Growing wings

The RAAF’s quiet revolution in pilot training

Reaching back more than 90 years, RAAF pilot training has a very proud tradition. Heralded in by the arrival of the new Pilatus PC-21, a change is coming in the way that future generations of Defence Force pilots will gain their wings. The new process literally extends from the ground up and exciting times are undoubtedly ahead.

The Home of Pilot Standards

The halls of the Central Flying School (CFS) at East Sale silently speak volumes of the Royal Australian Air Force’s past. The framed photos of aircraft are only outdone by the rows of photos trainees dating back to course number one in 1913. In that first image, a young Army Lieutenant, Richard Williams, is one of four trainee pilots seated in front of a frail-looking Bristol B.E.2 biplane. Williams would rise through the ranks to become known as the “Father of the Royal Australian Air Force.”