Monday, 5 March 2012

606 Operations Support Flight visits RAFM Hendon

Operations Flight (Ops Flt) of 606 (Chiltern) Squadron have recently paid a visit to the Royal Air Force Museum at Hendon. This was a fantastic opportunity to learn about the development of air power through history, up to the present day. Based on the site of the original London Aerodrome, the museum’s aircraft collection, which is displayed in a number of different halls, includes early fixed wing and rotary aeroplane designs, along with exhibits from World Wars 1 and 2, the Cold War, and modern day jets.

A full size model of the very latest F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which is not yet in service, rubs shoulders with a WW1 Sopwith Camel.

Although the day was very enjoyable for all, there was a serious side to the visit. While at the museum the Flt had specific questions to answer about the helicopter exhibits. Being part of Joint Helicopter Command it is important for all 606 Squadron members to have background knowledge on the development of rotary air power.

A display about Chinook helicopters, and in particular Bravo November – a Chinook which served in the Falklands Conflict and is still in service today – was especially interesting, comprising of a cutaway, walk-through model of the helicopter and numerous audio-visual displays.

Ops Flt members have now gone on to produce a 10 minute presentations on one of the Royal Air Force’s helicopter squadrons, using information gained from the museum visit. Confidence in verbal communication is key for those working in Flight Operations, who must be able to provide a clear and concise situation brief as necessary. Presenting to the rest of the Flight will allow individuals to receive constructive feedback on their delivery, providing the chance to develop their communication skills in a non-operational environment.

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