RAF Wittering night flying planned

C-17 Globemaster crews plan to train with Night Vision Goggles (NVG) and training may continue until the early hours of Friday, October 26.

Operating under the cover of night is essential in modern military operations. NVG are a real tactical advantage and enable our crews to land and take-off safely during the hours of darkness.

Wing Commander Nick Maxey said: “Pilots have to be trained for NVG operations, you can’t just jump into the cockpit and expect to get it right first time. It is very different from flying in daylight.”

RAF Wittering is reaching out to its neighbours and the nearby equestrian establishments to inform them of a change to the usual pattern of flying activity.

The station is one of several that supports night flying - a variety of airfields and environments gives crews a breadth of experience and ensures that no single area is unduly burdened.

Wing Commander Maxey added: “We have a great airfield here and it’s right that we’re making the most of it. When night flying comes to RAF Wittering it means that our aircrews and tactical air traffic controllers are better prepared for operations.”