Next generation of naval aviators!

Members of the Ilchester Beavers Group visited Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton and 700(W) Naval Air Squadron on 19 May 2014. 

The visit gave the young Beavers an insight into the Fleet Air Arm (FAA), a chance to visit a helicopter squadron and look around a Royal Navy Wildcat HMA Mk 2. 

After a brief in the Squadron building, the group was shown around the Wildcat by the Squadron Commanding Officer (CO) Lieutenant Commander (Lt) Simon Collins. The capability of the Wildcat camera was demonstrated, as well as allowing the children to sit in the cockpit seats and imagine being a Fleet Air Arm aviator! 

The Beavers were also treated to a visit from the Station Fire Service and the Squadron crew room for some light refreshments before heading home. The visit enabled a number of the Beavers to complete their ‘Air Experience’ award, and they were duly presented with their badges by the Commanding Officer.  

Lt Cdr Simon Collins, CO of 700) W) said “It has been a fantastic opportunity for the children to get up close to the Wildcat, the latest generation of multi-role helicopter. It has been a pleasure to host what could potentially be our next generation of Naval aviators!”