The Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers

WCTA: RAF AIR COMBAT POWER VISIT

It had been quite a number of years since members of the Company had been flying in a Voyager of 101 Squadron based at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, but the invitation in late May was of an entirely different nature to previous occasions: it extended over two days, and came from all the Squadrons and units based there. No less than sixteen Livery Companies were invited, and it was an opportunity for us to meet members of those other Companies.

On Thursday, 30 May, the Master, Mike Gibbons and Honorary Assistant James Dixon attended what was billed as an ‘Exhibition of the RAF’s Air and Space Power roles and capabilities’, which comprised a fascinating series of presentations on topics as diverse as electronic jamming, search and rescue aircraft, Reaper and Protector unmanned airplanes, combat air control, Space command, and many more. The highlight was a display by the Lightning F-35B, including its ability to hover in a stationary position.

On the following day, eleven members of the Company went flying, eight in a Voyager and three in an A400M transport aircraft. The Voyager was airborne for about five hours, and headed to the North Sea where in a racetrack circuit it refuelled some dozen Typhoon aircraft, a few based in Estonia; it also rehearsed close formation flying in advance of the following weekend’s Trooping of the Colour ceremony.

Meanwhile the slower A400M turboprop plane, the successor to the long-serving Lockheed Hercules, met up with a Typhoon for various photographic opportunities; flew low over Lake Windermere with its rear doors open as if to indulge in paratroop dropping; and finally met up with the Voyager for some formation flying.

A memorable time was greatly enjoyed by all, and many thanks indeed to the friendly members of the RAF who entertained us so well.