A new capability and two new world records are set!
A new capability to fly directly from the UK to the Falkland Islands has been achieved. Our modified aircraft, G-VYGM, took its maiden flight on Tuesday 2 June 2020, as part of the scheduled South Atlantic Airbridge and returned direct to the UK today (5 June 2020), setting two new world records in the process.
Our civilian registered A330-200 aircraft, G-VYGM, flew direct from RAF Brize Norton to Mount Pleasant Airfield in a record time of 15 hours and 9 minutes. Travelling 6,948 nautical miles with no additional refuelling and to a remote location with a challenging and ever changing climate, this maiden flight set a new world record, previously held by the VC10, operated by 10 Squadron in 1987. After a short stay, G-VYGM returned to the UK 5 June flying direct in another record time of 13 hours and 22 minutes.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the capability to fly direct to the Falkland Islands was developed to support the global effort to minimise the risks of the virus spreading, increase transport options and provide greater flexibility to Defence. By providing a necessary crew rest facility on board, our crews are able to safely operate this direct flight, negating the need to stop at a mid-point location.
AirTanker worked with Defence to establish the concept and furthermore delivered this capability and incredible achievement with the support and hard work of our whole force team; civilians, regulars and reservists working together.
The added element uncovered throughout this capability, is that it also presented an opportunity to attempt to break not one, but two world records! In 1987, the VC10’s delivered great speed and operated by No.10 Squadron, flew direct to the Falklands in a time of 15 hours 45 minutes. The VC10 was air-to-air refuelled by additional aircraft flown by No. 101 Squadron who pre-positioned at Ascension Island and joined them on their route down to Mount Pleasant.
Wing Commander Mike Westwood RAF (Retd) was part of the VC10 crew who set the record in 1987. We spoke to him about the possibility of that record being broken. He said:
Records are made to be broken and I really wish them the best of luck! The flight provides a great opportunity to keep the record within the 10 / 101 Squadron family
Over 30 years later, this record brings a new and unique perspective which demonstrates the aircrafts true capabilities and whole force defence operations.
Wing Commander Al Scott, Officer Commanding 10 Squadron, was able to welcome the aircraft and crew as they arrived back at RAF Brize Norton. He said:
“AirTanker are a fundamental part of the whole Force that is epitomised by the RAF’s strategic AT and AAR capability. Fantastic to see a new fastest time to the Falkland Islands being set. I’m really pleased to have 10 Squadron reservist participation in the flight and our Squadron’s continued connection with that record.”