Finn earns his pilot’s license!

After a considerable amount of work, Cadet Warrant Officer Sprakes has achieved his Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL).

Cadet Warrant Officer Finnley Sprakes has reached an incredible milestone in his aviation journey by earning his Light Aircraft Pilot Licence. The journey to obtaining a LAPL is no easy feat, requiring a minimum of 30 hours of flight training, including supervised solo flights and navigation practice. In addition, aspiring pilots must pass 9 rigorous theoretical examinations covering subjects such as Air Law, Navigation, Meteorology, and Aircraft Technical Knowledge.

CWO Sprakes balanced this intensive process alongside his commitments to 1324 Squadron, and his important A Level studies. The training pushed his limits, as he mastered the complexities of piloting a light aircraft.

CWO Sprakes began his training with a clear goal in mind: to earn his wings and gain the skills necessary to pilot an aircraft independently. He spent countless weekends at AeroSchool Flight Academy (located at Humberside International Airport), practicing take-offs, landings, and in-flight manoeuvres alongside radio and theoretical procedures. 

“Every flight has, and still, teaches me something new.

“It’s a process of continuous learning and improvement that I’m told never stops. There were challenges and setbacks along the way, but every moment in the cockpit made the effort worthwhile.”

Now equipped with his LAPL, CWO Sprakes has opened the door to endless possibilities. He plans to use his licence to further develop his skills and pursue his passion for aviation as he gradually increases the distance of his excursions. His achievement also aligns with the RAFAC’s mission to inspire and develop the next generation of aviators.

Cadet Warrant Officer Finn Sprakes