2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron recently visited the Operations Aviation Unit at Birmingham Airport as part of an educational visit. The day was arranged by CI Roni Tillman and her friend PC Ben Goodman who is based at the unit.

The day started with a presentation from PC David Turner and PC Ben Goodman about the role of the unit at the airport and a show of the protected body amour and utilities the armed police have to carry. The cadets got an idea for what it is like being an armed police officer by getting the chance to hold the heavy body amour and protective shield.

PC David Turner then went into more depth about his role on the unit and gave the cadets an account of what types of situations the team have to deal with.

As well as a shown of interesting confiscated items the cadets also watched a short presentation given to them by a member of Birmingham Airports MAN PADS (Man-portable air-defense systems) Community Engagement Team. The Man pads team is a counter-terrorist group based at Birmingham Airport . The Man Pads presentation was to tell the group of their role at the Airport.

After the presentation the cadets got a police tour of the airport and shown around an armored police car.

Flight Lieutenant Nathan Adams, Officer Commanding 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron said: “This was a unique opportunity for the Cadets to gain an understanding of the workings of the Operations Aviation Unit at Birmingham Airport . It was a fascinating visit and the thanks of 2438 Squadron must go to police officers at Birmingham Airport for making this visit possible”.