The roar of jet engines is no stranger to the skies over Moray – but a more genteel sound has been heard overhead this month.
Airspace normally reserved for RAF Lossiemouth’s Typhoon and Tornado jets has been buzzing with the sounds created by a squadron of Tucano T1 trainers.
These belong to 72 (Reserve) Squadron and can normally be seen over Linton-on-Ouse but the distinctive black livery of the aircraft have been in Moray as student pilots from the squadron took advantage of the unique conditions available in Scotland.
RAF Linton-On-Ouse exists to undertake Basic Fast-Jet Flying Training (BFJT) for the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy fast-jet pilots of tomorrow.
Having completed Elementary Flying Training, the brightest and best student pilots arrive at the Squadron with a limited skill set – but by the time that they have achieved their coveted ‘Wings’ at the end of the course, they leave with a much broader ability and experience.
Lieutenant Commander Kieron Steen of the Royal Navy was the Detachment Commander during the squadron’s exercise at RAF Lossiemouth.
He said: “Conducting this exercise at RAF Lossiemouth gives student aircrew the opportunity to fly in what is widely accepted to be some of the best low flying areas in the world.
“Northern Scotland, in particular, provides the trainee pilots with the significant challenge of coping with more demanding terrain, as well as the ever-changing weather!
“By providing our students with the best environment in which they can learn and hone their aviation skills, we are able to ensure that they maximise their potential during BFJT and, ultimately, prove a credit to themselves and their generation.
“Flying from RAF Lossiemouth, alongside the combat aircraft that many of our trainee pilots aspire to fly, is a great privilege and we hope that this productive relationship continues long into the future.”