I was wondering how long it took, on average, for someone to complete training as a bomber pilot in the RAF. I want to know how long from the moment they signed their enlistment papers to the moment they get their wings. In case the time varies based on what point in the war they enlisted, lets say the person enlisted in April 1940. Thanks, Brian
Originally posted by BrianP@Apr 12 2005, 08:09 PM I was wondering how long it took, on average, for someone to complete training as a bomber pilot in the RAF. I want to know how long from the moment they signed their enlistment papers to the moment they get their wings. In case the time varies based on what point in the war they enlisted, lets say the person enlisted in April 1940. Thanks, Brian [post=33103]Quoted post[/post] pilot Traing Try this website, as it is a memoir of someone who joined in august 1940 and goes through the various stages of bomber pilot traing
Brian, About 10 years ago I interviewed an ex RAF pilot and we talked extensively about his training. He never flew bombers, being sent down the night fighter route, but as that entailed undergoing multi-engine training along with people who would subsequently end up flying the heavies, his exporience is representative. You can read the article I wrote about n, in full, right here on WW2 talk in the "Real Life Experiences" forum, should you so wish - it's called "One Pilot's War". Hope it helps. Adam
Wellum, of course, writes of Fighter Pilot training - but I thought you might be interested! Best wishes, David
Hi Brian, I certainly cant give you an average, but I can give you the details regarding a relative of mine who flew in Bomber Command. He was a New Zealander, so this would be representative of the training given to a pilot in one of the commonwealth airforces's. Details as follows. My relative enlisted in February 1942. However due to lack of aircraft and indeed training facilities in New Zealand did not actually start his training until 16th October 1942. Then in January 1943 he was sent overseas to Canada to continue his training. He received his pilots badge (wings) on the 11th June 1943. However it did not stop there, In July 1943 he was shipped off to England where he commenced further training at the 3rd Advanced flying school from September 43 to March 44, then on to the 17th OTU (Operational Training Unit) From March 44 to June 44. On the 19th of June 44 he was posted to the 1660 Heavy conversion unit. Then finally on to the 5th LFS (Lancaster Finishing School) It wasnt until August 44 that he was posted to 61 Squadron and flew his first operational raid. He would also have had a raid as second dickey prior to taking his own crew up. So in summary, from Feb 42 to June 43 to recieve his wings, then from June 43 to Aug 44 to become operational. Hope that is of some use to you. regards kiwiAzza.
The RAF Historical society did a seminar on the subject and its proceedings were printed in journal 11. back copies cost £3 and are avalable for the Secretary RAFHS
