194 Squadron met Royalty when they attended the annual ‘Royal International Air Tatoo' (RIAT), the largest military air show in the world.

8 cadets from 194 (BSA) Sqn attended the week-long camp, thereby assisting in the raising of funds for the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, whilst simultaneously enjoying the atmosphere of the RIAT ATC camp. Cadets, with CO Flt Lt Bob Eccles and CI Ivan Zahajkewych, enjoyed the fantastic air show and also worked hard behind the scenes to help make RIAT a success.

7 of the 8 cadets were RIAT first-timers, exemplifying 194's aim to reward all hardworking cadets by taking part in such a sought-after event, and encouraging all cadets to strive for excellence. The cadets worked conscientiously throughout the two-days on various duties which included, but not limited to: selling programmes to the public, preparing packed lunches, handing out leaflets and managing the crowd line – diplomatically! It was during the crowd line duty when Cdt(f) Amna Asad turned away a Saudi Arabian Prince because he didn't have the right pass! FS(f) Amandeep Kaur also found herself meeting the OC of RAF Fairford.

CO Flt Lt Bob Eccles: “The RIAT camp provides an excellent experience for cadets. In contrast to normal Summer camps, they have the opportunity to interact with cadets and staff from all over the country. Their public-facing roles build self-confidence, and the necessary teamwork creates a sense of comradeship with one another”.

There were 6am starts and late evenings, and many challenging duties, yet despite this, each and every 194 cadet, according to their flight commanders, epitomised the RIAT ethos of teamwork, co-operation and discipline. The cadets had a fantastic time forging lasting friendships with cadets from all over the U.K. including, for the first time, Northern Ireland . The flying display highlights were undoubtedly the incredible Vulcan display, followed by the talented aerobatics teams, topped, of course, by The Red Arrows.

The cadets also let their hair down and donned their glad-rags for the Monday night BBQ and Disco. The music, food, and laughter (and the frantic exchange of facebook details!) summarised the enjoyment of the camp. All in all, another successful RIAT for 194.