After a long time grounded due to covid, Harrogate air cadets have finally been able to take to the sky and enjoy their first flights in a glider.
Along with other cadets from York and Church Fenton, the cadets set off at 5am one morning recently to RAF Syerston near Newark.
Morning weather conditions meant the flights were initially cancelled and the cadets were offered a tour of the hanger instead. However, once the skies brightened in the afternoon the cadets could finally do what they came for.
Ten cadets took part in the exercise and for nine of them it was their first cadet flight.
Flying alongside an instructor over Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, the cadets were able to take control of the Viking glider for about 20 minutes.
All 10 cadets present enjoyed two trips each.
A Viking glider in action
There are 40,000 air cadets aged 12 to 20 in the UK. The 58 (Harrogate) Squadron is based at Strawberry Dale in Harrogate.
Sponsored by the Royal Air Force, recruits receive hands-on experience of activities and courses that challenge and develop skills.
Corporals George Sharratt and Adam Mir ,of 58 (Harrogate) Squadron, said in a statement:
“After waiting over a year to go flying, being able to take control of the glider on our first flight, was one of those moments we will never forget.
“But it would not be possible without both the help from RAF Syerston’s ground and air crew and from two of the volunteers from the Wing who organised the trip, got up at 5am and transported us back and forth over 200 miles.”
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