Cost to the taxpayer of training RAF pilots

There must have others who, like me, were mystified by the internal shenanigans involving the first and only female pilot flying for the Red Arrows during 2010/11. The account, given at the time, simply said that she had decided to retire from the Red Arrows Display Team. No reason given.

Rumours abounded, some decidedly uncomplimentary. It wasn’t until yesterday, Wed. 29th that an article in the Daily Telegraph finally filled in the gaps. It had been alleged that the female pilot was having a ‘relationship’ with the Red Arrows team leader who was of a higher rank. Under the ‘rules’ this isn’t allowed.

Both were interviewed, denied the relationship and they continued flying. Within months of that interview both had resigned from the Red Arrows. The female pilot has quit flying and has a ground job. Her fiancee -they are engaged to be married, has quit the RAF and is working for Lockheed.

So, here’s to a happy future! Just one question: Do these two represent a good return on investment? Perhaps others more knowledgeable than me can give a value to the cost of an RAF pilot’s training? It doesn’t seem to represent good value for the British taxpayer.