Training Flight and the instructional cadre on 7 Squadron have demonstrated exceptional dedication and effectiveness as the cornerstone of operational training and conversion for special operations aircrew. Their role is critical in delivering mission-ready personnel who meet the highest standards of flying and instructional excellence, directly supporting national security through assured operational capability.

7 Squadron is a volunteer Chinook helicopter unit with non-discretionary commitments vital to Defence. Its operational success depends on a continuous supply of highly trained aircrew capable of executing complex missions under demanding conditions. Unlike other training establishments, Training Flight operates within this high-tempo environment, balancing rigorous instructional duties with immediate operational readiness.

Facing a challenging period of declining crew numbers and sustained high operational demand, the Squadron’s deployable trained strength fell to just nine crews, just over half of its established position. This shortfall posed a significant risk to operational output and morale. Training Flight responded decisively, graduating 25 pilots and crewmen from the rigorous specialist Conversion to Role course into deployable frontline positions, restoring the Squadron’s strength to 14.5 crews in just two years. This recovery was achieved while instructors maintained extreme readiness, deploying worldwide on short notice to support multiple operations and exercises. Their dual role in training and active deployment distinguishes Training Flight from typical rotary wing training units, underscoring their unique contribution to Defence capability.

The increase in trained crews enabled the formation of a third operational flight and the establishment of a robust three-cycle readiness system without compromising standards. This improvement eliminated previous vulnerabilities, ensured all mandated commitments were met, and laid the groundwork for 7 Squadron’s future transition to the enhanced H47-ER platform.

In parallel, Training Flight completed seven B1 instructor upgrades and three A2 Central Flying School accredited instructor upgrades within two years, reflecting an unwavering commitment to professional development and instructional excellence on one of the Royal Air Force’s most heavily tasked squadrons.

Training Flight fosters a culture of trust, mutual respect, and mission focus. Instructors routinely operate under demanding conditions, mastering specialist skills such as low ambient light operations, maritime counter-terrorism, and specialist insertion and extraction techniques. Training is delivered to exacting standards in various harsh environments, day and night and often in adverse weather, ensuring aircrew are fully prepared for operational realities. Through adaptive teaching, mentorship, and relentless preparation across ground, simulator, and flight training, instructors cultivate confidence, tactical competence, and independent decision-making in aircrew. This consistent approach to continuous improvement distinguishes 7 Squadron aircrew as exemplary within the helicopter community.

The outstanding collective efforts of 7 Squadron Training Flight, achieved alongside multiple named operations and demanding overseas exercises, are fully deserving of formal recognition. Their work ensures that aircrew are expertly prepared to meet the challenges of modern conflict, directly contributing to Defence’s operational success.

In recognition of their exceptional contribution to the achievement of excellence in flying training and instructional standards, 7 Squadron Training Flight is awarded the Central Flying School Trophy.

2005/06  Captain Derek Jones

2006/07  Sqn Ldr Anthony N Clements

2007/08  Sqn Ldr Peter Howlett

2008/09  Hawk Synthetic Training Facility RAF Valley

2009/10  Sqn Ldr Selwyn Williams

2010/11  Captain Dieter Harms

2011/12  Alexander John Hurrell BA cfs

2012/13  The Royal Air Force Search and Rescue Training Unit (SARTU) RAF Valley

2013/14  Ian Douglas Fogarty AFC qfi

2014/15  Royal Air Force Puma HC2 Aircrew Training Team

2016   Tayside Aviation Ltd

2017  Wg Cdr Harry Palmer

2018  awarded twice:
      Sqn Ldr John Benson-Cooper RNZAF
      653 Sqn ACC

2019  673 Sqn ACC

2020  Lt Cdr David Westley RN

2021  Flt Lt James Hobkirk RAF

2022  Master Aircrew Stephen Duncan

2023  RAF Central Gliding School Instructor Training Team

2024  Lieutenant Commander Robert Hunt RN

2025  Lieutenant Commander Phil Barron cfs* RN