Casino,
You ask a difficult question.
Great information..thanks. I'm just wondering (although this might sound a bit daft), if it is possible to transfer over to aircrew/NCA if you went in as a ground branch officer?
This is not, historically, an impossible route but I don't know if it has been done while still serving with a commission. The problem, as a gnd branch officer, would be amortisation of the not inconsiderable training costs.
Also, do you really have to get experience (say a couple of years) or a tour under your belt in the NCA role before applying for pilot/WSO - would a recommendation also be needed?
Not sure what you are asking here. If, for the sake of argument you had an admin sec commission but also the necessary aptitude for pilot then you could apply at any time - no need to be NCA first.
As NCA you would need a recommendation, but I don't think they can stop you applying with a negative recommendation but the omens would be there.