Paying for Publicity and The RAF
This is essentially a request for assistance from PPRuNe pilots and navs who have the time and inclination to be interviewed by an aviation journalist: I am writing a series of four articles about RAF pilot/nav training.
I have approached RAF corporate communications and been told that I will have to pay what will amount to in excess of several hundred pounds if I want to conduct interviews with the relevant squadrons. Without getting into the ins and outs of this policy here, it is suffice to say that everyone (including the RAF) thinks this is absurd, apart from The Treasury, which is behind the policy.
Unfortunately, neither I nor the publisher has the cash (or is prepared to find the cash, frankly) to pay the going rate. I would, however, be more than willing to make a personal donation to a squadron bar or similar worthy cause if help was forthcoming!
The product in question will be out in the UK next year, and will hopefully be a source of inspiration and encouragement to the next generation of RAF pilots, fast jet or otherwise.
The main topics for the articles are:
The Tucano and RAF Basic Flying Training
The BAe Hawk and RAF Advanced Flying Training
RAF Tactical Weapons Training
RAF Operational Conversion Units
So, if you would be prepared to let me interview you about your experiences as students or QFIs in any of these four phases of flying training, please do PM me.
I can supply references for myself (so that you know I am bona fide and trustworthy), and while you can be quoted on paper under a pseudonym if you so wish, I would need to know your real name, rank and unit for the purposes of establishing the same about you.
I hope that some of you can help.
Thanks in advance.