'Airline Pilot' was produced by BOAC in 1968. it follows the progress of Steve Radcliffe from initial selection to flying on his first trip to India and Singapore. Steve was the youngest pilot ever to join BOAC. The filming actually started during Steve's simulator training on the VC10 and followed him to Shannon where he did his base training. Some 40 landings were carried out in those days as well as upper (and extremely lower) airwork (I remember it well!). There are some lovely air to air shots of the VC10 which has to be one of the most beautiful aircraft ever built.
After base training the film follows Steve on his first trip with Captain Phil Hart-Lovelace who was one of the nicest guys and most competent trainers that you could ever meet (as well as a war hero).
As the filming only started during the sim course, all of the shots at Hamble were staged, including the selection and Steve's 'first solo'. Steve had a great time flying the Chippy and the Baron without the pressures of the course. The cadets in the bar were on the course at the time of the filming. They all retired from BA several years ago.
Steve was a very good friend and I shared a flat with him and two other pilots for a couple of years. Sadly he died in an accident in Spain in 1971 (not aviation related).
The film will be shown at the College of Air Training reunion at Hamble on 11th May.
Airclues