Originally Posted by
beardy
Despite the bleak outpourings of POBJOY who gives no alternative, the answer depends on which squadron he joins and his persistence. 'Twas ever thus.
Obviously did not read the post !!!
Alternative was to utilise the Vigilants with engineering support by the LAA (actually agreed with LAA and well within their capability). In essence no different to the original Ventures getting another lease of life.
As regard to access to Aircraft 'was ever thus' not true. The actual no of RAF airfields and aircraft is but a shadow of its former self, and that is why the ATC Gliding movement was such a gem of access to hands on basic flying. The multitude of posts about this only confirm how a volunteer / Civilian operation managed to train youngsters to solo standard in large numbers,(at low cost), It also confirms how the mainstream RAF/MOD failed that organisation. The facts are very clear they have tried to replace 'hands on' with synthetic: lots of badges, but no real life changing experience of solo flight. Spectacular lack of leadership from HQ Air Cadets and 2 FTS did not help the situation.