661 Volunteer Gliding Squadron, RAF Kirknewton

28/08/2026

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐥𝐭 𝐋𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐥

Joining 661VGS in November 2018, after the Viking flying pause, Flt Lt Daniel started off as a Flight Staff Cadet with no previous flying experience apart from a few AEF sorties on Tutor. Going solo a month after joining, Daniel advanced through the flying syllabi to become a “high average” B1 Qualified Gliding Instructor and trusted flying supervisor.

Having worked tirelessly throughout his time on the Sqn, committing a lot of time and energy to not only his development but the Squadrons and the cadets that we serve, Daniel put himself forward to become an A2 “Above Average” QGI. Continuing his work ethic through extensive study, and dual flight for coaching with other Squadron A2s, he spent this week at RAF Syerston to attempt the demanding examinations, in the air and on the ground. After passing groundschool yesterday, and completing the airborne element with the Central Flying School Gliding Examiner this morning, we are delighted to congratulate Flt Lt Daniel on successfully gaining the coveted A2 award.

Flt Lt Daniel is the first person within all of 2FTS since the Viking pause, to have started with no experience and gained an A2 award. Daniel attends the Sqn in excess of 50% of the weekends every year, for the last eight years. It goes to show how much commitment and hard work goes in to becoming an A2. Additionally, with 1,800 launches under his belt, the amount of dedication the ground support team have given in enabling this flying to take place.

Congratulations Daniel

…
Claw, CFI

07/08/2026

🏅 We post a great deal about the success of our Squadron members at 661 and the pride we share in the achievements of the individuals who form our Squadron. It goes without saying that each individual travels their own unique journey, supported by instructors, mentors, family and friends.

Success isn't always achieved at the first time of trying, aviation rarely allows us the comfort of a definite outcome 🌧️💨. Both FSCs Robertson and Melvin have followed journeys that saw them overcome adversity and persevere nonetheless. Our squadron's instructors and mentors keenly supported both through recommitting to the Gliding Scholarship and refusing to be defeated.

Inspirational not only to their peers but to the instructors and squadron executives alike, we've witnessed first hand the power of determination and an unwavering commitment to their duties on the ground throughout.

That's never the end of the story, however. We're excited to see both continue on their journeys, with continued drive to achieve ✨. Watch this space!

-

~KC

2 Flying Training School

07/08/2026

🏅 It’s GOLD for FSC E Melvin! 🥳

The weather blinked first! FSC Melvin, having completed a further 5 solos and the Advanced Gliding Training course has achieved her new Gold Wings 👏

Joined in celebration by FSC Robertson, both having competed against bad weather for their solo conditions, the excitement was unmistakable.

FSC Melvin, having achieved the gold standard, may now continue on to the Graded Pilot syllabus and chase her G2 award. For now though, we revel in the achievement of gold and what it took to get here.

Epic stuff, FSC Melvin 👏 don’t stop now!

-

~ KC

2 Flying Training School

07/08/2026

👏 Epic Congratulations for one of our own 🥳

FSC L Robertson, it’s a mountain of congratulations on a hard earned and well deserved First Solo ✨🎉

FSC Robertson’s resilience in achieving this feat has been nothing short of monumental, having been part of our team and fiercely dedicated, for a little over two years. Today is a day that won’t be forgotten. ✨

Delivering a result not only she, but the entire squadron, can take pride in. We add a shiny new pair of wings to our Flight Staff Cadet cadre.

Well in, FSC Robertson 👏 we’re big fans of your work!

-

~ KC

2 Flying Training School 498 - Wishaw Scotland & Northern Ireland Region

31/07/2026

👀 Silver Success ✨

Congratulations to CWO M Champion who, last weekend, completed his gliding scholarship.

CWO Champion earned every bit of the award of his Silver Wings, persevering weekend to weekend and getting stuck in with the tasks expected of those lucky enough to be given a scholarship.

As he returns to his squadron with shiny new wings in hand, we hope his ambition and drive propels him to further success in the future 🙏

Mega congrats 🥳

-

~KC

2 Flying Training School Scotland & Northern Ireland Region

21/07/2026

05/07/2026

It’s been a mega effort, so a mega congratulations! FS McCleary travelled from Northern Ireland to be with us, an extra effort that mustn’t be forgotten and has achieved her first solo in an air cadet glider! It’s been a week of work, sending it right to the last day.

Epic work! Well done 👏

30/06/2026

28/06/2026

22/06/2026

⚠️FLIGHT STAFF CADET APPLICANTS!

We are running two information evening teams calls, tonight (Monday 22nd) and on Thursday (25th). Links are available through your squadrons, via your Wing. If you’re not sure about applying, or even just curious, we recommend tuning in to hear what opportunities are available.

We had some cadets we truly believe would make a great addition to our team visit us during longest day, if you haven’t applied yet, there’s still time!

Become a part of our team!

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~KC

Scotland & Northern Ireland Region West Scotland Wing South East Scotland Wing Central Scotland Wing