THE latest community news from Cardigan & AberporthAir Cadets

AIR Cadets from Cardigan and Aberporth recently took to the skies in two of the RAF’s helicopters as part of their ongoing aviation training program.

The lucky cadets of 1429 (Cardigan and Aberporth) Squadron experienced flying in the RAF’s smallest and largest helicopters.

First up was the Squirrel, a single rotor training aircraft used by the RAF to train its helicopter pilots in basic and advanced flying skills before they progress on to other helicopters.

Next was the Chinook, the famous twin rotor helicopter which has been a stalwart of the RAF’s fleet seeing service in many theatres of operation including the Falklands Island, Kosovo, Lebanon and Iraq.

The difference between the two aircraft was evident during the flights. Cadet Corporal Taine Morgan said the Squirrel was “so fast and manoeuvrable” compared to the Chinook which was “very noisy and bouncy”.

Cadet Rhys Glover particularly enjoyed the breathtaking views and being able to see his local area from a bird’s-eye ­perspective.

The flying gave the cadets the opportunity to see aviation theory put into practice by the skilled RAF pilots and aircrew.

The Air Cadet Organisation seeks to encourage an interest in aviation and the RAF, although it is no longer an official recruiting organisation for the RAF.

Cadets range in age from 12 to 20 years old and can progress through the ranks up to Cadet Warrant Officer.

Members of 1429 Squadron will be undertaking many more exciting activities over the coming months. There are opportunities for hill-walking, kayaking, various sports, flying and a battlefield tour to Normandy in summer 2018.

The squadron, which is currently recruiting cadets and adult volunteers, meets on Friday evenings from 6pm to 9.30pm at the hall between Parcllyn Social Club and the MoD radar tower at MoD Aberporth, SA43 2DH.

More information can be obtained by emailing the Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Mark Davies on [email protected].

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