can't wait to get another flight!" Cadet Thomas Simpson (17), student at Queen Elizabeth High School said "Waking up at 5am was the only downside to a fantastic day. I was taught about the aircraft and procedures before putting on a parachute and then getting to fly the plane for myself, it was well worth the early start." Cadet Adam Hill (16), also a student at Queen Elizabeth High School, summed up his flight as "simply a brilliant experience".

Although the aerobatics are a highlight for most cadets, the Air Experience Flight (AEF) is not all about loops and barrel rolls. The cadets spend much of the flight taking control of the aircraft themselves in order to put into practice the theory learnt on the Squadron. Before going flying the cadets undertake their basic training to understand the principles of flight, airmanship and navigation. This is the first step to gaining a BTEC in Aviation Studies that the Air Training Corps offers.

As well as offering the opportunity to taste flying and gliding the Air Cadets also offer a variety of airborne scholarships, giving cadets the chance to hone their skills and sample the exhilaration of going solo. Are you interested in aviation? The Air Training Corps welcomes young people aged between 13 and 17 who have a taste for adventure. 224 Squadron meets every Wednesday and Friday evening at the TA Centre, Hencotes, Hexham. Find out more about the Squadron by checking out the award winning website; www.224hexhamaircadets.co.uk, and realise that the sky is literally the limit.