Hi Daniel,

https://british-army.career-inspiration.com/discussion/153602/which-role-is-most-beneficial-to-become-an-nco-pilot

I answered this question in depth in another thread, and you may well be the Daniel F from previously, so take a look to refresh your memory.

As for essential roles/ duties, the groundcrew specialise in underslung loads, refuelling, rearming, moving and marshalling of aircraft. You gain B, C and C+E licenses, alongside Dangerous Goods/ HAZMAT licenses. The communication specialists focus on ensuring there is air to air, air to ground and ground to ground comms, setting up masts and radio equipment, whilst also assisting pilots with comms whilst flying. Both roles will do extra duties, such as guard duty or driving duties.

Hope that helps!

27 October, 2022 15:22

Thank you again, apologises I was having trouble navigating the website as it’s been a while since I last used it. That’s great information to know, I appreciate the time you’ve taken to answer my question. I assume I can change from one role to another, if so how easy is this to do as I’d like to do both to increase my chances of becoming a pilot due to more knowledge. Also would you say one role has more of an advantage when thinking about becoming a pilot? Thank you.

31 October, 2022 14:05

Hi Daniel,

Not a problem, I think the website interface has had an upgrade, but hopefully you can find what you need now.

We see a mixture of groundcrew specialists and communication specialists become NCO pilots. With regards to whether signals or groundcrew is more beneficial, there is no difference. Both will give you a basic understanding of aviation operations, but won't necessarily facilitate your application or ability to fly; it's more a nice to know type thing.

To commence your pilot training (assuming you are successful with the pilot application process), you need to be recommended LCpl. Neither soldier roles have a major advantage in achieving this. It's also very rare that a soldier will switch from groundcrew to signaller, and vice versa, so do not worry about whether more knowledge increases your chances. If anything, doing this will take even longer due to needing further specialised training.

Think about which role appeals to you more so. Once you're in Phase 2 completing your Initial Trade Training at Middle Wallop, then you can choose your preference and focus on that element of your career during your early AAC years.

01 November, 2022 09:26