HMS Illustrious (Now incl photographs)

[Flying Lawyer]

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HMS Illustrious 28 June - 2 July 09

Pilots from 4 Sqn RAF embarked to gain/renew carrier currency
Harriers from Naval Strike Wing


Oslofjord








North Sea














Honourable Company of Air Pilots










From FlyCo








RN Lynx night flying - Midnight in the North Sea




Disembarking off the Scottish coast






(Some distortion - pic taken from Lynx.)



The four days passed very (too) quickly, but provided a fascinating insight into the operation of an aircraft carrier and its various roles in our maritime capability. The visit gave me a greater understanding of the role of an aircraft carrier in delivering air power wherever it is required.

Many thanks to Captain Ben Key RN, Cdr Mark Deller RN (Commander Air), all the ship's company and to the pilots of 4 Squadron RAF for taking the time to explain things to a civvy.

HMS Illustrious and 4 Squadron RAF are both Affiliated Units of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators

Tudor Owen

(Edit)

The Guild became the Honourable Company of Air Pilots in February 2014