Congratulations to Ascent Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI) Paul ‘Chalky’ White, whose outside the box thinking has led to a Commendation from the Head of Flying Training.
Chalky, an ex-Royal Navy pilot, based at RAF Shawbury, received the award after solving a problem with a shortfall in briefing aids at No 1 Flying Training School (1FTS) and the high cost of replacing them.
Chalky analysed the problem and decided that he could use 3D printing to produce helicopter models. In his own time, and with support from the RAF innovation scheme Project ASTRA, he secured access to a 3D printer. With perseverance, he developed a robust model for the fraction of the cost of a commercial solution. Word soon spread and the team at RAF Valley also called in Chalky to produce a model of the Texan aircraft.
“It’s always humbling to be singled out for praise, but none of this was achieved alone. My colleague Rik Loe worked closely with me on the execution, and the pool of expertise and equipment provided by the RAF ASTRA project was fundamental in the success of the whole project,” said Chalky.
He was presented with the Commendation for making a significant, tangible and enduring difference to military flying training, by Head of Flying Training, Air Commodore Rob Caine.
Photo: Crown Copyright
