However, although I was entitled to a batting service, albeit in its latter days, I must admit to having some difficulty recalling what type of aircraft the RAF (or any other air force) flew in the 19th century.....
Who said anything about aircraft? From what I have seen of RAF messes, they are very similar to Army messes (Corps type, not cavalry etc). The traditions built up in the Army would have been brought across in 1918.
However, it's now 2011, and the young people joining today have an expectation of being treated fairly, as BEagle says. Duties such as waiting on and mess duties are demeaning to those who studied hard and hold down some very technically demanding jobs in the Services.
"Congratulations on completing your 18 months of trade training, you are now qualified to work on multi million pound equipment that people's lives depend on. Here's a promotion, and a pay rise. By the way, you're waiting on in the mess tonight. Enjoy".