Northern Ireland Universities Air Squadron

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Northern Ireland Universities Air Squadron

NIUAS offers a diverse range of experiences to students from northern Ireland who are considering a career within the services and as potential leaders.

University

03/08/2026

A YEAR IN THE LIFE AT NIUAS…

This officer cadet joined us in April 2025 and has made the most of every opportunity in squadron life. Swipe to see all he has squeezed in since May 2025…

What Surprised Me Most?
“Before joining, the list of opportunities NIUAS promises almost sounds too good to be true - until you get here and realise it’s all genuine. Despite the list of trips above, I’ve still barely scratched the surface with what’s available between flying, AT, and sports.”

Personal highlights

“Trekking around Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada in June last year was easily one of my biggest standouts. I had never done any serious hikes before joining, so going from zero trekking experience to completing an 11-day, self-sustained 300km hike was a massive sense of accomplishment.

Another highlight for me would be the Ski trip - probably my favourite trip with NIUAS. Kind of on the other end of the spectrum when it comes to AT trips and compared to Tahoe, it was a muchmore relaxed environment. I had never skied before but the instructors were great and by day 4 we were already taking on black runs.”

Future Plans
“Going into uni, joining the RAF wasn’t really on my radar. But after a year and a half with NIUAS and seeing the kind of experiences and training on offer, it completely changed my perspective, and I’ve now got my application in.”

✈️CLICK THE LINK IN OUR BIO TO SIGN UP TODAY!! ✈️

Ex Italian Campaign - Naples, Italy/Vatican – May 25

An Air Power Study Visit to Naples and Rome to study how Italy played a role in WWII

Ex Crystal Traverse – Lake Tahoe, USA – June 25

An 11 day, 300km hiking expedition along the Tahoe Rim Trail, California.

Ex Over Yonder – England – December 25

An Air Power Study Visit to England to visit different RAF bases and integrate with students at other UAS’s.

Ex Alpine Edge - Ski Trip, France/Italy – January 26

A week learning to ski in the Alps with students from lots of different Universities.

Ex Western Front - France/Belgium – February 26

An Air Power Study Visit to the Western Front.

Ex Malta Defence – Malta – May 26

An educational visit focused on the isl

22/07/2026

EX HOME RUN 🇵🇱🪖

Three NIUAS students recently attended ‘Ex Home Run’ in Zagan, Poland.

Students experienced a semi immersive exercise set in Zagan, Poland at Stalag Luft III - a N**i prisoner of war camp that was used to hold RAF Aircrew in WW2. It is also the sight of the infamous ‘Great Escape’.

During the exercise, students lived in a POW style setting where they had to plan and execute an escape, which included forging papers, learning German and tunnelling.

Students also visited sites of importance during the Second World War to further understanding of the historical context of the trip.

The week concluded with a formal dinner to commemorate those who were interned in Stalag Luft III during WWII.

Overall, Ex Home Run was an invaluable experience, giving students a unique opportunity to visit historical sights and think with an operational mindset.

10/07/2026

EX SLOV TRAVERSE - PT2 🇸🇮🇮🇹🇭🇷🚵‍♂️

A huge thank you to the Ulysses Trust and RFCA NI for making opportunities like this possible and allowing us to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones, develop resilience and experience adventure in some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.

The final leg of our journey took us from the Adriatic coast through Italy, Slovenia and into Croatia, cycling through coastal villages, hilltop towns and some incredible scenery. Over 400km and 6,000m of climbing later, we finally rolled into Poreč, completing an unforgettable expedition.

03/07/2026

EX SLOV TRAVERSE 🚴🏻‍♀️
Part One.

400+ km. 8 days. Countless memories.

Recently, 8 students and an instructor set off on Exercise Slov Traverse, an adventurous mountain biking expedition through the stunning landscapes of Slovenia.

Starting at the iconic Lake Bled, the team spent the first few days exploring the Julian Alps, riding challenging trails around Kranjska Gora before making their way through Triglav National Park. Between technical singletrack, mountain climbs, evenings under canvas and unforgettable views, every day brought something new.

The first leg of the expedition finished in Sistiana, Italy, where the team reached the Adriatic coast after an incredible journey through the mountains.

Adventurous Training is about much more than the distance travelled. It’s about building resilience, working together as a team and discovering what you’re capable of when you’re pushed beyond your comfort zone.

Keep an eye out for Part Two, as the journey continues along the Adriatic coast towards Croatia. 🌊🇮🇹🇭🇷

31/05/2026

EX MALTA DEFENCE 🇲🇹

NIUAS had the excellent opportunity to travel to Malta for Ex Malta Defence 2026, an educational visit focused on the island’s vital role during the Second World War.

Throughout the week, students visited significant historical sites including the Lascaris War Rooms, Malta National War Museum, Malta Aviation Museum and World War II Air Raid Shelters, gaining a deeper understanding of Malta’s strategic importance during the Second World War and the RAF’s contribution to its defence.

Students also researched, prepared and delivered stands at key locations across Malta, developing their historical knowledge and presentation skills. Daily discussions and debriefs encouraged reflection on the lessons of the past and their relevance today.

Alongside the academic programme, students explored historic towns such as Valletta and Mdina while strengthening friendships across the squadron.

An insightful week of learning, leadership and military history in one of the most important locations of the Second World War. 🇲🇹✈️

14/05/2026

EX OLIVE TORCH 🗺️

At the end of March, one NIUAS member had the opportunity to attend the International Forum on Peace, Security and Prosperity in Palermo, Sicily. The event brought together delegations from military academies around the world, alongside representatives from all 15 UAS’.

Throughout the week, attendees explored topics surrounding leadership, peacebuilding and geopolitics, whilst also learning more about different cultures and the wider international environment.

For our APO, the experience gave valuable insight into how their degree can support future ambitions and helped build confidence towards future applications, alongside meeting people from a wide range of countries and backgrounds.

An incredibly insightful and rewarding week overall.

10/05/2026

EX MOURNES AT 2026 ⛰️

A week spent kayaking, climbing, trekking and taking on a range of adventurous training activities whilst developing new skills, confidence and a strong understanding of safety and teamwork outdoors.

From long days of activities to evenings around the campfire sharing stories and laughs, the week was full of great memories and even better company.

A very good week away with even better people. 🔥

Address

NIUAS, Aldergrove Flying Station, Killead Road, Crumlin, Co
Belfast
BT294EL

Telephone

+447824607766

Website

https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/university-air-squadrons/squadrons/northern-ireland-universities-air-squadron/

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