24/04/2026
Congratulations to 72 (Fighter) Squadron Graduation Course 310-26 and 310-27 on this momentous day.
Officer Commanding 72 (F) Squadron, Wing Commander Matt Axcell said “Huge congratulations to Course 310-26 and 310-27 who have completed Basic Flying Training and been awarded their Wings on 24th April 2026 at 4 Flying Training School, Royal Air Force Valley. The Reviewing Officer was Air Commodore Billy Cooper from Military Strategic Headquarters and former Typhoon Force Commander. The Graduating Officers were joined by family members, and other guests, to mark this career milestone on their way to becoming front line fighter pilots.
Today marks a huge achievement for theses pilots, and one that will live long in the memory of their family and friends. The young pilots graduating today will receive their RAF flying wings — a symbol of excellence recognised across the world, and one that will remain on their chest for the rest of their lives. For two of the young pilots, the next step of their journey will be to remain at RAF Valley and train as instructors, a well-trodden pathway that has been followed for decades, but only by those trainees who have excelled, and demonstrated the maturity and capability to accept such a difficult challenge. For today however, the focus is celebration, but it also recognises the support and excellence of the instructors and staff on 72(F) Squadron, the wider team within 4FTS, RAF Valley and our commercial partners. The trainees have met exacting standards, requiring grit , determination, and hard work, not only for the individual but also for their families and friends. The journey has not been an easy one and the challenges ahead, and on the frontline, will continue to require commitment, dedication and sacrifice, and putting the Service and the security of the UK, before self.
Wing Commander Axcell said, ‘I take huge pride in having been part of their journey to this point and celebrating this momentous achievement alongside them and their families, the first of many such achievements in what will undoubtedly be long and successful careers in the RAF.”
Performing above and beyond throughout the course, Flt Lt Randall has been selected to become a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) with 72(F) Sqn, saying “Over the last year, I’ve really enjoyed flying the Texan and having that different mindset compared to what we’ve flown before. Being given the opportunity to instruct the next generation of Trainees is a privilege.”
We wish our new pilots the best of luck with their next steps.
Images by: Cpl Gareth McGarvie and AS1 Sam Marcham, RAF Valley Visual Communications.
