Don't you have any contacts from your RAF days that are now inside the industry? Perhaps some rooting around in Facebook and FriendsReunited is called for.
I went through all this back in 2000. I'd just left Saudi and didn't even get replies to my applications for vacancies. One phone call to an old mate got me the interview, and that was just a formality as the word from my inside mate was worth much more.
I'd advise taking almost anything within the industry, as then you'll make all the contacts you'll need, as long as you're what they want, of course!
Good luck
Tony