This was posted on the Royal Navy web-site...
Relocation of 727 Naval Air Squadron to RNAS Yeovilton
The Royal Navy has announced its intention to relocate 727 Naval Air Squadron from Plymouth Airport to RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset. A study into the recruitment and retention of Royal Navy aircrew has resulted in a rationalization of flying hours at the Squadron and the introduction of a new Air Experience Flying Course. The course is designed to introduce the Fleet Air Arm to prospective candidates and includes a short introductory flight in the Squadron’s aircraft. As a result, it has been decided to relocate the Squadron to RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset where students can be better introduced to the Fleet Air Arm ethos and culture and can gain an insight into the workings of an operational airfield and its associated Squadrons and aircraft.
The Royal Navy has enjoyed a long and productive relationship with Plymouth Airport, starting in 1949 with Tiger Moths for recreational flying for cadets from Britannia Royal Naval College. The number of aircraft rose to 7 when it was decided to start grading aviators prior to formal flying training to prevent unnecessary wastage and by the end of 1966, the Squadron was operating 12 Chipmunks with grading as its primary task. 1994 saw the Chipmunks replaced with 5 Grob aircraft and while grading remains the primary task of the squadron, a variety of other courses are also run including the training of Air Engineers and, until recently, Commando Aircrewmen.
727 Squadron will continue to conduct grading from its new location as well as increasing its portfolio to include up to 350 air experience flights per year for students from around the UK.